History and evolution of cycling helmets
A cycling helmet is designed to protect the cyclist's head and reduce side impacts if a collision or accident occurs. This helmet is generally lightweight and ensures enough ventilation, as cycling is an intense aerobic activity. It helps to regulate the temperature of the head section. The history of helmets dates back to the 1970s when the “hairnet” style with open construction made of rubber bars covered in leather. These helmets provide limited impact protection and are mainly used by racing cyclists. Those were hard-shell helmets designed with polystyrene foam.
The helmet evolution has started from padded leather strips to lightweight, sophisticated designs with modern safety technologies. A pith or padded leather old bike helmet ensures minimal protection to cyclists. In the 1970s, hard-shell helmets with EPS foam were introduced. Over time, significant advancements in padding, ventilation, and materials have been made. Modern bike helmets are more comfortable, lighter, and feature technologies like advanced ventilation systems and MIPS. Let's delve deep and explore helmets throughout history.
Early Helmets (Late 1800s - 1960s):
When were bike helmets invented? The old hairnet was introduced in this era. Racing bike riders usually wore these hairnets to ensure ample protection from scrapes and cuts. The helmet design was open and made from padded leather strips or pith, which was a lightweight plant material. Those early helmets provide basic head protection to cyclists. Until the 1960s, the leather and pith helmets were used. Mostly racers and sometimes road riders wore these early helmets in challenging conditions.
Key Innovations (1970s - 1990s):
This era is known for introducing advancements to early helmets. In the 1970s, those leather and pith helmets were replaced by hard shell helmets made of EPS foam. These cycling helmets supersede a hairnet and offer injury prevention and head protection. The 80s bike helmet with bell "Biker" model with a hard plastic shell, was made using EPS foam. This was an important innovation in bicycle helmet design. Key improvements in chinstrap buckles were made throughout the decades. It further enabled helmets to be easier to wear and adjust. Helmets were standardized in this era. In the 1970s, the first cycling helmet standards were introduced in the United States.
Read the complete overview of cycling helmets to uncover more details about types, materials used, importance, and the right helmet size and fit.
Decade-by-Decade Evolution:
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1980s-1990s:
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The major evolution of the cycling helmet started in 1983 when the design was refined and a polystyrene helmet was introduced for racing. The no-shell children’s helmet with little ventilation was produced in 1984. Snell B85, the first widely adopted helmet standard, was introduced. It was later refined into B90 and B95. Still, helmets were either no-shell or hard-shell. In 1990, helmets with an in-mould micro shell, a new technique, were constructed. This 90s bike helmet gained popularity among general cyclists over the old hard-shell helmets. This decade is known for introducing comfort features and improved ventilation to cycling helmets.
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2000s:
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New advancements to fitting and retention systems were introduced in the early 2000s. The cradles were constructed to replace the old system of varying pads. The helmet properly adjusts to the rider’s head due to these cradles. The use of carbon fiber, a material used in cycling helmets, enhances the protection and strength of the helmet. The main focus of this era was shifted to improved ventilation, lightweight, and aerodynamic helmet designs.
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2010s-Present:
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In 2010, current advancements like the integration of MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) were introduced to helmets. This innovation further improves cyclists' protection against rotational forces. Later, new padding materials like Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) and Mycelium-based liners were developed. The helmet’s ventilation systems were also improved in this era.
Not always is a lightweight, aerodynamic, and well-ventilated helmet best for you. Keep your riding purpose in mind while choosing a helmet. Different types of cycling helmets suit different riding styles and preferences. Learn well about them too before buying one.
Modern Trends:
The following are the current cycling helmet trends preferred among pro cyclists:
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MIPS Technology: It is a low-friction inner layer of the helmet, intended to absorb rotational forces during impact. It will ultimately lower the risk of brain injury.
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Aerodynamic Designs: Several modern helmets prefer aerodynamics for enhanced performance in high-speed riding and racing.
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Lightweight and Comfort: Helmet design and materials focus on lowering weight and improving cyclist comfort.
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Advanced Ventilation: Improved ventilation systems keep bike riders comfortable and cool during long rides.
Future of Helmets:
New advancements and innovations are on the way. Helmets with improved safety features are probably under research. Such helmets will maximize rider safety and lower the risk of head injuries and trauma. Soon, smart helmets with the integration of new technology and sensors will collect real-time data. Head scanning and 3D printing technology are being developed. It will lead to custom-fit cycling helmets to address individual needs and head shapes.
Road safety and health practitioners are constantly promoting helmets. Always wear a helmet while riding; it's a legal practice and ensures your safety from brain trauma and injuries.