Are Cheap Bike Helmets Unsafe? We visited a helmet testing lab to find out

[@Lily-gr1ct]

That stomp test on the counterfeit was kinda terrifying. How cheap were the materials within that thing if a $13 helmet can outpace it? No testing, no knowledge of materials, and there'd definitely be no QC on it. Despicable that sort of thing even exists

[@treimar]

Looks like styrofoam honestly 😂

[@Mike-oz4cv]

Does the stomp test really have any value? Bicycle helmets are supposed to crack and permanently deform in crashes.

[@Happy_Biker]

​​@@Mike-oz4cvDid you watch the video? "Deform" maybe but not disintegrate.

[@zlatan_2197]

​@@Mike-oz4cv That helmet didn't deform, it shattered without absorbing any amount of force. If you fall and hit your head with that helmet, your brain will suffer probably 90% of damage it would suffer anyway without any protection. It should be banned immediately.

[@mattgies]

@@treimar The bulk of any helmet--real or fraudulent--is styrofoam (expanded polystyrene). It's the other materials integrated with it that make all the difference.

[@michaelpfister2226]

My lack of concussion wearing the Specialized Tactic 4 from a 15mph OTB into a tree trunk with the top of my head is one practical test that validates the VT MIPS rating. I had bought the Tactic after learning about the VT testing from online research and boy am I glad I bought the best rated MTB helmet. I hopped an obstacle, struck front tire on different obstacle that turned it and inertia threw me over and straight for the tree. I ducked my chin down taking impact to the top of the head. I was in shock that I didn't see stars, or worse after impact. Very, very lucky but also believe the Tactic absorbed the blow so no TBI. Thanks for sharing the VT lab testing which is serving all of us. Go Hokies!! (yes, i bought another Specialized Tactic 4 to re-protect my not so perfect brain to begin with)

[@michaelpfister2226]

PS - I emailed the VT Lab after the crash and Dr. Miller of the lab replied himself the very next day. I wanted to know if the protection of the helmet was now compromised after the impact and simply summarizing his detailed response, the answer was most likely yes.

[@MsRotorwings]

I came here to ask you that very question. It validates what I’ve heard before.

[@bobbyhempel1513]

I've had a similar crash striking my head on a rock wall without a helmet and surprisingly had only superficial damage.

[@beardyface8492]

My lack of concussion from not wearing a helmet while cycling will continue. The reason being if helmets ever get mandated I'll quit cycling, along with 30% of other cyclists if the Australian academic study I'm not allowed by KZbin to link post their mandate is to be believed, it's easily searched, however.. Net result, a worse effect on public health & premature deaths than the helmet mandate. By all means encourage helmet wearing, just don't MANDATE it, if you're actually interested in the best overall outcome.

[@dylancleveland]

Just ordered one of these because of this comment. On sale for $58.

[@DadofAllTrades]

Seth, I'm not a mountain biker but have been watching your videos for years. This video is, by far, the most important and informative video you have released. The information you have shared applies to so many other sports that everyone, especially parents need to be aware of. Thank you.

[@zacharymonce7595]

Same lol, I only rode in the city or on bike paths and I don't even have my bike anymore lol. It's just that the quality of the videos are always amazing as well as being entertaining and informative.

[@Iisakki3000]

I'm not a mountain biker either, but these videos sure make me want to become one!

[@politan83]

This is great. You really need to hand it to Seth. The biggest MTB youtuber, been doing it for years, and he is not phoning it in at all. Informative, clear, not something I've seen- remotely- from any other channel.

[@K3NnY_G]

Love how the site is basically down (or just always dog slow) after this upload.

[@hazgebu]

yeah can't reach them at the moment at all. "Gateway Timeout"

[@Fn-xj8hl]

haha not just me then.

[@KenOtwell]

Ha - even the Virginia Tech helmet testing site is swamped! (I wanted to check my helmet.)

[@kellymorris10342]

Down for me too. Seth broke their website!!!

[@MichaelLargent]

It's entirely down now. :p

[@1asdfasdfasdf]

One of the greatest helmet marketing campaigns was from Bell Helmets back in the 80's. They had the following slogan: Got a $10.00 head? Where a $10.00 helmet. It obviously had an affect because I saw helmet cost skyrocket in the industry.

[@JSATI]

This video dropped right on time. My son has been on me for awhile as to why I do not wear a helmet when we go out. I was researching them yesterday and even came across the Virginia tech rating website. I learned about MIPS technology. Excellent content. This video deserves a like from everyone who watches.

