A London-based startup has created a unique inflatable bicycle helmet that can be inflated and deflated in just 30 seconds. The Ventete ah-1 helmet is designed to provide the same level of protection as a regular helmet when fully inflated, but can also be folded up and carried in a small bag or case when not in use.
Manufactured in Switzerland, the Ventete ah-1 comes with a portable electric pump for easy on-the-go use. The Ventete team spent a decade developing the patented pneumatic technology that powers the helmet.
The ah-1 helmet features a clever design that sets it apart from traditional helmets. When collapsed, it takes on a boomerang shape that is smaller than a laptop and as slim as a notebook. This unique design makes it highly portable and convenient for cyclists.
While Ventete’s ah-1 is the latest entry in the collapsible helmet market, it faces competition from other innovative designs. In 2015, Swedish company Hövding introduced the Airbag, an inflatable helmet that functions more like an airbag than a traditional helmet. Despite its higher price point, the Hövding Airbag has proven to be popular among cyclists.
In 2023, German-based startup Inflabi launched a collapsible helmet made from thermoplastic polyurethane membrane (TPU) that is claimed to be four times stronger than conventional helmets. Priced at less than half of the Hövding Airbag, the Inflabi helmet offers a more affordable option for cyclists seeking enhanced protection.
The Ventete ah-1 stands out from its competitors with rib-like structures between its inflatable tubes that provide both protection and ventilation. Additionally, users may have the ability to adjust the amount of air in the ribs based on their head size, although specific details on the materials used have not yet been confirmed by the Ventete team.
The Ventete ah-1 is set to be released to the public on July 16th in the UK, and more information is expected to be revealed at that time. With its innovative design and focus on safety and convenience, the Ventete ah-1 is poised to make a splash in the world of cycling gear.