Manufacturer’s website
Lazer is one of the oldest helmet brands in the world, founded in 1919 in Antwerp, and it’s now part of the Shimano family. With its KinetiCore technology, the Belgian heritage brand has created its own fully integrated alternative to MIPS: strategically placed crumple zones in the EPS foam that redirect rotational forces on impact. The system is designed to be lighter, more sustainable, and better ventilated.
Details of the New Lazer Impala KinetiCore Helmet
The Impala KinetiCore feels compact and well-made. At 413 g in size L, it’s one of the lighter trail helmets in its class. The matte finish with glossy accents and clean lines give it a sharp, modern look. Only the finer details hold it back a bit: there are a few sharp edges and uneven transitions which don’t quite match the level of refinement you’d expect at this price point.
Lazer’s KinetiCore technology forms the heart of the helmet. Instead of adding a separate rotational layer, like MIPS, KinetiCore integrates crumple zones directly into the EPS foam. These zones deform in a controlled way on impact, redirecting energy away from the head. The Impala also uses a DualCore construction, with two EPS layers of different densities: the inner layer is designed to manage rotational forces, while the outer layer absorbs direct impacts. The result? Less weight, better ventilation, and more comfort.
For added safety, there’s a built-in RECCO® rescue reflector, helping search teams to locate you in an emergency. And if you do crash, Lazer’s crash replacement program has your back with 50% off a new helmet.
How Does the Lazer Impala KinetiCore Perform?
When it comes to comfort, the Impala KinetiCore absolutely delivers. The generous padding around the forehead and crown sits softly against the head. Together with the TurnSys adjustment system, it gives you a stable, finely tunable fit.
Out on the trail, the Impala impresses with a calm, secure feel and excellent ventilation. Even on fast, technical descents, the helmet stays planted in place without shifting around. Its low weight and well-balanced ergonomics make it a great long-distance buddy. Everything just feels right: no wobbling, no pressure points, no heat build-up – pop it on, roll out, feel good. We initially missed the option to adjust the straps more precisely, but quickly realized it doesn’t particularly affect comfort or stability in real-world riding.
Glasses and goggles fit the Lazer Impala KinetiCore without any fuss – nothing gets pinched, and the deep visor gives you solid sun protection. The magnetic buckle is another win, snapping open and closed easily even with gloves on.
A standout detail: the side air intakes. They look like vents straight off the side of a sports car – and they’re not just for show. They double as a super secure eyewear dock. Your glasses sit locked in and wobble-free, even when the trail gets rowdy.
The visor and action cam mount on the Lazer Impala KinetiCore are designed as breakaway elements: they’re built to detach in a controlled way during a crash, preventing extra forces from being transferred to your head or neck. The camera mount clicks on without tools, but it sits firmly in place, remaining rock-solid throughout our test.
Conclusion on the Lazer Impala KinetiCore
The Lazer Impala KinetiCore blends innovative protection with great comfort and smart everyday features. Its DualCore tech impressed us on the trail, with its light and airy construction proving that you don’t have to sacrifice safety for comfort. Minor workmanship quirks hardly spoil the overall picture. It’s a helmet made for trail and all-mountain riders who refuse to compromise on protection or comfort: safe, well thought-out, and dialled-in down to the last detail.
Tops
- Innovative KinetiCore safety concept
- Excellent comfort
- Outstanding ventilation
- Breakaway visor and camera mount
- Magnetic buckle and secure eyewear dock
- RECCO® rescue system
- Crash replacement program
Flops
- Minor workmanship issues (edges, transitions)
- Non-adjustable straps
More information at lazersport.com.
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Words: Erik Bötzle Photos: Peter Walker