Most of the rest is taken by soft shells, although there are still hard shell models available from several manufacturers. Most soft shells are now reinforced internally or externally to prevent breakup in an initial impact. An interesting new development was the arrival of several Australian manufacturers, who are seeking export markets now that their market is reaching saturation. Another interesting development this year is the use of extra hard foam around large vents in thin shell and no shell helmets. This technique allows the vents to be larger and still pass the hemispheric anvil test when the anvil strikes a vent, but it raises questions about point loading on the skull from the harder foam.
Some highlights appear below.
References to the Snell certification list are to Snell's list on October 22, 1991. Bell's literature stresses the weight savings and lower bulk from this technique. Other helmets in the line include new Cruzer and Streetrider models with thin shell coverings, and a Bell Shell child's helmet with a thicker thin shell. Bell has a Turtle model for kids with a helmet holder with turtle legs and head to keep the helmet at home. This is the first attempt we have seen to expand the helmet market with non-wearable accessories.