A groundbreaking study conducted at Imperial College London has revealed a surprising truth about cycle helmets: price doesn’t guarantee protection. The researchers tested 30 popular helmet models sold in Britain, analyzing their ability to mitigate various types of impacts.
The study, believed to be the first of its kind, employed a comprehensive approach, considering not only direct impacts but also head rotation, which can lead to deep brain injuries. The team found a considerable variation in performance across the tested helmets, even those with significantly different price tags.
Despite the wide price range, from £50 to £130, all helmets met the minimum safety standard (EN1078), which only assesses straight-on head impacts. However, the researchers went beyond this standard, introducing a new rating system that accounts for the complex nature of head injuries in real-world cycling accidents.
The Specialized Tactic MIPS helmet, priced at £50, emerged as the top performer, earning a score of 4.84 out of five. This finding challenges the common assumption that expensive helmets automatically offer superior protection.
Lead researcher Dr. Claire Baker emphasized the importance of their work, stating: “Our new ratings give consumers objective, evidence-based data to support their buying decisions.” The study highlights the need for cyclists to look beyond price and prioritize helmets that have been rigorously tested and rated based on real-world impact scenarios.
