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

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  • Опубліковано 20 тра 2024
  • The bicycle industry has a wider range of helmets than almost any sport, yet few consider the range of safety these helmets offer. We visited the Helmet Testing Lab at Virginia Tech to find out exactly what makes a safe mountain bike helmet.
    VT Helmet Lab Ratings www.helmet.beam.vt.edu
    To donate to VT’s Helmet Lab bit.ly/481mJSk
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,2 тис.

  • @Lily-gr1ct
    @Lily-gr1ct 3 місяці тому +795

    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
      @treimar 3 місяці тому +20

      Looks like styrofoam honestly 😂

    • @Mike-oz4cv
      @Mike-oz4cv 3 місяці тому +29

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

    • @Happy_Biker
      @Happy_Biker 3 місяці тому +105

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

    • @zlatan_2197
      @zlatan_2197 3 місяці тому

      ​@@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
      @mattgies 3 місяці тому +17

      @@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.

  • @DadofAllTrades
    @DadofAllTrades 3 місяці тому +315

    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
      @zacharymonce7595 3 місяці тому +2

      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.

    • @Iisakkiik
      @Iisakkiik 16 днів тому

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

  • @michaelpfister2226
    @michaelpfister2226 3 місяці тому +58

    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
      @michaelpfister2226 3 місяці тому +8

      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
      @MsRotorwings 2 місяці тому +2

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

  • @joshsansone5113
    @joshsansone5113 3 місяці тому +101

    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
      @growlith6969 3 місяці тому +15

      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
      @SuburbaniteUrbanite 3 місяці тому +4

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

    • @nick_john
      @nick_john 3 місяці тому

      @@SuburbaniteUrbaniteno argument there

    • @ianchandley
      @ianchandley 3 місяці тому +6

      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
      @MadGunny 4 дні тому

      @@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

  • @K3NnY_G
    @K3NnY_G 3 місяці тому +419

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

    • @hazgebu
      @hazgebu 3 місяці тому +11

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

    • @Fn-xj8hl
      @Fn-xj8hl 3 місяці тому +10

      haha not just me then.

    • @KenOtwell
      @KenOtwell 3 місяці тому +27

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

    • @kellymorris10342
      @kellymorris10342 3 місяці тому +28

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

    • @MichaelLargent
      @MichaelLargent 3 місяці тому +7

      It's entirely down now. :p

  • @DrPuddinBuns
    @DrPuddinBuns 3 місяці тому +887

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

    • @Stuarttttt
      @Stuarttttt 3 місяці тому +83

      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
      @MountaineerFPV 3 місяці тому +6

      Exactly!

    • @MountaineerFPV
      @MountaineerFPV 3 місяці тому +17

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

    • @benstanbrookmtb
      @benstanbrookmtb 3 місяці тому +12

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

    • @TomEssex
      @TomEssex 3 місяці тому

      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.

  • @stevedesilets1105
    @stevedesilets1105 3 місяці тому +41

    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
      @LaurentiusTriarius 3 місяці тому +4

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

    • @dtibor5903
      @dtibor5903 2 місяці тому +1

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

    • @piersderoos6941
      @piersderoos6941 4 дні тому

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

  • @topspot4834
    @topspot4834 3 місяці тому +67

    Seth is so much more creative and delivers such better content than any other MTB UA-camr. 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
      @jbjab99 3 місяці тому

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

  • @kailashblades
    @kailashblades 3 місяці тому +53

    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
      @eamonkelly9007 2 місяці тому +1

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

  • @TREVONBACH
    @TREVONBACH 3 місяці тому +142

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

    • @dtibor5903
      @dtibor5903 2 місяці тому

      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.

  • @kirkaderkderk
    @kirkaderkderk 3 місяці тому +1

    Fascinating content, Seth! Started watching your channel watching you cram a dozen bikes in a storage shed in southern California. I've loved the direction you've taken the content in over the years to keep things fresh!

  • @boatbikemike8571
    @boatbikemike8571 3 місяці тому +4

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

  • @CourtneyHump
    @CourtneyHump 3 місяці тому +105

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

  • @RobNaughton54
    @RobNaughton54 3 місяці тому +6

    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
      @Happy_Biker 3 місяці тому

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

  • @swbroadfoot4695
    @swbroadfoot4695 3 місяці тому +3

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

  • @xavierhulbert5849
    @xavierhulbert5849 3 місяці тому

    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!

