Modern road cycling helmets explained: The technologies shaping today's safest designs

Helmet design has progressed enormously over the last few years, with modern helmets sleek, comfortable, highly adjustable and aerodynamic. Many now also include features to mitigate the effects of rotational impacts. Here are the features to expect in a quality road cycling helmet such as the Halfords Advanced Road Helmet.

TL:DR All helmets must pass a series of drop tests, but real-world impacts are often different to those modelled by these tests. So helmets often contain rotational impact mitigation in their design, with MIPS the best known.

Helmets are designed to ensure good interior airflow and aerodynamic performance and be low in weight. There’s a wide array of adjustment to ensure a good fit, but nevertheless expert fitting advice is still essential to make sure that a helmet keeps you safe.

Safety standards versus real-world protection

Helmet safety standards require a series of specific drop tests, where the helmet is fitted to a headform and dropped at different angles from a specified height onto a series of differently shaped targets.

This proves that the helmet remains intact and doesn’t break, but it doesn’t necessarily reflect how real-world head impacts occur. It’s much more likely that a rider’s head will receive a glancing blow than a direct impact if they fall and the effect of this will be different.

Specifically, a glancing impact is likely to cause the head to be forced to rotate and this in turn may transmit rotational force to the rider’s brain.

Rotational impact technologies

To potentially reduce the transmission of rotational forces to the rider’s head, many helmets now include some form of rotational impact protection, the best-known of which is MIPS.

Signifying Multi-directional Impact Protection System check, MIPS is a patented system developed by a Swedish company. It places a sliding plane layer between the helmet shell and the head. In an impact, this layer slips slightly, so that the force impacting the helmet shell is diminished before it reaches the wearer’s head.

There are various types of MIPS layer. The classic system places a plastic liner inside the helmet, loosely connected to it, but MIPS can also be built into the helmet’s padding, while helmet maker Giro uses a system called MIPS Spherical, where the sliding layer is placed between an inner and outer shell of the helmet.

There are other rotational impact technologies besides MIPS. For example, helmet maker Lazer uses its own KinetiCore system, which places crumple zones in the helmet shell, while Kask designs its helmets to the WG11 standard, which tests the design for rotational impacts.

None has been shown to be better than another, although there are many helmets with MIPS and they, in general, score well in independent testing.

“Before choosing a helmet, understand key safety technologies like MIPS or KinetiCore. These features are designed to reduce rotational forces in a crash and can make a real difference in your protection,” says Halfords.

Ventilation and aerodynamic design

Cycling helmets are designed to provide efficient airflow through their core and over the wearer’s head. This is typically by means of longitudinal channels running from front to back to channel air through the helmet and vent warm air out of the rear of the helmet, above the retainer cradle.

At the same time, the helmet is often designed to be aerodynamically efficient, particularly if it’s an aero design. But even more vented helmets are designed to be streamlined and to reduce drag, with a smooth shell and strategically placed vents and exit ports.

Weight and rider comfort

Road cycling helmet weight is kept to a minimum, so that the helmet is comfortable to wear for extended periods. Most road helmets weigh in the region of 300g, but once you’re wearing it, even a helmet that’s closer to 400g is unlikely to feel weighty or impact your performance.

The distribution of helmet padding has a significant effect on comfort. A brow pad will help to stop sweat from dripping into your face on hot days, while well-distributed padding over the top and rear of the helmet should help avoid pressure points on your head.

If you have a ponytail, make sure that a helmet’s rear cradle can accommodate it effectively, without getting in the way or impacting helmet fit.

Fit systems and adjustability

A helmet needs to provide multi-directional adjustability to ensure a close fit which is still comfortable. The helmet’s internal circumference is usually altered via a dial adjuster at the rear. This allows you to tighten or loosen the helmet as you ride.

There are other systems; Lazer, for example, uses a roller built into the top of the helmet towards its rear on some of its helmets.

In addition, there’s usually up and down adjustability of the rear cradle. This allows you to ensure that it fits closely below the occipital bones, the bump at the rear of your skull.

Finally, the strap length can be lengthened or shortened, to ensure a close fit under the chin. Some helmets, such as the Halfords Advanced Road Helmet, have a magnetic Fidlock buckle, which is easy to use one-handed, while a nylon clip is more typical and is also effective.

Why expert fitting advice is still vital

Helmet fit is very personal, The internal shape of helmets differs between brands and getting the correct size is vital. It’s also important to make sure that you’re wearing your helmet correctly; it should be positioned low over the forehead and the rear retainer should sit comfortably below your occipital bones. Straps also need to be adjusted correctly.

“Correct fit is the absolute, non-negotiable priority with any helmet. A poorly fitting helmet cannot provide full protection and may fail in the event of an accident,” Halfords stresses.

“The biggest mistake is choosing a helmet that doesn’t fit well. A poor fit means the helmet might not protect you when it matters most. It’s also important to ensure that the straps and closure system are adjusted correctly (not too loose) and any retention systems are tight.”

You may not be able to adjust the fit yourself and it’s difficult to choose a helmet unless you try it on, so you should consider talking to an expert, such as the staff at Halfords, when choosing a new cycling helmet.

FAQs

What helmet technologies should road cyclists look for?

It’s worth considering a helmet with MIPS or another rotational impact system, such as KinetiCore, used by Lazer. It may be a little more pricey, but could reduce the risk of injury in a crash.

What makes modern cycling helmets safer?

Helmet makers continually refine their helmets’ fit and the adjustment system and they trickle down new features from high-end helmets to more modestly priced ones. Most modern helmets include some form of rotational impact protection, which may help protect the rider’s head in the event of a glancing impact.

Can Halfords help me choose a performance cycling helmet?

Halfords sells a range of helmets for road and off-road use, including its own Halfords Advanced Road Helmet, as well as helmets from top brands including Lazer, Abus and Met. Halfords staff will be able to advise you on helmet design and features, as well as ensuring that you get the correct helmet to fit you perfectly.