Revolutionary airbag technology for cyclists.
There's something innately human about our desire to explore and experience the world around us. Sometimes, we do it on two wheels, pedaling along streets and trails, seeking adventure, solace or simply a breath of fresh air. But that freedom isn't without its dangers; we know the risks of cycling, from the simple scrapes and bruises to the more serious, life-altering injuries.
Now, enter Hövding 3, a bit of technology that's been designed to help mitigate those risks, and it's doing it in quite an unconventional way. It's an airbag for urban cyclists. Yeah, you heard that right.
Looking at it for the first time, it's hard to imagine that this neck accessory could potentially save your life. It's disguised almost like a scarf, hardly noticeable, making it something of an “invisible helmet”. You don't put it on your head; you wear it around your neck. And yet, when it counts, it acts faster than the blink of an eye. Powered by a battery that can last 15 hours and fully charged in 2, the Hövding deploys an airbag in a tenth of a second if an accident happens.
Now, you might be thinking, ‘this thing better know the difference between me hitting the pavement and me bending down to tie my shoe.' Well, the smart folks who developed the Hövding thought about that. Its sensors read your movements 200 times per second, so it's pretty well-versed in telling a fall from a faux pas.
The best part is, it doesn't sacrifice style for safety. There are even designer covers you can purchase to add a bit of personal flair to your invisible helmet. And don't worry about sizing; with a one-size-fits-all design and an adjustable BOA dial like you'd find in high-end footwear, you're covered.
The science behind this fascinating bit of wearable tech is compelling, too. A study out of Stanford University claims that the Hövding 3 can provide up to an 8-fold reduction in the risk of concussion compared to standard foam bike helmets. That's some impressive protection packed into a piece that you might mistake for an accessory from a high street fashion store.
If you're a cyclist who values safety as much as style, or someone who doesn't fancy the idea of a traditional helmet messing up your hairdo, then the Hövding 3 might just be for you. It's a great blend of form and function, one that keeps you protected while allowing you to maintain your aesthetic.
So, whether you're a daily commuter, a weekend warrior, or someone who just enjoys the occasional joy ride, take a look at the Hövding 3. At €349, it's not cheap. But it's a small price to pay when you're gambling with something as priceless as your brain.
Safety, it seems, has never looked this good.
Pros:
- Advanced Safety: The Hövding 3 is reported to provide up to an 8-fold reduction in the risk of concussion compared to standard bike helmets, according to a study by Stanford University. It's a significant advantage for those who prioritize safety.
- Innovative Design: Unlike traditional helmets, the Hövding 3 is worn around the neck, which can be more comfortable and less intrusive for some riders. It also offers better protection against rotational forces and holds the neck in place during an accident.
- Smart Technology: It features an advanced algorithm that reads your movements 200 times per second and can inflate the airbag inside the collar in 0.1 second in the event of an accident.
- Stylish and Customizable: The Hövding 3 comes with optional designer covers that allow users to personalize their protective gear.
- Emergency Contact Features: If connected to a smartphone during an accident, selected contacts are automatically notified.
- Adjustable Size: It comes with a BOA® Fit System, which allows for easy size adaptation to ensure the best possible fit.
Cons:
- Cost: Priced at €349, the Hövding 3 is significantly more expensive than most traditional bike helmets.
- Battery Life: While the battery can last for about 15 hours of continuous cycling, frequent riders may need to charge it every day. Also, forgetting to charge could leave you without protection on your ride.
- Weight: At about 800 grams, it might feel heavy around the neck for some people, especially on longer rides.
- Limited Usage: The Hövding 3 is only meant to be used for cycling in urban environments and on country roads. It is not suitable for all forms of cycling, such as off-road mountain biking or BMX riding.
- Deployment Appearance: When deployed, the Hövding 3 inflates into a rather large and somewhat odd-looking airbag, which some users may find embarrassing.
- One-time Use: Once the Hövding 3 has been deployed, it cannot be used again. So, if it triggers even in a minor accident, you'll need to purchase a new one.
€349
