MIPS technology in helmets
How a thin layer inside a helmet protects your brain in angled impacts
MIPS technology in helmets
How a thin layer inside a helmet protects your brain in angled impacts
A helmet protects your head, that much is clear. But most falls do not hit the helmet head-on, they strike it at an angle. This is exactly where MIPS comes in: the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System is an additional protective layer that diverts rotational forces away from the brain.
What is MIPS?Contents
MIPS stands for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System, a safety system developed since the mid-1990s at KTH Stockholm and the Karolinska Institute. It is not a helmet in its own right, but a thin, movable intermediate layer between the padding and outer shell. You can recognise a MIPS helmet by the yellow logo on the inside or outside of the helmet. MIPS complements a helmet tested to safety standards, but does not replace its usual protective function.
How does MIPS work?Contents
Inside the helmet is a low-friction layer that can move by 10–15 millimetres relative to the head during an angled impact. This sliding movement spreads rotational energy across a larger area of the helmet material before the full force reaches the head. The principle mirrors the head’s natural protective system: the meninges and cerebrospinal fluid also allow minimal relative movement between the skull and brain.
What MIPS actually doesContents
Angled and rotational movements can stretch sensitive brain tissue and cause shear stresses. These are associated with serious injuries such as diffuse axonal injury or subdural haematomas. MIPS reduces the rotational movement transferred to the brain during an angled impact. Studies show that helmets with rotational impact protection cause lower loads in tests than conventional models.
MIPS vs conventional helmets: the differencesContents
| Feature | Classic helmet | MIPS helmet |
|---|---|---|
| Protection in frontal impacts | Yes (EPS foam) | Yes (EPS foam) |
| Protection against rotational forces | Limited | Additional cushioning |
| Construction | Padding + outer shell | + movable slip layer |
| Additional weight | Nein | 20–45 grams |
| Noticeable when worn | Nein | Barely noticeable |
| Price | Base | Slight premium |
| Standards | CE-tested | CE-tested + MIPS |
7 Einträge in der Vergleichstabelle
Which types of helmet feature MIPS?Contents
MIPS is a licensing system now used by more than 150 partner brands. Its range extends from urban cycling helmets to ski and snowboard helmets, as well as climbing and riding helmets. Many product lines are available in both standard and MIPS versions, recognisable by the “MIPS” addition in the model name.
Urban, MTB, road, e-bike
Cycling
Piste, park, freeride
Ski & snow
Rock, via ferrata, ice
Climbing
Equestrian sport, motocross
Riding & motor
Who is MIPS worth it for?Contents
MIPS is particularly worthwhile for sports with a higher risk of falls and typical angled impacts. The higher the speed and the more unpredictable the terrain, the more relevant additional rotational impact protection becomes. Mountain biking, road cycling in traffic, off-piste skiing or climbing on rock: anywhere falls are likely to involve angled rather than purely frontal impacts.
Strengths
- Demonstrably reduces rotational forces in angled falls
- Only 20–45 grams of additional weight: barely noticeable
- Available from more than 150 brands and across all helmet categories
- Easy to identify by the yellow MIPS logo
- Also meets all common safety standards
Weaknesses
- Slight premium over standard versions
- No guarantee of protection: fit remains crucial
- Primarily protects against angled impacts, not purely frontal ones
- Competing systems such as SPIN or WaveCel offer similar approaches
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Frequently asked questions about MIPS technologyContents
Conclusion: Is MIPS worth it?Contents
MIPS does not replace a good helmet, but it makes a good helmet even better. Anyone who regularly wears a helmet benefits from the additional layer of protection against rotational forces. The small extra cost and barely noticeable additional weight make it worth specifically looking for the MIPS version next time you buy a helmet. What matters most is that the helmet fits. First get the size and fit right, then consider the technology.
