Geartest.com Giro Switchblade cycling helmet real world review

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Giro Switchblade cycling helmet

Preview

ITEM	Switchblade cycling helmet
MANUFACTURER	Giro
MSRP	$ 180 US $ 300 CDN
RATING	This item is not yet rated.
CATEGORY	Bicycle helmet
COMMENTS	This is one slick lid!
Additional information	· Made in the USA · Comes in three sizes · Available in a variety of colors
PREVIEW DATE	October 2000

Three years after introducing its signature helmet with a removable faceguard, Giro is still the only company to have a helmet with this feature.

After witnessing an urban cyclist execute a bloody face-plant into concrete, Geartest.com staff decided it was time to look into protective options for road and trail warriors alike.

The Switchblade's faceguard is secured to the helmet by means of six bolts that you fasten using an Allen key (hex key).

Although Giro intended the Switchblade to be convertible from a BMX, downhill or slalom rider's helmet to a cross-country helmet, in the event of a facial collision the cost of the faceguard's added protection will pay for itself by preserving your pricey dental work -- not to mention blood, pain, suffering, and having to shell out for expensive facial reconstruction.

The Switchblade sports 18 vents on the dome and six vents on the faceguard to provide you with substantial airflow and ventilation, whether you're weaving through heavy rush hour traffic or are bombing down a singletrack trail.

Beyond the obligatory chin-strap, Giro's Roc Loc 3 sizing and fastening system helps you customize the fit of the helmet to the unique shape of your skull.

The adjustable visor is no substitute for a good pair of sunglasses, but it will help keep the sun out of your eyes on bright days.

You'll definitely turn heads while wearing this helmet, and the Switchblade will help prevent you from losing yours.