[@growlith6969]

It is weird isn't it? In my teens I would ride dirt bikes and quads doing insane things with no helmet, no worries. Then to make my mom happy I picked out a MX helmet that she offered to pay for if I would wear it. Now I feel naked without a helmet, no only that, I carried over my comfort level with an MX style full face to mountain biking, having an open feels strange and dangerous to me. Regardless of the style, I would say the most important thing you can do is wear one every ride, every time, and especially make sure your kids do, so that it's second nature.

[@SuburbaniteUrbanite]

MIPs is how they can get more money out of you.

[@nick_john]

@@SuburbaniteUrbaniteno argument there

[@ianchandley]

Two years ago I went over my handlebars at nearly 30 mph and landed on my head. I’m alive today BECAUSE I was wearing a helmet - it split across from the front right temple to the middle, but saved my life. I spent 4 days in hospital with a Level 3 TBI, and it took about 20 months for me to feel myself again, but finally the energy levels are back. I cannot shout it loud enough about how important it is to wear helmets at ALL times, even riding around the block. My poor helmet had to be thrown away because it was saturated with my blood and the wife didn’t want it around… (I also partially severed my lower eyelid and split my upper lip - 29 stitches in all).

[@MadGunny]

@@growlith6969 Same lol I had rode thousands of miles on bikes for years with no helmet. Then my mom basically begged me to let her buy me a helmet so I said sure and now like 15 years later I still won’t ride any bike or scooter without my helmet lol good ol moms

[@BeroOgden]

Mouth was literally agape on the counterfeit stomp test. Didn't even realize this VT site or thing existed so kudos for broadcasting this.

[@kailashblades]

I used to work on the shop floor selling trek and kask helmets- these scores were a big part of the safety discussion. Great to get a deeper look into them!

[@eamonkelly9007]

I really like that the Bontrager(Trek) helmets have a 1 year free crash replacement. I've used this a couple times.

[@rcranes2227]

Dr. Miller and everybody at VT, thank you for your work. I never buy a helmet without checking your results first. Seth, thank you for putting a spotlight in this resource. CPSC and even Snell standards are fairly rudimentary, and they don't tell us more about a helmet beyond "passed". To reiterate Seths point about pricing. For a while, specialized had a top two or three helmet in their s-works version. They came out with a cheaper model that cost 55 dollars and it almost outperofrmed their fancy model! I do wonder if the fancy model works better for 55mph crashes on a Alpine descent like the pros do, but for my purposes as tested by VT, it was an absolute steal for a road helmet. Just gotta do your research.

[@41deng]

Hello, do you need a helmet testing machine? It is a device that can test various performance of helmets.

[@topspot4834]

Seth is so much more creative and delivers such better content than any other MTB KZbinr. They're all out of ideas, all of em, and here's Seth just pumping out fresh content every single week. And when he does revisit a topic, he always adds something else either insightful or entertaining (usually both). Unbelievable he's still doing it after all these years.

[@jbjab99]

You must not watch Jeff Kendall Weed's channel. He has best mtb channel on youtube.

[@jonaqwerty]

This kind of videos is what we want. An insight of the biking industry and the performance of the equipment. I don't need another " how to video" of the same stuff, because the other big biking channel is full of those. Please keep this up. I could watch this kind of content non stop.

[@YTOnlineReviews]

really

[@stevedesilets1105]

wow that counterfeit helmet failure was scary! Thanks for doing this video. Great to be able to check out if my helmet is well rated.

[@LaurentiusTriarius]

My kid wanted a "fox" helmet from Ali, full face at 45$ ... I said neooo

[@dtibor5903]

​@@LaurentiusTriariuscheap skateboard helmets are way stronger than any cycling helmet. You can stomp them all day

[@piersderoos6941]

They should all wear the cheap ones, help cull the lycra.

[@AnimeSunglasses]

I expected it to get crushed... I did not expect it to SHATTER! Scary for real...

[@randyphinney7275]

@@dtibor5903 Cycling helmets are hugely compromised to be light and have good airflow. As was mentioned in the video, there is no comparison between the effectiveness of a football helmet and a cycling one.

[@u83rp5ych0]

as a cyclist and motorcyclist I would absolutely LOVE if they would get a rating system like this for motorcycle helmets, especially those that are only DOT rated, no Snell or ECE. This is especially important considering the speeds and impacts there are when riding motorcycles. I would love to know how well a $150 dot helmet stands up against a $700 one, especially considering how easy it is to get a DOT rating on a motorcycle helmet, think your average v-twin rider thats more concerned with looks rather than function and gets one of those $100 pudding bowl helmets that have nothing more than some soft foam inside for comfort, yet has a DOT sticker on it and is supposed to protect my noggin from an 80mph highway impact (yes I know those helmets are absolute BS but thats kinda my point). And going back to the Snell/ECE ratings, I know these are much much better and if you can afford one thats definitely the better way to go, but certain creature comforts (IE internal visors) dont allow for those ratings, so knowing that my DOT only helmet is ACTUALLY up to standards would be awesome.

[@huntstyle]

And more full-face MTB helmets! They've only tested 4!

[@sociopathmercenary]

Unfortunately, I have a gargantuan head and the only motorcycle helmet I've found that fits is the HJC 5x models. Of course, the bigger sizes are only DOT rated. 😳

[@danielszanto2955]

@@huntstyle Their testing methodology does not cover impacts that fullface helmets protect from :(

[@Jorge-oq2ek]

I highly recommend buying the specialized camber, it has a 5 star rating in Virginia tech, and it usually goes for sale, I picked up mine two days ago for less tan 50 bucks. Also specialized has some sort of promotion where you can leave your old helmet (brand does not matter) and get around 20% discount. Align 2 is a great option as well for road cycling. Both helmets have a 5 star rating

[@rednroll1]

Thank you for the bike helmet education! I purchased Specialized Tactic 4s directly from their website for my entire family at $51 each. Seemed like a no brainer after reviewing the Virginia Tech website and observing it to be the #4 safety rated helmet with a 8.55 score but couldn't have made that educated purchase without watching your video.

[@DrPuddinBuns]

I like to get more expensive helmets when they're on clearance

[@Tingley19]

That and I’ve noticed I’m weird cuz I like strange vibrant colors or weird color ways a lot of people won’t care for or buy. So if you can put up with it, a lot of “weird” colors go on sale a ton.

[@MountaineerFPV]

Exactly!

[@MountaineerFPV]

Companies typically blow them out because technically helmets have a shelf life.

[@benstanbrookmtb]

I got a POC tectal helmet for £55 down from £180

[@TomEssex]

Got a KASK Caipi £135 down to £13.50 on Black Friday in red, Over the moon with the discount and the helmet is amazing.

[@BriManeely]

Don't know if you check comments on old videos, but I thought this was an important thing to share-- I just got word that an old friend of mine lost her husband in a motorcycle accident. He lived in a state that doesn't require motorcycle helmets. Upon hearing the news, I remembered this video, and my promise to myself (and friends) that I'd buy my FIRST (embarrassed to say) bike helmet when I could afford it. Payday was this week. I just ordered the Specialized Tactic (using your link, of course). Thank you for always putting knowledge first, Seth. I appreciate you.

[@CourtneyHump]

Seth! Seriously one of your best videos in a year. Your content is always great and entertaining but this was really really good.

[@alevyish]

Lazer Chiru user here!. Considered and preferred the Scott Argo Plus but their site was malfunctioning when I tried buying it and ended up with the Lazer one. Great purchase! And Seth, thanks for the great video!

[@TREVONBACH]

This was eye opening and downright scary. Your videos never disappoint. Thanks for the headsup.

[@dtibor5903]

You can buy cheap ski and skateboard helmets that will outperform even the most expensive bike helmets in the stomp test. Still they don't offer any better protection.

[@srobeck77]

except for that $20 helmet that one was legit

[@determinedskeptic]

This is, I think, the single most important MTB video on KZbin. And the fact Seth performed his usual magic and made a potentially very dry topic extremely captivating just goes to show how great he is at his craft. Seth, thank you!

[@JonnyNorthmore]

You can currently get the Specialized Tactic helmet for £40 in the UK. You can even pick up the pricier Ambush for £60.

[@PanozGTR95]

I got a Fox Speedframe from CRC for under £70 during a sale. There's great deals on quality gear out there, especially if you're not too fussed about having the latest colours.

[@wolfmtb57]

In Germany you can currently get the tactic for 60 €. I was actually thinking about buying the tactic. After this video I definitely will.

[@JorgenKremer]

​@@wolfmtb57Just bought one for €55 in the Netherlands. It was well time to replace my 8 year old helmet.

[@kotthund]

You should never keep a helmet for more than 4-5 years. Things like UV-light makes the material in the helmet age, which can impact the safety. It's a general safety recommendation to replace it every 4-5 years.

[@TheDustyShredder]

​@@kotthundAye, the same could be said about carbon bikes. Uv radiation causes degradation in the resin binding the carbon together, resulting in a weaker structure over time. That combined with the fatigue of regular riding means mountain bikes would actually need to be replaced faster than a helmet. Oh, but wait, there's UV resistant resin available, and that's always the type used in any automotive or cycling application if they ain't cuttin corners.

