An EPS liner is a safety-critical component found inside helmets, made from Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam. EPS liner is engineered to absorb and dissipate impact energy during a crash.
EPS liner compresses when struck, spreading the force across a larger area and reducing the deceleration forces that reach your head. EPS liner is the main reason helmets can protect against traumatic brain injuries in activities like motorcycling, cycling, skiing, and other high-impact sports.
EPS liner is constructed by expanding polystyrene beads in a mold, creating a lightweight, closed-cell foam structure. EPS liner can be tuned for different densities, with harder foam in areas likely to face high-speed impacts, and softer foam where lower-speed impacts are expected. This multi-density approach lets EPS liner manage a range of crash scenarios, increasing protection and comfort.
EPS liner is a one-time-use safety feature. EPS liner does not rebound after compression, so once it has absorbed an impact, it can’t protect you again in the same way. For this reason, helmets with EPS liner must be replaced after a significant crash.
EPS liner is valued for being lightweight, cost-effective, and highly effective at energy absorption. EPS liner is the industry standard in most modern helmets, meeting rigorous safety standards while keeping helmets comfortable and affordable.