Boasting a Virginia Tech 5 Star rating, can the Lazer Jackal KinetiCore helmet live up to the hype as a daily driver do-it-all MTB helmet?
Loaded with features, high on the safety ratings and with almost a quarter less plastic than previous models, the Lazer Jackal KinetiCore ticks all the boxes. Pete checks in on how it’s stacked up after a Spring of constant use.
Photos by Pete Scullion.
Key features:
- TurnSys® fit system
- KinetiCore rotational impact system
- Controlled Crumple Zones
- 24% less plastic than previous model(s)
- Action camera mount
- Goggle grip
- S (52-56cm), M (55-59cm), L (58-61cm)
- £159.99 RRP
- LazerSport.com
The Jackal KinetiCore helmet is Lazer’s flagship open face helmet for trail and enduro use. Doing away with the MIPS system of its predecessor, the Jackal uses KinetiCore. KinetiCore is Lazer’s rotational impact and crumple zone system that merges the protection of a traditional EPS helmet with the rotational impact of MIPS and other similar systems.
This helmet also uses 24% less plastic in its construction compared to the outgoing models in Lazer’s range. You also get the TurnSys fit system, eyewear recesses, a magnetic buckle (non-Fidlock), an action camera or light mount and integrated an goggle grip. There’s plenty of vents too and the peak is adjustable without need for tools or a fiddly dial.
All this fits into a helmet that doesn’t look to be dripping with all the modern tech but manages to regardless. The size large fits my massive head although the fit itself will suit riders that don’t have square heads. It’s far from uncomfortable for me however, there are better helmets for square heads.
On the trail you can easily pop the peak out of your eyeline and it’s easy to forget the Jackal is even on your head. The straps are easily adjusted and secured, and the TurnSys is nicely indented too. The cradle is on a sliding ratchet making it easy to get the TurnSys dialled to suit your dome. It’s rare to have a sweaty head or fogged eyewear in the Jackal either, so the vents definitely work.
The only real downside to the Jackal is the cradle ratchet isn’t the strongest in terms of the ability of the teeth to hold the cradle where you’ve set it. This gets worse when running goggles and/or larger packs. On most trails it’s of no real consequence and the ratchet teeth are more than sufficient, but it limits its use for everyone.
What do we think?
We’re big fans of the Lazer Jackal KinetiCore, it’s lightweight, sensibly-priced for what you get, comfy and not a sweaty lid. It’s let down by the cradle security though.
We love:
- Comfortable
- Feature-rich
- Not a stormtrooper helmet
Could do better:
- Ratchet unpicks the seams of an otherwise excellent helmet
