How do Bontrager WaveCel helmets work? A major advancement in the protection against cycling-related head injuries

How do Bontrager WaveCel helmets work? A major advancement in the protection against cycling-related head injuries

What is WaveCel?

WaveCel is a collapsible cellular structure that lines the inside of your Bontrager helmet. It’s designed to be more effective than traditional foam helmets in protecting your head from injuries caused by certain cycling accidents.

You only get one brain

Check out this film for an inside look at the development process behind this revolution in helmet safety technology.
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How it works

WaveCel works like a crumple zone that helps absorb the force of impact before it reaches your head. In order to protect your head and absorb the energy created by an angled impact, WaveCel is designed to go through a three-step change in material structure.

Step 1: Flex

First, the cells flex to reduce the initial frictional forces.

Step 2: Crumple

Next, the cells crumple like a car bumper on impact.

Step 3: Glide

Finally, WaveCel glides to redirect energy away from your head.

Steeped in science

WaveCel is the brainchild of a biomechanical engineer and an orthopedic surgeon who’ve dedicated their lives to brain injury prevention. It’s the first-ever helmet tech to receive funding from the US National Institute of Health.
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WaveCel for every rider

Bontrager WaveCel helmets are now available for road, mountain, city, and kids'. Find yours here.
Explore WaveCel helmets

About the Author: Trek

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