Cool head on hot trails
The Merit™ Spherical is a high-performance trail ride helmet with the added security of the MIPS® Spherical Technology™ safety system. The outer EPS helmet shell rotates a few millimeters around the inner helmet shell in the event of an impact to minimize the rotational forces generated during impact. A deep protection zone and outstanding ventilation round off the Merit to the highest level.
The progressive inner and outer shell with different EPS foam densities also contribute to comprehensive protection. The wind tunnel vents are combined with deep air ducts in EPS helmet shell and create amazing airflow through the helmet to expel heat even on long, strenuous rides. The fit and secure fit can be adjusted quickly and easily with the Roc Loc® Trail Air adjustment system. The soft Ionic+™ pads ensure exceptional sweat absorption and have an antimicrobial effect. With all these properties, it is the ideal choice for demanding mountain bikers, whether with or without electric assistance.
Technologies used
In this chapter we explain the technologies that the manufacturer uses in this product.
MIPS
The MIPS® safety system was developed to provide additional protection for helmets in numerous accidents. In certain impact situations, the MIPS system can reduce dangerous forces that might otherwise be transmitted to the helmet wearer's head.
1. Conventional helmets are designed and tested for a straight impact. In most cases, however, the impact is at an angle, which can cause rotational movements for the head.
2. This rotational movement can cause brain injury.
3. The low-friction shell is designed to help reduce rotational movement of the head in certain cases of angled impact.
Straight impact - oblique impact
The brain is typically more sensitive to rotational movement than linear movement because it has a shear strength similar to that of water or gel. When rotational movement causes different parts of the brain to move at different times, the tissues can be stretched, causing concussions or other brain injuries.
Rotational motion is a common cause of concussion and more serious brain injury from an oblique impact to the head. The MIPS system consists of a low-friction shell that is fixed inside the helmet. The low-friction shell is designed to slide slightly inside the helmet in the event of an accident, allowing forces to be directed away from the head. It is said to help reduce the risk of brain injuries.
Most conventional helmets are designed for a straight impact, but in most cases the impact is at an angle. The low-friction shell can reduce the rotational forces of an oblique impact.
Security system with the brain as a model
Unlike conventional helmets, which are primarily designed and tested for a straight impact, the low-friction shell of the MIPS system mimics the brain's own protection system against rotational movement. The cerebrospinal fluid is our natural defense system that allows the brain to move offset to the skull.