Bump Helmet Basics
There is a wrong idea running around that bump helmets are only training helmets for the army, nothing but placeholders. In reality, these are probably some of the best sports helmets on the market and a great way to ensure recruit safety while on the course.
And, while they might not be bulletproof, they will still stop a lot of shock and blunt force trauma. Combined with their exceptionally lightweight, it is no wonder why they are chosen to be ideal combat training helmets.
There are three things that bump helmets must have:
- They must be light
- Adjustability is mandatory
- They must be shock-proof
Additionally, a good bump helmet should protect from slower piercing attacks as well. Even if there is a slim chance you will be attached with a knife from above, bottles, rocks, debris, and foliage is still a thing to be careful about in training or sports activities.
Bump Helmets and Ballistic Helmets
Bump helmets and army-standard ballistic helmets often look similar, which is only on the outside. Unlike regular combat helmets, bump helmets offer no ballistic protection. At ballistic-impact speeds that just crack.
But that means that they are much lighter than ballistic helmets. With modern materials like carbon fiber, models like the CBH™ Carbon Bump Helmet from UARM weigh only slightly over two pounds, meaning that you can wear it for the whole day without issue, which isn’t really the case with ballistic helmets.
Essential Training for Troops
There are two reasons why soldiers must wear bump helmets during training. It is not just for show and has actual benefits both on and off the track.
Primarily, it makes them get comfortable with always wearing the helmet. There is some sensory diminishment just by the fact you’re wearing a cap that large and that is something every soldier must get used to. They should put their helmet on when training starts and keep it on until the end.
The second benefit is the protection itself. Climbing, running, jumping, and crawling is hard on its own, and you don’t want a single bump on the head to decommission your solider for days, losing on their training. They can work through bruising, but not through a concussion.
Sports and Civilian Uses
The introduction of bump helmets into sports and outdoor activities is relatively recent but is on a steady rise. Because of the low weight, extensive protection, and the possible utility of the helmet it has become a favorite with mountain bikers and rock climbers.
The ability to attach communication devices and lights to the front makes them ideal for both low lighting, and when doing activities in larger groups.
Currently, there are some contentions about which is the best, but having a bump helmet for sports is by no means a bad choice.
