A new lexicon entered the world of Motocross some years back. MIPS.
Or, more formally, Multi-directional Impact Protection System.
In other words, a new standard bearer for brain safety and helmet technology. Many dirt bike helmet manufacturers embrace MIPS and incorporate the safety design into their lids.
This patented technology helps reduce the risk of brain injuries caused by rotational forces during impacts. Normally, a helmet - whether for regular motorcycle riding or Motocross - protects against a direct impact, and hopefully, cushions the blow against the rider's brain. A MIPS helmet also protects against angles or oblique impacts which can cause the brain to twist with the skull.
MIPS technology got its start nearly 30 years ago by Swedish neurosurgeon, Hans von Holst and researcher Peter Halldin who identified the linear impact gap in traditional helmet safety standards. MIPS hit the marketplace in 2001 and has since gained widespread adoption across various helmet industries including Supercross and Motocross. Most leading dirt bike helmet brands incorporate MIPS into various model designs and the technology is widely embraced in the world of cycling, snow sports, equestrian and even mountain climbing.
How Does MIPS Work?
A traditional helmet absorbs linear impact energy, which pushes directly against the skull, by compressing the foam liner and protecting against skull fractures. But this doesn't mitigate rotational motion when a rider's head experiences angular acceleration during a glancing blow, something common in the world of Motocross and other powersports.
Think of it this way - A traditional helmet protects if you hit the ground head on, no pun intended. Or like a baseball hitting a batter's helmet. A MIPS helmet protects when a rider gets tossed of the bike and hits their head against the ground in motion.
Benefits of MIPS Helmet
MIPS technology integrates a low-friction layer into the helmet, positioned between the shell and the helmet liner. This low friction layer allows for slight movement between the head and helmet (10 to 15 millimeters) during an angled impact mimicking the brain's natural protective mechanisms thus reducing the rotational forces to the brain that can shear nerve fibers leading to concussions, subdural hematomas and other severe injuries.
A MIPS equipped helmet weighs little more than a traditional helmet and most riders can't tell the difference. Once on, the helmet looks and feels like a traditional helmet since the added low-friction layer sits out of the way and unseen. And, like traditional helmets, manufacturers include adjustable fit systems to accommodate varying head sizes and shapes. Dirt bike helmets with MIPS usually exceed DOT safety standards while many get Snell certification thus giving the rider enhanced protection along with greater peace of mind.
MIPS Helmet Cost
A MIPS helmet generally costs more than a traditional helmet but as you hunt for the best lid for your head, notice many higher priced helmets don't have MIPS. Some brands incorporate other similar state-of-the-art brain protection technology - investing in those safety features - rather than MIPS.
For example, 6D Helmets use Omni-Directional Suspension for their dirt bike helmets while AGV incorporates a shell and EPS structure designed to minimize rotational accelerations in their motorcycle helmets. The technologically advanced Fly Racing Formula S implements Impact Energy Cells made of Rheon that maximize absorption of low-speed linear and rotational impacts.
Fly Racing Formula S
But for a general comparison, expect to pay a little extra for a MIPS dirt bike helmet though many entry level helmets feature the technology for those on a budget looking for premier head protection.
Riders should consider this a small price to pay for better head protection when deciding on a new dirt bike helmet. Most pros have embraced the technology and all of the industry trusted brands offer models with MIPS. Those who race Motocross or rip along trails should consider investing in a MIPS helmet because of the rotational forces often experienced in the event of a forceful moving impact.
The inclusion of MIPS into helmets adds more fuel to the idea that riders should replace their helmets every five years. As technology evolves, improvements to today's MIPS become tomorrow's next generation of helmet head protection offering improved integration and reduced weight without compromising safety. Look out for MIPS SL (Super Light) and MIPS Integra offering improved integration and reduced weight.
MotoSport sells MIPS helmets for riding dirt bikes, motorcycles, ATVs and mountain bikes.
