LAZER
AcquiredOverview
Lazer is a cycling and motorsports helmet manufacturer with over 100 years of heritage, originating from Belgium in 1919. The company specializes in protective headgear designed with emphasis on safety, comfort, and aerodynamic performance. Lazer products are distributed across more than 50 countries and are recognized for integrating advanced materials and design principles developed through extensive research in cycling and motorsports applications.
History
Lazer was founded in 1919 by brothers Lacroix in Nivelles, Belgium. The commercial brand name 'Lazer' was established in 1980. In 2009, Sean van Waes acquired the company, and in 2016, Shimano purchased Lazer Sport, integrating it into its broader cycling component portfolio. The company has maintained its Belgian design heritage throughout its ownership transitions.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Road Cycling Helmets | High-performance aerodynamic helmets for competitive cycling | $150 - $400 |
| Mountain Bike Helmets | All-mountain and trail-specific protective headgear | $120 - $350 |
| Urban/Commuter Helmets | Stylish everyday cycling protection | $80 - $200 |
| Motorsports Helmets | Motorcycle and motorsport safety equipment | $200 - $600 |
| Kids Helmets | Youth-sized protective headgear with safety focus | $60 - $150 |
Manufacturing
Products are designed in Belgium and manufactured through a combination of in-house and outsourced production. As a Shimano subsidiary, Lazer leverages Shimano's manufacturing infrastructure while maintaining design operations in Belgium.
Notable Products
- Lazer Z1 MIPS - Road cycling helmet with MIPS impact protection technology and aerodynamic design
- Lazer Blade+ - Lightweight mountain bike helmet with ventilation and trail-specific protection
- Lazer Sphere - Urban commuter helmet combining safety with contemporary styling
- Lazer Jackal - Motorsports helmet for motorcycle and motorsport applications
Reputation
Lazer is respected in cycling and motorsports communities for prioritizing safety innovation and design quality. The brand is known for integrating advanced technologies like MIPS and aerodynamic optimization into its products. As a heritage brand with over a century of experience, Lazer maintains credibility among enthusiasts, though it operates in a competitive market alongside larger manufacturers. The Shimano acquisition has provided resources for continued innovation while preserving the brand's Belgian design identity.