Hedkayse One

The Hedkayse One is far from your standard helmet. Rather than being made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) with a polycarbonate shell like most of helmets we review, it is largely constructed from a product called Enkayse, which is a flexible expanded polyurethane (EPU). Press your thumb into the Enkayse and you will leave a slight dent that then disappears within a second or two, I found this strangely satisfying.

The EPU design means you can have the odd bump and fall and the helmet will still retain its integrity, whereas the common helmet material (EPS) can take one impact which crushes the lining which the means the helmet will need to be replaced. This material makes the Hedkayse One the only cycle helmet which actually recovers after receiving a knock.

“Because Enkayse dissipates energy rather than deforming on impact, it also cushions small bumps,” says Hedkayse. “Polystyrene can’t do this, meaning forces which are too weak to deform it are transmitted through to the brain. Enkayse provides comfort in protecting from small bumps. This may also have long-term benefits as researchers believe the cumulative effect of small knocks contributes to brain disease over time.
The Hedkayse One is created for Urban life and commuting, Hedkayse’s theory being that, in a busier / higher risk environment the priority focuses on robustness and reliability. Having a recovering core material means the customer doesn’t have to look after their helmet, it looks after them. It’s the steel toe boot of the cycle helmet world! Enkayse also isn’t affected by deodorant, sunblock, insect repellent or other sprays which can damage most cycle helmets.

You need to bear in mind a few compromises, though. First, the Hedkayse One is pretty heavy. At 496g, it’s twice the weight of some EPS helmets. Admittedly, it’s sports-type helmets that tend to be lightest, but the Hedkayse One is also heavier than most commuter-style lids. No one wearing a helmet like this is going to be bothered about setting Strava KOMs but you can feel that difference in use.
The TAF (Tough and Flexible) outer shell, is “a specifically engineered rip-proof military grade ballistic nylon” that’s rugged enough to put up with plenty of abuse too. Cleaning with soapy water isn’t difficult although the woven texture means it’s not quite as simple as with a smooth EPS shell.

We feel the product is both worth it’s price and place in the market and if you are looking for a durable social helmet then look no further. RRP £150.00

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