MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a revolutionary safety technology that's changing the game when it comes to protecting riders' heads during falls. It's becoming increasingly popular in the equestrian world, with more and more manufacturers including Charles Owen, Charles Owen EQX and Champion offering riding hats equipped with this system. In this article, we'll explore what MIPS is, how it works, and why it's beneficial for riders to help you select the best MIPS Horse Riding Hat for your requirements.
What is MIPS?
MIPS is a safety system that's designed to provide additional protection against rotational forces during an impact. When you fall off your horse, your head can rotate in different directions, causing rotational forces to act on your brain. These forces can result in serious injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
MIPS works by mimicking the brain's own protective mechanisms. The brain is surrounded by a layer of cerebrospinal fluid, which allows it to move slightly within the skull, reducing the impact of rotational forces. The MIPS system replicates this effect with a low-friction layer that sits inside the helmet. This layer allows the helmet to rotate slightly upon impact, reducing the rotational forces that can cause brain injuries.
How does MIPS work?
MIPS is a relatively simple system that's designed to work in conjunction with the existing safety features of a riding hat. When you wear a riding hat equipped with MIPS technology, the low-friction layer sits between the outer shell and the liner of the helmet.
During an impact, the low-friction layer allows the helmet to rotate slightly, which helps to reduce the rotational forces acting on your head. This rotation is absorbed by the MIPS layer, which allows the helmet to move relative to your head. As a result, the force of the impact is spread out over a larger area, reducing the risk of injury.
Why is MIPS beneficial for riders?
MIPS technology provides several benefits for riders. Firstly, it offers an extra layer of protection against certain types of injuries. While riding hats are already designed to protect against impact injuries, the addition of MIPS technology can help to reduce the forces experienced in a fall.
Secondly, MIPS technology can help to reduce the risk of concussion. A concussion is a common injury in equestrian sports, and it's often caused by rotational forces acting on the brain. By reducing these forces, MIPS technology can help to reduce the risk of concussion and other traumatic brain injuries.
Finally, MIPS technology can provide peace of mind for riders and their loved ones. Falls are an inevitable part of our favourite sport, but by wearing a riding hat equipped with MIPS technology, riders can feel confident that they're doing everything they can to protect themselves against serious head injuries.
In conclusion, MIPS technology is a game-changer when it comes to head protection in equestrian sports. By reducing the rotational forces that can cause brain injuries, MIPS technology provides an additional layer of protection for riders. While it's not yet available in all riding hats, it's becoming increasingly popular in higher-end models. For those who prioritize safety and are willing to invest in a high-quality riding hat, the added protection offered by MIPS technology may be well worth the investment.
Visit our range of MIPS helmets from Charles Owen, Charles Owen EQX and Champion for the ultimate protection.
