For most road cyclists, a helmet is a compulsory piece of equipment. Rightly so, we say. But there are a few myths. Do expensive cycle helmets protect better? Are lightweight helmets better?
Five myths about cycle helmets
Myth 1: Mips is marketing speak
No. Rotation protection integrated into the helmet, such as Mips, reduces the risk of brain injuries. This is proven by measurements. In the TOUR test, the average risk of an average concussion with Mips helmets was around 13 per cent. According to the test, the risk of suffering a concussion with a helmet without Mips is 27.5 per cent on average. That is more than twice as high. Mips is not a gimmick.
Judgement: Myth
Myth 2: The standard guarantees sufficient protection
Every helmet that can be sold has passed DIN EN 1078. Sounds reassuring, but it is only partially so. The test method is outdated as it cannot test the effectiveness of safety systems such as mips. It defines minimum standards that have little to do with the actual performance of modern helmets. So anyone who relies on the fact that "approved" is synonymous with "well protected" is thinking too short-sightedly.
Judgement: Myth
Myth 3: Expensive helmets protect better
One of the most common beliefs in cycling - and, according to our crash test last year, simply wrong. Seven manufacturers each sent an inexpensive and an expensive model into the race. The result: a higher price does not automatically mean more safety. The decisive factor is not the price, but whether the helmet is equipped with a rotation protection system such as Mips - more on this in a moment.
Judgement: Myth
Myth 4: Lighter helmets are better
It used to be true: the lightest helmets were usually the top models. The days when the top helmets were always the lightest in the range are over. The extra weight of modern helmets comes from the Mips system and more aerodynamic shells. At 223 grams, the lightest helmet in the test is a classic-looking model without rotation protection and with lots of air vents. Lighter does not mean safer - on the contrary.
Judgement: Myth
Myth 5: Aero helmets heat up the head
Intuitively understandable - fewer slots, less airflow. But even this is not true across the board. Even with the models labelled as "aero helmets", there was no heat build-up under the shell during the practical test. Cooling technology has evolved and an aero helmet no longer has to compromise on comfort.
Judgement: Myth
Recommendation from the editorial team
Buy a helmet with Mips or a comparable system, whether for 100 or 300 euros. Pay attention to fit, comfort and workmanship. When it comes to protection, it's the features that make the difference, not the price.
Sandra Schuberth
Editor
