In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
Italian helmet manufacturer Limar is launching the Air Stratos Mag Mips, the top-of-the-range model in the Stratos range. In terms of features, there’s little to complain about – but the pricing is a bit of a shock.
BIKE verdict: A good helmet, but not a bargain
The Limar Air Stratos Mag MIPS is a road cycling helmet that focuses on the essentials and impresses in the key areas of weight and ventilation. The build quality is excellent, and the adjustment system is also a plus. MIPS Air provides a useful addition to the safety package. However, the extra costs for the Fidlock fastening and MIPS are quite steep. The basic helmet is considerably cheaper. - Adrian Kaether, Test & Technology Editor
Review: Limar Air Stratos Mag Mips, size L | Weight: 255 g | RRP: 189.95 euros
Workmanship & Features
At first glance, the Air Stratos Mag Mips makes a solid, neat impression. The shell is neatly and evenly moulded onto the polystyrene base. You won’t find any burrs or sharp edges.
The highlight of the helmet’s features is the practical Fidlock magnetic fastening. The lightweight Air version also incorporates a MIPS system, which is designed to divert rotational forces away from the head in the event of an oblique impact, thereby reducing the risk of injury – something that has now become standard in sports helmets.
Adaptation: Solved intuitively
The adjustment system is fairly self-explanatory: the strap dividers under the ears can be easily slid upwards. The width adjustment is operated via a rotary knob, and the vertical position of the headband can also be adjusted to eight different settings using a simple push mechanism. This is considerably more complicated on many other helmets.
Another positive feature: the faux-leather chin pad is comfortable to wear and gives the impression of high quality, which is noticeable when it comes into direct contact with the skin. The head pads can, of course, be removed and washed separately. A goggle pocket is included as standard. However, we wouldn’t store the goggles there during fast descents, as they sit quite loosely.
Fit, weight & ventilation
In size L (57–61 cm), the Air Stratos Mag Mips weighs in at 255 grams – a respectable figure for a well-equipped road cycling helmet. It sits comfortably on the head and doesn’t pinch anywhere. Ventilation is one of its strongest points: the generous vents ensure a noticeable airflow that keeps you cool even at high speeds. Limar does not provide any details on aerodynamics. Presumably, other helmets with fewer vents perform better in this respect.
One caveat regarding the fit: the helmet has a rather round shape. Cyclists with an oval-shaped head may find the fit less than ideal. It will still work in most cases, but as always, it’s advisable to try it on before buying. Visually, the Air Stratos Mag Mips in white captures the spirit of the times: clean lines, no over-the-top design. Just right for road cycling and gravel riding.
Price & Classification
Taken as a whole, the price of 189.95 euros for a lightweight helmet featuring MIPS Air and a magnetic fastening is still fair. However, the basic version costs just 117 euros and therefore offers significantly better value for money. The magnetic fastening alone costs an extra €33, whilst MIPS costs as much as €49 – together, this adds up to an extra €82 for our test model compared with the basic version.
| Model | MIPS | Magnetic clasp | Price |
| Air Stratos | – | – | €117.00 |
| Air Stratos Mag | – | ✓ | €150.00 |
| Air Stratos MIPS | ✓ | – | €166.00 |
| Air Stratos Mag MIPS | ✓ | ✓ | €189.95 |
Adrian Kaether
Editor
