Review: Spyder Carve S1 Cycling Helmet

As the temperature rises this summer, it’s important to keep your head cool especially while biking. For those planning their summer rides and bikepacking trips, aside from having a quality bike, one of the most important things you need to invest in is a proper cycling helmet. Travel partner Spyder Philippines just sent over their new Carve S1 Road Helmet for me to test out and use before they officially launch it this April 2019.

Unlike some people I know afflicted by chronic Upgraditis, I tend not to buy new gear if I can help it until I’ve worn the heck out of my old ones. I’ve been using the same cycling helmet for a few years now and had no plans of buying a new one because the old one still seemed to work fine. But apparently, you’re supposed to replace your cycling helmet every three to five years depending on use and handling.

This is especially true if your helmet has suffered a major impact including being dropped on a hard surface or bike crashes which can weaken the foam. I haven’t gotten into any bike crashes (thankfully), but I know for a fact that my old helmet has been repeatedly knocked off tables and shelves thanks to certain feline overlords. Even if you can’t see cracks or dents in the helmet, the weakness can cause it helmet to break apart the next time you crash. And since I don’t want my helmet to fail me should that happen, I guess it’s time for an upgrade. Thanks, Spyder!

I haven’t used it extensively yet, but here are some of the helmet’s specs and some of my initial thoughts about this cool new lid.

Design

The Carve S1 Road Helmet is part of Spyder’s new Summer Collection 2019. Since all my previous cycling helmets are either black or red, I picked the Matte Green/Yellow helmet color for a change.

The color looks very fresh, fun and sunny, while still being sporty. The color palette reminds me of mint ice cream, a refreshing avocado fruit shake or an icy cool spring you want to take a dip in after a long ride. It instantly perks up your mood, perfect for keeping your head cool this summer.

I’ve noticed that the Spyder logo on the side of the helmet is now embossed, which makes the lid look classier than older helmet designs which just had sticker or decal details.

If you’re like me who likes colorful stuff, you’ll be attracted to this pleasantly refreshing color gradient. But for those who prefer darker or more basic designs, the Carve S1 also comes in standard Black / Red, Black / Purple and Matte Black color options.

The Carve S2 Design comes in Matte Black / Orange, White / Red and Red/ Black for those who prefer a more aggressive and sportier look. Both models come in M. L and XL sizes.

Product Features

Pro-Race Inmold Technology: Combines the helmet’s outer shell with its impact-absorbing EPS liners making both the liner and the shell one piece. This process strengthens areas around vents and ribs allowing the helmet to be lightweight, tough and well-ventilated when compare dot traditionally designed helmets.
Ultra-Lightweight Shell: Composed of a thin outer skin designed for a smoother, safer skid in the event of a crash. A soft but firm high-density EPS inner shell absorbs most of the shock in an impact.
MegaFlo Cooling System: Multidimensional deep channeled vents for optimum ventilation
SweatStop Washable Lining: Strategically positioned sweat pads are designed to be removable, washable and replaceable for added convenience
QuickFit Retention system: The simplest way to a secure fit and easy on the fly adjustments
CE EN1078 Standard
Opticore

Field Test Notes

Spyder is really known for their quality of mountain bike and road bike helmets. The Carve S1 is designed for road use so it’s light and extremely well-ventilated.

Compared to my old MTB helmet, this lid tends to let most air pass through so it literally keeps your head cool while you’re biking. We all know how extremely hot it can be biking in Manila’s streets during summer months, so having something aerodynamic is a bonus. The helmet provides optimum ventilation and enhances airflow when cycling, so your brain doesn’t overheat.

The helmet is lightweight as well, weighing just 260 grams, while still offering protection and safety.

Since it’s a road helmet, there’s no built-in visor can limit your field of vision when cycling on the road. I’d recommend you always bring good eyewear to keep the glare of the sun away from your eyes while riding. Spyder’s Stride sunglasses with Mirror Green Polarized lenses under their performance eyewear line just matches the helmet perfectly.

I normally have a hard time finding helmets that fit me properly (usually I need Small ones). This helmet design comes in M, L and XL sizes but have an adjustable rear cradle with a dial at the back that you can easily switch with one hand to fix the tension. It also has adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable and snug fit.

Verdict

I’ve yet to use Spyder’s Carve S1 Road Helmet for longer rides on the road or trails, but so far it’s been great for city use and biking around the neighborhood. Cyclists will appreciate the generous ventilation, aerodynamic design, and the fact that it’s Ultra lightweight.

I personally think the color looks great in pictures, especially for those post-ride food trip flatlay photos. Haha. I look forward to using it for our bike adventures this summer.

Price

The Spyder Carve S1 Road Helmet has an SRP of Php 2,495.00

Where to Buy it

Spyder products are available in various Spyder branches and department stores nationwide and can be ordered from their shop online. For details, check out: