Magpie vs Helmet: A Rider's Review
Mike Watson | Advocate Coordinator
I replace my helmet every year or two because I tend to give mine a harder life than most. When the time comes to replace it, I want to know it's in good condition if I ever really need it.
This time, I purchased a Pie Proof helmet, partly out of curiosity and partly because it sits comfortably within my preferred mid-range price bracket.
Like many Canberra cyclists, I get swooped by magpies during the breeding season. I've certainly felt harassed, but never injured. I always wear glasses or safety glasses during magpie season, so I've generally felt my eyes are well protected.
My biggest concern has never really been the birds themselves. I usually don't notice an attack before it starts, and being startled while riding in traffic is what worries me most. An unexpected swoop can easily cause a wobble at exactly the wrong moment.
For transparency, I paid for this helmet myself. I haven't been approached by the manufacturer, and this isn't a sponsored review. I'll keep using it until I decide it's time for another replacement.
At around $100, I think it's reasonably priced for what you get. I have a long, narrow head shape that doesn't fit every helmet, but I found this one comfortable straight away. It's quick and easy to adjust and sits securely on my head.
The Magpie-Specific Features
The helmet is constructed using two concentric polystyrene shells bonded together, much like many modern bicycle helmets. What sets it apart is a layer of mesh, resembling nylon flyscreen, bonded between the shells.
Because the mesh is embedded within the helmet structure, it's highly unlikely to come loose. It easily tolerates a very firm finger poke without damage, and I can't imagine any bird getting through it to peck my head.
The other obvious feature is a pair of padded ear protectors attached between the base of the helmet and the chin straps. They're made from foam encased in a synthetic fabric and appear robust enough to withstand a beak or claw strike.
Like most modern helmets, sizing is adjusted using a rear dial. One feature I particularly like is that the adjustment system can also be moved lower at the back of the helmet in small increments, up to about two centimetres. This makes it very easy to fine-tune the fit and provides a more secure feeling around the back of the head and neck.
As a Helmet?
Yes, it's a good helmet.
The sun visor is well-positioned and allows me to tip the helmet forward slightly when riding into a low setting sun, giving useful shade to my eyes.
A rechargeable rear red light is built into the helmet. It helps improve visibility in low light, although I wouldn't rely on it as my only rear light for night riding.
I feel well protected when wearing it. That may be partly because I know it's designed as a piece of magpie armour, but it certainly feels substantial. The ear protection keeps my ears warmer in cooler weather and changes the way traffic sounds slightly, although I adjusted to that very quickly.
I also recently started wearing hearing aids and have found the ear protectors to be an unexpected bonus. They help keep the hearing aids securely in place while riding and provide a little extra peace of mind when travelling over rougher surfaces.
Overall, I think the price is reasonable and I don't feel like I'm paying for a brand name. It seems to be a thoughtfully designed and well-made helmet.
Will it stop magpies from swooping? Of course not.
But if I'm wearing this helmet and a pair of glasses, I'll be very surprised indeed if a magpie manages to get to me.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Pedal Power ACT
