Beyond the technology we incorporate in our apparel, countless innovations have shaped our journey. You see, it’s been over a hundred years on two wheels, and we’ve witnessed a remarkable evolution in gear technology.

From the early days of the 1920s, when leather-clad renegade James Dean epitomized the spirit of rebellion with a ‘caution in the wind’ attitude, to the magnetic presence of Valentino Rossi, whose iconic number 46, often engraved on his helmets, symbolized dominance and flair, captivating fans worldwide from 1996 to 2021. Today, we marvel at Marc Márquez’s astounding skills, executing daring 69-degree leans that seldom result in lowside or highside crashes—yet he seemingly walks away unscathed, thanks to a combination of exceptional talent and state-of-the-art gear, which continues to provide an exciting realm to explore.

The Latest in Motorcycle Gloves Technology

When you fall at 35+ mph, your natural instinct is to use your hands to break the impact. Without properly constructed and well-fitting gloves, your skin can become as fragile as tissue paper against the rough road. Fortunately, the latest advancements in technology have significantly improved motorcycle gloves, offering superior protection and durability.

Hybrid Leather-Textile Gloves

Since the earliest days of riding, leather gloves made from cowhide or deerskin have been favored for their abrasion resistance, durability, and tactile feel, especially for track riding. On the other hand, textile gloves are more versatile and suitable for most seasons. The best waterproof gloves available are made from textiles, making them ideal for riding in foul weather, extreme heat, or deep cold.

Hybrid leather-textile gloves combine the strengths of both materials, featuring leather in areas where slide protection is crucial and textile for added comfort and functionality. A hybrid construction that allows for:

• Waterproofing: Keeping your hands dry in wet conditions.
• Stretch Panels: Providing flexibility and a better fit.
• Thermal Linings: Ensuring warmth in cold weather.
• Mesh Panels: Offering high airflow to keep hands cool in hot weather.

But keep in mind, some thermal liners in cold-weather gloves can feel a bit bulky. Still, it’s a small price to pay for warm hands, right?

Thermal Insulation, Gore-Tex and Reflective Layers for Weather Adaptability and Comfort

Thermal insulation in motorcycle gloves for cold weather involves using advanced materials like Thinsulate, PrimaLoft, or down insulation, which trap air to create a barrier against heat loss.

These materials are chosen for their low thermal conductivity and high R-value, meaning they effectively slow down heat transfer, keeping the rider’s hands warm. The gloves typically have a layered construction, including an outer shell for abrasion resistance and water repellence, an insulating layer for warmth, and a moisture-wicking lining for comfort.

To ensure optimal performance, these gloves balance insulation with breathability, using membranes like Gore-Tex to allow moisture vapor to escape while preventing external water ingress. Reflective layers may also be incorporated to enhance heat retention by reflecting body heat back towards the hands.

HiPora® Breathable Membrane Technology

HiPora® is waterproof and breathable and consists of a three-layer microporous, silicon-coated structure. The first layer prevents water from passing through with pores less than .5 um in diameter.

The second layer has a honeycomb structure that lets moisture to let it expel through the first layer. It absorbs the moisture so your body does not get sweaty while letting the moisture slowly leave.

This is all at a microscopic and macroscopic level you will never feel. The third layer is very dense for added protection against water. This is the layer closest to the skin.

Additionally, HiPora® technology meets O.S.H.A. Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29CFR 1910.1030), which is a testament to its quality. All AGVSPORT™ Touring Gloves and Sierra Waterproof Sports Gloves are constructed with HiPora® membranes to keep your hands dry and comfortable in wet conditions.

Heated Motorcycle Gloves

Heated motorcycle gloves integrate electrical heating elements within the glove’s construction to provide consistent warmth. These gloves typically feature battery-powered heating wires or panels distributed across critical areas like the fingers and back of the hand. The heating elements are controlled by adjustable settings, allowing riders to customize the level of heat based on their comfort and the external temperature. High-capacity rechargeable batteries ensure long-lasting heat, while advanced materials still provide a degree of thermal insulation.

American and European Fits

Motorcycle gloves typically come in two primary fits: American Fit and European Fit. Although they might appear identical when laid out, their fits feel noticeably different when worn.

American Fit gloves are designed with a relaxed, roomy fit, providing extra space around the palm and fingers. They offer a more comfortable, less restrictive feel, with slightly less length throughout the entire glove. Although primarily designed by American manufacturers, some European brands have also adopted this fit. The design is ideal for riders who prefer a more spacious glove with a bit of extra room.

European Fit gloves, on the other hand, emphasize a snug, secure fit with an aggressive contour. These gloves are narrower around the palm and fingers and feature extra length at the fingertips for a more precise fit. The design is commonly found in gloves made by manufacturers outside the US, offering a tighter, more tailored fit that enhances control and dexterity.

 Here are some key differences to consider:

Biometric Sensors

Emerging technology includes gloves with built-in sensors to monitor heart rate, skin temperature, and other biometric data, providing real-time health and performance feedback.

Touchscreen Compatibility

Conductive materials, such as silver thread, are nowadays woven into the fingertips of gloves, allowing riders to operate touchscreen devices without removing their gloves.

To enhance the gloves’ touchscreen compatibility, you can use a conductive liquid. First, purchase a conductive liquid designed for enhancing touchscreen compatibility. Pour the liquid into a squeeze bottle with a narrow nozzle for precise application. Carefully apply the conductive liquid to the fingertips of your gloves, ensuring the solution is spread evenly across the fingertips. Allow the solution to dry completely before using the gloves. If necessary, reapply the solution to increase conductivity.

Pre-Curved Fingers for Ergonomic Improvements

Pre-curved fingers align with the natural bend of the hand while gripping handlebars. A design that uses curved stitching and flexible materials such as spandex, elastane, neoprene, stretch leather, and mesh fabric to create a slight curve in the fingers, matching the typical riding posture.

The main benefits include reduced hand fatigue and improved comfort by mimicking the natural grip position, which minimizes strain and effort. It also enhances dexterity and control, allowing for precise manipulation of motorcycle controls, and prevents bunching or creasing at the knuckles, improving overall comfort during rides.

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Carbon Fiber, Polycarbonate, and Superfabric Palm Sliders

Palm sliders are protective elements in motorcycle gloves designed to reduce injury risk by allowing hands to slide during a fall, preventing abrupt impacts that cause fractures or abrasions. Located at the base of the palm, where it meets the wrist, they ensure the gloves make contact with the ground first, acting as a barrier.

Made from durable materials like thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), carbon fiber, polycarbonate, and Superfabric, palm sliders offer excellent abrasion resistance and impact absorption. TPU provides flexibility and abrasion resistance, carbon fiber offers strength and lightness, polycarbonate absorbs and dissipates energy, and Superfabric combines abrasion resistance with flexibility.

Palm sliders significantly reduce hand injuries by enabling gloves to slide instead of catching, thus avoiding sudden stops. They protect the skin from abrasions, absorb impact energy, and extend glove lifespan by taking the brunt of wear and tear. Plus, some sliders enhance the rider’s grip on the handlebars, ensuring safety without compromising control.

Velcro® and Elastic Closures for Adjustable and Secure Fastening

Velcro® is a brand name for a hook-and-loop fastening system, which consists of two components:

• Hook Side: Made of tiny, rigid hooks.
• Loop Side: Made of softer, fuzzy loops.

When pressed together, the hooks engage with the loops, creating a strong, adjustable bond. This system is known for its ease of use, quick fastening, and reliable hold. It allows users to adjust the tightness of the gloves easily, providing a customizable fit and ensuring the gloves stay securely in place during use.

Elastic closures, on the other hand, involve the use of stretchable materials, typically made from rubber or synthetic fibers, which can expand and contract. These closures are often integrated into the cuff area of the gloves. The elastic material stretches to accommodate the hand when putting the gloves on, then contracts to provide a snug, secure fit around the wrist, keeping the gloves in place and preventing them from slipping off during use.

• Adjustability: Both Velcro® and elastic closures allow for a range of motion and fit customization. Velcro® closures can be adjusted to varying degrees of tightness, while elastic closures conform to the size of the wrist, providing a snug fit.
• Secure Fastening: The hook-and-loop mechanism of Velcro® ensures a strong grip that resists accidental opening, while the elasticity provides continuous tension, keeping the gloves securely in place without the need for constant readjustment.
• Ease of Use: Velcro® closures are designed for quick and effortless fastening and unfastening, making it convenient for riders to put on or remove their gloves, even with one hand. Elastic closures automatically adjust, requiring minimal effort to achieve a secure fit.

