The intention of a helmet
risk of injury to both the skull and the part of the head surrounded by the helmet. The protection a helmet provides depends on the circumstances of the accident. Keep in mind that wearing a helmet cannot always prevent death or long-term disability.
To see how a helmet reduces the risk of injury, we need to look at the laws of physics. Sir Isac Newton made three laws about motion, and it’s his 2nd law that is most relevant; the law of acceleration. Acceleration means more than just speeding up. It is also means changing the speed or direction of an object, as well as slowing it down to a stop.
Newton’s 2nd law goes like this:
*F = force
m = mass
a = acceleration
v = velocity
t = time.
Here, Newton is saying that the rate of change in the momentum (mv) of an object is directly proportional to the amount of force exerted upon the object. In real life, while skiing or snowboarding, there’s only one factor a helmet is able to influence in this equation, and that is time. When you fall, you have a certain weight and speed, which is pretty much up to you. From the equation above you can see that the greater the time during the impact, the less force is placed on your head. In other words, a helmet absorbs energy by increasing the duration of the impact.
Sweet helmet construction
Our goal when constructing helmets is to make a very durable construction that protects the head with less volume than usual. We also want an excellent fit and a relatively low weight. In order to accomplish this, we have developed a brand new way of constructing a helmet. The most striking features are the carbon fiber reinforced composite main shell, as well as the fact that all SWEET helmets are constructed as “neck hugging”. This means that the shell curves around the head and hugs the nape of the neck. Creating this can be done either by splitting the shell into two pieces or by molding the shell in one piece using a very sophisticated collapsible core tool with several sliders.
In regards to the protection performance, all of our helmets share the same basic construction by using the following main components:
1. Carbon fiber reinforced composites
2. Neck-hugging construction
3. Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) shock absorbing padding
4. Fit Pads
Allow at least fifteen minutes for adjustments the first time you try on a new helmet. If the strapping systems seem complicated, ask the retailer to help you adjust them for a good fit. Test your helmet fit each time you put it on. Adjust as needed. If used on a child, the helmet must be fitted and adjusted by an adult.
Important: Use the Fit Pads to customize the helmet fit. Take the necessary time to find the best combination for your head and liking.
1. Putting on the helmet
Place the helmet so it sits evenly on your head. Align the front edge of the helmet with a small gap, approx one finger-width above your eyebrows. If used with goggles there should be little or no gap between the helmet and goggles. Make sure the helmet is seated all the way down on the head. It should be placed to protect the forehead and not be pushed too far back over the back of the head.
2. Fit test
Carefully roll or lift the helmet off your head. If the skin on your forehead moves gently, you have a good fit.
3. Proper use
Always adjust and secure the chinstrap buckle before use. Adjust the straps so the helmet stays in place. Finally, adjust the two-point harness for a perfect fit and protection. Both straps on each side should have the same tension. Make sure that you’re comfortable in your helmet. Go out and play!