[@jffydavy5509]

GREAT VIDEO. I have been wearing hard shell bicycle helmets since the mid 1970's when I was ridiculed for wearing something not required in the races. Others said, "Good cyclists don't need helmets, they know how to crash." I had an accident in 1985. I suffered a bi-lateral sub-dural hematoma and was in a coma for 31 days. On the Glasgow Scale I was a 4. The first 10 days they made no solid prediction that I would survive. Without the outdated helmet, far below Virginia Tech's current standards, my Triage level would have been zero....dead. I stay away from the how much is your brain worth debate. I tell my customers how the better helmets protect better and let them decide. One important point, how comfortable is your choice. More comfortable is worth every penny. This way you avoid asking, " why should I suffer wearing the helmet? I've never had an accident and I have more fun without the helmet." When my customers seem very tense when trying on a helmet I jokingly ask, "Want me to get the sledge hammer to test the helmet?" They all decline the offer with a smile on their face and start asking real questions.

[@Halogran77]

Great video Seth! When you stomped on that helmet and it was destroyed my jaw hit the floor! Very informative; again, great job!

[@Durwood71]

You can tell by Seth's body language how stunned he was.

[@Squeaks557]

I bought a Sweet Protection Trailblazer after reviewing the VT ratings and comparing it to my prior Leatt. Appreciate the effort they put in to this research!

[@JamieR]

Great helm. Sweet Protection is a Norwegian based company and we take these things seriously. I run that exact helmet myself. Super comfortable and snug fit. Only missing magnetic clips.

[@timshelhamer7374]

Great video! I work in safety and injury prevention and am grateful for you providing an honest and insightful look at this important topic with input from some of the top experts. Practical safety knowledge to help people make informed decisions is my jam.

[@IllemDaFunk]

Incredible information in this video. I'm thankful that VT has this information publicly available. It helps make my next helmet purchase much more informed. Thanks for sharing!

[@stevenagy7152]

Thank you for posing the question about mounting peripherals on a helmet. In light of anecdotes about the danger this is great information to have. Even if the response is not conclusive.

[@dtibor5903]

The whole video is misleading. F1 pilot Michael Schumacher got a brain damage because of GoPro mounted on ski helmet. And ski helmets are way stronger than any cycling helmet

[@stevenagy7152]

@@dtibor5903 That incident is always why I ask this question.

[@armedmonkeyvr]

Your trails in your backyard are one of my goals when i grow up. I cant get a bike because of the money so im using a to small 24in 6 year old specilized bike that i got from a friend who had it in his garage behind other stuff yet i have worked on it. The front brakes arent fix able to i will proably remove them and the suspension doesn't work well so I cant do anything but my neighborhoods paves walking trails. Anyways all that aside your content has got me into mountain biking, I wish you the best of luck in the future.

[@cycies27]

It’s always a good day when Berm Peak posts.

[@johnduggan4993]

Great tour of the VT lab. I've had one crash where the helmet had small external damage to the shell, but on closer examination the foam had broken clear through. Yes, these are single use and if you have a crash throw it out, but please first make it nonservicable by cutting the straps. I'd hate to think someone found a free helmet that was worth nothing.

[@boatbikemike8571]

Thank you, Seth. This vid was much needed. I’ll be sharing it to all the bike dads I know

[@simonstucki]

Great video! I work at a bike shop (in Switzerland) and we sell lots of helmets I just recently saw the virginia tech logo on a new specialized road helmet, now I know a lot more about it! Fun fact, the specialized tactic 4 really does not sell, we have it heavily discounted, yet still nobody wants it because it looks "special" haha. Not sure how many of our customers watch this channel, but maybe we will be sold out of that model pretty soon, seems like a great option if your main concern is safety. At the moment it's literally half the price of your second least expensive mtb helmet...

[@AFreerangeOrange]

Fantastic video, that footage of the counterfeit stomp made me sick. Probably my favorite video from the channel ever.

[@p5k6]

Awesome that you went to Virginia Tech. I've been using their ratings for hockey helmets for years. Didn't realize they were doing bicycles (and recently found out they're doing snow sports too!)

[@hokie_mech_egnr]

I will be transferring to VT this fall from a local community college to study mechanical engineering. Seeing them participate in research and tests like this assures me I picked a fantastic school to go to.

[@rlm78iii]

Congratulations. VT is one of the top engineering schools on the east coast. You chose well.

[@chrisbest89]

Well done, congrats!

[@ChewieBabyTW]

The campus is GORGEOUS and the fishing around the area is not bad either. Good choice indeed. Just avoid buying anything big in Virginia area like a car.....Some areas are still commonwealth and they can really hit you hard with interest rates so just be smart about purchases.