ANSI/ISEA 138 and CE EN 13594-2015 Motorcycle Gloves Safety Standards

Once upon a time, leather gloves were simply leather gloves—basic protection with no real benchmarks. But today, motorcycle gloves are evaluated against rigorous safety standards that test their protective abilities in precise, quantitative, and qualitative ways. When shopping for gloves, you’ll notice several standards listed, reflecting various protective criteria.

In North America and Europe, motorcycle glove safety standards are well-defined. North American standards focus on anticipated hazards, such as the ANSI/ISEA (American National Standards Institute/International Safety Equipment Association) 138 Impact Standard, which has been in place since 2019. Meanwhile, Europe has its own benchmark with the CE EN 13594-2015 standard, adopted in 2015 specifically for motorcycle gloves.

The CE standard is mandatory in 33 European countries for on-road motorcycle gloves, but it doesn’t mandate glove use everywhere. For instance, France requires motorcyclists to wear gloves that meet CE standards, while other EU regions may not enforce this.

In contrast, North American motorcyclists have the freedom to choose gloves that comply with CE standards, ANSI/ISEA standards, or a mix of both.

Although both sets of standards share similarities, they also feature notable differences, giving riders a broad spectrum of options for safety and comfort. The European standard (CE EN 13594-2015) divides gloves into Level 1 and Level 2 based on their performance in various tests, including impact protection, abrasion resistance, and tear resistance.

Level 2 offers the highest protection. On the other hand, the North American standard (ANSI/ISEA 138:2019) emphasizes quantitative impact protection data at multiple points on the gloves (knuckles, fingers, and thumb). It offers Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 ratings based on the amount of transmitted impact force.

The Latest in Motorcycle Pants Technology

Your lower body does a lot of the heavy lifting while riding, and motorcycle pants are essential for a safe and comfortable experience. Consider this: your ankles are always in motion, your waist is continually shifting, and your knees are constantly bending. If you think your everyday jeans can handle this… think again! They simply don’t meet the rigorous standards of motorcycling, which has evolved to feature the latest technology.

Abrasion-Resistant Cordura, Kevlar, and Dyneema Materials

Motorcycle pants, much like gloves, are primarily constructed from leather and textile materials. But to significantly enhance their abrasion resistance, manufacturers are increasingly incorporating high-strength fabrics such as Cordura, Kevlar, and Dyneema into their designs.

Cordura is renowned for its exceptional durability and resistance to abrasions, tears, and scuffs. Its abrasion resistance rating ranges between 1,000 and 1,500 cycles on the Martindale test, making it a robust choice for protective wear. On the other hand, Kevlar, a para-aramid synthetic fiber, further elevates the level of protection with its superior cut and abrasion resistance. Often woven into the fabric or used to reinforce high-impact areas, Kevlar achieves an impressive abrasion resistance rating of 2,000 to 4000 cycles on the Martindale test.

Meanwhile, Dyneema, an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, stands out for its remarkable strength and lightweight nature, which enhances both comfort and flexibility. With an abrasion resistance rating of over 20,000 cycles on the Martindale test, Dyneema is one of the most resilient materials available, offering unparalleled protection.

Integrated D3O, SAS-TEC, and CE-approved foam Armor Systems

During a fall, D3O, SAS-TEC, and CE-approved foam absorb and dissipate energy. Here’s how they are incorporated and where they are placed:

• D3O Armor: It’s typically used in high-impact areas such as the hips and knees. The D3O inserts are sewn into dedicated pockets or compartments. Under normal conditions, D3O remains flexible, allowing for comfort and ease of movement. Upon impact, it hardens to absorb and disperse energy, significantly reducing the risk of injury.
• SAS-TEC Armor: SAS-TEC armor is often used in similar high-risk areas as D3O, including the hips and knees. It’s integrated into motorcycle pants through specially designed pockets or sections. The viscoelastic foam of SAS-TEC armor molds to the rider’s body, providing excellent shock absorption and comfort. It helps maintain flexibility while ensuring that impact forces are effectively distributed.
• CE-Approved Foam: CE-approved foam is used throughout the pants, often in the form of removable pads or built-in liners. The foam adheres to European safety standards, offering protection in areas such as the hips, knees, and sometimes the thighs. It’s typically housed in mesh pockets or compartments that are stitched into the pants, ensuring it stays in place during a ride. CE Level 1 and CE Level 2 are the common classifications, with Level 2 providing higher impact protection.

