Protective helmets providing little protection

Avid bicyclists enjoy the freedom and fresh air that comes with cycling. Like any activity that involves navigating roads, paths and trails, inherent risks exist. Safety starts with helmets, which represent the best protection riders can have.

Not all helmets are made the same, however. Cyclists are entitled to both protection and peace of mind when it comes to selecting gear that will prevent serious head injuries if an accident occurs.

Safety Standards Fall Short

Consumer Reports’ constant vigilance has resulted in 3 out of 35 helmets ranked “Don’t Buy: Safety Risk.” The dire designation came after test failures that revealed a lack of protection for riders involved in a crash.

The following fell short of safety standards:

• Bontrager Ballista MIPS fell off after the chinstrap buckle broke. Trek Bicycle disputed the findings and stands by its headgear and will take no action to recall the product.
• Morpher Flat Folding failed absorption tests on the sides of the helmet. While the CEO agreed with the findings, he asserts that their product is safe for consumers, as it adheres to U.S. safety standards at third-party laboratories.
• Woom Kids helmet’s problems were similar to those of Morphor. However, the company’s reaction to the failure was far different. Upon hearing the results, they stopped sales in the U.S. and Canada. Currently, they are looking at ways to move forward with safer headgear.

Riders festooned with colorful bicycle garb and obeying all traffic laws while traveling on a high-quality conveyance may feel safe. However, a helmet is the only thing that stands between them and the pavement below. The smallest of defects can have the largest of consequences.