Canyon's Deflectr RLS is the first bike helmet in the United States featuring British brand RLS's innovative external rotational impact protection. The technology, using polycarbonate ball bearings, aims to reduce concussion risk significantly. Independent tests at Virginia Tech University have awarded it the highest safety rating.
For years, Swedish company MIPS dominated rotational impact protection in premium bike helmets, with its inner liner designed to deflect forces away from the head and lessen brain trauma risks. Now, British firm RLS offers a fresh approach by placing its protective system on the helmet's exterior. This Release Layer System employs adhesive strips with polycarbonate ball bearings covered by an outer shell layer. Upon impact, the bearings allow the outer layer to shear away, dissipating rotational forces.
RLS, developed by engineers in East London warehouses, claims its tech cuts concussion probability by four times compared to standard helmets. Data from extensive internal tests and verification by Virginia Tech's helmet lab support this, showing a 68 to 84 percent reduction in brain injury likelihood versus non-RLS models. The Canyon Deflectr RLS, a collaboration marking RLS's commercial debut, earned Virginia Tech's top score in recent evaluations.
The reviewer, after visiting RLS headquarters, tested the Deflectr Trail RLS on trails. Weighing 326 grams, it features a dial-adjust fit and large vents for cooling, plus a visor for sun protection. Its HighBar chin strap uses a stiff plastic band with a dial for one-handed adjustments, differing from traditional nylon setups. While functional, the strap drew mild criticism for its novelty. Available in matte black or metallic olive for $160, the helmet prioritizes off-road use with added basal skull coverage. RLS plans expansions to motorcycle, climbing, and construction helmets, potentially broadening its impact beyond cycling.