Generally, motorcycle jacket armor falls into two main categories: replacement armor and strap-on armor.

Replacement armor consists of padding designed to fit into specific pockets in pants, enhancing the protection provided by the original armor. This type of armor upgrades and improves the existing protection of your gear. On the other hand, strap-on armor is worn directly on the body and is commonly used in off-road riding and track racing, such as motocross. It offers additional protection and is often favored for its versatility and ease of adjustment.

Gore-Tex, Hipora, and Drystar Waterproof and Breathable Membranes

To keep riders dry, Gore-Tex, Hipora, and Drystar enhance rider comfort and protection in various weather conditions.

Gore-Tex is a renowned membrane known for its superior performance in both waterproofing and breathability. Technically, Gore-Tex consists of a multi-layer structure with a microporous layer of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). This microporous layer contains over 1.4 billion pores per square centimeter, which are small enough to prevent water droplets from penetrating but large enough to allow water vapor (sweat) to escape. This dual functionality helps to keep the rider dry by blocking external moisture while allowing internal moisture to evaporate, thus maintaining comfort during rides in wet conditions.

Hipora is another effective membrane that uses a polyurethane-based fabric with a microporous structure. Its construction allows for the expulsion of moisture vapor while preventing water from seeping through. The microporous structure is less permeable to water droplets but allows for the diffusion of water vapor, thus keeping the inner layer of the pants dry. Hipora is designed to be lightweight and flexible, contributing to overall rider comfort while ensuring reliable protection from rain and water ingress.

Drystar, developed by Alpinestars, features a proprietary waterproof and breathable membrane. Drystar combines a waterproof layer with a highly breathable fabric to manage moisture and temperature effectively. The membrane’s structure ensures that it repels water from the outside while allowing sweat to escape from within. Drystar is engineered to provide long-lasting protection and comfort, even in challenging weather conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of riding environments.

Thinsulate or PrimaLoft Thermal Liners

Thinsulate and PrimaLoft are advanced thermal liners used in motorcycle pants to provide insulation and retain heat in cold weather while maintaining a slim profile.

Thinsulate is a brand of synthetic thermal insulation developed by 3M. It uses microfibers that are finer than conventional polyester fibers, creating a dense network that traps air and retains heat effectively. This material provides high warmth-to-weight ratios, meaning it offers substantial insulation without adding significant bulk to the pants. Thinsulate’s ability to trap air and maintain thermal efficiency makes it ideal for keeping riders warm in cold conditions.

PrimaLoft is another high-performance insulation material made from ultra-fine fibers. It mimics the insulating properties of down but retains its insulating ability even when wet. PrimaLoft’s fibers are treated to be water-resistant, ensuring that the thermal properties remain effective in damp conditions. The material traps air and retains heat while remaining lightweight and compressible, which allows for a snug fit and easy packing of the liner when not in use.

Both Thinsulate and PrimaLoft liners are removable, giving riders the flexibility to adjust their gear according to changing temperatures.

Ventilation Systems

Strategically placed ventilation panels or zippers to enhance airflow and prevent overheating. These ventilation systems can be opened or closed as needed, allowing riders to regulate their temperature based on the riding conditions. Mesh panels, perforated leather, or zippered vents are common implementations.

3M Scotchlite Reflective Elements

To enhance visibility during low-light conditions, reflective materials or panels by brands like 3M Scotchlite provide retro-reflective technology that reflects light back to its source, making the rider more visible to other road users. These elements are typically placed on the lower legs or other prominent areas to maximize visibility.

Stretch Panels and Ergonomic Design

Stretch panels made from materials like spandex or elastane are strategically placed in areas requiring flexibility, such as the knees and waist. Ergonomic design ensures that the pants fit well in the riding position, reducing fatigue and enhancing the rider’s overall experience.