[@hokie_mech_egnr]

@rlm78iii 16th in the nation if I recall correctly

[@normalrat]

check out the cycling club once u get here 👍

[@willcityaway7971]

Thanks for the video. Watched your video on why you started wearing a helmet. Got me thinking. Didn't know about VT. Doing a great job on the channel.

[@emil7116]

Thank you Seth, for once again shedding light on yet another insanely important subject!

[@xavierhulbert5849]

This was awesome to watch. Your videos like this and the one of the Suntour budget forks are seriously high quality and invaluable. We would all love to see more of these!

[@ilovephotography1254]

Seth, thanks for sharing your Public Service Announcement video... Prior to your video, I did my due diligence for my noggins sake. VT was my source of info. And yes, I now own a Tactic 4 helmet. BTW The Tactic 4 meets the Dutch Technical Agreement (NTA) 8776, a standard of safety for class 3 e-bikes. That translates into protection up to 28MPH. Many of us ride on the road and at night. Having a front and tail light on your helmet allow you to be seen easier by motorist. Some bike companies understand this. Xnito is an example of helmet with a front and taillight built in. They also meet the CPSC & NTA-8776 standards. This helmet may not be for everyone, because it's more of an Urban helmet, that has less venting. I feel it's perfect for e-bike riders or those on e-skate boards, electric scooters, etc.

[@dudeonbike800]

Why would the Dutch test helmets if they don't wear them? Everyone knows that if you fall while cycling in The Netherlands, there will be an attractive blonde there to catch you to keep you from hitting the ground and then they will give you free Gouda cheese and a toy windmill. They're VERY nice over there. So they don't need helmets. j/k The Dutch do wear helmets, despite what you hear. Every road rider I saw in The Netherlands was donning a helmet. So the DO have gravity and hard pavement over there after all!

[@ilovephotography1254]

The NTA 8776 approved helmets are designed to offer protection of speeds up to 28MPH. CPSC is a standard that mandates helmet protection up to 20MPH and below. What helmet would you want to be wearing going down a steep and rocky trail at higher speeds?@@dudeonbike800

[@SuperMudbog]

Nobody else is doing videos as crucial, scientific, and informative as this, even down to the question of mounted cameras. Absolutely outstanding job, Seth.

[@RobNaughton54]

One of the claims with externally mounted cameras, or anything else for that matter is, the helmet was not tested with that device on there, so there’s an unknown. But the other claim I’ve heard (and it’s why helmet cameras are banned in Supercross and Ski racing ) is the smoother the helmet is the better it will slide on the ground in a crash. If there are protrusions that might catch, it can increase potential injury to the neck. Difficult to test.

[@Happy_Biker]

It would seem though that the easier your camera or light or whatever breaks away in an impact would be better.

[@heathr2072]

That was one of my favourite videos. I really appreciate the detail you went into. I had a bleed on the brain from a massive MTB accident. My helmet saved me.

[@swbroadfoot4695]

Really great information! Thank you for continuing to do this type of investigation.

[@PortlyPedal]

Such an important topic, covered so well! Fwiw I have a Smith Engage 2 and I've had a pretty gnarly crash with it and it no doubt saved my life or at least ensured I wouldn't be paralyzed. I replaced it with a new one immediately after I recovered.

[@concrerto]

Blacksburg Virginia has awesome trails! McDonald valley trails and poverty trails are great! Very interesting video Seth 🤟

[@rickswimpacific1796]

Super informative vlog. I can't tell you how much I respect and admire what you do on you tube.

[@SyLens1]

Thanks for this video, from now on ONLY buying helmets after checking the website and buying on official sellers sites or in the shops!

[@stevenzych2105]

The counterfeit helmet stomp explosion literally gave me chills. Thanks for all the info and knowledge you share!!

[@SwordFighterPKN]

A concussion is the last thing I am worried about when I crash. I want a bike helmet to keep my melon from getting cracked open as the first thing. Now that stomp test is SCARY!!!

[@yumedan]

Great video man! I've recently tried to dive into the lifespan of bike helmets and found that to be quite murky as well. Some people or producers stating that you should replace your bike helmet every 2-5 years while general safety regulation seems to stipulate up to 10 and over. I've heard of people stomping on older helmets and getting the same results as you got on the shoddy replica. Some clarity would be awesome.

[@gnarstypow]

And the VT helmet lab website has the Berm Peak hug of death....

[@minnesotasteve]

It’s dead Jim.

[@j817madi]

Came across your channel as I have been looking for a dual suspension mountain bike. Thanks for all the info. Your flip videos gave me confidence to buy a used bike and I purchased a Specialized Rhyme today. It has an upgraded drive train which I'm happy about. Gonna drop it by my local shop for a tune up/shock service and can't wait to get out riding.

