Head FW20/21 Snow Helmets Preview
Retail Buyers Guide: Snow Helmets FW20/21
Brand: HEAD
Interviewee: Max Thurner, International Marketing Manager Snowboard & Protection
What are the main trends in the helmet and/or snow protection market for action sports in FW20/21 and how do you address them with your products?
Regarding shapes and colors, we feel that we are in the state of “democratized design” (at least for freestyle) – dark, settled colors, slim and low-profile shape, nothing extraordinary. In freeride, it is a little different, as consumers are looking for additional features and protection, shapes can be a little more progressive.
We have recognized a higher demand for features like MIPS, therefore our product line will feature more models with MIPS in the 20/21 season.
The perfect fit of the helmet is still very relevant and we believe we found the perfect solution with our SPHERE FIT System.
Do you have any new models, accessories or innovations in the pipeline for FW20/21? Please talk us through them.
More models will be available in a MIPS version and we increased the color ways on our REV/RITA, which are very popular in both freeride and freestyle.
Are your products targeted to specific customers / rider types?
No, HEAD is a complete supplier and we cater to every winter sport enthusiast.
Have you noticed a change in attitude towards wearing snow helmets/ protection? Do you think people are generally more risk-averse in recent years?
Not really, there is still a big difference between the freestyle world and the rest of the winter sport community, when it comes to head protection. While free riding, alpine / etc. are looking at a very high ratio protecting themselves, the freestyle world seems to be still reluctant to wear a helmet.
With the new generation rising, this might change in the future, as every kid starting to ski and ride today is used to wearing a helmet.
In which area do you see the biggest growth in the helmet/protection market?
Although this is a different customer group, the biggest growth is happening in visor helmets and we have the perfect solution for this with our RADAR and RACHEL helmet.
Do you have any interesting POS materials for retailers?
Sure, next to customised solutions we offer everything from banners, posters, slat wall hooks, etc.
Please talk us through your 2-3 keys models for FW20/21.
REV MIPS
This innovative helmet sets a new standard in comfort and fit: Sphere Fit. This patent pending fit system wraps around the wearers head like an adjustable beanie, offering a homogenous, snug and comfortable fit when adjusting the size. By adding MIPS, an additional low-friction layer is integrated in the helmet, which is designed to reduce rotational motion transferred to the brain in the case of angled impacts. The adjustable ventilation assures the perfect helmet climate in all conditions, which rounds off the many features of this modern, sporty helmet.
VICO MIPS
The VICO delivers outstanding head protection from the park to the piste and into the backcountry. Armed with Venturi Effect venting, an ergonomic neck gator and cozy ear cuffs this new school helmet delivers safety and comfort by the bucket load. By adding MIPS, an additional low-friction layer is integrated in the helmet, which is designed to reduce rotational motion transferred to the brain in the case of angled impacts.
TREX
Maximum protection is delivered by the tough ABS Hardshell technology of the TREX helmet. A full Beanie Liner provides all-day comfort, while our brand-new Cantilever construction assures the lining stays comfortable and wrinkle free when adjusting the size.