S-427: The Recyclable Helmet

Like any helmet, the S-427 is designed to prevent injury in the event of impact. Traditional helmet materials and construction methods have centered around this critical energy management element and pricing scaled to meet end consumer needs, which unfortunately has usually involved a plethora of non-recycled, non-reclaimed materials and processes. For the S-427 the Design Challenge was clear: make a helmet that’s just as safe, while focusing on reclaimed and recycled materials and new assembly methods to facilitate post-consumer materials reclamation while retaining an attractive, comfortable design at an acceptable cost.

The S-427’s recycled Biodome™ materials story starts with sterile, top-quality EPS reclaimed from partners in the Japanese automotive industry. Recycled ABS plastic and PA nylon is mixed with a percentage of virgin material to meet the strength needs for small parts, and everything comes packaged in FSC certified boxes and compostable polybags, with recycled paper manuals using soy-based ink. A helmet’s impact performance is tied to how it is designed and assembled, traditionally using adhesives which impede recycling. The biggest challenge was the development of a new mechanical interface to securely assemble the S-427 and pass rigorous safety tests.

Strategic Sports places considerable focus on sustainable manufacturing processes and products, and the work accomplished with the S-427, including Biodome™ reclaimed and recycled materials and new adhesive-free assembly processes to facilitate and simplify post-consumer recycling will allow similar product offerings to be made available to Strategic’s helmet customers worldwide. Recycled products have often come at an increased cost and reduced performance, but with the S-427 Strategic has proven that doesn’t have to be the case. Strategic believes the S-427 could be the beginning of a dramatic reduction in the environmental impact of the helmet industry worldwide.

The S-427 is available in multiple sizes and features adjustable straps and fit system to accommodate a variety of riders.