Cycling is an activity enjoyed by millions around the world. Whether riding on the road or on a mountain trail, cycling is inherently dangerous. Throughout the history of the bicycle, advances in other areas of transportation, such as the automobile, and the hard road surfaces they travel on, have placed the cyclist more at risk than ever. Modern cycling helmets have done much to reduce the amount of serious head injuries. The first helmets for cyclists appeared in the early part of the 20th century, and were made from leather strips. Development has been continuous ever since. Today, cycling helmets provide outstanding safety features, performance and styling.
Specialized Propero Helmet
Specialized is well respected in the cycling industry, both for the bicycles they build and the helmets they produce. The Propero helmet complies with the safety standards of the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Snell Memorial Foundation. The Propero is wind tunnel tested to provide maximum cooling for the rider. The reinforcement within the helmet allows for large cooling vents without sacrificing structural strength, due to its internal composite matrix design. The straps are simple to adjust, and do not lose shape due to sweat. An included visor matching the color of the helmet clips on. The Propero comes in five race-inspired colors and has a suggested retail price of $100 for 2010.
Giro Ionos
Giro is a leader in helmet manufacturing and design for cyclists, including Tour de France winners Lance Armstrong and Alberto Contador. The Giro Ionos, according to the company, is the most ventilated and technologically advanced cycling helmet for the road cyclist that Giro has ever created. The composite used inside the helmet provides a sturdy structure, allowing 21 vents that keep the rider cool. Giro calls this airflow through the helmet the Wind Tunnel. The Ionos come in eight different color schemes, including the Livestrong design. The Ionos has an estimated retail price of $230 in 2010.
Bell Array
The Array uses air-directing channels within the interior of the helmet, bringing air through the large outside ports while shuffling warm air through the rear of the helmet. Air continues to move through the helmet regardless of the rider's speed. A matrix of internal reinforcements allows the helmet to remain lightweight at 10 ounces while ensuring the helmet's structural integrity. Snell and the Consumer Product Safety Commission approve the Bell Array helmet for safety. The Array is available in seven graphic designs. The estimated retail price for the Bell Array is $100 for 2010.
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