Integrated Airbag Systems

Motorcycle pants airbag systems are designed to deploy in milliseconds during a crash. Typically, they are connected to sensors that detect abnormal movements or impacts, triggering the airbag deployment, which, in turn, significantly reduces the risk of injuries to the hips and thighs during an accident.

When comparing the latest integrated airbag systems from Alpinestars, Dainese, and Helite, each brand offers distinct features designed to elevate rider safety.

Alpinestars’ Tech-Air system, available in versions like the Tech-Air 10 and Tech-Air 5, utilizes a network of sensors and sophisticated algorithms embedded within their pants to detect crashes. This system ensures rapid deployment of the airbag, offering protection to the hips and thighs. Tech-Air’s real-time diagnostics and multiple levels of protection allow for a high degree of customization based on the severity of the incident, integrating seamlessly with Alpinestars’ compatible pants and jackets.

In contrast, Dainese’s D-Air system, seen in models such as the D-Air Misano and D-Air Racing, also relies on advanced sensors to detect impacts and sudden decelerations. Dainese’s airbag inflates rapidly to shield the lower body and works effectively with their range of D-Air compatible pants and jackets. Dainese’s system is known for its advanced crash detection technology and an adjustable fit that enhances rider comfort.

Helite’s Turtle Airbag distinguishes itself with a mechanical trigger mechanism that inflates the airbag upon detecting abnormal movements. Unlike its electronic counterparts, the Turtle system offers a simpler and more reliable approach, with no need for batteries or complex electronics. It integrates easily over or with motorcycle pants, delivering substantial protection to the hips, thighs, and lower back, and is appreciated for its durability and ease of maintenance.

The Latest in Motorcycle Helmet Technology

Just like your head, a helmet has plenty of parts that need to work together to protect your brain. And these are the things to look for:

Each of these components has evolved significantly to what we see today. You see, almost 30 years after the invention of the first combustion engine motorcycle, which gave rise to a higher performing breed of motorcycles, a deadly crash prompted Eric Gardner, a British Physicist, to invent the motorcycle helmet. Not much more than a leather hat, Gardner’s lid was nonetheless made mandatory in the 1914 Isle of Man TT.

One century and a decade later, we have tech marvels like the AGV Pista GP RR which the AGV (remember, AGV Sports Group doesn’t manufacture helmets) proudly labels as “The Perfection of Obsession.” Featuring a lightweight Extreme Carbon Shell, 5mm thick Optical Class 1 Ultravision visor for unbeatable panoramic views, a wind tunnel tuned metal air vent and spoiler system, and of course a guaranteed luxury fit with the 360° Adaptive Fit system, which makes all pieces of the interior customizable.

And it’s not just AGV; you have Shoei, Arai, Bell and Scorpion all pushing new technologies to improve the protectiveness of helmets for direct and torsional impacts.

Here are key advancements we are now seeing in modern helmets with the latest ECE 22.06, Snell M2025 certifications and FRHPhe-02 homologation.

New Lighter and Stronger Carbon Fiber Shell Material

The shell, which forms the exterior of the helmet must be incredibly strong, thin and lightweight hence carbon fiber, one of the strongest materials known to man, and its composites find application there. To understand why carbon fiber can be so strong we have to go down to the molecular level where we observe its covalent bonding similar to graphite and diamonds, which are two natural forms of the amorphous carbon.

But unlike diamonds, these fibers are made in a lab by stretching carbon-containing materials like polyacrylonitrile (PAN) to align the crystals into elongated chain-like structures before heating to temperatures above 1,000°C to purge non-carbon atoms.

Carbon fiber shells are nearly twice as strong as traditional fiberglass (up to 7,000 MPa) and remain stoic to extreme changes in temperature, justifying its huge costs of manufacture, definitely reflected in helmets like the new Alpinestars Supertech R10 Carbon Element. Arai die-hards will still swear by the brands ‘birds nest” fiberglass construction, which they claim makes their shells 30% stronger than ordinary fiberglass shells, but even this doesn’t come close to carbon fiber helmets.

