Review of the Louis Garneau "Course" Helmet, A

Back by popular demand, the general all-things Road forum!

Moderator: robbosmans

User avatar
prendrefeu
Posts: 8580
Joined: Wed Oct 31, 2007 10:32 pm
Location: Glendale / Los Angeles, California
Contact:

by prendrefeu

Hello!

First, I apologize for not getting this review out quicker. I was hoping to write it up and post in the past two weeks, but a combination of too much work, too much travel, illness, and a lack of time lands me here. I'll try to be as thorough as possible with this review, however it should be noted that I do not ride with a power meter and any data in regards to 'aero gains' is mostly empirical with casual verification when I compare recorded data on the same length of route with my training software. No testing was performed in a wind tunnel, on a computer, nor in a laboratory.

So let's begin, shall we?

Helmet: Louis Garneau "Course" (2013)
Size: Medium
Colour: White with red accents (aero blades are black)
Weight: 296g (with padding)

The inconsequentials-but-might-as-well-put-them-in:
Rider Weight at time of review: ~151lbs (US) or 10.7 stone (UK) or 68.5kg (World)
The bike used for testing is in my signature, Exp001.

Review terms: 4 weeks of on-season riding, both training and racing. Rough numbers at the time of writing ~820 miles in distance, 70,000ft in climbing (1319km / 21336m). Weather conditions varied from 62°F/16.6°C at the lowest to 115°F/46°C at the highest. Most of the riding was conducted during daylight hours (from dawn until dusk) with approximately a total of 3 hours spent without sunlight. Maximum recorded speed in this time was 53mph/85kmh.

-----

Packaging/what's in the box
The helmet itself is simply packaged, which is nice. It arrived in a black box which slid apart. The helmet was contained in a clear plastic bag which also held the small manual. The Spiderlock Vision light was also included in the box (stapled to the interior of the box). All said, minimal packaging, which I appreciate. The box was promptly recycled.
Included in the box:
-Helmet (obviously)
-Spiderlock Vision light
-One helmet pad set already in place on the helmet, another included in the bag
-Manual

There is no shell/case for the helmet, but I have placed it in another LG shell/case that I had available. I'm not sure what helmet specifically that shell/case was for, but it is clear that this Course helmet is significantly smaller and more compact in size to whatever that helmet was. A soft cloth bag or shell/case for the Course helmet included with purchase would have been a nice addition though, but it is not a deal breaker for me.

Weight
Let's be clear here: this isn't a light-weight helmet. For example, Louis Garneau's other offering, the X-Lite, comes in a full 100g less than this one. For reference this was a switch from a LAS "Victory" helmet (medium, matte black) which weighs in at 264g. Did I notice the extra 32g? Not really, but when I did initially wear it maybe my subconscious kept thinking about the number on the scale and I thought of it as heavy. That has since subsided. With anything that you put on your head, you will notice it for the first few minutes (or miles, km, whatever it may be) but as the ride goes on you will forget that it is there. This is in part due to the size of the helmet: it's really compact. Speaking of which....

Image
Image

Size, Fit & Design
This helmet is size medium. You can tell by the pictures that it actually fits rather nicely and looks really clean. I believe it's a beautiful contrast from the "Dragonball Z!" style of helmets that we've been seeing from manufacturers over the past couple years, the LAS Victory one of the prime examples of that trend. Despite the rounded shape, it does not mushroom out from the head. One riding partner remarked that it had a bit of an 'old school' appearance to it with a slight design nod/reference to the old leather helmets of yore. This design reference, I believe, is either emphasized or minimized depending on what colour scheme your helmet is and the colour of your hair to create contrast and highlight the structure of the helmet.

Image
Image
Image

The crucial bit: does it hold sunglasses when you're not using them? YES, yes it does. In fact, of all the helmets I've used in my years/decades riding, this holds sunglasses to the best of my memory. The arms of the sunglasses (pictured: Tifosi Podium with "Smoke" lens) fit into the vents very well and the frame slid deep into the helmet, making them really secure.

