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The perfect partnership
The journey to create headfirst began with a simple observation: traditional helmets just don't fit properly. As Dutch cyclists who ride daily, we were tired of uncomfortable, mushroom-shaped helmets that compromised both safety and style. We knew there had to be a better way.
In 2023, we joined forces with Studio APE, an Amsterdam-based design collective with four senior industrial designers trained at TU Delft. Their background in interior design, sustainable products, and lighting—coupled with successful startup experience—made them the ideal partner to rethink helmet design from the ground up.
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Our two year journey
What followed was an intensive 2-year development process. We explored dozens of concepts, created countless prototypes, and conducted rigorous testing. Our mission wasn't to make an incrementally better helmet—it was to solve fundamental problems that had plagued cyclists for decades.
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The SafeFit breakthrough
The defining moment came when we shifted our thinking from "adjusting" to "adapting." Instead of improving existing dial systems, we created an entirely new approach: an internal framework that adapts to hug the unique contours of each rider's head. When testing revealed that our system improved helmet stability compared to traditional designs, we knew we had created something revolutionary.
Beyond the Fit
With SafeFit established as our cornerstone innovation, we expanded our vision. We incorporated multi-impact protection that maintains effectiveness through multiple crashes, unlike traditional single-impact helmets.
We added intelligent brake lighting that responds to your movements. A magnetic buckle and wrapped it all in a sleek, minimal design that eliminates the dreaded "mushroom head" effect.
Built for the world.
Pre-order now-
The team behind the Innovation.
Our collaboration brings together headfirst's cycling expertise and APE Studio's design prowess.
Together, we've created a helmet that solves real problems through smart, thoughtful design. The result is protection that works as good as it looks, without the compromises that cyclists have accepted for too long. -
Designed in Amsterdam.
Every element of our helmets reflects our Dutch cycling heritage-practical, stylish, and built to last. We've combined APE Studio's design expertise with extensive user testing to create protection that works as good as it looks.
The result is a helmet that solves real problems through smart, thoughtful design without compromise. -
First drop in Q1 2026
Bringing Echo Pro to market in 2026 is just the beginning of our journey. We're excited to see our creation protecting cyclists worldwide while challenging long-held assumptions about what helmets should look and feel like.
Because we believe that when protection feels good and looks good, more people will wear it—and that's the ultimate goal.
First drop in Feb '26
Beat the crowd, secure 15% off and be first to ride the next generation of urban protection.
