I apologize for the delay in my review of the Louis Garneau P-09 Aero Cycling helmet. I am very grateful to Louis Garneau for the awesome gear for 2014! So, let me just say, I LOVE THIS HELMET. I am not just saying this because LG graciously gave it to me, but because it is amazing!!
Let me give a quick and easy on the technical specifics that make this helmet so unique. Firstly, this helmet has the dimpled surface similar to a golf ball to improve airflow over the top of the helmet. The frontal part has been reduced which makes the helmet overall more compact. No more looking like “Alien” with a TT helmet tail reaching half-way down your back! The speed port is great- you can put the “plug” in it for short TTs. For longer efforts- half and full iron tris, you can pull the plug out which allows for air to flow right up and over your skull and out the vent in the back of the helmet. The visor is designed to securely clip into the front of the helmet (vs. magnetized like most TT helmet visors) and can flip up with one hand for easy removal of the helmet. The helmet has ear flaps, BUT those ear flaps are designed with a special cord (I guess that is what you’d call it) to allow the flaps to extend out while you put the helmet on/take it off. And then of course, the helmet tightening system, the spiderlock is a turn wheel tightening system.
Most of you know that I categorically would rather pay for something full price than endorse a product that I do not believe in. My transitions have literally been faster because of it. I am able to smash it on in a fury without crushing my ears. Not having to fiddle with sunglasses and having the ability to tighten the helmet with one hand means: the visor flips down when I am already on the road and the helmet gets the final tightening while I am…you guessed it, ON THE ROAD. Not having sunglass temples crushed against my skull is a relief too as I always suffered headaches with my previous TT helmet. The visor is the perfect shade for riding in all conditions- not so dark that you can’t see on cloudy days, but shaded enough for the sunny ones. Finally- the front air vent provides a fantastic amount of cooling. Most people’s biggest hesitation in wearing the TT, especially for iron-distance is the concern for overheating. No overheating to worry about with this one. You literally can feel the airflow going right up and over your skull inside the helmet and the Icefil padding enhances that cooling effect.
The helmet is just super awesome. I have had SO MANY positive comments on it. You want the fastest most innovative TT helmet on the market? Look no further, The Louis Garneau P-09 is the helmet for you!