[@damarapoledna3636]

That stomp test was horrifying 😮

[@dtibor5903]

Sponsors likes that you are terrified. I'm pretty sure you can find expensive ones that explodes like that, but sponsors don't like that.

[@FawfulDied]

@@dtibor5903 ??? He literally says in the video that you'll be less likely to get a counterfeit if you're buying a cheaper helmet in the first place.

[@dtibor5903]

@@FawfulDied my point is that stomp test shows absolutely nothing about the helmet. You can find videos on youtube with pro athletes, crashing with pro helmets and those ones break apart on impact.

[@damarapoledna3636]

@@dtibor5903 my statement went right over your head🤣

[@DavidDacaro]

I just saw their site, chose a helmet, came here, and was very very impressed with how you produced this content. Be proud of your work. Oh, and I chose a different helmet after watching this!

[@Marco-vp8wl]

this helmet lab is amazing! Will defenitely use that website when shopping for my next helmet

[@danngolden-collum5797]

Very well done. Great you got a tour of the VT facility - that was cool to see. Advice on buying a mid-priced helmet is spot on, especially when trying to avoid counterfeits.

[@BrianSmith-ps7lh]

Such great content. Thank you for doing this

[@szwecmylove]

Priceless content!

[@Ah022]

I’d listen to the mtb podcast episode with the owner of Kali helmets. Some of what he says explains these tests and how they can be flawed. I don’t own a kali but what the guy says makes sense.

[@frog-spit-182]

This video is a prime example of why this channel is so good. Almost any other channel would push some lazy and obnoxious message about needing to spend big money on a helmet or die.

[@Deven210]

Bikeroo helmet is now 50 bucks…guess they saw your video ugh

[@markkirvin]

Wow, one of the most important videos I’ve ever watched if not the most important. Thank you so much for taking the time.

[@simrock_]

Helmets are personal pain for me, because only like 5% of helmets actually fit my head since the strap in the back needs to go further down than is "normal", otherwise the helmet just slips off of my head like badly fitted fedora. In that way I'm lucky and unlucky since I always need to go to my local bike store to check if the helmet actually fits. On the ordering side, thanks btw that you included that bit at the end, I have stopped trying to get anything safety critical off of AliExpress or Amazon a while ago, because I kept getting fakes even when buying from official seller accounts, and even for the most stupid stuff like shoelaces and run-of-the-mill shoes. The only reason I can come up with for that, is that either the brand shops are not all official and amazon does not take care to verify that, or that amazon just dumps pallets of products in their warehouses and does not concern themselves with mixing them per seller. The saddest bit is that it is becoming less and less rare that I can just go to the original manufacturers site/shop and order something direct from them and it will be cheaper.

[@growlith6969]

As soon as I arrived in Colorado my friends wanted to do a pretty shreddy ride up in Steamboat. I had a $6k bike and a $30 walmart helmet because I came from the flat south of the country. A couple days before the ride we walked around down town and I saw a store called Hard Headed, all they did was sell helmets. I already thought I wanted the ProFrame RS, but I tried every helmet that was in the downhill category for fitment. Turned out the quasi infinite adjustability of the Fox was indeed the right fit, but I was super thankful that I didn't have to guess. So, my advice is to take any opportunity you can to get to one of those rare stores where they have it all, not just a favored brand as seems to be the normal case.

[@cdygreen]

This video showed up at the perfect time with my old helmet needing a replacement. $60 for the specialized tactic is a hell of a deal. It can ship to your LBS too. Quite an informative video, Seth. Content like this is rad. Real rad.

[@DipBuyer83]

I'll probably get kicked out of the store if I'm doing stomp testing on each helmet!!

[@mattlarsen8585]

So glad you did a video about this, I wish this was referenced more

[@paulfrick1799]

Best MTB channel. Period. Super helpful video. Just got back into riding after decades of not riding. I wear a helmet in order to encourage my kids to wear them. This video gives concrete reasons for me to put my foot down when it comes to helmet safety. Well done!

[@ReNeyer]

Again, on that 2nd cheap helmet you gave the stomp: Too little deformation can kill you just as much as total disintegration. The helmets are designed to absorb a VERY specific amount of energy and if its just transferred to your head because the helmet it too rigid it can actually have adverse effects.

[@jamesroscoe7555]

Yes, and from that perspective, something like the stomp test, while illustrative of how poorly made that counterfeit helmet was, really doesn't show anything quantifiable or meaningful without more research.

[@Happy_Biker]

​@jamesroscoe7555 Hmmm, nah, I'm not buying that. Literally. It disintegrated. Seth is not even a very big man- that stomp shouldn't have completely destroyed any helmet like that.