Other materials that lid makers have been experimenting on include Kevlar, which is now combined with carbon fiber to form the Carbon-Kevlar composite with added elasticity while retaining strength. Also noteworthy is that both Arai and Shoei shells are hand woven in Japan and cost a small fortune to produce, again reflecting in premium costs for their highest protective helmets.

Chin and Rear Spoilers for Enhanced Aerodynamics

The design improvements in helmets have made them more aerodynamic, providing a smoother ride by reducing draughts, minimizing turbulence, and limiting wind noise. A recent innovation in this field is the addition of chin and rear spoilers.

Rear spoilers enhance helmet stability and reduce aerodynamic drag by managing airflow at the back, particularly at high speeds. On the other hand, chin spoilers prevent helmet lifting and reduce wind noise, draughts, and turbulence by redirecting airflow around the front bottom of the helmet.

These advancements significantly reduce the stresses and forces on a rider’s head and neck during a race. A notable example is the AGV K6 S, an improved version of the K6, featuring a new, more pronounced, sportier rear spoiler, giving it more of a MotoGP appearance.

Intelligent Noise Control

When it comes to noise, riding a motorcycle can be a symphony of sound and wind. From the roar of the engine to the rush of air and the buzz of passing vehicles, it’s a cacophony that can be overwhelming, even at a leisurely urban speed of 25mph. The relentless wind noise can drown out everything else. To tackle this challenge head-on, the best helmet brands have developed advanced systems to minimize noise in your helmet:

• AGV: Extensive Turbulence and Aerodynamic Testing
• Shoei: Advanced Noise Reduction System
• Schuberth C5: Acoustic Aerodynamics Technology
• Arai: Wind-Tunnel Tested Noise Control
• HJC: Advanced Noise Isolation Padding
• Shark: Dual Noise Reduction Technology
• Bell: Race-Tested Sound Management
• LS2: Dynamic Noise Reduction System

Yet, you should consider taking additional steps to protect their hearing while riding, but these innovations are a significant leap toward a quieter and more enjoyable ride.

Motorcycle Helmet Earplugs

Surprisingly, even the quietest helmets can still create enough noise to jeopardize your hearing. At speeds as low as 60 mph, the air turbulence around the helmet can generate noise levels exceeding 85 dB—the maximum safe limit for an extended 8-hour exposure.

To combat this, AGV provides earplugs with the AGV Pista GP RR, arguably the best helmet in the world today, ensuring additional protection against hearing damage. Today, top-quality earplugs specifically designed for motorcycling are readily available. And if you struggle to find a comfortable fit, protective earmuffs are a great alternative for safeguarding your hearing.

No More One-Size-Fits-All: Introducing Multiple Helmet Sizes

A lid that fits is a lid that saves because a snug fit is mandatory to prevent the rider’s head and brain from sloshing around in the event of a crash. The current ECE 22.06 standard reflects this by requiring manufacturers to submit different batches of test helmets in various shell sizes and accessory configurations.

Mid-range to premium helmets often come in four shell sizes, and some brands like Arai offer up to six. Even budget-friendly options, like the AGV K1 S, are available in at least two shell sizes, covering seven different helmet sizes:

More shell sizes mean better fitting helmets, reducing “rounding off” errors and ensuring you get the right fit for you. As a rule of thumb, a helmet should not allow your head to move inside it.

Multi Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS)

And speaking of movement, the Multidirectional Impact Protection System (MIPS) technology, which mimics nature to mitigate crash impact transmission to the brain. How it works is by having a yellow thin insert layer between the helmet’s shell and the EPS liner at the top of the head such that it allows limited movement in a crash scenario, reducing the magnitude of rotational forces transferred to the head and brain within the first 10 milliseconds of a crash.

A quick scan on the MIPS support website reveals that the major motorcycle brands are conspicuously  missing from the list of lid makers partnering with the MIPS corporation, which is an ingredient brand model selling to manufacturers who then implement their design in their own lids.

Just the same, biomechanics have been well aware of the dangers of rotational impacts, prompting makers, like Arai to make helmets with a sturdy, rounded, egg-shaped shell with air vents that break off easily, leaving the smooth exterior to simply glance off objects without digging in and twisting the riders head.

