First Look: Bell Z20 MIPS helmet

Editor’s note: Bell is sponsoring our coverage of the 2018 Grinduro. Managing editor Chris Case wore Bell’s Z20 MIPS-equipped helmet during the race on September 29.

Bell’s new flagship road helmet distills more than 60 years of manufacturing and testing experience into one sleek package. With its combination of fit and adjustability, ventilation and aerodynamics, not to mention impact protection, the Z20 is one of the most advanced road helmets in the peloton.

The Z20 is the result of years spent analyzing how helmets fit, optimizing aerodynamics, reviewing test data, gathering real world feedback, and applying Bell’s knowledge of impact management. The company’s unique progressive layering energy management system utilizes two separate layers of hard shelled EPS foam in addition to Integrated MIPS — this improves impact performance via multi-density foam, and at the same time deliver a more compact overall shape, sleeker design, and maximizes ventilation.

The innovative combination of the MIPS layer and retention system creates a helmet that is easy to fit and among the most comfortable we’ve worn. That fit is further enhanced by the Float Fit Race retention system, featuring height and width adjustable cradles and an easy-to-use tension dial.

Bell Z20 MIPS features

• Float Fit Race retention system, integrated with MIPS
• Fusion In-Mold polycarbonate shell
• Sunglasses guides
• Quick-adjust fasteners help keep straps flat and properly positioned
• Sweat Guide pad design pulls moisture away from brow pad and away from eyewear
• Quick-drying pad materials, woven with real silver fibers, inhibit growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungi