Are MIPS Helmets Safer Than Other Types of Helmets?

Are you seeking the latest helmet technology to protect yourself while cycling or engaging in other high-impact activities?

MIPS helmets have become increasingly popular in recent years, claiming they offer better protection against head injuries.

But are MIPS helmets safer? and how do they work?

The answer is that MIPS helmets are generally considered safer than traditional ones.

MIPS helmets are designed to reduce the rotational forces transmitted to the head and brain in the event of an impact.

This increased protection can help reduce the risk of concussion and other head injuries.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take a closer look at MIPS helmets and their safety features, so you can make an informed decision when choosing a MIPS helmet for your next adventure.

The Basics of Helmet Safety

Helmets are designed to protect the head from impact in an accident. They do this by absorbing some of the energy of the effect, which reduces the force transmitted to the head.

 A helmet needs to fit appropriately and be worn correctly to be effective. It’s also essential to choose a helmet that is appropriate for the activity you’ll be doing.

Types of Head Injuries

There are two main types of head injuries: concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

Concussions are mild TBIs that can cause temporary symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and confusion.

More severe TBIs can cause long-term damage to the brain and can be life-threatening.

The Anatomy of a Helmet

Helmets comprise several components, including an outer shell, an inner liner, and a chinstrap.

The outer shell protects the head from impact and penetration, while the inner liner is made of foam that absorbs energy. The chinstrap secures the helmet to the head.

The Development of MIPS

While helmets effectively reduce the risk of head injuries, there is always room for improvement.

In particular, most helmets are designed to protect against impacts from a straight line.

However, in real-world accidents, impacts can come from any direction. This is where MIPS comes in.

The Basics of MIPS Technology

MIPS stands for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System. The technology was developed in Sweden in the early 2000s and has since been incorporated into several helmet designs.

MIPS helmets are designed to protect the head from rotational forces, which can cause brain injuries.

Check Also: Best Giro MIPS Helmets

How MIPS Works

MIPS helmets have an additional layer inside the helmet that sits between the outer shell and the foam liner.

This layer is meant to allow some rotation of the helmet upon contact. The helmet’s rotational motion helps reduce the amount of force transmitted to the brain.

When the head experiences an impact, the helmet’s outer shell rotates slightly around the inner layer, which absorbs some of the rotational force.

This helps to reduce the risk of a concussion or other brain injury.

Read More: Are MIPS Helmets Better for Your Head

Are MIPS Helmets Safer than Traditional Helmets?

MIPS helmets may be safer than traditional helmets in certain types of impacts. They use a specialized liner system to reduce rotational forces on the brain in the event of an effect, an area where traditional helmets don’t perform as well.

However, not all studies have shown precise results, and the effectiveness of MIPS helmets may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the impact.

Ultimately, the best helmet is the one you wear, so it’s essential to choose a helmet that fits well and is comfortable, regardless of whether it has MIPS technology.

Read More: Is an Aero Helmet Better Than a Regular Helmet?

Studies on MIPS Helmets

Numerous studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of MIPS helmets.

One study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that MIPS helmets reduced the risk of concussion by up to 50% compared to traditional helmets.

Another study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery found that MIPS helmets reduced the risk of brain injury by up to 30%.

Real-World Results

Real-world results have also been promising. In a Virginia Tech Helmet Lab study, MIPS helmets consistently received high ratings for safety in both linear and rotational impact tests.

The lab’s testing is considered some of the most rigorous in the industry, and the results suggest that MIPS technology effectively reduces the risk of head injuries.

Other Helmet Safety Technologies

EPS Foam

EPS foam is the most common type of foam used in helmet liners. It’s designed to absorb energy upon impact, which helps to reduce the force that is transmitted to the head.

While EPS foam effectively reduces linear impacts, it doesn’t provide much protection against rotational forces.

WaveCel

WaveCel is a newer helmet technology designed to protect linear and rotational forces.

It consists of a collapsible cellular material designed to absorb energy upon impact. WaveCel helmets effectively reduce the risk of head injuries in both lab tests and real-world scenarios.

Read More: Are MIPS Helmets Bigger and Safer Than Helmets?

FAQs About Are MIPS Helmets Safer?

Final Word

Helmet safety is essential for anyone participating in sports or outdoor activities. While helmets have long been effective at reducing the risk of head injuries, newer technologies like MIPS and WaveCel are taking helmet safety to the next level.

Studies have shown that MIPS helmets can significantly reduce the risk of concussions and other brain injuries, making them an excellent choice for anyone who wants the best protection.