Koroyd’s Honeycomb Structure for Superior Energy Dispersion in Helmets

But as humans, our quest for innovation drives us to explore even new frontiers, and the EPS liner is currently at a fork in the road having been perfected over the years, reaching a point of diminishing returns. And if there is a wonder product that seeks to carry on the mantle from EPS layering, it would be Koroyd.

Inspired by the aftermath of the Kegworth air disaster, where investigations revealed that cylindrical tube structures outperformed square ones in energy absorption, Koroyd was born. A technology that replaces the conventional foam liner with a welded-tube lattice, creating a helmet that is both lighter and more effective in dispersing impact energy.

Koroyd’s honeycomb-like structure excels at evenly distributing kinetic forces across its surface, surpassing the capabilities of traditional EPS layers. Its hollow tubes enhance ventilation, allowing heat to dissipate more effectively and keeping you cooler on the ride. While MIPS technology complements EPS liners by reducing rotational forces, Koroyd aims to replace EPS entirely, offering a novel approach to head protection.

Currently, Thor Racing and Klim (both MIPS partners) have adopted Koroyd technology in their motorcycle helmets, underscoring its potential. These companies, known for their collaboration with MIPS, now integrate Koroyd’s innovative design into their helmets and body (shoulder, back and elbow) armor in daily motorcycle clothing.

Elastomeric Isolation Damping System

And to take it a step further, 6D Helmets, famed for their Omni-Directional Suspension (ODS) technology, has brilliantly adapted the heavy-duty industrial Elastomeric Isolation Damping (EID) system for helmet use. An innovative approach that not only integrates seamlessly with both MIPS and Koroyd technologies but can also function independently, positioning between the shell and the EPS liner.

That way, the dampers cushion the initial milliseconds of rotational impact, much like MIPS. But EID offers a unique advantage: it’s purposefully compressible, similar to the suspension in your motorcycle’s front forks. Allowing EID to absorb impact energy, safely dissipate it, and then recover, providing enhanced protection and resilience.

More Protective, Less Restrictive Eyeports With Optical Class 1 Visor (Faceshield)

All visors aren’t made equal despite being polycarbonate. And here is how:

• Transparent/Clear visor: The most common type of visor found in all kinds of protective helmets is the transparent or clear visor. It lacks any shade or tint, allowing riders to wear sunglasses for eye protection during the day. This type of visor is particularly suitable for night riding as its transparency provides better vision in low-light conditions.
• Smoked/Tinted Visor: Ideal for daytime riding, smoked visors feature a tinted layer that shields the rider’s eyes from direct sunlight, eliminating the need for sunglasses. These visors are available in various variants, including translucent, black, white, and colored smoked visors. But they are not suitable for night riding due to their reduced visibility in the dark.
• Iridium Visor: Iridium visors are known for their attractive, reflective mirror finish, which maximizes light reflection during sunny days. These visors are considered a stylish option and are highly recommended for daytime riding only.
• Yellow Tint Visor: Yellow tint visors are beneficial during hot summer days, offering enhanced visibility. But they are not recommended for night riding due to their reduced effectiveness in low-light conditions.
• Photochromic Visor: Photochromic visors have a special coating that automatically adjusts the tint based on the surrounding light conditions. They become darker in bright sunlight and lighter in low-light or cloudy conditions, offering versatility for changing weather.

Regardless of type, each visor’s classification follows the European DIN EN 166 Standard for eyewear, which ranks quality from Optical Class 1 to Class 3, with Class 3 being the lowest quality, recommended only for temporary use.

Optical Class 1 visors, featured in premium helmets like the modular Schuberth C5 Carbon provide the highest clarity and safety on the road. These visors do not distort colors or objects seen through the lens, ensuring a clear view.

But the helmet specifications often overlook the thickness of the visor, which is crucial for safety. For instance, the AGV GP RR visor is an impressive 5mm thick, yet it still excels in the Class 1 transparency test. To meet the current ECE 22.06 standard, visors must also demonstrate scratch resistance, minimal refraction, fog resistance, and the ability to withstand a 6mm steel bullet shot at 180 mph without shattering into shards.

