Giro Switchblade MIPS: next generation 2-in-1 helmet
Giro Sport Design officially released the long-anticipated Switchblade MIPS helmet. Equipped with the Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS), the Switchblade MIPS is triple-certified to CPSC, EN-1078, and ASTM-1952 Downhill safety standards – both with and without its chinbar, which is quickly and easily removable and replaceable without tools. Find all the information in the official press release below:
Beyond increased protection and ease of use, the Switchblade MIPS delivers unrivaled comfort and versatility with the new Roc Loc Air DH adjustable fit system, hydrophilic X-Static anti- microbial padding, 20 vents with internal channeling, and two visors (one adjustable P.O.V. Plus and one with integrated camera mount.) The full-cut, over-the-ears style gives this helmet an aggressive look even when the chinbar is removed. The Switchblade MIPS is available immediately worldwide in 3 sizes and 6 colorways at authorized Giro retailers for $250 / £TBD/ €299.
“In 1998, Giro created the first mainstream removable chinbar helmet, it was called Switchblade,” said Dain Zaffke, Giro Marketing Director. “In the years that followed, we’ve seen many options come and go, all based around the same premise of taking a cross country helmet and adding a chinbar. This new Switchblade MIPS bucks that trend completely. Instead of a adding a chinbar to an XC helmet, we’ve done the opposite: everything about this helmet is built for the descent. We’ve essentially created the ultimate full-face downhill helmet and then made the chinbar easily removable.
Key Features of the Switchblade MIPS include:
- CPSC, EN-1078, ASTM-1952 Downhill certification – both with and without the chinbar
- MIPS Multi-directional Impact Protection System reduces rotational energy to provide more protection in certain
impacts - Easily removable and replaceable chinbar
- 20 Wind Tunnel vents with internal and cheek pad channeling
- Roc Loc® Air DH fit system with bumper to prevent unwanted adjustments if helmet contacts neck brace or backpack
- Hydrophilic, X-Static® anti-microbial padding
- P.O.V. Plus adjustable visor for better goggle mounting
- Spare visor with integrated camera mount
- Rubber grippers integrated into rear vents for goggle retention
- Three Super Fit sizes
- Available immediately at Giro retailers and on the Giro website
- $250 / £TBD/ €299
“From early on, we worked with top professional riders Richie Rude and Cody Kelley (Yeti / Fox Shox Factory Race Team) to get the details just right. But more than just racers on the Enduro World Series will embrace this helmet – its myriad features will appeal to aggressive trail riders, freeriders and even dirt jumpers who will be drawn to the full-cut style.”
More information can be found on the Giro website.
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Words & Photos: Giro
