It’s always welcome when a budget-priced item exceeds expectations. In my everyday riding, I was surprised by how often I reached for the Fixture MIPS over other pricier, supposedly nicer lids. With a modern silhouette and colors, stay-put fit adjustment and MIPS liner, the Giro Fixture MIPS makes recommending a more expensive helmet difficult.
It easily found its perch at the top of our list. It scored top marks in comfort and protection with its deep fit, an extremely adjustable harness system, and MIPS rotational impact system. The MIPS system features a plastic insert that will rotate inside of the outer foam shell on impact to absorb rotational forces. We were impressed to find out that this premium safety feature is offered by Giro at an affordable price, as it's typically only found on high-end models. The design is thoughtful and polished, considering how much extra protection it's packing.
A great value, well-fitting and sharp-looking trail lid. With a ton of colour options and the MIPS cradle for added protection, there's little reason not to put this at the top of your list. Built round an in-mold construction, the Fixture has a simple but just-right chin strap with plenty of adjustment, and a straightforward sliding ratchet system that's simple to close and release. It takes minimal time to get used to, and proves a little more comfortable on the chin than the usual clip.
Offers good safety, a very comfortable fit and pretty stylish looks for a very reasonable price. It even comes in 12 different colors if you're looking to really coordinate with your bike. It drops down a fair way at the back for good coverage of your skull, and feels reassuring when you do think about what's there. The Roc Loc Sport retention system holds it securely in place, too, and it's very easy to adjust – you get the usual dial at the back to tune the circumference, and a neat curved plastic chin clip that's easily ratcheted to the perfect tension.
The GIRO Fixture is the best fitting mountain bike helmet I’ve tried in the sub $100aud category. Even better, there is a MIPS version for around $100 too. Its light, comfortable and provides a good level of coverage that is rarely found on more affordable helmets. Safety isn’t usually something to skimp on but if you’re on a budget the GIRO Fixture won’t let you down.