When it comes to mountain biking, few things matter more than a helmet that provides top-notch protection. With the advancement of helmet technology, there’s one name that keeps coming up: MIPS. You may have seen it on helmet labels, heard about it from other riders, or even wondered if you should upgrade your current helmet to one with MIPS protection.
In this post, we’ll explore what MIPS technology is, how it works, and why it’s so important. We’ll also look at how MIPS applies to half-shell and full-face helmets and discuss whether upgrading to a MIPS-equipped helmet is worth it.
What is MIPS Technology?
MIPS, or Multi-directional Impact Protection System, is a technology designed to improve helmet protection during certain types of impacts. Developed by Swedish scientists, MIPS was created to address a gap in helmet safety that traditional helmets weren’t covering. Here’s what you need to know about the core features of MIPS and how it functions:
The Purpose of MIPS
Standard helmets are designed to protect your head by reducing direct impacts, which are usually linear and vertical. However, most impacts in real-world crashes happen at an angle. This is where MIPS shines. MIPS is designed to reduce rotational forces that can occur when your head is hit at an angle, which could help reduce the risk of certain types of brain injuries.
How MIPS Works
Inside a MIPS helmet, there’s a thin, low-friction layer between the helmet’s outer shell and the inner padding. This layer allows the helmet to rotate slightly on impact, mimicking the brain’s natural protection system. When the helmet is hit at an angle, the MIPS layer allows a 10-15mm movement, which disperses the rotational energy before it reaches your brain. Think of it as an additional layer of defense against the kinds of impacts that are most common in falls and crashes.
This extra level of movement may seem small, but it’s significant in absorbing and deflecting rotational forces that could otherwise cause more harm.
Why MIPS is Important in Helmets
MIPS isn’t just about marketing—it represents a shift in helmet safety that’s being backed by science. Here’s why MIPS-equipped helmets are making waves in the mountain biking community and why it might be worth considering a MIPS helmet for yourself.
Addressing Realistic Crash Scenarios
The research behind MIPS started with the understanding that, during most crashes, the impact to the head isn’t purely linear. Most falls and crashes involve an angled impact, and MIPS technology is designed specifically to address this. For mountain bikers who regularly ride on technical trails, navigate jumps, and encounter various types of obstacles, having a helmet that protects against rotational forces can be crucial.
Helping to Reduce Rotational Brain Injuries
While no helmet can fully prevent a brain injury, MIPS technology has been shown to reduce certain risks associated with rotational brain injuries. This is important because rotational forces are believed to contribute to more severe injuries, such as concussions.
Extra Peace of Mind for Riders
Whether you’re racing downhill or tackling a cross-country trail, peace of mind is a big part of the ride. Knowing that your helmet has advanced technology to handle more types of impacts can make a real difference. For many riders, that confidence means they can push their limits and focus fully on their ride, knowing their helmet is ready to protect them in a worst-case scenario.
MIPS in Half-Shell and Full-Face Helmets
Now that we understand how MIPS works and why it’s important, let’s break down how this technology applies to both half-shell and full-face helmets.
Half-Shell Helmets with MIPS
Half-shell helmets are most popular for trail riders, enduro riders, and anyone looking for protection without the bulk of a full-face helmet. MIPS technology in half-shell helmets provides enhanced protection without significantly adding weight or bulk. These helmets are also well-ventilated, so you can stay cool while riding without sacrificing safety.
If you’re a mountain biker who likes long trail rides or technical enduro runs, a half-shell helmet with MIPS could offer the perfect balance of comfort and safety. The MIPS layer will be there to help protect you in case of an unexpected fall or angled impact, which is common in these types of riding.
Full-Face Helmets with MIPS
For riders tackling downhill or aggressive mountain biking, a full-face helmet with MIPS is often the best choice. Full-face helmets provide extra coverage for the jaw and face, but they can be heavier than half-shell helmets. MIPS technology in full-face helmets adds a valuable layer of protection against rotational forces, which are particularly relevant in high-speed, high-risk riding scenarios.
Since downhill riding involves higher speeds and more risk of crashes at an angle, MIPS in a full-face helmet offers an extra level of assurance. For downhill racers and big-mountain riders, a MIPS-equipped full-face helmet is often worth the investment.
Should You Upgrade Your Helmet to MIPS?
If your current helmet doesn’t have MIPS, you might be wondering if it’s worth upgrading. Here are some considerations to help you decide:
1. Age of Your Current Helmet
If your helmet is more than three to five years old, it’s probably time for a replacement, even if it still looks okay. Helmets degrade over time due to factors like UV exposure, sweat, and wear and tear. When you do replace it, choosing a helmet with MIPS could give you added protection based on the latest technology.
2. Type of Riding
Consider the type of riding you do most often. If you’re into downhill, enduro, or more technical riding where crashes are more likely, investing in a MIPS-equipped helmet makes sense. The added protection against rotational forces can be especially valuable in these scenarios.
3. Risk Reduction vs. Cost
MIPS-equipped helmets can be slightly more expensive than non-MIPS options, but the cost difference is often minor in comparison to the potential benefit. Think of MIPS as an investment in reducing the risk of injury. For many riders, this small price difference is well worth the added protection.
4. Fit and Comfort
One concern people sometimes have is whether MIPS will make the helmet feel bulkier or affect the fit. Modern MIPS helmets are designed with comfort in mind, and the MIPS layer is thin and unobtrusive. Make sure to try on a few MIPS helmets to find one that’s comfortable and fits snugly.
Final Thoughts: The Value of MIPS in Mountain Biking Helmets
MIPS technology represents a new frontier in helmet safety, and it’s something every mountain biker should at least consider. With enhanced protection against the kind of rotational forces common in real-world crashes, MIPS provides peace of mind and an added layer of defense when you’re out on the trail.
Whether you ride trails, hit jumps, or race down technical descents, having a helmet equipped with MIPS can make a meaningful difference. And if it’s time to upgrade your helmet, going with MIPS technology could be one of the best decisions you make for your safety on the bike.
As mountain biking technology continues to evolve, so does the quality of our protective gear. And as the saying goes, there’s no price too high when it comes to safety. MIPS helmets are designed to reduce risks in the types of crashes most riders experience, and that extra assurance is something we can all appreciate. So, whether you go for a half-shell or full-face helmet, consider upgrading to one with MIPS—it’s a smart step towards safer, more confident riding.
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