Unit 1 is an award winning company, having won the iF and Red Dot Awards for Product Design, the Micromobility Award, and the Eurobike Award. They launched in 2017 with the mission of combining technology and design to make gear that will not only keep you safe, but that you want to wear as well.
Our expert reviver, Eilis, took Unit 1’s Neon helmet out for a test run and so keep reading for the results of her review.
Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pros:
- 180 degrees visibility
- Compatible with attachable visors
- Unmatched safety technology
Cons:
- No front light
- Fairly expensive
The Neon helmet has a rear light that provides 180 degree visibility so you will be better seen by other road users. The design of this helmet not only protects you in the event of an accident but aids its prevention as the helmet is compatible with Unit 1’s handlebar-mounted Navigation Remote. This is made up of two oversized buttons that you can press without looking so you can keep your eyes on the road. Sensors in the remote can also detect if you slow down or stop, triggering a brake light on your helmet automatically.
Part of the idea behind Unit 1's design is that this helmet can prevent a crash before it even happens by making sure that you are seen by other road users and that they know your movements.
One thing that Eilis did find lacking with the Neon helmet, however, is a front light. There is a gap in the front of the helmet where one could go to take the visibility on the helmet up to 360 degrees.
If, however, you need to replace the rear light, the helmet is modular so you could replace it without having to purchase a whole new helmet. You can also attach a visor to the Neon helmet available for daytime or nighttime riding. This keeps your eyes protected from UV, dust, rain, etc.
A must-have feature for helmets that we wear at electrohead is MIPS technology and Unit 1’s Aura helmet has just that. MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a safety technology used in helmets to reduce rotational forces on the brain during angled impacts. It uses a low-friction, inner liner that allows the helmet to slide 10-15mm relative to the head, mimicking the brain's natural protection system to prevent serious injury.
The standout feature on this helmet is perhaps the crash alert technology. If you have connected your helmet to the app then it will contact your emergency contact if the worst should happen and you crash.
Eilis really liked the fit of this helmet. She found it really easy to adjust to fit her head and liked the magnetic clip. Despite all of the technology that is packed into the helmet she also found it pretty lightweight and comfortable to wear on long journeys.
You can watch her full review here:
All of these features do mean that this is, of course, not the cheapest helmet on the market. Unit 1’s Aura helmet costs £149.90 or $199.90. This is a lot for a helmet but then again, what price do you put on your own safety?
