How to Develop a Winning Ski Helmet Line with an OEM Partner.

<p>The two primary international standards are ASTM F2040 (the standard in the United States) and CE EN 1077 (the standard in Europe). Both certifications ensure the ski helmet has passed rigorous testing for impact absorption and structural integrity in cold-weather conditions, which are very different from those for other sports. Helmets from a global manufacturer like SPIRIT are engineered to meet these exacting standards.</p>

<p>MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a safety technology designed to reduce the rotational forces on the brain during an angled impact. Since many falls while skiing or snowboarding are not straight-on but involve a twisting or turning motion, these rotational forces are a significant factor in causing certain types of brain injuries. The inclusion of a MIPS slip-plane liner in a ski helmet is a major safety enhancement that is quickly becoming the industry standard.</p>

<p class="md-end-block md-p md-focus"><span class="md-plain md-expand">Hardshell (ABS) construction involves a very durable, injection-molded outer shell that is bonded to a separate EPS foam liner. This method is exceptionally tough and cost-effective, making it great for rental fleets or park riders. In-mold construction fuses a thin polycarbonate shell directly to the EPS foam liner, creating a single, lightweight piece. An in-mold ski helmet is significantly lighter and often allows for more advanced ventilation, making it the preferred choice for performance and all-mountain riders.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Proper goggle integration is crucial for comfort, performance, and safety. A well-designed ski helmet will have a brim and shell shape that creates a seamless interface with ski goggles, eliminating the dreaded "goggle gap"&mdash;an exposed strip of forehead that leads to brain freeze. This seamless fit also allows goggle ventilation systems to function properly, preventing fogging. At SPIRIT, we design our helmets to be compatible with a wide range of popular goggle brands.</p>

<p>Adjustable ventilation allows a rider to customize airflow for changing conditions. A typical system on a ski helmet uses one or more sliding levers or buttons on the exterior of the helmet. These sliders open and close vents, allowing a rider to maximize airflow and stay cool during a strenuous run or on a warm spring day, and then close them to retain heat and stay warm during a blizzard or on a cold chairlift ride.</p>

<p>Generally, no. A ski helmet is specifically designed and certified for cold-weather, high-speed impacts on snow. It has not been tested for the specific hazards of other sports. For example, it lacks the top-impact penetration resistance required for a climbing helmet (UIAA 106) and may not have the ventilation or shape required of a bicycle helmet (CPSC 1203). For optimal safety, you should always use a helmet certified for the specific sport you are participating in.</p>