Each year helmets get lighter, but they also get stronger. Technology lends itself to a higher degree of protection using lighter-weight materials. However, even when you’re going to get down and dirty off road you’ll still want to look good doing so. For 2012 Louis Garneau will release the Carve helmet, which will offer that higher degree of protection without sacrificing style. This new helmet promises to be lightweight, highly ventilated and totally geared toward mountain bikers.
The helmet uses an MSB (monocoque structural base) at the base of the helmet. This reinforces the perimeter with a construction method that uses the helmet’s outer layer or “skin” to support structural load. The MSB and a fully bonded back spreads any shock impacts. The two elements also provide support while maintaining the lightweight mandate by which helmets these days abide. The Carve helmet utilizes U-Bar technology made with U-shaped plastic ribs that are folded six times to provide reinforcement. The ribs construct an exoskeleton that builds and reinforces the helmet structure, while Spiderlock Pro Retention wraps around the back of the helmet with a dial that allows for adjustment of size. Twist the wheel for a tighter or looser fit.
LG will release the Carve helmet in January, well before the 2012 season. It will sell for $84.99.