Not All Helmets Protect Equally
Every helmet sold in the US must meet the CPSC standard. But CPSC only tests for direct impacts — dropping the helmet straight down onto a flat surface. Real cycling crashes involve rotational forces (your head hitting the ground at an angle and rotating), which cause the majority of concussions. Technologies like MIPS, WaveCel, and SPIN address this gap.
Per Virginia Tech's helmet safety ratings (the most comprehensive independent testing program), helmet performance varies dramatically — even within the same price range. A $60 helmet with MIPS can outperform a $200 helmet without it.
Certifications: What They Mean
| Certification | Required? | What It Tests | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPSC (US) | Yes (US law) | Direct impact at fixed points | No rotational testing |
| EN 1078 (Europe) | Yes (EU law) | Similar to CPSC, slightly different anvil shapes | No rotational testing |
| Virginia Tech STAR Rating | No (independent) | Comprehensive: linear + rotational impacts | Best third-party rating system |
| MIPS Certified | No (technology) | Rotational impact reduction | Technology, not a certification body |
Bottom line: Look for Virginia Tech's STAR rating (5 stars = best). It's the most reliable indicator of real-world protection. Available free at helmet.beam.vt.edu.
MIPS and Rotational Protection Systems
MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System): A low-friction liner inside the helmet that allows the helmet shell to rotate 10–15mm relative to your head during an angled impact. This reduces rotational acceleration to the brain by up to 40% according to MIPS AB's published testing data.
WaveCel (Bontrager/Trek): A collapsible cellular liner that flexes, crumples, and glides during impact. Claims up to 48x better protection against concussions than standard foam in angled impacts.
SPIN (Shearing Pad Inside, POC): Silicone pads in the comfort liner that allow rotational movement. Similar concept to MIPS but integrated into the padding system.
Is MIPS worth the extra $20–$40? Yes. Every independent testing organization (Virginia Tech, Folksam, Stiftung Warentest) has found that MIPS-equipped helmets consistently outperform their non-MIPS equivalents in rotational impact tests.
Getting the Right Fit
- Measure your head: Wrap a tape measure around the widest point (above ears, across forehead). Most helmets list size in cm ranges.
- Level position: The helmet should sit level on your head, covering the forehead. Two finger-widths above your eyebrows.
- Snug but not tight: With the retention dial tightened, the helmet shouldn't shift when you shake your head.
- Strap fit: Y-straps should meet just below and in front of the ear. Chin strap should allow one finger between strap and chin.
Helmet Types
- Road: Lightweight, well-ventilated, aerodynamic. For road cycling, gravel, commuting at speed.
- Mountain: Extended rear coverage, visor, less ventilation (for dusty trails). MIPS especially important for MTB.
- Commuter/Urban: Rounder shape, rear light mounts, often less ventilated. Style-focused but still protective.
- Aero/Time Trial: Smooth shell, minimal vents, teardrop shape. For racing and triathlons only — too hot for regular riding.
Recommendations
Common Mistakes
Sources & Further Reading
- Virginia Tech. "Bicycle Helmet Ratings." helmet.beam.vt.edu
- MIPS AB. "Rotational Motion and Brain Protection." mipsprotection.com
- Bontrager. "WaveCel Technology Research." trekbikes.com/wavecel
- Consumer Reports. "Bike Helmet Buying Guide 2025." consumerreports.org
- Global Cycling Network (YouTube). "How to Fit a Bike Helmet Properly." youtube.com/@gcn
