Replying to Misconceptions about helmets (please read)

I think this past week in Vegas, I learned more about helmets and their limits. I admit that I knew nothing of helmets as do most people who buy them. There are a couple things people should know:

ASTM 24/40 standards (which all helmets must pass) is 50 years old. They came up with this standard by droping a cadaver head down an elevator shaft and figured out at which speed the head could withstand an impact before death would occur. This is 14.1 mph. The problem is that in order for any helmet made with EPS foam (Protect, Boeri etc) to work properly and absorb the energy from an impact, the foam actually has to break. A couple things: 1. the foam won't break unless the impact is 14.1 mph or faster. Those of us who have had concussions know that they can happen at lower speeds than this. 2. Once you've sustained an impact with that helmet, that helmet is no longer usuable. That means you are stuck buying another helmet.
There are some helmet companies that are out there that claim to have a multiple impact helmet. These helmets either 1. contain EPP foam, which will absorb only 60% of a second impact, 20% of a 3rd impact and is useless on a 4th. and 2. some 'multiple impact' helmets contain no more than a seat cushion used strictly for comfort.
There is one company out there that is pushing to have the helmet standards raised. They have patented 'Zorbium' foam, which is the only true multiple impact helmet out there, and it's the one that is proven to absorb up to 2x the amount of energy over a wider range of speeds.
I know I'm putting a plug in on the sponsor, but when if you really want a helmet that will do its job, make sure you research on what you are buying. I spent 2 hours in the park today and watched a dozen guys smoke their heads (either off a jump or on a rail)....that helmet is no longer good....it's as useful as carrying around an extra 6 ounces on your head for nothing. Also, don't buy a used helmet.

www.whelmets.com
The troll stole my Santa!