I own (2) Giro Aether Helmets. One in Black and one in White as well as many retired previous versions. The Aether model are good helmets and I will continue to use them for now. I have been wanting a Giro Aires for some time, but the price did not make it practical. I finally decided to get the Sharkskin Aries gray version when it went on sale recently. In my opinion the Aires is the best Giro helmet so far. It is not as wide as previous versions with great venting and wraps around the top of my head much better. I like the Aires styling over all previous Giro helmets. I will probably buy some other colors when the price drops as the next version is introduced.
So I was riding with a Giro Aether for the past couple years for reference. I wanted an aero helmet because I'm doing a lot of faster rides and I'm looking for free speed. This helmet feels like the future. With the integrated eye shield I don't ever get watery eyes from the wind at high speed. The airflow is at least as good as my Aether so that's not a compromise. The fit is perfect for me (I have an oval head shape). And with this helmet I went about 1mph faster over a three hour endurance ride (22mph vs 21mph). I was initially thinking that I would keep my Aether for warmer days or slower rides, but somehow the Vanquish keeps my head just as cool and I don't think I'll need my old helmet anymore.
I had been wondering and wanting some of these since they came out so when they went on a good sale I pulled the trigger and have worn them many times.
The padding is not thick enough for me, hands and wrists are getting more crabby by the day so not ideal despite the padding having been touted as special.
They fit and feel very good aside from all that so I encourage anyone not struggling with crabby hands and wrists to try them.
I wont speak to its aero advantage bc that needs to be tested in a wind tunnel on a specific rider. However, my last three triathlons with this helmet have corresponded with some of my top bike performances relative to competitors.
Yes, its a crazy looking thing like something out of "space balls."
The surprising thing to me is how comfortable it is. Well balanced. Ventilation is excellent, even with the vents covered. Visibility is excellent. It comes with two visors - a clear and a dark one. And of course a big case to carry it and both visors in.
