Triple 8 & 187 2023 Skate Helmets & Protection Brand Preview

What trends are you noticing in boardsport protection for 2023?

It seems like things are starting to get steady again after the “Covid bump” as far as participation in boardsports. Many newcomers have now dropped out and the demand is not as high as in the past two years. However, there are still all the long-time riders that remain, which has kept our demand even or slightly above where it was before the pandemic.

What are your main price points for next season in helmets, pads, protectors?

Our price points remain where they have been the last few years. Our most popular Triple Eight helmet retails between $69.99 and $74.99, which is right where we feel it should be compared to the rest of the market. Pad sets have a wide price range depending on the level of protection that’s required – anywhere from $39.99 starter packs up to $129.99 187 Killer Pads Pro Knee pads.

How is skate participation developing and how important is protection to new riders?

Participation has slowed compared to the last few years, but there will always be a steady influx of new riders (who are typically the hungriest for protective gear). When you’re first starting out, good protective gear can make the difference between giving up and pushing forward!

What are your main stories in terms of protective technologies for 2023?

We’re starting to branch out into some new areas, particularly eRideables. The new NTA8776 eBike Certification for helmets is something we feel will be on the rise in 2023 and beyond. For pads, we’re always looking for new and better performing foam to incorporate and hope to make some improvements to our line in the coming year.

How are you communicating safety certification and is it a must-have?

We have been communicating that for a long time… but it’s just in the last few years that consumers are really starting to take notice on their own. Certified helmets are something a consumer is looking for now – where previously certification was not something they were keen on. Beyond that, we’re communicating that protective gear is the key to longevity… we all want to keep skating as long as we can, right?

How are helmet designs trending (full helmets vs. lighter models)?

A few trends we’re noticing that are right now are eRidable, eco-friendly, lightweight helmets and protective gear. Different consumers have different uses and we’re trying to make sure we have everyone covered no matter what activity they’re participating in.

What are trending styles in pads and gloves?

Lightweight and colorful are two stories we’re seeing do relatively well at the moment. Not everybody wants a bulky, hardcap pad and so we’re now offering slide-on protective gear in colors we never have before. They have been received quite well in the first few months since launch.

Which colours and graphics/ collaborations are you looking forward to for next season?

We have some collaborations on the horizon that we’re really excited about with some big brands in the skate industry. Most recently, we’re coming off a collab with Hot Wheels for Triple Eight helmets and 187 Killer Pads. And a new Mike McGill Signature Edition Triple Eight helmet as well!

Which technical features are you the most proud of in your protective gear?

We’re always trying to push the tech envelope, but The Certified Sweatsaver still reigns supreme. There is simply no Certified helmet on the market that’s more comfortable and better fitting!

What impact technologies in helmets are you incorporating?

MIPS is always the most popular tch to incorporate into helmets and we’re looking to expand on our MIPS offering. Definitely planning on incorporating that into our eRide helmet.

Are there any crossover technologies from other sports?

For sure! Most recently we sponsored a team of volcanologists heading into an active volcano… so it’s safe to say there is plenty of crossover! Really though, during product development we take into consideration our “big 3” of skateboarding, roller and bike.

BEST SELLERS

Triple Eight – Covert Knee & Elbow Pads – Sunset:

Covert Knee pads offer our slimmest, most natural knee protection. With an easy pull-on design, they’re perfect for situations where “Pads Are Required” or when you just want to keep a low profile.

Triple Eight – The Certified Sweatsaver Helmet – Hot Wheels:

The FIRST and ONLY helmet to fully integrate the best of high impact absorbing EPS Foam with thick dual density soft foam and plush Sweatsaver fabric, delivering the ultimate in comfort with dual certified protection. Now featuring a custom Hot Wheels™ graphic on the side, a special collaboration logo on the back and a printed liner to tie it all together.

187 Killer Pads – Six Pack Pad Set – Hot Wheels:

Our all-new collaboration with Hot Wheels™ – featuring legendary graphics on our industry-leading Six Pack Pad Set! Each set features custom Hot Wheels™ graphics and details throughout – plus the unmatched protection and craftsmanship incorporated into every set of 187 Six Pack Pad Sets – the choice of more Pro Skaters than any other brand.