  • @emil7116
    @emil7116 3 місяці тому +4

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

  • @rcranes2227
    @rcranes2227 3 місяці тому +15

    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
      @41deng 2 місяці тому

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

  • @joelankeny6277
    @joelankeny6277 2 місяці тому

    I’m really glad you posted this video. I had never heard of the VT Helmet lab. This is probably the most informative cycling video I’ve watched in months. No sponsored content, no agenda, just clear factual information. I’m part of a dad group on FB and plan to share this video there!
    My current helmet (POC Axiom) is about 3.5 years old and while I like it it’s never really interfaced with my glasses very well and I’ve ended up with hot spots on my temples from it. I’ve made do but with the deals out there right now it seemed like the right time to look for a helmet. The Tactic 4 is on sale for $60 right now so I plan to swing by local Specialized LBS to try and it on and see how it feels since I know what I’m looking for and it was the #3 rated helmet that VT has tested.

  • @timshelhamer7374
    @timshelhamer7374 3 місяці тому +2

    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.

  • @Jorge-oq2ek
    @Jorge-oq2ek 3 місяці тому +6

    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

  • @politan83
    @politan83 3 місяці тому +8

    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.

  • @jonaqwerty
    @jonaqwerty 3 місяці тому +1

    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.

  • @johnbussard6523
    @johnbussard6523 3 місяці тому +1

    Most eye opening video of yours I’ve ever seen. Powerful storytelling! Incredible work! Thank you Seth!

  • @cycies27
    @cycies27 3 місяці тому +25

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

  • @concrerto
    @concrerto 3 місяці тому +6

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

  • @Squeaks557
    @Squeaks557 3 місяці тому +2

    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!

  • @rickswimpacific1796
    @rickswimpacific1796 3 місяці тому

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

  • @AFreerangeOrange
    @AFreerangeOrange 3 місяці тому +8

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

  • @stevenagy7152
    @stevenagy7152 3 місяці тому +8

    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
      @dtibor5903 2 місяці тому +2

      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
      @stevenagy7152 2 місяці тому +2

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

  • @renatorocha8274
    @renatorocha8274 3 місяці тому

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

  • @mattlarsen8585
    @mattlarsen8585 3 місяці тому +1

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

  • @Halogran77
    @Halogran77 3 місяці тому +15

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

    • @Durwood71
      @Durwood71 3 місяці тому

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

  • @truckplayz6544
    @truckplayz6544 3 місяці тому +32

    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
      @rlm78iii 3 місяці тому +3

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

    • @chrisbest89
      @chrisbest89 3 місяці тому +3

      Well done, congrats!

    • @yodatw
      @yodatw 3 місяці тому

      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.

    • @truckplayz6544
      @truckplayz6544 3 місяці тому

      @rlm78iii 16th in the nation if I recall correctly

    • @normalrat
      @normalrat 3 місяці тому

      check out the cycling club once u get here 👍

  • @IllemDaFunk
    @IllemDaFunk Місяць тому

    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!

  • @alevyish
    @alevyish 3 місяці тому +2

    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!

  • @SyLens1
    @SyLens1 3 місяці тому +5

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

  • @BrianSmith-ps7lh
    @BrianSmith-ps7lh 3 місяці тому +6

    Such great content. Thank you for doing this

  • @jake6087
    @jake6087 3 місяці тому +1

    This was a great Seth! I always love your content but this just stepped it up a notch! Thank you.

  • @robstaudigel9639
    @robstaudigel9639 3 місяці тому

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

  • @JonnyNorthmore
    @JonnyNorthmore 3 місяці тому +28

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

    • @PanozGTR95
      @PanozGTR95 3 місяці тому +4

      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
      @wolfmtb57 3 місяці тому +5

      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
      @JorgenKremer 3 місяці тому +1

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

    • @johanericsson3704
      @johanericsson3704 3 місяці тому +1

      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
      @TheDustyShredder 3 місяці тому

      ​@@johanericsson3704Aye, 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.

  • @u83rp5ych0
    @u83rp5ych0 2 місяці тому +4

    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
      @huntstyle 2 місяці тому

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

    • @sociopathmercenary
      @sociopathmercenary 2 місяці тому

      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. 😳

  • @willcityaway7971
    @willcityaway7971 3 місяці тому +1

    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.

  • @damv5975
    @damv5975 3 місяці тому

    As always a great story teller! This is informative, funny and cover a critical equipment of mountain biking. Keep up the great work!

  • @anthonynazzal1958
    @anthonynazzal1958 3 місяці тому +3

    This was very educational and entertaining! Very very well done!

  • @Marco-vp8wl
    @Marco-vp8wl 3 місяці тому +4

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

  • @danngolden-collum5797
    @danngolden-collum5797 3 місяці тому

    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.

  • @simonstucki
    @simonstucki 3 місяці тому +1

    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...