Integrated Heads-Up Display (HUD)

The integration of Heads-Up Display (HUD) technology offers visual information about what’s up ahead. By projecting crucial information—such as speed, navigation directions, and road alerts—right into the rider’s line of sight, HUD technology reduces distractions and helps riders stay focused on the road.

Imagine effortlessly accessing motorcycle diagnostics, weather updates, and personalized data without ever having to take your eyes off the road whether you’re commuting through the city or embarking on a long-distance journey!

For instance, LED lights positioned along the edges of your visor will provide navigation and road alerts. For instance, LED lights positioned along the edges of your visor will provide navigation and road alerts. When a turn is approaching, the LEDs will light up on the corresponding side of your visor. They will also indicate if you’re approaching a speed camera, police vehicle, traffic, or a hazard.

Rear View Camera Integration

Integrating rear-view cameras in smart helmets enhances rider safety by addressing blind spots. These cameras offer a real-time panoramic view of what’s behind the rider, displayed on a small screen inside the helmet or on the HUD, eliminating the need for distracting and dangerous over-the-shoulder checks.

With a continuous rear-view feed, you can monitor traffic, anticipate hazards, and make safer lane changes, especially in dense urban traffic and high-speed highway conditions.

Real-Time GPS Navigation

Real-Time GPS Navigation revolutionizes motorcycle travel by providing precise, in-helmet directions. Thus eliminating stops for maps or devices, ensuring a smoother ride for both touring and commuting.

With traffic updates, rerouting options, and points of interest, the GPS enhances trip efficiency and daily commutes, advancing intelligent mobility and reducing travel stress.

Advanced Impact Detection Systems

Advanced Impact Detection Systems use sensors to assess impact severity and differentiate between minor falls and serious collisions. In the event of a severe impact, they can automatically alert emergency services with the rider’s location and crash details.

A rapid communication that is vital for reducing response times and improving chances of timely medical intervention. Additionally, some systems record crucial data for accident analysis and future helmet enhancements, just like the crash detection feature in the new Cardo PackTalk Pro that replaces the PackTalk Edge at the top of their product lineup.

In-Helmet Communication Systems

Modern helmets are increasingly incorporating in-helmet communication systems that use Bluetooth and wireless mesh networks (WMN). These advanced systems enhance the riding experience by enabling seamless communication and connectivity.

Bluetooth-enabled helmets allow riders to connect with various devices, such as smartphones, for hands-free communication and entertainment. Riders can use voice commands to request music tracks, use GPS navigation, and make and receive phone calls.

Wireless mesh networks enable communication between riders on the same network, enhancing group riding experiences. Riders can chat with each other without needing to stop or use hand signals, making rides more enjoyable and coordinated.

Picture effortlessly requesting a music track while you ride, navigating with GPS without stopping to pull out your phone, and chatting with riding companions—all in the same ride!

Emergency Location Broadcast

New helmets with crash detection can recognize when a rider has fallen and broadcast their location via an SOS beacon. A feature that is particularly valuable for solo riders who may not have immediate assistance after a crash.

Visibility Lights

Some helmets now feature LED lights on the exterior to enhance visibility to other road users. These additional lights help counteract claims of not seeing motorcyclists and add a cool factor to the helmet.

New Helmet Standard Ratings In Place

And in an industry accustomed to incremental updates—a new air vent here, a different cheek pad there—big changes are bound to come to a head, with each undergoing ECE, SNELL, SHARP, FIM and DOT thorough tests to ensure rider safety.

Key:

• g = gravity constant
• m/s² = meters per second squared
• rad/sec² = radians per second squared
• HIC = Head Injury Criteria
• PLA = Peak Linear Acceleration
• SFC = Skull Fracture Criteria
• BrIC = Brain Injury Criteria
• PRA = Peak Rotational Acceleration

Information for this article was partially sourced and researched from the following authoritative government, educational, corporate, and non-profit organizations:

• SATRA Technology
• DuPont™ Kevlar
• Dyneema
• KEPROTEC
• SuperFabric
• Gore-Tex
• Bell Helmets
• AGV Helmets
• United Nations Economic Commission For Europe (ECE)
• SNELL Memorial Foundation

To read the full history of AGV Helmets and AGV Sports Group, click here.

For more information about AGVSPORT, see the Wikipedia page here