RIEMST (Belgium) – "At first you notice the difference between the new helmet and the old one. The first time you put it on," he says. Kevin Colleoni, rider of the Intermarché-Wanty – maybe the closure is a little different, but generally they're all comfortable. I've never found an uncomfortable helmet in recent years. Maybe one weighs a few grams more and you notice it when you pick it up, but once you have it on your head, everything goes away… Maybe you notice that more or less air circulates, but… Generally three or four days are enough and you get used to it».
The Bergamo is joined the Belgian team this year where, in addition to everything else, he received the helmet as a gift Uvex Rise Pro MipsHis companions who were already there – among them the Italians Rota, Petilli and Busatto – had already received him last summer, since The German brand has chosen the 2023 Tour de France for its debut.
Helmets for 90 years
Uvex has been producing helmets since 1926: for cycling, skiing, and construction sites. "For over 90 years," explains Michael Winter, CEO of the Uvex Group, "we have been producing and marketing high-quality products for the protection of people in sports, leisure and workAnd if you want to protect people, you have to take responsibility. It is precisely from this mission that our obligation to act in a sustainable, socially, and socially responsible manner arises."
So that these are not just words, with typically German dedication, Uvex has combined all the technologies needed to achieve the objective. So it is enough to hold Colleoni's helmet in your hands to notice thelabel Mips, the system that protects the head and brain from injuries during oblique impacts, absorbing rotational and centrifugal forces during falls. Furthermore, the adoption of a low-friction layer in the part in contact with the head, allows for minimal relative movement within the helmet itself, without friction that forces the head into forced movements.
Modular shell
Among the features that allow for better shock absorption, it is worth mentioning the construction of the shell in several parts. In fact, they combine a rigid ABS plastic shell on the outside with Inmold technology for the inside, integrating solidity and stability. The shell has an internal layer in shock-absorbing EPS and an external layer in polycarbonateThe Inmold technology used offers high levels of protection in exchange for minimal weight. Added to this are: the new aerodynamics and the optimization of the internal air circulation, thanks to the large slits.
"I always prefer a lightweight helmet," Colleoni explains. "I've never felt comfortable with aero models. Maybe because since I've been racing, I've always had the feeling of air in my hair and that doesn't get lost with light helmets. In fact, it's exactly a sensation I seek. Of course, when it's cold, I put on a hat to protect myself. Our helmet this year may not be the lightest, but I like the sense of solidity it conveys.. When you pick it up and then put it on, you feel like it’s really safe.”
Tailored fit
The transition from one team to another requires adaptation to new materialsFrom new bike sizes, to customizing your clothing, and even using new pedals. It might seem easier to adapt to a new helmet, but even then, it's a matter of finding the right balance between the necessary freedom and the need to tighten the straps to ensure the system is safe.
Uvex has adopted for its products the 3D IAS system, which allows for a very precise fitThe width and height are independently adjustable to fit a wide range of head circumferences and shapes. This means that, perfectly copying the user's anatomy, the fit is comfortable and above all safe.
«The locking systems are often different – confirms Colleoni – with this I was able to adjust the helmet and get a really custom fit. Obviously you can't expect to have the same sensation from one helmet to another, but once you've made the adjustments, it feels like you've always used it."
Effective ventilation
Then the sensations come in, because The helmet is created in the laboratory, tested and approved, but the final evaluation is up to the person who will use it.And in the case of riders, we're talking about repetitive use in all weather conditions. That's why, among other things, the ability to quickly remove, wash, and dry the internal padding is so convenient.
«Even though it's only April and here in Belgium it still feels like winter – admits the Bergamo native smiling – I have also used this helmet in very hot situations, such as UAE TourI found it breathable and well-ventilated; I've had no problems. Nor have I ever needed an internal mesh to keep insects out, for example. Because at that point, you might as well get an air-permeable model: the mesh not only keeps insects out, but also keeps the air out. I sometimes wear glasses on top, or on the back of my neck.They only come off when going uphill, and then not even always…».
Sizes and prices
The helmet is available in two sizes to cover every circumference: 52-56 and 56-59Among the details that can make the difference, there is certainly the magnetic closure, which allows you to open and close it with a single touch, thanks to the Fidlock systemThe helmet buckle is controlled by a magnet, so operation is intuitive and easy even when wearing gloves. And to make sure the helmet is truly closed, just pay attention to the "click" that confirms the connection.
The Uvex Rise Pro Mips helmet is on sale for 219,95 euros. Tomorrow you will see him racing at the Liège-Bastogne-Liège also with our friend Colleoni and then at the Giro d'ItaliaA thousand races have already taken place, but the best is yet to come.
