Giro Insurgent Spherical – In our big 2023 comparison test for lightweight and convertible full-face helmets
As the only pure-bred downhill helmet in the entire test field, the Giro Insurgent Spherical is something of an outsider in our lightweight full-face helmet comparison test. Therefore, weight and ventilation only play a minor role in our final verdict. We care more about fit, comfort and safety. How did the Giro downhill cover perform in the test field of lightweight full-face helmets?
As a purebred DH lid, the Giro Insurgent has significantly more padding and fewer vents than all of the other competitors in this test. At €390 it is the most expensive model and at 1,156 g in size XL/XXL it is also the heaviest. Adjustment options are limited – the only way to adjust the fit is to use different cheek pads. In the event of a fall, these can be pulled out from the bottom of the helmet, making it easier to remove the helmet. The Insurgent is equipped with numerous safety features, including the MIPS Spherical System, which consists of two independent shells seamlessly connected by a low-friction MIPS sliding layer. In the event of an impact, the outer and inner shells can rotate independently and move a few millimeters to reduce the impact. The inner shell is made of a softer, more resilient EPP foam that absorbs slower impacts, while the outer EPS shell is designed to absorb faster impacts. In addition, the lower edge of the chin bar is lined with a soft material that is intended to prevent collarbone injuries. The visor is flexible and can be adjusted without tools, albeit within a fairly small area. The Giro is the only helmet in this test that uses a D-ring buckle, which takes some getting used to and can be difficult to use, especially with gloves. On the other hand, the system is extremely safe and tightens even more when pulled – accidental loosening is not an option!
When you first wear the Giro Insurgent Spherical, your head will feel well enclosed and protected. The fit is excellent, the generous padding on the inside of the helmet and around the chin strap prevents annoying chafing and pinching. No other helmet in this test inspires as much confidence as the Insurgent. The head is safely stored in the shell, the padding hugs your skull all around and thus ensures a high subjective feeling of safety and security. However, the high level of protection comes at the expense of ventilation, which makes long climbs a rather sweaty affair and results in noticeably less ventilation on pedal-heavy trails, especially if you wear glasses. When you first wear the helmet you will also feel the extra weight, especially if you are used to riding with a light half-shell helmet. However, you quickly get used to it and after a while it feels normal. However, the Insurgent has a narrower area of application compared to the other full-face helmets in this test, which affects its all-round qualities. However, it is a great helmet for park rats.
The Giro Insurgent Spherical is a thoroughbred downhill helmet – and a very good one! However, this has both advantages and disadvantages. The disadvantages include the additional weight and, above all, limited ventilation. On the other hand, the Giro Insurgent impresses with its excellent padding, top fit and an incomparable feeling of security. If you ride primarily uplifts, the Insurgent Spherical is a top choice!
Tops
- Great fit
- High wearing comfort
- Countless security features
Flops
- Relatively heavy
- Not the best ventilation
For more information visit giro-sports.com.
For an overview of the group test: 9 lightweight and convertible full-face mountain bike helmets tested
All full-face helmets tested: Bell jar Super Air R Spherical (Click to review) | Bluegrass Vanguard Core Edition (Click for review) | Fox Proframe RS (Click for review) | giro Insurgent | MET Parachute MCR (Click here to read a review) | POC Otocon Race MIPS (Click for review) | Specialized Gambit (Click for review) | Troy Lee Designs Stage (Click for review) | Uvex Revolt MIPS (Click for review)
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Words: Simon Kohler Photos: Peter Walker