  • @ReNeyer
    @ReNeyer 3 місяці тому +6

    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
      @jamesroscoe7555 3 місяці тому +1

      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
      @Happy_Biker 3 місяці тому

      ​@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
      @jamesroscoe7555 3 місяці тому +1

      @@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
      @JoshuaTootell 2 місяці тому +2

      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
      @jamesroscoe7555 2 місяці тому

      @@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.

  • @ilovephotography1254
    @ilovephotography1254 3 місяці тому +4

    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
      @dudeonbike800 3 місяці тому

      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
      @ilovephotography1254 3 місяці тому

      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

  • @williamatwood2255
    @williamatwood2255 3 місяці тому

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

  • @stevenzych2105
    @stevenzych2105 2 місяці тому

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

  • @damarapoledna3636
    @damarapoledna3636 3 місяці тому +37

    That stomp test was horrifying 😮

    • @dtibor5903
      @dtibor5903 2 місяці тому +1

      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
      @FawfulDied 2 місяці тому +1

      @@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
      @dtibor5903 2 місяці тому +1

      @@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
      @damarapoledna3636 2 місяці тому +1

      @@dtibor5903 my statement went right over your head🤣

  • @SwordFighterPKN
    @SwordFighterPKN 3 місяці тому +6

    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!!!

  • @bvan1970
    @bvan1970 3 місяці тому +2

    Fantastic! What a great video and very informative, Seth. That counterfeit helmet example was horrific. With online sales and consumer confidence increasing in that sales channel, it’s going to be really important for sellers to verify authenticity of products before selling. Even the certification labels need to be questioned.

  • @douglaskaye1395
    @douglaskaye1395 3 місяці тому

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

  • @gnarstypow
    @gnarstypow 3 місяці тому +11

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

  • @determinedskeptic
    @determinedskeptic 3 місяці тому +5

    This is, I think, the single most important MTB video on UA-cam. 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!

  • @Josukegaming
    @Josukegaming 3 місяці тому +2

    This is really important news, thank you for covering this Seth

  • @jeffgolden1894
    @jeffgolden1894 3 місяці тому

    This is a really great episode, one of the best you posted in a long time. I have been a long time subscriber to your UA-cam channel. Keep up the great work you are doing.

  • @Ah022
    @Ah022 3 місяці тому +6

    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.

  • @graved1gger
    @graved1gger 3 місяці тому +3

    That Bikeroo is essentially what was On-One enduro helmet, now Carnac enduro helmet on Planet-X. Which in turn is essentially a clone of old O'Neal or Smith (can't remember which one for sure). Bought one on sale back in 2018 for laughable 15 USD(after conversion), they also come in awesome orange color (though the paint quality is lacking and burns out in the sun really fast). I'm guessing that it's a catalogue helmet which is getting branded by multiple companies, maybe patent expired some time ago or something, not sure.

    • @cabreraman6969
      @cabreraman6969 3 місяці тому

      Also looks exactly like the POC axion

    • @register1430
      @register1430 3 місяці тому

      one factory in china. three shifts of branding operations.

  • @mnswamp
    @mnswamp 3 місяці тому

    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.

  • @MAllen-tr6ey
    @MAllen-tr6ey 3 місяці тому +1

    Because of you I ride my bike in Brooklyn New York I want to thank you. one of your covid video did that. Please stay safe.

  • @montus123
    @montus123 3 місяці тому +3

    Virginia tech web page collapsing due to high traffic now at a 1 hour mark of video released 😅

  • @simrock_
    @simrock_ 3 місяці тому +9

    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
      @growlith6969 3 місяці тому +2

      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.

  • @billwiley7216
    @billwiley7216 23 дні тому

    Awesome video and I knew about Va. Tech being involved in helmet testing but I had no idea they also were testing bike helmets.
    As a lifelong motorcyclist both on and off road I do realize the importance of a good brain bucket.
    Now as a senior in the process of building an e-bike for general use on general bike trails and so forth I was definitely interested in a bike helmet but had no clue as to what to buy in a not break the bank more reasonable cost option that was still good at its intended mission.
    Well thanks to your video and Va. Tech for their work testing I ordered one of the linked Tactic bike helmets and will be able to feel confident that at bicycle types of speeds that I will have a helmet that is reasonably capable of doing its job in the case of a spill.
    Thanks again!

  • @Flusfbull09
    @Flusfbull09 2 місяці тому +1

    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.

  • @pandugofast
    @pandugofast 3 місяці тому +4

    Lol you probably took their site down

  • @luciansaintclaire
    @luciansaintclaire 3 місяці тому +5

    That helmet looks a lot like a poc axion

    • @caped57
      @caped57 3 місяці тому

      I agree! The resemblance is striking...

