Section 12 - Helmet Weight
FIRE HELMETS: IS LIGHTER ALWAYS BETTER?
Fire helmet manufacturers are faced with a complex task based upon the performance requirements of the NFPA 1971 standard for structural fire helmets. A helmet must absorb impact energy, resist penetration, insulate from heat and electrical current while remaining light as possible. The laws of physics make this a true challenge.
It is a fact that Bullard fire helmets are typically some of the heaviest helmets manufactured. However, it must be noted that this weight difference is dependant upon specific models and that some models may only be 1-2 ounces heavier than their similar competitive product. In addition, Bullard fire helmets are typically better performers in the specific tests required for certification to NFPA 1971. The fact that the heavier helmet also has better performance qualities is not coincidental. Just as physics demonstrates that a larger/heavier mass will resist damage from impacts over a similar smaller mass, Bullard fire helmets follow this natural course.
Another benefit of Bullard’s larger/heavier helmet designs is the ability to accommodate larger head sizes. In fact, if a firefighter cannot fit in a Bullard helmet, there is no fire helmet that will fit that firefighter (safely).
Due to the additional mass and size of a Bullard fire helmet, design truly becomes important. That is why we have incorporated more adjustment options to fit any head shape and comfort preference possible. With the versatility of these adjustment options, Bullard fire helmets create superior fit and balance of the fire helmet that in fact eliminates the concern of any additional weight. Users have stated that our helmets are lighter than the models they have currently been wearing when trying our product. Although the user may have perceived the helmet was lighter, often the helmet actually weighed the same or was 1-2 ounces heavier.
Additional benefits of a Bullard fire helmet that also contribute to possible weight discrepancies involve the use of more expensive, more durable material components. This touches almost every component found in fire helmets. Bullard ear covers are the largest in the industry. More material, more weight. Bullard’s standard reflective markings are made of Scotchlite vs. Reflexite. Glass beads are the base materials of Scotchlite and glass is heavier more durable and more expensive than vinyl materials such as Reflexite. Metal core helmet brim edge beading vs. no metal core edge beading. Again more durable, heavier and more expensive. The inner liner material designed to protect the impact absorbing foam liner is also the most expensive and heat resistant material used in the industry. This material is also thicker and more durable due to its design.
If you begin to add all the small and sometimes overlooked details of the Bullard fire helmet system together it becomes inevitable that the helmet will offer additional benefits that also impact the weight of the helmet. In spite of the more expensive components and possible weight impacts, Bullard fire helmets are extremely competitive offering more for less cost.
The following information was compiled from random selection of fire helmet models to determine the true weight of a structural fire helmet. Each helmet was equipped in a "standard" format including ear covers, faceshield and chinstrap.
Cairns 660 Phoenix thermoplastic contemporary helmet – 53 oz.
Cairns 360 thermoplastic contemporary helmet – 43.5 oz.
Cairns 990 Intruder Kevlar contemporary helmet – 51.5 oz.
Bullard PX thermoplastic contemporary helmet – 51.5 oz.
Bullard FX fiberglass contemporary helmet – 49.5 oz.
Bullard UST thermoglas traditional helmet – 57 oz.
Cairns 1010 fiberglass traditional helmet – 57 oz.
Due to the variables in components used on this type of helmet, weights may vary +/- 2 oz.