Image

Logos: as you can tell from the original photos, the logos are minimal which I appreciate. That said, I still wanted to remove them, which is not the easiest task and takes plenty of patience (I used an X-acto knife, it took about 30-45 minutes total to do this). The 'dot gradient' style graphics on the rear were kept.

Fit: Compared to the LAS helmet, which I believe has the best fitting mechanism I've ever used, the "Course" helmet fits rather nicely... but the LAS system is still better and a tad bit more secure while conforming nicely to the shape of my head. That said/written, the "Course" helmet is very comfortable and does not loosen over the course of a ride. Adjustments using the Spiderlock system to increase or decrease tightness is very easy.

Image
Image
Image

There are two sets of pads included with the helmet. Rather, when I write "set" I mean just one pad, one piece, shaped to fit in the helmet attached by minimalist velcro. I can't say for certain, but it seems that the pads are a little bit different from each other: one is slightly thicker than the other. I prefer the thinner one, but can go with either. They wash easily (hand wash) and dry quickly. Placement in the helmet is very easy and simple. There is no 'bug net' included in with the helmet, nor a 'winter' nor 'summer' pad set.

It should be noted that I made a small modification which I've done with all of my helmets for the past few years. Once I have the chin-strap length set, I had to cut off the excess. I then used a small torch or lighter to singe/melt the edge of the cut, melting together the fabric so it won't fray in the future and sealing the end. I then use a micro-sized zip-tie to keep the excess with the rest of the strap. I find the little rubber band that Louis Garneau and other manufacturers include absolutely useless.

Image

But is it Aero?!? (and some design notes)
One of the huge draws to this helmet is that it is claimed by Louis Garneau to be an 'aero' road helmet. The poster-child for the aero-road helmet movement is clearly the Giro "Air Attack", and we're beginning to see variations of aero-road helmets in the 2013 Tour de France (where, let's be honest, most of the 'new tech' gets put on display in the racing calendar). Since my LAS Victory was nearing two years in age, it was time that I replaced the helmet and I decided to jump into the 'aero road' helmet fray because I believe that it would potentially have a greater impact on 'aero' qualities, second to clothing/body/position, but far and away more beneficial than an "aero" road frame. I did not want the Giro "Air Attack" because, frankly, I think it looks like a cross between a welder's helmet and an upside down salad bowl. The "Air Attack" also has what Giro claims to be exceptional venting despite the two main channels in the front... but, let's be honest with ourselves: a very large percentage of people who ride tend to be older, balding or completely bald men where as I find myself in a different category - younger by comparison, thick hair with lots of curls and usually considerable length. Even if I don't ride with a helmet the amount of 'wind blowing through my hair' will be felt far less than most people. With that in mind, the "Air Attack" was not appealing due to the lack of vents. I do not believe that there is a lot of 'forced air' type venting when a person spends as much riding time climbing as I do, so the venting needs to be there to at least allow my body heat to vent out through my head... and yes, with this coif it's often like I'm wearing a knitted hat all the time, but I need to do whatever I can to help my situation.

Other options appear on the horizon from the likes of Scott and Specialized. I don't know if they are on the market just yet, but from what I can tell watching various pros don them during the stages of the Tour I'm not impressed in their appearance. It's just my take on it, but some of them make the Giro "Air Attack" look good, and that's saying something. Sure they're aero - but no one is kidding anyone if they say that appearance doesn't matter. Even people with crap aesthetic sensibilities and cobbled together kits still want to have some sense of dignity and they do try their best to not look like they have a fish with its mouth agape on the top of their head.

So is it aero?
In short, I think it is. I do not have wind tunnel data to show this, and I truly wonder if there ever will be an absolutely non-biased 3rd party willing to test the new crop of 'aero road' helmets properly, but it does appear to have some significant aero benefits.

Based purely on noting speed on the same descent - an 11 mile continuous descent with easy curves (on camber, consistent radius, smooth road surface) that does not need any braking at all - I noted at range of at least 4mph and up to 6mph increase in speed compared to when I wore the LAS "Victory" helmet. Same bike set up, generally the same weather conditions.

