Helmet Head

Scientific helmets…because an injured brain does not heal like a broken bone.

Did you know that horseback riding carries a higher injury rate than downhill ski racing, football, hang-gliding and motorcycle racing? Even head injuries that seem insignificant may have serious long-term effect.

At the high-end ($550 and up) there is the Kask Helmet.

Kask makes a range of helmets for multiple sports, including cycling, equestrian, and snow. Their site offers a 101 on the typical crash experiences people can have:

1. Direct and linear against an object (think blunt trauma).

2. Oblique hit with a certain angle of impact (think tilt or spin). This is the bad one!

The Kask helmets have been tested to ensure they will mitigate damage. They have a unique, invisible layer of protection, and their lower back design covers a greater part of the neck area.

One K with Mips® protection is a great mid-market ($350) choice.

Mips® protection is the latest in helmet safety. Developed by a brain surgeon (it is brain surgery) and a biomechanics scientist (sounds impressive), Mips® Safety System has revolutionized the world of helmet protection. A low-friction layer, designed to move slightly in the event of an impact, the system helps to redirect rotational motion away from the head. This helps to reduce the risk of brain injury.

More and more helmets are being designed with this technology. At a price point of under $200 here are some excellent options:

• Charles Owen

• Ovation

• Terrain

• Equinavia

So…happy riding and give your helmet hair a gentle shake.