Bought this to replace a Synthe that took a fall when bike was knocked over. While it was a bummer, I was always secretly wanting an Aether, especially given the improvement to the MIPS system and the fit. Was not disappointed. This thing rocks and I would buy it again in a heartbeat. Ventilation is stellar too, especially on hot Florida days.
I don't have a local shop where I can try on higher-end helmets. Even the big shops around here have a few entry- and mid-level helmets. I splurged because I expected a pricier helmet to look more sleek. Instead I look like a mushroom. The Large is about 2 inches wider than my old large Giro and I though THAT helmet was bad. I will apparently need to go to a different brand. Luckily I was able to return so I'm only out the return shipping. To be fair, this helmet looks awesome coming out of the box, it just doesn't look like an expensive helmet atop my rather bulbous head.
It is difficult to review the most essential function of a helmet, protection in a crash. So, I will need to defer to the testing completed by Giro, and talk about the feel. This helmet fit beautifully out of the box. It is light and snug and very comfortable. I also look for a helmet with a lot of air flow and this helmet meets my needs. I would highly recommend this helmet to anyone with a little extra cash to splurge.
I look for the best value, but I won't skimp on my helmets. MIPS is a must. if you have ever had a concussion, you will do what is necessary to avoid it ever again. giros typically fit the best, so with their next gen mips protection, i opted to make the jump. pricey, but i'm worth it. not a liner, but a shell within a helmet. that's right, a helmet within a helmet. the aether is less clunky than my Poc MIPS, and I had to monkey with the straps for a better fit, but hey, that's the case with most helmets. the aether mips is not for everybody, but for the cautious ones out there, it's a no brainer (no pun intended).
Great helmet, fantastic fit. I wore a Synthe MIPS, and the Aether fits about the same, I was a little worried when I read the review concerning the bad fit. I think maybe the person who had the fit problem, may have had a size issue - like too large. I really think this new MIPS technology is a large improvement over the first MIPS. Have worn Giro helmets for years and they continue to improve their helmets. Hopefully I will not have to test the Aether helmet, but a Giro helmet saved my life 13 years ago, would not have survived my head injury without it.
The technology in this helmet is incredible. It is also extremely uncomfortable. The problem for me is it is cut about half an inch longer than other helmets. It pushes hard on the stems and bridge of my sunglasses and pushes them down on my nose. Because of the longer skirt it also digs into the back of my neck when I am looking up from riding on the drops. No adjustments cure this ... in my case. I would love to have this state of the art protection, but I am not willing to ride without my Oakleys and I cant tolerate the discomfort.
I replace my helmet every four years and found this Giro helmet has everything I need. I especially enjoy the fit, vibrant colors, space to mount a rearview mirror, and innovative MIPS Technology that allows thinner helmet.
Helmet looks great, and I also have the Synthe model. The plastic piece that rises and lowers at the back pinches my skin and is quite uncomfortable. I've adjusted up and down, but still pinches. Also, the exterior plastic decal keeps peeling off at front. I previously returned one due to this, but second helmet also had the same problem. Would not recommend, and may go back to another Synthe.
I've been using a Synthe for the past several years which I liked. I decided to get a new helmet since my Synthe was aging and decided to upgrade to the Aether. I am glad I did as the Aether is a step up in all categories. It is the most comfortable helmet I've worn and cooler than the Synthe. I highly recommend it.
