Downhill skiers often wear comfortable snow hats geared toward the cold chill, rather than helmets geared toward the potential icy falls. For that reason, the ANTI Ordinary A1 hat was created. Although it’s seemingly soft, the ski hat hardens to protect the head upon impact.
The A1 was designed by biomedical engineer Rob Joseph and product engineer Brodie Robinson at Australia’s Queensland University of Technology.
The inner layer of the hat is composed of 70 to 90 percent Merino wool, which is combined with a 100 percent acrylic outer layer. The wool is a moisture-wicking fabric, so any wetness or sweat doesn’t saturate the fabric, while the acrylic layer is designed for strength, durability, and is washable.
Between the wool and acrylic layer is a proprietary blend of non-Newtonian fluids. These fluids are composed of particles that easily slide past one another when moving slowly, but jam against one another when forced to move quickly. The material is soft and has liquid tendencies when left alone, but becomes almost goo-like, and finally hardens, when exposed to stress.
The A1 hat is said to exceed ASTM F2040 and EN1077 safety standards, and is less than an inch thick. It weighs a little less than 2 lb., which is a tad more than most ski helmets weigh. The weight is said to be less noticeable because it’s evenly distributed around the wearer’s head.
Joseph and Robinson hope to eventually use this technology for medical products, such as developing headwear for individuals who are at risk for falling.
