How to Buy a Bike Helmet (2025)

After more than a decade of study and design, Mips launched its first product, a proprietary helmet in 2007. Shortly after, the MIPs became what is known as an “ingredient brand”, selling its technology to megabrands such as Giro, Smith and specialized. Therefore, the small yellow logo now ubic.

Are there other security systems?

Photography: Michael Venutolo-Maméovani

Although MIPS is easily the most popular rotational impact system and undoubtedly the industry standard, it is not the only one. Several companies have developed their own proprietary systems which mainly fulfill the same function as MIPs.

For example, 100% motocross brand Hold on most of its new helmets with its Smartshock owner system, where a series of tiny elastomers will allow the interior strap of the helmets to move independently of its outer shell while absorbing the impact forces. According to 100%, Smartshock is effective on a wide range of speed and impact types.

Giro, one of the most popular headset brands on the earth, recently published its new spherical technology, which is a ball and base system that allows a superior shell to turn over a lower shell in order to redirect the impact forces far from the head. (Note here, however, that the Giro Aries spherical helmet ($ 250) Always has a MIPS system.)

Trek, another of the biggest brands in the world, has been deployed Its Wavecel system A few years ago. Essentially, an area of ​​crumpled integrated into the helmet, Wavecel is a thick and firm inner layer which can be flexed to reduce the initial impact, offend to absorb energy on the impact and slide towards, like the MIP, redirect the energy of the head. Finally, similar to Trek’s Wavecel technology, the Koroyd system uses a series of tubes that collapse instantly and consistently on the impact, absorbing the maximum force sustained during an accident. Some helmets, such as the Smith persists ($ 130)Meld Mips and Koroyd systems under a single shell to offer an additional protection layer.

Do you need a new helmet?

Even if you are a rider all year round and you have a helmet you like, the general rule is that you should withdraw it after three to five years. Exposure to UV, sweat loaded with salt and daily use all contribute to the degradation of helmets.

Finally, helmets are not supposed to be worn after an accident. Even if the spill is a minor and the helmet looks and feels perfectly well, throws it and gets a new one. Some brands even offer accident replacement options. Even if your helmet is ransacked, make the comfort of knowing that he has done his job and kept you safe. He deserves a peaceful and sweaty retirement.

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