Road Cycling Accessories

Reviewed: Scott Centric Plus Road Helmet

It's lightweight and stylish with heaps of protection

Words by Katherine Moore

We’ve put the road Centric Plus helmet from Scott to the test. Trusted by world class road cyclists such as Annemiek van Vleuten of Orica-Scott, the Centric Plus sits at the top of their range alongside the Cadence Plus, which has a greater emphasis on aerodynamic efficiency.

So how does the Centric Plus stack up for those of us not fortunate enough to ride as pros? From club riding and racing to commuting, I put the Scott Centric Plus through its paces.

Features and fit

Let’s consider the most important factor first; safety. With MIPS technology (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System), this helmet has a two-layer fit. The thin, inner MIPS casing fits the head, with the attached but independent main shell of the helmet surrounding it. Should you be unfortunate enough to hit your head, the inner shell is designed to move independently of the outer helmet, protecting the brain from the rotational motion that may cause serious injury.

A minimal layer of padding fits between the forehead and the top of the head and the MIPS layer, with X-Static antimicrobial and odour resistant properties to keep your lid fresh. The Halo Fit System allows you to closely adjust the helmet to your specific head circumference by twisting the round dial at the back to change the position of the lightweight plastic arms. Three positions of the rear adjustment up and down certainly make this helmet ponytail friendly!

The Centric Plus uses thin, sleek fabric straps under the chin to secure the helmet, which are lightweight and comfortable, with no rubbing on longer rides. One hitch here is the rubber securing band for the loose end of the strap that didn’t stay in place whilst riding, but this was easily rectified by doubling it over.

Style and performance

At a slim 240g, the Scott Centric Plus helmet will be the last thing weighing you down. The design has been well thought through with perfectly spaced slots for storing sunglasses when not in use. Branding is minimal, with a small Scott logo on the front and centrally on the top of the head, along with subtle ‘Scott’ wording worked into the sides of the helmet between the vents in blue hues. In this colourway, the simple white base of the helmet is contrasted by a deep teal shade that fades into a subtle glimmering sky blue on the back in a design that echoes the McLaren P1. So does the performance of the Centric Plus compare to this supercar?

Extensive wind tunnel testing and refinement by Scott’s team of design engineers has produced a helmet that is not only aerodynamically efficient but also incredibly well ventilated, with Scott boasting that ventilation with the Centric Plus is better than not wearing a helmet at all! The airflow both over the outside of the helmet and inside the helmet was analysed, which has led to a series of wide vents across the front to produce cooling channels through the helmet. The SCOTT AIR technology also includes perforations to the MIPS layer to improve air flow.

The bulk of the helmet is reduced thanks to the in-mold manufacturing process, resulting in a flattering shape that’s still safe. Although not as aero as its sister helmet the Cadence Plus, the increased focus on ventilation makes it a great choice for road cycling in the summer months.

The verdict

For anyone seeking a high performance, lightweight summer helmet that’ll help you keep your cool from the testing Alpine Cols to our diverse British roads and trails, the Scott is a great choice. Technical, stylish and above all safe – what’s not to like?

The Scott Centric Plus helmet is available in small, medium and large sizing from 51-61cm head circumference, at £145.99.

Available colours: black, black/yellow, black/green, and white/red as well as this white and teal combination

Available sizes: Small (51cm – 55cm), Medium (55cm – 59cm), and Large (59cm – 61cm)

The Scott Centric Plus helmet is available here for £146. For more information, and to view other Scott products, head over to their website here.