Is this a fluke? Maybe, I really don't know and there is a likelihood that the actual gain in speed is less pronounced. Pundits might argue "if that were the case, then why doesn't Europcar win all the sprints wearing this helmet, huh?!?!" and to that I don't have any counter argument beyond pointing to the numerous factors that affect racing such as position in the peloton/train/sprint kick, and so on.

Will we ever see a non-biased, 3rd party test on all of the 'aero road' helmets coming out? I truly doubt it. Wind tunnel testing is expensive. Some manufacturers might not be willing to send in their helmets for testing (adding to the cost of testing). Magazines/publications are not neutral, let's be honest with ourselves: advertising pays, and some companies have a bigger $ay and $way than others.

Finally, venting. Compared to the LAS "Victory" I definitely output a lot more sweat at the start of a ride, which is in part due to those aero fins on the "Course" not quite giving enough vertical heat-venting from my head as the "Victory" does. After about 30 minutes of the first significant part of my long rides, however, the effect subsides and it becomes a non-issue. Going downhill or at high speeds, however, I can feel more air hit my scalp (shocking, I know) with the "Course" helmet compared to the "Victory." So on the whole, the venting is good for my thick, female attraction inducing locks, but not amazing and most regular style helmets would probably be better. This is apparently the downside to going with an 'aero road' helmet.

----

That wraps up the review, thank you.
Exp001 || Other projects in the works.

quattrings
Posts: 479
Joined: Sun Nov 14, 2010 10:25 pm

by quattrings

Hi prendrefeu,

Thanks for that detailed review. Could you post your head circumference and how much your medium helmet has left in terms of adjustability.
For those looking to order from Evanscycles, I received word that the delivery date has been pushed back a month (25/7).

@prendefeu, I have already received my LG black knight TT helmet a couple of weeks ago, would it be ok if I posted a review of that helmet in this topic after I get some more miles in?

by Weenie


Visit starbike.com Online Retailer for HighEnd cycling components
Great Prices ✓    Broad Selection ✓    Worldwide Delivery ✓

www.starbike.com



headwind816
Posts: 309
Joined: Mon Mar 12, 2012 4:43 pm

by headwind816

Thank you so much for providing this review. A quick question about the weight; is the 296 grams with or without the light? Also, did you weigh it after trimming the band? Did you save a few grams?

User avatar
prendrefeu
Posts: 8580
Joined: Wed Oct 31, 2007 10:32 pm
Location: Glendale / Los Angeles, California
Contact:

by prendrefeu

@ quattrings
My head circumference is 56.8cm, and the medium goes up to 59 (according to LG). There's plenty of adjustability.

I'm keen to read your review of the TT helmet, maybe post a new thread on it? I'm thinking if people search for it - both here on WW and on the internet as a whole - the subject line will help people find the review better. If anyone wants to add their own takes on the Course helmet they could add it here.

Overall, I definitely want to see people post thorough, balanced reviews on products whenever possible. It helps everyone in making equipment decisions, and the industry folks are paying attention to your feedback - hopefully making their future products better.


@ headwind816
Weight of 296g is without the light, the light adds 13g and I keep it in my back pocket if I know there's a chance I'll be riding at moments where I need to have more visibility. Putting it on while riding is really easy. Weight after trimming was 293g, so I suppose I saved 3g! :D
Exp001 || Other projects in the works.

jpanspac
Posts: 159
Joined: Thu Apr 11, 2013 8:21 pm

by jpanspac

Are the Garneau helmets better for round heads or oval heads?
My favorite components are the ones I never have to think about.

User avatar
kac
Posts: 361
Joined: Sat Dec 04, 2010 5:31 pm

by kac

Really nice and informative review!! Thanks!

