The purpose is to achieve both airflow and safety.
SMITH also thought that helmets were important from early on.However, with a commercially available helmet, it is not possible to secure the desired air flow, and it may not be possible to fully demonstrate the performance of the goggles.In order to achieve a good balance between the safety of the helmet and the performance of the goggles unique to SMITH, tuning that enhances each other's functions is indispensable.
Thus, in 2006, SMITH launched a snow helmet.Ensuring a clear view without clouding even on a severe snowstorm day.This problem, which was tackled by the founder Bob Smith, was approached from the gear of the helmet.
Total design of air flow
A helmet should be worn if the misfortune can be avoided, even in just one example. SMITH thinks so.With that as a premise, we continue to pursue what kind of helmet to wear.
SMITH is working on matching goggles and helmets.
Let's talk step by step.First of all, SMITH goggles are designed to be hard to fog even on snowy days and to get a clear view.The details areplease use this form..
Specifically, as the warm air rises, the cold air outside is taken in from the lower part of the goggles, and the humidity and warm air are removed from the upper ventilator.In this way, even the flow of air is designed.However, with some helmets, the wind received at the front blows downward into the goggles.This is the opposite of SMITH's idea. SMITH thinks it makes more sense to pull it up.In order to fully demonstrate the performance of the SMITH goggles, I want to deflate the air.
That's why SMITH's helmets are designed with the frame curve of the goggles in mind.By matching the shape of the helmet and goggles perfectly, the ventilator of the goggles and the air hole of the helmet are linked.Using the pressure difference created at the rear of the helmet, he succeeded in sucking out the warm air inside the goggles more positively.In other words, the idea is that the helmet accelerates the airflow of the goggles. This idea called "AIREVAC" is a total system that can only be realized by brands that handle both helmets and goggles.And by comprehensively designing this product, goggles and even helmets can fully demonstrate their performance and increase their existence value.This is the main reason why SMITH makes helmets.
In itself, it sacrifices and protects the brain
Of course, helmets are required to have high protection ability. SMITH analyzes the impact at the time of an accident by classifying it into four categories: slow impact at low speed, fast impact at high speed, rotational impact that twists the head, and simultaneous impact from multiple directions.It is designed while considering the balance between the liner (shock absorber inside the helmet) and the shell (the hard part on the outside of the helmet) so that different types of impact can be received by one helmet.
Specifically, the ABS shell with high shock absorption is combined with a thick liner called EPS, while when lightness is required, the shell is made of polycarbonate and sprayed on the EPS liner like painting. Is being taken.In addition, in some cases, both are used in combination.
There is only one purpose in adopting such a complicated structure.It is to alleviate the impact on the brain.
"We don't say we're trying to prevent injuries, because the purpose of wearing a helmet is clear. There are many injuries that can be prevented by wearing a helmet, but the most important one is a serious brain injury. It's a situation that leaves behind, so I'm telling you to protect your brain. "
The brain is the number one priority a helmet should protect.Therefore, the shell and liner at the time of an accident break and deform like a bumper of a car to disperse and absorb the impact and reduce the damage to the brain.Therefore, the turn is only once. Helmets that have been hit even once should not be trusted even if no abnormalities are found in their appearance.You should replace it with a new one.In addition, the material of the helmet itself deteriorates over time.Its life is 3 to 5 years. SMITH professes to be clear.
"A helmet is a consumable item that has a limited lifespan. Even if it keeps its shape, it may not be able to protect your brain."
When.
To slide positively
Even if you know the importance of a helmet, it's true that some people are confused about wearing it.He says it's exaggerated, doesn't look good, and I don't know what to buy.
Whether it's exaggerated or not depends on how you play.I want to try new tricks in the park, I want to challenge the rails, and so on.If you get injured in the first try and have fear, you will not improve.Even if you fall, you will be connected to the next try.Helmets are equipment that expands your potential and keeps you playing.
I would recommend Asian Fit to those who say it doesn't suit you.Not only is it comfortable to wear, but it also has many merits such as the fact that the head does not look big because it is deeply worn.Also, when trying on at the store, wear the clothes. Anyone who wears a helmet with a single T-shirt will look big.If you wear clothes, it will fit in as it is.
For those who are wondering what to buy, I would like to list three types of models for different purposes.
Anyway, it's light and doesn't lose its fit no matter what tricks you rampage."MAZE" is for such an aggressive rider.The world's lightest weight of 350g will change the perception of helmets.
If you are looking for fashion and ease of purchase, I would recommend "GAGE".It has the highest class ventilation function while having high durability and low center of gravity.Even in the park in early spring, there is no stuffiness and the comfort is outstanding.
If you are looking for the highest level of comfort, then "VANTAGE" is the way to go. Uses a material similar to a honeycomb structure called "Koroyd".Boasting high breathability and incredible lightness, it has the highest level of shock absorption.
All SMITH helmets have a clear concept.What do you want and how do you want to use it?Once that is clear, the models to choose are automatically narrowed down.
"As I mentioned earlier, helmets need to be replaced on a regular basis. That's why we're also trying to keep prices down. Clarifying the concept of a product is a waste of money, focusing on the features you need. I think it's a good way to avoid it. "
All I have to do now is push my limits while being wrapped in that safety.The brakes that I used to unknowingly loosen a little, and I can slide with a more positive feeling than ever before.That exhilaration is one of the joys that a helmet gives.
SMITH Catalog
TEXT: TAKURO HAYASHI
