RIDER Tested, Rider Approved: the New ENSIS Water Headgear
Head injuries from water sports are, unsurprisingly, quite common. Most injuries in recent studies show that many head injuries are due to surfing accidents and collisions. This includes wing foiling, be it downwinding, freestyle or freeriding. Most injuries are prevalent among males aged 19–40. Whether or not these injuries could have been prevented with a helmet, it is undeniable that the use of safety equipment, such as hard-shell water headgear, is vital for long-term enjoyment on the water!
At ENSIS, we’ve put extensive research and development into creating the perfect helmet for wing foilers, by foilers. It’s called the RIDER and it’s the newest in our range. Designed for anyone ranging from discoverer to advanced, we’ve got you covered whether you want to cruise around with confidence or ward off serious accidents in everyday sessions on the water. The comfort of the helmet can’t be understated – you’ll forget you’re even wearing one! Beyond wing foiling, our helmets are rigorously tested and proven effective for kitesurfing and windsurfing, offering crucial protection against high-speed impacts and wave collisions across a range of dynamic water sports.
Key Features for Superior Water Headgear
When we set out to design the RIDER helmet, we knew it had to handle the demands of real-world wing foiling. That’s why we focused on features that contribute to both safety and comfort. First, we built in multi-impact resistance. This isn’t just about surviving one big hit; it’s about staying protected through the repeated knocks and bumps that come with learning new tricks or pushing your limits. The helmet’s construction balances durability with weight. The ABS hardshell provides a robust outer layer, protecting against impacts without adding unnecessary bulk. Inside, the high shock absorption foam is engineered to handle multiple impacts, further enhancing the water headgear’s protective capabilities. Read more about the RIDER helmet here.
Fit is crucial for any helmet, especially in a dynamic sport like wing foiling. To address this, the RIDER incorporates a 360° micrometric fit system. This allows for precise adjustments, ensuring the helmet stays securely in place without feeling overly tight. We offer two sizes, SM and ML, to accommodate a range of head shapes and sizes.
We also paid close attention to visibility. The optimised visor is designed to minimise glare without obstructing your upward field of view. This is essential for spotting waves or tracking your foil’s position. Of course, safety standards are paramount. The RIDER helmet meets the EN 1385 safety standard for watersports, giving you peace of mind. For those who want additional protection, optional ear pads can be purchased separately and easily attached. And, just cause we wanted to, each helmet comes with a sticker pack.
By focusing on these features, we aimed to create a helmet that feels like a natural extension of your riding gear, allowing you to focus on the water and your performance.
Check out more of our wing foiling equipment here.
Real-World Performance and Rider Feedback
We didn’t just design the RIDER in a lab; we put it through its paces with our athletes. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Wing foilers appreciate the comfortable fit and the confidence it gives them to push their limits. Balz said, “I grew up doing watersports with a helmet because my dad didn’t want to worry about his three sons getting hit by the gear. Even with a helmet, I once got knocked out by a hard hit from the board. Floating there unconscious was a scary reminder of how dangerous our beautiful playground can be. Luckily, my friends pulled me back on the board. One thing is for sure—it’s better to be safe than sorry. I’m happy to see that helmets are now widely accepted in the community because that wasn’t always the case a few years ago. (Especially pre-foiling). Riding with a helmet feels natural to me; honestly, without it, I feel naked. The new Ensis helmets feel light and just right, giving me extra confidence to try new things safely and in style.”
The RIDER has been tested in all conditions, from flat water to shore breaks, and it’s performed admirably. During aerials and rotations, the helmet stays securely in place, providing reliable protection.
Now, let’s talk colours. We offer pink, mint, and black. While black is a popular choice, and a lot of water headgear is black, we strongly recommend considering a brighter colour, like pink or mint. In a shore break, or any open water situation, a bright colour can make a huge difference in visibility; If you lose your gear and need rescuing, or if you’re swimming in open water, being easily spotted is critical.
The Importance of Helmets and Vests in Water Sports
Wing foiling, while incredibly enjoyable, does present potential risks. It’s not only the large crashes that pose a danger; everyday situations can also lead to injuries. Helmets and vests are vital pieces of safety equipment that can significantly reduce the risk of harm.
Consider the possibility of impacts. In many water sports, collisions can occur rapidly. Whether it’s a sudden change in wind, a misjudged manoeuvre, or another rider crossing your path, the risk of impact with your board, foil, or other equipment is always present. High-aspect foils, in particular, have sharp edges, increasing the potential for serious lacerations. A helmet serves as a protective barrier, absorbing the force of impacts and preventing potentially serious head injuries. For example, if you lose balance during a jibe and collide with your foil, a helmet can lessen the severity of the impact. It’s important to remember that hitting the water at speeds above 20 knots starts to feel like hitting cement!
Beyond impact protection, helmets also provide valuable protection from the elements. The sun’s reflection off the water can lead to sunburn and overheating. A helmet provides shade, shielding your head from prolonged exposure. In colder conditions, it also helps to retain body heat, keeping you more comfortable. Also, falls can lead to disorientation. A helmet can protect against impacts with the water surface, reducing the risk of head trauma and allowing you to recover quicker.
Remember that even experienced riders can make mistakes. A moment of distraction, a powerful wave, or overconfidence can lead to accidents if you’re not properly equipped. Wearing a helmet and vest is a sensible precaution that allows you to continue enjoying wing foiling safely. In essence, wearing a helmet should be a standard practice. It provides essential protection, allowing you to enjoy the sport with greater confidence.
Learn more about wing foiling helmets here.
The ENSIS RIDER helmet is designed to provide top-notch protection, comfort, and performance. With its multi-impact resistance, 360°micrometric fit system, and optimised visor, it’s the ideal water headgear for any wing foiler. And with a team full of foilers to rely on, we had a lot of positive feedback, and it’s performed well in all conditions.
Remember, wearing a helmet is about more than just avoiding injury; it’s about ensuring you can continue to enjoy your time on the water for as long as possible.
We encourage you to learn more about the RIDER helmet on our website or at your nearest ENSIS retailer. If you have any questions or experiences to share, please feel free to contact us!