User avatar
mythical
Posts: 1515
Joined: Fri Apr 04, 2008 2:49 am
Location: Europe
Contact:

by mythical

Excellent writeup and feedback! I'm also in the market for a new helmet and I'm heavily taking this "Course" into consideration. Since I'm not someone whose scalp sweats a lot, this helmet won't give me problems in that area, though I may end up going for a lighter helmet. I have no experience with LG, so it really comes down to personal fit. Thanks again, @prendrefeu! :thumbup: :beerchug:
“I always find it amazing that a material can actually sell a product when it’s really the engineering that creates and dictates how well that material will behave or perform.” — Chuck Teixeira

are
Posts: 147
Joined: Fri Sep 05, 2008 1:15 am
Location: Los Angeles

by are

Great review - thanks. Looks like a very nice helmet; would be nice if a little lighter, though.

User avatar
Powerful Pete
Moderator
Posts: 4132
Joined: Fri Dec 10, 2004 10:22 am
Location: Lima, Peru and the Washington DC area - it's complicated.

by Powerful Pete

Ok prend, curious, how is it holding up as you rack up more miles? I am quite interested in the Course and was wondering...
Road bike: Cervelo R3, Campagnolo Chorus/Record mix...
Supercommuter: Jamis Renegade...
Oldie but goodie: De Rosa Professional Slx, Campagnolo C-Record...
And you can call me Macktastik Honey Pete Kicks, thank you.

User avatar
prendrefeu
Posts: 8580
Joined: Wed Oct 31, 2007 10:32 pm
Location: Glendale / Los Angeles, California
Contact:

by prendrefeu

It's holding up remarkably well! Despite the usual abuse of taking it in & out of a case, rinsing it in the shower (after those really sweaty days), and misc other stuff, it looks shiny and new. No issues with slippage from the strap fasteners, the rear-rotary fitting device is holding up fine. All said, it's a keeper for me.

I do sometimes envy a lighter helmet, to be frank about it, but that may just come down to my WW tendencies. Overall, even on longer climbs, I don't notice the weight.
Exp001 || Other projects in the works.

User avatar
Powerful Pete
Moderator
Posts: 4132
Joined: Fri Dec 10, 2004 10:22 am
Location: Lima, Peru and the Washington DC area - it's complicated.

by Powerful Pete

Grazie! Good to hear it is holding up well.
Road bike: Cervelo R3, Campagnolo Chorus/Record mix...
Supercommuter: Jamis Renegade...
Oldie but goodie: De Rosa Professional Slx, Campagnolo C-Record...
And you can call me Macktastik Honey Pete Kicks, thank you.

dynaserve
Posts: 269
Joined: Fri Jul 18, 2008 8:25 pm
Location: UK

by dynaserve

Firstly, what a great review. It prompted me to purchase the Course helmet. I then found the review very accurate indeed thanks! :beerchug:

For me the main features & themes of the Course are :
1) Shhh, its a secret... It looks like a normal helmet. Nobody knows you have just upgraded your lid. You don't look an idiot wearing it, like if...
2) It fits well. For me far better than Specialized (which I find seem to perch / site high on my head) and only slightly better than Giro.
3) It's faster than a normal helmet - I've found around +8% on high speed descents (over 40mph).

In summary a great lid.

CerveloBert
Posts: 284
Joined: Tue Dec 20, 2011 12:43 am
Location: Los Angeles, CA

by CerveloBert

I took this helmet into the mountains just last weekend and I did see a substantial increase in the speed of my descent, and I don't look like I'm out to split the wind in half. Thanks for a great review pren.

TOflat
Posts: 156
Joined: Fri May 21, 2010 5:43 am

by TOflat

Great review! I purchased the course helmet last month replacing a Giro Prolite. While I miss the strap that the prolite had, the reduction in wind noise more than makes up for that. And yes, I no longer can hear those wasted watts being drowned out by an inefficient helmet.

by Weenie


Visit starbike.com Online Retailer for HighEnd cycling components
Great Prices ✓    Broad Selection ✓    Worldwide Delivery ✓

www.starbike.com



Devon
Posts: 782
Joined: Fri Apr 12, 2013 1:19 pm
Location: Sydney, Australia

by Devon

Too much exposed EPS for me.

Looks similar in design to my friends Carrera helmet.

Post Reply