Low Threshold Impacts

Where helmets need to be better.

Recent medical research has revealed concerning findings regarding the causes, severity, and long-term consequences of concussions. It is now understood that even seemingly minor concussions, often dismissed as simply "ringing the bell," can have significant implications for the long-term health and well-being of the brain. Studies have documented that concussions can occur at impact forces as low as 60g's in adult males, with potentially varying thresholds depending on the location of impact. The threshold for concussions is even lower for women and children.

Most real-world helmet strikes qualify as low-threshold energy impacts, which fall below the certification pass/fail thresholds but are severe enough to cause concussion or worse. Traditional helmets, designed to meet high-velocity certification requirements, are often too stiff to effectively absorb energy from impacts at these most common lower-velocity impacts. However, 6D's proprietary Omni-Directional Suspension™ technology addresses this issue by instantly engaging upon any force application to the helmet. This unique feature dramatically improves low-threshold energy compliance, and therefore enhances rider safety and minimizes the risk of injury.

By combining advanced energy management with the ability to respond to a wide range of impact forces, 6D helmets with ODS™ prioritize rider safety and provide a crucial advantage over conventional designs. The progressive and compliant nature of the ODS™ system ensures enhanced protection during real-world crash scenarios, where low-threshold energy impacts prevail. With 6D helmets featuring Omni-Directional Suspension™, riders can have confidence in their equipment's ability to mitigate the risks associated with concussions and other head injuries.