What Is EPS in a Bell Helmet?

As a regular reader of the Helmet Gurus, you might encounter technical terms or jargon many don’t understand. For example, you have probably encountered EPS, which is part of helmet construction. Understanding these terms may help you choose a good helmet or appreciate your helmet better. Below, we review what EPS stands for in Bell helmets. 

Understanding EPS in Helmet Construction

EPS stands for Expanded Polystyrene, a plastic foam material. Styrofoam, which manufacturers or packers use as packing material, is also made of the same material. EPS manufacturers produce it by heating and expanding the material with steam to create a closed-cell material.

The Bell company uses various materials for its helmet shells. One of them is EPS, which protects your head by absorbing impact in case of an accident. The material works well for this purpose since:

• It compresses upon impact, thereby absorbing the energy of the blow and reducing the force that reaches your head. In short, EPS provides the crumple zone for the impact. 
• The material is relatively lightweight, so it is comfortable for long rides. You can use it without suffering neck fatigue.
• It maintains its shape even when exposed to different weather elements. Thus, you can ride with an EPS helmet in the sun or rain, which will still fit and protect you.

In addition to all the above, EPS is also relatively cost-effective. The material cost is one reason Bell produces high-quality helmets at affordable prices.

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Materials for Other Helmet Parts 

The shell is the outermost helmet part. EPS is great as a shell material, but other helmet parts also play a role in fit and comfort. As the Helmet Gurus have repeatedly explained, even the best helmet must fit you properly to protect you. Imagine going on a long outdoor ride with an oversized helmet that keeps slipping on your head. You are unlikely to enjoy the ride; you may even finish without the helmet, which is dangerous. 

The helmet shell must be hard to perform its function. However, a hard shell directly touching your head is uncomfortable or unsafe. Therefore, helmet manufacturers use an additional material to cushion the head from the shell. For example, the manufacturer uses EPS for the inner liner of the helmet.

There is also the padding, the removable material that enhances your helmet’s comfort and fit. If you are an experienced rider, you probably know how uncomfortable riding for a long time with an unpadded helmet can be. The padding protects you from the helmet’s pressure points. Bell uses different materials like fleece, nylon mesh, and other moisture-wicking materials. 

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Significance of Helmet Material

From the above, it’s clear that Bell puts a lot of thought into electing materials for its helmets. This careful selection is not by accident since helmet materials determine many things. For example, the material determines the helmet price since different materials cost different amounts. You wouldn’t want to pay too much for your helmet, would you?

In addition, the materials determine how well the helmet protects you. The best materials absorb and disperse as much energy as possible. In fact, impact absorption is one of the things helmet-certifying bodies, like the Department of Transportation (DOT) test for.

EPS is not the only suitable material for the helmet shell. The Helmet Gurus mentions other helmet materials like carbon fiber and fiberglass. Each material has its pros and cons. Research properly so you can get the best helmet for your riding.