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Hövding is an “invisible” airbag helmet developed specifically for cyclists. The airbag system is similar to those found in cars. The wearable device was invented by two Swedish women (industrial designers) behind a company called Hövding in Malmo, who preferred an alternative bicycle helmet that is less bulky than the current one. The idea was triggered by a new law in Sweden that mandates the use of helmets and the prototype was developed in 2005. Later, the prototype was profiled by General Electric.

 

It is a waterproof collar worn around the neck of the user, with zips to secure the built-in airbag system in place. The airbag is akin to a hood and is made in ultra-strong nylon fabric that will not tear when it is scratched against the ground. The Hövding is able to distinguish between normal cycling and cycling accidents. In the situation when the cyclist collides into something and falls off the bike, the device receives a signal that warns the system of an impending strong impact. The airbag will then inflate in less than one-tenth of a second to cover the entire head of the cyclist and protect it from the impact with its soft, gentle and effective shock absorption. The inflated airbag protects the user from a larger area as compared to the traditional helmet as it covers almost the whole head and the neck, exposing only the user’s field of vision. After the impact, the airbag will stay inflated for a few seconds, protecting the user from several head impacts during the accident before it deflates slowly. The Hövding runs by charging it with electricity through a USB cable.

 

However, there are disadvantages to this wearable device - an airbag system is pricey and it costs approximately $600, and is deployed only once. Additionally, it may be less ideal for cyclists to wear the collar in countries with hotter climates as it will be uncomfortably warm.