This new bike helmet mimics your brain's built-in technology to protect you

Each week, we spotlight a cool innovation recommended by some of the industry's top tech writers. This week's pick is a better bike helmet.

A new material inside bike helmets can mimic the action of your brain's protective fluid, said Claire Maldarelli at Popular Science. The helmets by Trek will use a honeycomb-style insert called WaveCel that "absorbs rotational energy, which is largely responsible for dangerous concussions." Most consumer helmets today use only a rigid insulating foam called Expanded Polysterene (EPS).

It is good for protection against a cracked skull. But, in the case of a fall, your brain will often "jostle around unprotected" after the initial impact. The WaveCel is a thin additional liner that "creates a low-­friction layer, which allows the helmet to slide back and forth" like your brain's cerebrospinal fluid, or natural cushioning. The helmets range in price from $150 to $300.

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Sign up