How we test

Helmet STAR tests and rates helmets on how well they protect a person’s head during a crash. The tests are independently conducted at Crashlab and include impact performance, fit check and oblique impact.

A simulated head, with similar features of a human, is used to measure how well a helmet protects the head. Data collected from the tests is used to score each helmet against a range of criteria. 

Linear impact tests

The impact performance test assesses how well the helmet reduces the chance of a head injury. The helmet is dropped onto stationary anvils to simulate crash surfaces:

• Flat: a road-like surface, with helmets dropped from heights of 0.8m, 1.5m and 2m.
• Kerb: a ‘hard metal edge’ simulating a kerb, roadside barrier or corner of a vehicle.

High and low speed impacts are tested on both surface types, reflecting the Australia/New Zealand standard for bicycle helmets.

Oblique impact tests

The oblique impact test simulates a rider’s head striking and skidding along the road, as when a rider falls from a bicycle.  The video below demonstrates this scenario. It measures how well a helmet protects the head in an angled or side impact crash (also known as oblique impact energy management capability), as it falls onto a moving test surface. 

The oblique impact test differs for adult and child helmets.

For adult helmets, the test uses a heavier head and neck assembly, representing an average adult male. The assembly is dropped from a height of 1.4m onto a striker plate moving at a speed of 25km/h.

Child helmet testing uses a lighter head and neck assembly, representing a small adult female. The assembly is dropped from a height of 800mm onto a striker plate moving at a speed of 15km/h.

Stability test

For protection in a crash, a helmet must remain secured in place on the rider’s head, even after the first impact. 

In the stability test, upward force is applied to the centre back and at the centre front of the helmet.

Chin strap strength test

To test the strength of the helmet’s chin strap, a 10kg weight attached to the strap is dropped from 25cm. This test is based on the Australian/New Zealand standard for bicycle helmets. Helmets with chin straps that remain intact offer better protection. 

Find more technical information in our Helmet STAR test protocols.