Giro Switchblade MIPS Enduro Helmet | First Look
October 11th, 2016
By Andrew Dodd in Tech
Product Full Name | Giro Switchblade MIPS Helmet
Retail Price | £249.99
Available From | Zyro UK
Giro Switchblade MIPS Enduro Helmet – maximum protection Enduro lid
We’ve just had the new Giro Switchblade MIPS helmet turn up for review – and it’s a stunner!
This multi-use helmet is both a fully certified full face helmet, and has a removable jaw guard that is uniquely different to other helmets using a similar concept. 
Unlike the Bell Super 2R that is a regular helmet, with a completely removable jaw guard, the Giro Switchblade MIPS is more like an open face motor bike helmet.
Only a small section makes up the jaw guard, meaning this helmet has far more protection than conventional trail helmets; is far stronger than other convertible helmets and is an ideal helmet for Enduro race situations. The jaw guard can be easily removed without taking the helmet off. 
Here’s the full spec:
- ATSM Downhill Certified – with and without jaw guard
- Removable jaw guard
- Easy to remove and install without removing helmet
- Wind tunnel cheek pad ventilation – far more ventilation that most full face helmets
- Roc Loc retention system
- MIPS Technology for protection against rotational injury
- Spare peak with GoPro mount included
- Full goggle compatibility
- Light weight and excellent coverage
- Size medium weighs 975g
Unlike the light weight jaw guards on helmets like the Bell Super 2R, the Giro Switchblade MIPS has a smaller section that separates – which is immensely stiff and strong.
The way the jaw guard locates on the Giro Switchblade MIPS is impressive – the top locating joint is solid and clicks in to place. The lower hook moves with a sprung button to lock in to place.
You can see the top joint is located, and the lower hook ready to lock in place. To remove the jaw guard you grip it and actuate the buttons with your thumbs to release the lower hooks, then pivot the jaw guard up – then simply pull out to release it. Very simple, and very solid.
The jaw guard push buttons are easily operated – even with gloves on. Less time faffing – more time shredding.
The Giro Switchblade MIPS has lovely detailing – especially on this black model. The gloss black graphics look amazing!
The MIPS system is in place internally, and works with the Giro Roc-Loc retention system for a secure fit. A motorcycle style D-loop strap is well made, and has a soft fabric for avoiding stubble rash.
The Giro Switchblade MIPS looks really good as a full face helmet. No compromise really – we’d happily use this as a full face, whereas designs like the Bell are a little too halfway house for our preferences.
In open face mode, the Giro Switchblade MIPS has that moto-look about it – but with distinct mountain bike styling. As well as a highly protective trail helmet, the Switchblade is perfect for Enduro racing. And we reckon as a winter helmet too!
We also have some of the matching Giro Blok MTB goggles, which come with both a mirrored lens and a clear lens. As expected they look great with the Switchblade – and are available in the same colours as all the helmet options for ultimate colour matching!
We’re about to hit the trails in our test sample – and will report back in a few days to let you know what our initial impressions are.
Keep your eyes peeled on factoryjackson.com and on our social media channels for information and videos.
In the mean time – check out the launch video below:
