Stylish water sports helmet with maximum protection and comfort
Mystic
Wake board helmet
Mystic is a major innovator on the kitesurfing market. From harnesses and wetsuits to all the accessories surfers need. Mystic is also an increasingly important player in other active water sports such as wakeboarding. Helmets are becoming more and more common in that gritty sport.
Water feels soft to the touch, but the impact of hitting the water at high speeds is comparable to hitting a concrete surface. So it’s essential to wear a helmet at the high speeds reached by wakeboarders, kitesurfers and windsurfers. The helmets that are currently widely used are not all equally suitable for use in the water.
A helmet only protects you when you wear it. But to persuade people to wear it, it must be comfortable and look good. Mystic asked us to develop a helmet for extreme water sports, specifically wakeboarding. A stylish helmet with a comfortable fit that looks good. A helmet that offers maximum protection during the most rugged activities in, on and above the water.
Fit and styling
The technical structure, styling and fit were the main focus. The helmet is available in two versions: the Vandal and the Vandal Pro. The outer shell is an ABS hard shell for optimal force distribution on impact. The interior comes in two versions: layered neoprene for the Vandal and the light EPP impact foam, which doesn’t absorb water, for the Vandal Pro.
The shape of the helmet has been progressively fine-tuned on the basis of user feedback. The smallest changes in a helmet can have a major impact on the look. A neutral, modern and cool look was the goal. The skater helmet that is now widely used was the benchmark.
The fit is very versatile. Every head is different, but through the application of an inner lining with mesh pads the helmet comfortably fits every user straight away, offering perfect protection. The 360-degree all-round adjustable mechanics ensure that the helmet can be adjusted on all sides. The Vandal Pro has a buckle with a Fidlock magnetic quick release.
Method
We started by analysing the various water sports helmets already on the market, including a number of helmets in Mystic’s current range. Many 3D prints were made at various stages of the process to test both the fit and the styling with as many users as possible. The rugged conditions on the salt water and the beach have been taken into account in every detail.
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