MXA TEAM TESTED: 6D ATR-1Y YOUTH HELMET

WHAT IS IT? Designed using the same technology and meeting the same safety guidelines as the adult version, the 6D ATR-1Y is the most innovative youth helmet ever made.

WHAT’S IT COST? $595.00.

CONTACT? www.6dhelmets.com or (714) 772-2121.

WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the 6D ATR-1Y youth helmet.

(1) Focus. It would appear that the ATR-1Y youth helmet is a miniature adult lid, but there are differences. 6D learned that a youth-specific helmet was safer than an adult-sized helmet on a child. Why? Youth riders have less head mass. Helmet manufacturers use adult head forms when testing helmets, meaning that the liner is designed to protect the impact for an adult. That’s not the case with the ATR-1Y, which has three different EPS foam densities and softer dampers than the ATR-1 adult helmet. Additionally, a polycarbonate halo in the youth helmet acts as a support shell to strengthen the EPS liner over long-term use and during impact. The only thing the ATR-1Y youth lid doesn’t have that the adult-size ATR-1 has is the quick-release cheek pad system.

(2) Technology. The ATR-1Y lid features the same safety components as the adult helmet. It’s important to understand 6D’s design philosophy. Multiple liners of varying densities are combined with 27 elastomer dampers that provide an air gap between the liners. During impact, the dampers absorb energy, and the gap between the liners begins to close. At high impact, the separate foam liners join to become one thick foam liner. The inner liner absorbs low-energy blows and, when combined, the inner and outer liners handle heavy impacts. Additionally, the dampers move in a way that protects the head during both direct and glancing blows.

(3) Fit. Just as with the adult version, the ATR-1Y lid is comfortable. Our mini brigade was impressed by the wide eye port, built-in nose guard and thorough ventilation. The three-piece snap-in liner and strap pads are removable. Testers noticed that the helmet ran on the large side, so we recommend trying out the ATR-1Y before buying.

(4) Weight. Our youth large helmet weighed 2.75 pounds. That’s heavy for a youth helmet, but it’s a small trade-off for the innovative technology used to keep Junior’s noggin safe.

(5) Performance. We know many Vet riders who wear 6D helmets because they have post-concussion syndrome. Most youth riders, still new to the sport, have yet to suffer a major concussion. We believe that the ATR-1Y could keep it that way.

WHAT’S THE SQUAWK? Price. Then again, any concerned parent understands you can’t put a price on ensuring your child’s safety.