[@jamesroscoe7555]

@@Happy_Biker I think it is pretty obvious that the counterfeit helmet was a disaster. I don't disagree with you. My point, and the op's, comment is that what are we supposed to expect of a helmet if a guy stands on it? How does that relate to a real world bike impact. For that matter, how does the VT testing relate? It is quantifiable and great as a relative comparison, and I suppose one could argue the stomp test is a relative comparison... But how a test is designed is also important. Eg we could test those three helmets by shooting a bullet at them. What would the results tell us? It is a complex thing to test and different labs do find different things with different approaches.

[@JoshuaTootell]

The same was found with the Snell standard for motorcycles decades ago. Basically the Snell standard is too hard, and would only protect you in the MOST severe accidents. A softer helmet with more give transfered less G's to your brain in the vast majority of likely scenarios you would face.

[@jamesroscoe7555]

@@JoshuaTootell Someone suggested in another comment here to look for the podcast with Kali helmets. I searched that up, and it was a very interesting discussion. Basically his premise is that we need to make helmets softer or at least more progressive, and that the current standards basically just ensure that helmets protect against skull fractures. It is then up to helmet manufacturers to go above and beyond. I know lots of people who suffered major concussions while wearing helmets so while super useful, they are not a panacea. It may be very difficult to achieve vast improvements in helmets though given the constraints.

[@renatorocha8274]

One if the best cycling related videos available on line. Great job. Thank you for all your hard work

[@bikethelife8639]

Regarding the concussion statements, you cannot prevent a concussion with a helmet. A concussion is caused by the brain hitting the skull. So if your head stops, starts, changes direction quickly, there is a risk of concussion (you could shake your head to hard and get one). MIPS and other similar technologies will help reduce the risk and they are FANTASTIC and do save lives, I wouldn't buy a helmet without it, but you can still get a concussion with them. That being said, I love that someone like Seth is doing these videos on helmets. More people need to wear them when riding and I hope this helps people make a good helmet choice.

[@JoshuaTootell]

I hate that people are saying that a helmet prevents a concussion. Absolute bullshit! You are still getting a concussion! But at least you're not crushing your skull. And maybe the concussion is smaller.

[@branbroken]

​@JoshuaTootell the designs of modern helmets are not just to prevent fractures, part of the design is certainly to reduce(not stop as that would be really impractical to wear) concussion. Part of the reason for the "crushable" foam is to spread the force over time as it compresses the foam, this action of slowing the force significantly reduces the effect of concussion compared to a simply duplicating the skull with another solid protective shell as helmets used too.

[@swnorcraft7971]

This presentation was stunning! It is obvious that you take your You Tube presence very seriously. Thank you for the thought and preparation that go into all of your videos. Virginia Tech looks like they know what the hell they are doing. Thanks for your vision and clarity. Be well.

[@venomshot2815]

If a motorcycle helmet costs like 40$ how tf is a 100$ bike helmet low end?

[@64Spokes]

Very interesting stuff. A follow up visit consisting of full face mtb helmets would be awesome to see those can be even more confusing and overwhelming

[@CDL_Gaming]

Virginia Tech advertising their helmet rating juxtaposed on top of a sport which doesn't use helmets. 1:18

[@brycebonilla4288]

I absolutely love these honest videos about bike tech, Ive been trying to ditch the brand loyalty lately and just get the best products for me and these videos are so helpful.

[@HumbleGerman]

Seth, do helmets have a life expectancy even if they never been damaged?

[@joelcruz9415]

Yes, usually somewhere around 5 years.

[@Shopping-uq7zx]

for road bike it's normally two years

[@joelcruz9415]

​@Shopping-uq7zx What's the reasoning for road bike helmets needing to be replaced after only 2 years?

[@TaskSwitcherify]

Wow, insanely thorough video, fun to watch and answers important questions! Great job.

[@alexsmith922]

That fake helmet is actually terrifying, wow! Spend the money guys, its clearly worth it!!

[@branbroken]

As the rest of the video showed its not about cost equating to safety, cheap helmets that are properly built and meeting the proper safety ratings are fine, they may not be as comfortable, lightweight or aerodynamic as the expensive brand name ones but they are just as safe. The problem is fakes that have cut corners and not safety rated, and guess what they are often posing as the expensive brands. Remember if the deal looks to good to be true it often is. Dont expect a brand name for cheap, however a cheap off-brand does not mean its unsafe. If you cant afford much its better value and safer to go with a generic/off brand that you can find actual safety tests for than go with somthing pretending to be discounted branded gear.

[@velo.voyageur]

Had no idea about those Virginia Tech tests. That counterfeit helmet is terrifying too. Thanks for content like this, much needed out there.

