The Contenders:
1) Giro Synthe (non MIPS - priced for $150)
2) LG Course ($160)
3) Kask Mojito ($165)
4) Kask Vertigo ($125)

I've tried them all, and all of them feel good and fit. I live in hot and humid conditions with mild "winters," so ventilation is the most important and aero is just a plus.

Feedback, input, and opinions/experiences are greatly appreciated!

as a proud Synthe owner myself.... I say the synthe... but that Kask Mojito is a looker as well...

I'd say get the one you like best, but I'm guessing that's not what you're looking for. The Giro Synthe looks great to me.

The Synth seems to be the current go to that I see out there but like bigdo13 said that Kask is pretty sweet. I always base my helmet choice on fit which usually has me compromising looks but I'd rather be comfortable and safe than look cool.

Thankfully for me I like the way the Synthe looks, and mine fits me well. I think the Kask Protone and Specialized Prevail are also great looking lids, but I've not tried them on.

I know you said ventilation take precedence over aero, but the Bont Ballista has good ventilation and is probably one of the top 3 on aero.

Bontrager Ballista, would be my choice, and I have a Synth.

Kask Vertigo works great for me.