  • @joshclemzy
    @joshclemzy 3 місяці тому +2

    this is like a school trip but its fun! these videos teach you in a fun way keep up the good work

  • @NCtrailX
    @NCtrailX 2 місяці тому

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

  • @alexsmith922
    @alexsmith922 3 місяці тому +8

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

  • @robertgreno9942
    @robertgreno9942 3 місяці тому +4

    Having witnessed a couple of serious crashes resulting in major damage to riders teeth and jaws I’m a big advocate of full face helmets for mountain biking. Would you like to consider doing a video on this?

    • @paul5683
      @paul5683 Місяць тому

      Those Styrofoam beanies don't do much when your face is bouncing off of anything hard.

  • @chrisfranklification
    @chrisfranklification 2 місяці тому

    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 :)

  • @dblevins343
    @dblevins343 3 місяці тому +1

    This is easily one of my favorite videos you've done. This was extremely interesting and I have now learned some very beneficial information. This will probably influence which helmets I buy and recommend in the future. Thank you

  • @miloontheready7814
    @miloontheready7814 3 місяці тому +1

    Thank you for this video. The idea of counterfiet helmets is scary. Since I am mostly a commuter, the information on the Bikeroo helmet is very helpful. Only took me a few seconds to find it on Amazon. Thanks again for this information.

  • @johnbeverungen6570
    @johnbeverungen6570 2 місяці тому

    Thanks for the video. Was just in the market for a new ski helmet so this was perfect timing!

  • @markkirvin
    @markkirvin Місяць тому

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

  • @heathr2072
    @heathr2072 25 днів тому

    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.

  • @kevinpeters8372
    @kevinpeters8372 3 місяці тому

    This video was so informative. I will definitely use these resources on my next helmet for me and my son. Thank you so much man❤❤

  • @xmateinc
    @xmateinc 2 місяці тому

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

  • @kidonamtbteam7795
    @kidonamtbteam7795 3 місяці тому +2

    Thank you Seth! I recently bought a racing helmet, the Trek Velocis Mips, and my mom was worried about it not being safe enough. Turns out is ranked 15th out of 224 helmets. I'll definitely be showing her this!

  • @sethmarcell1131
    @sethmarcell1131 3 місяці тому

    Always with the good content, keep it up!

  • @j817madi
    @j817madi 2 місяці тому

    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.

  • @MichaelLargent
    @MichaelLargent 3 місяці тому +1

    THIS is a video we all needed to see. Thank you for this. That counterfeit helmet had me instantly checking where I bought my helmet from.

  • @CarneDeBlaQ
    @CarneDeBlaQ 3 місяці тому +1

    I wasn't aware of these resources. Great video, thanks!

  • @KestrelYI
    @KestrelYI 3 місяці тому

    Hey Seth - this was a really excellent video. Thanks again for blazing this trail and getting the information out. One of the helmets my significant other has been using is... less than stellar. So I really appreciate you bringing this to my attention - we found a nice Tactic 4 on sale from Specialized for about half price. Bought it and feel better for it. Thanks!

  • @s3l1m35
    @s3l1m35 3 місяці тому

    Hello Seth and crew, I really enjoyed this informative video. I This type of content I feel is more important than tire pattern, or valve stems videos of the past. I feel empowered now knowing i can and have made smart choices in safety for me and my family. The Dude Abides.

  • @zackr916
    @zackr916 3 місяці тому

    Great work man. Very informative and entertaining as always

  • @dhrida5518
    @dhrida5518 2 місяці тому

    Thanks for the content! You really made my homework on helmets! This answers a lot of questions!

  • @johnduggan4993
    @johnduggan4993 2 місяці тому +1

    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.

  • @brycebonilla4288
    @brycebonilla4288 3 місяці тому

    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.

  • @dovsimons156
    @dovsimons156 3 місяці тому

    Great video Seth. Answers alot of good questions. Thanks for that.

  • @patdrumm3770
    @patdrumm3770 3 місяці тому

    Great work Seth!! Thanks for the intel and the great video.

  • @p5k6
    @p5k6 3 місяці тому +1

    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!)

  • @rdpurdom
    @rdpurdom Місяць тому

    What a great service you’ve provided! Thank you thank you!

  • @SubieSpecial
    @SubieSpecial 3 місяці тому +1

    Loved this video Seth. Learned a lot and always wondered about the MTB helmets I have.

  • @84imreplica
    @84imreplica 3 місяці тому +1

    This is one of the best bicycling videos I've watched in a long time. Well done!

  • @cdygreen
    @cdygreen 2 місяці тому

    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.