Cool-invention alert: Engineers in Austin, TX, have designed a new helmet embedded with tiny cameras so that, if the cyclist wearing it gets into an accident, paramedics have more potentially life-saving details on what happened.
Developers are still in talks about licensing the product, which would retail for about $ 300. In the meantime, check out this gear to make your ride easier, faster, and—of course—safer.
Head gear
The Multidirectional Impact Protection System in this SCOTT Taal helmet allows the liner and the shell to move independently of each other, imitating the movement of the brain inside the skull. This reduces the rotational impact absorbed by the brain during a fall, resulting in a lower risk of head injury and concussion.
$ 75; scott-sports.com
Pedal pushers
Weighing in at just a third of a pound for both pedals and cleats, the Ultralite Sports Nimbus ST pedal system allows you to ramp up your speed since the pedals are so lightweight.
$ 295; ultralitesports.com
Hands-free shades
Constantly readjusting your sunglasses gets old fast. The nose and behind-the-ear grips on the REVO Guide Small keep the glasses from siding down your face, no matter how sweaty you get. Plus, the lightweight polycarbonate lenses have a special coating designed to keep dirt, water and grease from building up.
$ 179; revo.com
Handy gloves
Make your ride more comfortable with the gel palm padding in these Cannondale Women’s Gel Gloves. They also provide added shock absorption in case you hit a pothole and your hands wind up on the pavement.
$ 30; cannondale.com
e-Tracker
The touchscreen Garmin Edge 510 GPS cycling computer comes with an easy-to-install handlebar mount. The device tracks your speed, distance, time, and elevation. Sync it with your smartphone to send links to friends that let them follow your ride in real time. Or you can wirelessly transfer data about your workout to your computer for later review.
$ 330; garmin.com
Fancy pants
Recovery is just as important as performance. These 110% Juggler Knickers not only provide compression for the lower body; they also have ice pockets strategically placed on key muscles that cyclists use—hips, glutes, quads, hamstrings, and knees. Simply freeze the reusable ice packs, then after a long ride, put the pants on and place the packs in their designated pockets. They’ll soothe your aches and pains while you cook dinner, mow the lawn, or just chill out.
$ 150; 100playharder.com
More From Women’s Health:
A Better Commute: Biking
Ride of the Century
7 Reasons to Start Bike Riding
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