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Bicycle accidents happen more often than we think. Sudden braking, an unexpected obstacle, a slippery road… and the crash occurs. In most cases, the head doesn’t hit the ground straight on, but at an angle. Imagine skidding after riding over an oil patch: your skull will likely hit the asphalt sideways, generating dangerous rotational forces.
This is where the real danger lies. Your brain, this marvel of nature floating in cerebrospinal fluid, then undergoes violent whiplash-like movements. The consequences? They range from a simple concussion to irreversible injuries. In other words, a good helmet is not a luxury but an absolute necessity.
Essential criteria for choosing well
Check certification
Look for the small labels inside the helmet. CE, CPSC, or AS/NZS markings are not decorative stickers. They prove the helmet has successfully passed a series of rigorous tests. Without these certifications, walk away – no matter the price or appearance.
Fit is the cornerstone
A helmet that wobbles or squeezes like a vice? You might as well not wear one at all. To find the right size, measure your head circumference around from the forehead. Once the helmet is on, carefully adjust each strap. The ultimate test: Shake your head vigorously. If the helmet moves, tighten it. If it hurts, loosen it slightly.
Materials and construction
Two main approaches exist in the helmet world. On one side, in-mould technology fuses the outer shell with the inner foam, creating a light yet resistant piece. On the other, hard shell helmets rely on a separate rigid shell for maximum robustness. Each option has its advantages, depending on your riding style and requirements.
Innovations that make a difference
Most traditional helmets perform well against straight, perpendicular impacts but struggle with angled crashes. Yet, as mentioned, angled impacts are probably the norm in real-life accidents. The resulting rotational forces make the brain spin inside the skull, causing significant damage.
To address this problem, engineers developed the multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS). A sliding layer between the shell and the liner allows the helmet to rotate slightly during an angled impact. This controlled movement drastically reduces the forces transmitted to the brain.
The idea is inspired by our own anatomy: Our brain can move slightly within the skull thanks to the surrounding fluid. MIPS replicates this natural protection mechanism. You can look into mips helmets that integrate this advanced safety feature.
Independent research broadly validates the effectiveness of these new technologies. Several studies document a significant reduction in rotational forces during angled impacts.
Maintenance and replacement
Has your helmet absorbed an impact? Time to throw it away – even if no cracks are visible to the naked eye. Internal micro-damage irreversibly compromises its protective capacity. Additionally, plan to replace it every three to five years, depending on how often you ride and how you store it.
In the meantime, a few simple habits will extend its lifespan: Regularly check the condition of the straps, clean the inner padding and inspect the shell. These small efforts ensure consistent performance.
