Nice video,
But I’m quite sceptical about MIPS in cycle helmets.
I understand the reason for MIPS, (to allow rotational slip and thus reduce rotational forces to the head and brain/ brain stem) but I’m not convinced it’s needed in this application. It may even introduce other problems.
My main argument is that our scalps are our “Natural MIPS”. Our scalps can generally move about anyway. A cycle helmet only really clamps around the scalp, they don’t really hold your head that tightly anyway, and so a non-MIPS helmet can still move reasonably freely in relation to our heads. A full face helmet that makes greater contact with the lower areas of the head and jaw area is a different matter; MIPS may have a place here.
Potential problems with MIPS may be that the helmet moves too much; it may leave vulnerable areas exposed; or allow the helmet to dig in causing other problems (ears maybe?). Additionally, the additional diameter of the MIPS helmet lends more leverage when it does catch. Using a helmet light causes the MIPS equipped helmet to rattle around too much, etc.
My thoughts are that we should make cycle helmets that come in more sizes and shapes and fit better. They should be closer fitting, smaller and more rounded. Reducing the overall size will reduce rotational forces. Removing that edgy styling and going for a smoother shape will make the helmet less likely to catch and spin in any unwanted contact. As before, MIPS makes the helmet bigger and thus increases forces. For maximum safety we should remove the peaks* or make them very easy to ping off in a crash. We should never use helmet lights!
*One of my most painful crashes on an mtb (I’ve done MUCH worse on a motorcycle) was when I lost control in a steep chute. My helmet (Giro Zen, 2004 ish) dragged against the side of the chute I was riding. The peak dug in to the chute and twisted my head so I was looking backwards as I continued to plummet forwards. The peak did not detach. MIPS wouldn’t have helped much either… but a nicely rounded and slippery helmet might have.
The market seems to demand MIPS at the moment, and quality non-MIPS helmets are getting harder to find. Another case of profit and marketing?
I’ll put my non-MIPS helmet on and await a flaming,
Safe riding all 🙂