[@luciansaintclaire]

That helmet looks a lot like a poc axion

[@caped57]

I agree! The resemblance is striking...

[@VictorZimbardi]

go hokies! i think i was walking by the window at 7:27 when you all were shooting onsite. crazy!

[@pandugofast]

Lol you probably took their site down

[@matthewvinez8223]

I never knew of this resource. Thanks, Seth!! After looking a bit, not one of my family's helmets (current, or former that are still sitting around) are in the list of tested helmets. Cool resource, but I wish there were more models. I have all Giro or Smith helmets, so major brands, but not one of their models (not the cheapest ones) were tested.

[@kchortu]

I bought the tactic 4 when they were half off during the Christmas sale because of the price vs rating. I am filled with gratitude that you did this video and that you just gave the world a good cheap safe helmet option.

[@cornpowder4425]

I immediately went to my amazon purchases list to see if my helmet was sold by the manufacturer. This is a super informative video. Thanks!

[@BackyardArcher]

Fantastic video as always, Seth. KZbinrs, take note: this is what a great channel looks like!

[@williamatwood2255]

Great deep dive into helmets. I worked in the protective helmet space for several years. Nice to see some light shed on the testing.

[@NCtrailX]

Great video, Seth! Hadn't seen the VT helmet test database, so thanks for helping me make better decisions with my $!

[@FilinMXr]

12:15 This is the thing with countefits in any industry. They are usually the worse quality than just the cheap stuff. Because they are actually scams and don't care about creating a good and competing product at all. Like, there is no point in going beyond making it appear visually the same. This is true not only for helmets, but for tools, guitars and basically everything else. You are always better off buying a known budget brand than a knock off of an expensive brand.

[@douglaskaye1395]

Seth this video is why I totally respect your knowledge and expertise. You are so impartial and accurate!! Keep them coming Thanks DK

[@chrisfranklification]

Thanks for the really useful video Seth. It made me think really carefully about the old helmet I've been running with for years. Then I saw that Specialised had a major sale on, including the Tactic and I decided to go for it. I have a large head (yes, my friends think it's hilarious) and finding good helmets has been difficult, but I have to agree - it's so incredibly comfortable and a great fit - and it feels great knowing it's been subject to such thorough testing :)

[@robstaudigel9639]

This has got to be one of the most helpful videos ive seen in awhile! Thanks Seth!

[@MilosHomeBikeShop]

I really appreciate this video. I was a non-helmet wearing rider until I started creating bike videos. Knowing that I am (hopefully soon) be an influencer in biking, decided to get a helmet. I also needed it for a group ride that I have coming up soon. Being a 3 mile comutter, and not a hardcore mountain biker, I bought the Bikeroo because of this video. After adjusting all of the straps, it is comfortable. Thank you very much for this video.

[@CohenRautenkranz]

Great video! Thanks for putting together a really thoughtful and well produced review of this crucial piece of gear. You cannot "reduce" the force of an impact - but you can reduce the delta of the impulse (time taken to impart the force) and increase the effective. I would tend to think that the stomp test was...less useful, though dramatic. The force was applied from an incorrect perspective and in a very unlikely vector (straight-ish down from the top of head). In an impact, you (ie. your head) is in motion and the helmet is designed to spread the effective area and increase the time (by a few milliseconds). That is why the sensor package was positioned inside the helmet. Even the padding on the bottom of your shoe could be a confounding factor as it could have created oscillatiions in the force applied. All that said, the side by side comparison was still intriguing. Did anyone else notice that his foot was completelyoff the floor with the specialized helmet and not the rip off? Pretty wild results there - and enough for me to agree that the rip-offs should be avoided! A follow up with the lab and legit/counterfeit helmets would be very interesting. Though I doubt they would be willing to do that test. If a counterfeit helmet actually tested well, it might reduce manufactur interest/support. FYI, I am an engineer and have designed force testing rigs. Not an expert, by any means, but can do a simple free-body diagram.

[@xmateinc]

That VT website is a cool piece of info! I’ll be using this when explaining helmets to people!

[@richardharker2775]

WoW! That was an eye opener, especially for those who think all helmets come from the same factory in China. I've had 3 bike crashes that involved damaged helmets, all legitimate brands. 2 crashed involved minor concussion and the helmets hardly showed any damage. The third helmet was in fact a Specialized Prevail that showed significant damage but no concussion. Impact was on the rear quarter for all crashes. For those who don't want to wear a helmet, your choice. Seth, thank you for sharing this video.

[@bazuu2001]

Grazie.

[@mnswamp]

Congrats Seth - your subs have slashdotted the Va Tech website!!! Great video. Since I'm currently in the market for a new helmet, I'm looking forward to review their findings.