Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute:
The institite is a helmet advocacy program arm of the Washington
(US) Area Bicyclist Association. They operate as a non-profit
consumer-funded clearinghouse and technical resource for bicycle
helmet information. Their volunteers serve on the ASTM helmet
standard committee and are active in commenting on actions of
the Consumer Product Safety Commission and their certification
process.
Snell Memorial Foundation:
In 1957 a group of scientists, physicians, racing colleagues and
friends teamed together to promote research, education, testing
and development of standards geared to improve the effectiveness
of automotive racing helmets. They have now expanded to include
helmet for bicycles, equestrian events, karting, skiing and snowboarding.
Snell New B-95 Standards for bicycle safety helmets surpass those
set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the American
National Standards Institute (ANSI), the American Society of Testing
Materials (ASTM) and the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission's
16 CFR Part 1203.
It is the latter (CPSC) that you are most likely to see on newer
helmets, and only very high end helmet manufacturers incur the
addition expense of Snell Certification. This is certainly not
necessary for the casual rider, but maybe a great approach for
the aggressive racer or mountain bike downhill rider.
More Information:
Best Features of a Bicycle Helmet
Snell Foundation
Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute
