The days are getting longer and the sun is shining brighter, meaning more people are starting to spend time outdoors. Many Spring activities and sports, such as football and baseball, require a helmet, and many others such as bicycling are significantly safer with helmet use. But how do you know which helmet to buy?
For over a decade, the researchers at Virginia Tech have been studying helmets to help answer that question. Using a 5-star system, with 5 being the best, the research team rates dozens of helmets in multiple different sports for protection against concussions. The results can be sorted using numerous filters, and even a quick glance reveals that low-cost options can offer better protection than some high-price models.
The Virginia Tech program fills an information gap regarding helmet safety, especially bicycle helmets. Manufacturers rate bike helmets against industry-minimum standards that no not necessarily reflect real-world conditions. With better testing and side-by-side comparisons against a uniform standard, Virginia Tech gives consumers additional information to use when choosing their safety gear.
