When I started moving into a more aggressive style of XC mountain biking I immediately considered upgrading my protections to the next level.

The consideration comes pretty natural after you crash attempting something ‘new’.
There is a inevitable learning curve to improve your AM skills and it is important riding that curve with the minimum amount of damage. It seems like there are only a few upgrades that can be done to a regular XC lid to make it safer and better.

The Giro Xen offers increased protection in the back of your head and partially on the side, without adding bulk or significant weight.
At only 366g the Giro is light enough not to be noticed (at least compared to similar XC helmets.)

CONSTRUCTION DETAILS

The Giro Xen features an in-mold hardbody construction. The internal retention system is the standard Giro issue. There are 17 wind tunnel vents: these are oversized and abundant, providing a good and significant airflow, very much important especially when climbing. The shape of the vents is beveled inward, creating some sort of Venturi effect on the airflow.

The size of the vents is definitely playing an important role in adding airflow. The drawback is that they tend to catch lots of stuff (branches, leaves and one time a caught a bee…)Last, but not least, the Giro Xen comes in a very nice variety of colors, all with the Camo texture. Apparently there is a Pink Camo version, if you really are into bright colors.The Giro Xen is fairly pricey, but I have to say that considering the quality of the materials, the optimization of the design and the cool colors, is definitely worth it.

RIDING IMPRESSIONS

This helmet is nice, light and cool, but with a little more protection for your peace of mind.

The straps are in a soft and smooth material that does not cause any rubbing or irritation (I had some experience with much cheaper helmets). The size of the vents allows to easily stick a finger in and scratch your melon when needed. The removable internal padding is attached with some little Velcro patches. The first time I removed the pads, some of the adhesive Velcro patches came off. No problem, since I just glued them back with magic glue. (no probs after then).

The padding runs all along your forehead and prevent sweat from reaching your eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

With a MSRP of $124.99 the Giro Xen is fairly pricey, but I have to say that considering the quality of the materials, the optimization of the design and the cool colors, is definitely worth it.
Save your melon, wear a good lid!
MORE REVIEWS
You can find more reviews on the Giro Xen helmet following these links:

* Giro Xen Review – Dirtworld.com
* Giro Xen Reviews on MTBR.com

WHERE TO BUY

The Giro Xen is available pretty much in any bike shop that carries Giro. Internet prices ranges between $99 and $139.

You can find a summary of most recent prices and where to buy on Spadout.com