TESTED: Giant's All-New Rail and Roost Trail Helmets

In its third iteration, Giant has again redesigned its Rail and Roost trail helmets to better fit a larger segment of riders with increased safety features. Accomplished by creating an all-new, rounder head form, the latest models feature MIPS systems and updates to increase protection, comfort, and breathability over previous generations. 

Rail Highlights 

• Designed with a new, rounder head form for a universal fit
• Fully integrated, super-slim MIPS Air Node® liner 
• Five-star safety rating from the Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Lab
• In-molded upper, sub and lower PC shells for optimal protective structure
• Optimized low and high EPS density
• 21 strategically placed vents for head-cooling airflow
• Fidlock® buckle system
• Three-position adjustable visor
• Three-position rear height fit system
• Broad top surface area for camera or light mounting
• Sizes: S (51-55cm), M (55-59cm), L (59-63cm)
• Weight (size medium): 360g 
• MSRP: $190 USD

Roost Highlights

• Designed with a new, rounder head form for a universal fit
• In-molded upper and lower PC shells for an optimal protective structure at a lightweight
• Optimized low and high EPS density
• MIPS rotational impact liner
• Five-star safety rating from the Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Lab
• 12 oversized vents for maximum head-cooling airflow
• Three-position adjustable visor
• Three-position rear height fit system
• Sizes: S (51-55cm), M (55-59cm), L (59-63cm)
• Weight (size medium): 385g 
• MSRP: $110 USD

What Separates the Rail and Roost?

When designing the new Rail and Roost, Giant wanted to maintain the breathability and protection of the existing models while improving the fit. Using consumer feedback data, the new models now feature a rounder head shape (previous models were more oval-shaped) to improve fit across a wide range of head shapes. In the case of a rider having a unique head profile, both helmets also have an adjustable rear fit system to further dial in comfort and fit. Besides the updated head form, both helmets' shells have a sleeker profile with larger vents for increased airflow. 

The Rail is Giant's top-tier trail helmet featuring MIPS low-profile MIPS Air Node® rotational impact protection system, which offers 10-15mm of movement relative to the energy-absorbing layer of the helmet. It uses multiple in-molded shell layers with low and high-density EPS foam. Along with this, the Rail features 21 vents through the shell. Larger induction vents across the brow pull in air, while vents around the back allow for heat dissipation. Finally, Giant equipped the Rail with a Fidlock buckle system for a more user-friendly experience. The mid-tier Roost helmet uses a standard MIPS liner paired with a three-position rear fit system. The shell only features 12 vents throughout but still features in-molded layers and low and high-density EPS foam.

Rail Details

 

 Roost Details

 

Both helmets have received a 5-star rating from Virginia Tech's Helmet Safety Lab, which is no easy feat. Each comes in three shell sizes that accommodate head sizes from 51-63cm, and riders have multiple colorways to choose from. The Rail does shave some weight over the Roost (~15g) but costs more at $190 USD vs. the Roost at $110 USD. Finally, Giant has also launched a women's-focused Rail helmet under their Liv umbrella that shares the same safety and fit features as the Rail we tested here. 

On The Trail

We tested both helmets in a few locations from San Diego, California, up to Bend, Oregon. Riding in the thick of summer heat, we had no problem testing the ventilation and fit as we sweated up climbs.

The updated circular head form was immediately noticeable in both helmets, and it was apparent that the team at Giant was looking for a unique fit, unlike most helmets we've worn. The helmets didn't sit very low on the back of the head and didn't provide that wrap-around/full coverage feel like some half-shell helmets on the market; however, the helmets still felt plenty secure on our head. To our satisfaction, we did not experience any pressure points during testing and did not need to cinch down the retention system as hard as some other helmets to achieve a desirable fit. 

The next noticeable trait was the difference in MIPS technologies. The higher-end Rail helmet had a more solid feel, with the MIPS system creating a snug fit. The retention dial on the back was also more refined, with a positive engagement and rubber coating for easy on-the-go adjustments. In comparison, the MIPS in the Roost fit a tad looser, and the inner retention system felt more disconnected from the shell. The retention dial is also plastic on the Roost, with a larger gap between engagement points. When riding, it became evident that Giant put more development into the Rail helmet regarding ventilation. The vents are better thought out and work better than those on the Roost. The Roost was not overly hot, but we noticed that the padding filled with sweat quicker. 

Finally, the aesthetics of the Rail helmet are second to none in this category. We have come a long way in the industry, as countless brands are making good-looking helmets. It's only fitting that a big player like Giant now offers helmets that undoubtedly deserve to sit on the same shelf as dedicated helmet companies. During the testing period, a couple of people asked us what helmet we were wearing and seemed surprised when they found out; kudos to the team at Giant for designing helmets that look good and perform well.

Things That Could Be Improved

The only aspect of either helmet we'd prefer adjusted in the future is the rear drop of the helmet. Even though both helmets offered enough coverage to feel safe for trail or enduro riding, we've become accustomed to that 'full coverage' feel that most half-shells offer nowadays. Of course, depending on your head shape, the fit may not be the same, and this could be a moot point.

What's The Bottom Line?

Giant's Rail and Roost helmets offer a great fit with industry-leading protective features, all packaged within a stylish design. With two price points to satisfy riders on different budgets, we recommend either model to trail riders searching for a helmet that looks awesome, fits well, and offers industry-leading safety. 

About the Tester

Tanner Stephens - Age: 28 // Years Riding MTB: 16 // Height: 5'10" (178 cm) // Weight: 145-pounds (65.8kg)

Most known for winning a Pro US Downhill National on an old spray-painted bike, Tanner chased the dream of racing at the World Cup level for several years. Now working within corporate America, he keeps his hands in the bike industry through various creative outlets. He has developed a strong affection for suffering on long roads and mixed terrain rides and getting sketchy on an XC bike; however, he hasn't lost his love for smashing rocks, railing corners, and flowing jumps. A true student of mountain biking, Tanner has a strong love for downhill history and can be heard chatting about racing on Vital's B Practice Podcast.