I have to say that I was astounded at what I found in the Team Wendy booth. When you first see their X2 Scalable Helmet Prototype it looks pretty much like their Exfil Ballistic but without rails. Turns out, they’ve integrated a whole bunch of new tech into the design.
Once they removed the shell, you could start to see some serious differences. While this version was a 3D printed prototype, they are capable of making different shells for different threat levels. Beneath the shell is a carbon fiber bump helmet, that can be used alone. If you’re following the logic, you can buy one helmet for both ballistic and bump applications. What’s more, new shells can be crafted as threats arise and material technology improves. Instead of purchasing new helmets, you could be purchasing new components.
You can see the honeycomb lining with forward canted vents to help keep the air cool.
This honeycomb construction not only aids in structural strength and ventilation but also serves as a crumple zone during impacts in order to absorb impact. They are constructed of a flexible polymer using additive manufacturing technology and features a gradient in durometer. They are soft against the head and stiffer the further out they go.
Below, you can see the bolt less retention system.
Below is a closeup of the fixed front shroud.
Finally, you can see their new accessory attachment system called Gear Utilization Tactical Rail (GUTR) along both sides and the rear of the helmets. It is also used to secure the ballistic shell.
While the TW-X2 is still a tech development effort, it certainly changes the realm of the possible in helmets.
Tags: Team Wendy
I love that we’re starting to see AM make it’s way into this market. There is huge potential there.
That’s pretty brilliant.
Excellent for the public safety purchasing and equipping side of things.
Pretty sure your average police department won’t be able to afford it.
I’ve seen the honeycomb padding on lacrosse helmets, but I forget the brand
Cascade
Hockey and Lax have had the concept for a while, I wouldn’t be surprised if bicycle helmet manufacturershave as well.
Jon, OPT
Yeah Bauer bought Cascade a few years back and incorporated Cacades ‘Seven Technology’ into some of their helmets after Cascade M11 hockey helmet failed on the market and from what I remember did not deliver the results it claimed in concussion prevention and were urged to discontinue and/or modify claims.
From what can be seen, the difference is this Team Wendy honeycomb system is actually part of the shell, not honeycomb as part of the liner.
Agreed
Natural evolution.
Color me interested.
While this is a great looking product, with the way things work out you will probably be about to buy two to three regular helmets for just one of these.
Sorry for the hijack, but what’s with those sordin? I don’t see any SARA style adapter yet they seem to fit those peltor arc adapters just fine??
The headset is made by TEA. They have their own arms that use a thread and cone design to ‘bite’ onto the standard Peltor wires, allowing you to maintain the ability to adjust the height.
This is awesome and love their innovation! Nice work Team Wendy and look forward to the final.
That black color and the way that the headset clamps onto the helmet without rails reminds me of the IBH.
I wonder how thick the carbon + the ballistic shell is compared to the regular Team Wendy Ballistic Helmet or Ops Core FAST.