6D ATR-2 Off-Road Helmet

From the NFL to the Dirt

The ATR-2 off-road helmet from 6D uses Advanced ODS (Omni-Directional Suspension) technology that was refined by the work 6D completed inside the NFL’s Head Health Challenge III Contest.

Helmet-maker 6D and testing partner Dynamic Research, Inc. actually won the Grand Prize for their efforts at the NFL’s Head Health Challenge III Contest.

“Through material testing and analysis made possible by the NFL Head Health Challenge III Contest, we were able to unlock additional potential from our ODS system, and we’re proud to have incorporated these improvements into the new ATR-2,” said Robert Reisinger, 6D’s Director of Engineering and cofounder. “With this new Advanced ODS system in place, the ATR-2 offers improved performance in both linear and angular acceleration mitigation, and at the same time can be made easily re-buildable for a longer service life. This improves rider safety and saves the consumer money.”

What Exactly is ODS?

ODS is like have suspension built into your helmet. 6D explains it by saying that the ATR-2’s Advanced ODS is highlighted by a new Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) multi-impact outer liner and a new Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) replaceable inner liner. As before, the two liners are connected via a series of elastomeric isolation dampers, assisting in progressive loading of the ODS system during impacts. Now, however, many of those dampers have been replaced by damping towers that are incorporated into only the outer liner; these towers are capped by new, low-friction disks that slide freely against the inner liner, thereby reducing friction under loading and increasing the displacement travel between the two liners.

Okay, we know that is a bit confusing. Luckily, we have a video to clear it all up. Here’s the video:

6D Helmets | Omni-Directional Suspension (ODS)

What does it mean for us?

Besides the fact that its new tech can protect your head better than old tech, it also means that if you crash or damage your helmet, your helmet may qualify for a rebuild. For a rebuild, customers can send your ATR-2 to 6D at its headquarters in Brea, California and it have the inner EPS ($150) and/or chinbar ($50) repaired for much less cost than buying a new helmet.

The ATR-2 is available in three shell sizes covering a size range from XS to XXL and comes with a three-year limited warranty. MSRP starts at $695.