headfirst's self-adjusting bike helmet has brake light that glows when the rider slows down

Brake light behind headfirst’s self-adjusting bike helmet

Headfirst introduces a self-adjusting bike helmet that comes with a glowing brake light when the rider slows down. It is to signal the other riders behind, and even vehicles, to take their cruising speed down a notch. The brake light is positioned just below the top of the user’s head and at the rear of the self-adjusting bike helmet. The lighting is bright and thick enough to glow in daylight and at night, which can help the riders cruise safely at both times. 

Another feature that the Amsterdam-based collective highlights in their design is the fitting of the gear. Headfirst’s bike helmet can adjust itself depending on the shape and size of the rider’s head because of the team’s patented SafeFit technology. After putting the helmet on, riders push the sides together as if they were styling their hair, and the integrated mechanical system automatically adjusts and locks to create the fit. Unlike traditional dial systems that adjust from the back, this approach prevents the ‘mushroom head’ look and messing up the hairstyle after use.

all images courtesy of Headfirst

Removable inner fabric to wash after use

Looking at the design of Headfirst’s self-adjusting bike helmet, there are numerous open slits for airflow, especially during sunny seasons. The design team says that they craft the outer shell from ABS with 15 percent recycled materials, while they use expanded polypropylene, a thermoplastic polymer, for the inner protection of the gear. The padding is breathable, and it is even removable, so the riders can wash it after use. The straps lock in using recycled magnetic buckles, and these parts themselves are also made from recycled polyester.

Headfirst says that its self-adjusting bike helmet has multi-impact protection that safeguards the riders when they crash (and beyond, they add). The shape of the gear also focuses on protecting the back and sides of the head the most, mainly the occipital region of the brain, which controls critical functions like vision and coordination. While the gear can adapt to any shape, Headfirst still offers a small and large size to accommodate the children, too. At the present time, the campaign has been backed, and the team plans to undergo quality control and testing for their self-adjusting bike helmet around September 2025. After that, the delivery begins in late 2025.

the brake light is positioned just below the top of the rider’s head behind

the lighting is bright and thick enough to glow in daylight and at night

the can also adjust itself depending on the shape and size of the rider’s head

there are lots of grilles above for airflow

the outer matte shell is from ABS with 15 percent recycled materials

project info:

name: Self-adjusting bike helmet

startup: Headfirst | @headfirst_helmets

campaign: here