Finding a bicycle helmet which provides good protection against concussion has got easier thanks to the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab.

Since starting the initiative in 2018, the lab has tested 139 bike helmets with 73 achieving a 5 star rating and another 37 earning 4 stars.

Consumers are advised to choose a 4- or 5-star helmet while also considering cost, fit and comfort, but researchers point out any helmet is better than none.

“I’m happy to say we’ve seen a lot of enthusiasm from manufacturers for this program,” said Steve Rowson, an associate professor of biomedical engineering and mechanics who leads the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab.

“They’ve been eager to improve their performance and proudly advertise helmets with 5-star ratings.”