Lazer’s handsome, breathable Rox (O2 XC) helmet

Fewer sizes, more features?

Such a lovely shade of blue.

With its swept aesthetic, matte shell, and clever Rollsys retention system, Lazer’s Rox helmet (O2 XC in the US) makes a favourable impression on the sales floor. A full two dozen vents and deep internal channels suggest excellent ventilation while the overall finish is above much of its £75/$110 competition. The catch? A single size to fit heads measuring from 53-61cm.

Weighing in at 343g with peak (well above the claimed 280g), the Rox isn’t especially light- but its weight should be looked at in context of doesn’t necessarily offend. A good deal of the helmet’s mass is due to its effective L/XL size- something to bear in mind when comparing against the claimed weights for other models.

Rollsys cable for easy snugging

The Rox uses Lazer’s unique Rollsys retention system. Rollsys consists of a cable that runs from temple to temple, adjusting both the rear height-adjustable “basket” and the floating brow pad assembly. Though the system floats within the helmet to some extent, it does provide nice, uniform pressure around the head and is readily adjusted to accommodate hats and the inevitable hair loss. Other nice touches include quality X-Static pads, which help to keep the funk away, and headphone cable routing on the right strap.

Remember summer?

On the trail, the XC-oriented Rox is a breezy departure from the latest crop of trail helmets. The fixed peak is fixed in an unobtrusive but effective position, only just entering the wearer’s field of view. The adjustable Rollsys basket cradles the base of the skull comfortably and could be tweaked to keep the helmet level on every head tried. The retention system does interfere with some eyewear, especially on small- and medium-sized heads, so be sure to bring your favourite glasses along when shopping.

Easy-access Rollsys dial

As always, fit is personal and will determine how well any rider gets on with a helmet. While the decision to limit sizing in favour of features may make sense on paper we found that, on small-to-medium heads (<57cm), the Rollsys system’s floating brow pad does make for a somewhat unstable helmet. Its a minor issue when unloaded, but can become distracting when lights are mounted. While the system can technically accommodate small- and medium-sized heads, the reality (and mushroom cap look) for those riders is less than ideal.

Those with larger heads, on the other hand, will be able to score a handsome, comfortable, full-featured, and well-ventilated helmet at a reasonable price. Six colours, including a high-viz Flash Yellow, are available from Madison in the UK and QBP in the US.