Studson SHK-1 Full Brim Safety Helmet

Studson borrowed from extreme sports to build the SHK-1, and it shows. Instead of relying only on a plastic shell and a strap suspension, it uses a Koroyd core: a layer of thin welded tubes that crush in a controlled way to absorb impact energy. Studson also uses Brainshield pads, which are designed to reduce the twisting and compression your brain takes in an impact.

The SHK-1 is certified to ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type II, so it's tested for side, front and rear impacts as well as top impacts. The full brim version has also earned dual certification to the Canadian CSA Z94.1 standard, which makes it one of the few full brim Type 2 helmets that works on both sides of the border. That's worth knowing now that many Canadian construction sites require Type 2 helmets with chin straps.

The full brim gives you real shade for your face, ears and neck, which most Type 2 helmets don't. Climbing-style helmets usually have a short bill or no brim at all.

Every SHK-1 includes a twICEme NFC chip. A first responder can tap it with a phone to pull up your emergency contacts and medical information. It's a small feature, but on a large site with a lot of workers, it can save time when it matters most.

The helmet fits heads from 53 to 63 cm and weighs about 525 g according to Studson, light for the protection it offers. The vented model we link to is Class C. If you need electrical protection, Studson sells a non-vented SHK-1 rated Class E.

The catch is price. At well over $100, it's one of the most expensive helmets here. If your company supplies helmets, it's a tough sell for a whole crew. If you're buying your own and want the best protection you can get with a full brim, it's worth the money.