Is the Giro Montaro Pro Helmet Worth $330? MIPS Spherical Tested

James Moore · 2026-10-09

Are helmets still getting safer? You'd think we'd hit the ceiling of innovation by now. But Giro believes there's still room to grow—they just dropped the new Montaro Pro with MIPS Spherical technology. Is it just a familiar system in a new package, or a genuine safety upgrade for your noggin? We took this nearly $330 helmet out on the trail to find out. Let's be real: the best style in the world means nothing if your helmet doesn't keep you safe. Helmet hair beats a fractured skull any day. Once things get rowdy on the trail, one thing matters above all else: protection. For just under $330, Giro packs their new Montaro Pro with MIPS Spherical technology, designed to absorb rotational motion in an impact. The tech was developed by Giro (and sister brand Bell) in collaboration with MIPS. But how does it perform in our test, and can its protection concept, comfort, and features justify the hefty price tag? ### The Giro Montaro Pro Helmet: Key Facts At $330, the Montaro Pro sits at the upper end of Giro's range. You'll notice it on the scales, too: at a measured 14.9 oz in size S and 16.1 oz in size M, this certainly isn't one of the lightest helmets around. Rather than chasing a low weight, Giro have clearly prioritized rotational impact protection. Alongside MIPS Spherical technology, the helmet also meets the NTA 8776 standard. This places more stringent requirements on a helmet than the standard bicycle helmet certification, for use on S-pedelecs. - **Technology:** MIPS Spherical - **Certification:** incl. NTA 8776 (S-pedelec standard for higher impact speeds) - **Features:** FIDLOCK magnetic buckle, vertical adjustment system, glasses storage, adjustable visor - **Sizes:** S (20–21.7 in) / M (21.7–23.2 in) / L (23.2–24.8 in) - **Weight:** S: 14.9 oz / M: 16.1 oz (measured by us) - **Colours:** 7 (including light and dark, two-tone and single-colour options) - **Price:** $330 ### What exactly is MIPS Spherical? MIPS Spherical is a rotational impact protection system designed to reduce the twisting forces generated in an angled impact. Unlike conventional MIPS liner systems, the Giro Montaro Pro helmet uses two decoupled layers of EPS foam that can move relative to each other, much like a ball-and-socket joint. This freedom of movement between the two layers is at the heart of the system. Unlike conventional MIPS solutions, there's no additional plastic liner sitting directly against your head. One particularly useful benefit of this construction is that the ventilation openings and internal air channels remain unobstructed. This is how the two layers move relative to each other. Here, the grey outer shell sits lower,… …while here, the outer shell has shifted upwards, exposing more of the blue inner shell. Giro have put some thought into comfort, too. In addition to the usual fit adjustment via a dial, the Roc Loc Trail Air fit system lets you adjust the helmet's position vertically, keeping the shell slightly raised above the top of your head. Together with the helmet's vents and internal air channels, this should help to channel fresh air over your head while allowing warm air to escape. There's another interesting detail for sweaty days on the trail: the Ionic+ pads contain pure silver, which is claimed to provide lasting, natural odour protection. The visor adds some practical functionality. It offers two adjustment positions, leaving enough room underneath to store your glasses. The magnetic FIDLOCK buckle is designed to make one-handed opening and closing easier, while still locking securely into place. Giro also include an emergency sheet for your personal details, which can be a lifesaver in a crash. ### So, is it worth it? After putting the Montaro Pro through its paces, we came away impressed. The MIPS Spherical system feels like a genuine step forward, not just a rehash. The comfort is top-notch, and the extra features like the silver-infused pads and adjustable visor are thoughtful touches. Yes, it's heavy and expensive, but if you prioritize protection above all else, the Montaro Pro makes a strong case. It's not for weight weenies, but for riders who want the best safety tech on the market, it's hard to beat.