Case Study

The Brigade INDEX ski and snowboard helmet can be fully recycled at the end of its life and represents a totally new approach to helmet construction, using 96% of materials from a single plastic family.

Problem

Every year, approximately 2.5 million ski and snowboard helmets are discarded into landfills, contributing to the growing environmental crisis. Traditional helmets, made from a mix of materials, are difficult to recycle, and their disposal leads to unnecessary waste. This problem is compounded by the fact that most helmets do not utilise sustainable or eco-friendly materials, leading to an increase in carbon footprints and energy consumption during production.

Solution

Salomon has introduced a groundbreaking solution to this issue with the Brigade INDEX helmet, the first fully recyclable ski and snowboard helmet. Designed with sustainability in mind, the Brigade INDEX helmet is made from 96% of materials derived from a single plastic family, making it easy to recycle at the end of its life. This new approach to helmet construction enables consumers to return their helmets for recycling without any disassembly required.

Key Features & Benefits

Fully Recyclable Construction

• The Brigade INDEX helmet is made from polyolefins, a single material family that simplifies recycling at the end of its life.
• The helmet can be recycled without the need for disassembly, reducing landfill waste and promoting sustainability.

Environmentally Friendly

• The Brigade INDEX helmet has a 19% reduced environmental impact compared to traditional helmets.
• The use of ARPRO polypropylene, which requires less energy to produce, and the recycling process, contribute to a lower carbon footprint.

Advanced Safety & Comfort

• The helmet features ARPRO EPP (Expanded Polypropylene) for the inner core, known for its ability to absorb micro-impacts and return to its original shape.
• ARPRO EPP offers superior energy absorption, ensuring a higher level of safety and comfort during use.

Easy Recycling Process

• After use, consumers can ship their helmet for free to a collection centre by scanning a QR code on the helmet. The helmets are sent to Paprec, a French recycling specialist, for processing.
• A simple, hassle-free recycling process makes it easier for consumers to take part in the circular economy.

For the inner core, we also discovered that ARPRO EPP, the expanded version of polypropylene, did a better job of absorbing micro-impacts and reforming back to its original shape after an impact than expanded polystyrene."

Nans Girodengo, Salomon Research & Development Specialist

The Brigade INDEX helmet is available now in Salomon stores, on Salomon.com, and at selected retail partners.

Salomon's Brigade INDEX helmet represents a major step towards reducing the environmental impact of winter sports gear while providing superior safety and comfort. By choosing this helmet, consumers not only protect themselves but also contribute to a more sustainable future.