Information on the how this new shock-detection sticker actually works is rather thin but its seems to work well enough to begin a pilot program with The Snow League, the first professional, season-long winter sports league dedicated to snowboarding and freeskiing, founded by three-time Olympic gold medalist Shaun White.
“Crash Patch™ is being piloted with The Snow League at Buttermilk at Aspen Snowmass starting February 27. Wider distribution is coming soon.“
The concept of the Crash Patch is simple but vague, the sticker uses an unspecified “shock-detection technology” that indicates any helmet impact at or over 75G by turning red. The 75G alert threshold has been identified by neurologists as high risk.
“In snow sports, crashing isn’t a failure—it’s part of the ride. Conditions change, edges catch, visibility drops, and even the best riders misjudge a line. Gravity wins. No matter how skilled, experienced, or cautious you are. What matters more than avoiding crashes is riding smart—knowing how to fall safely, how to get back up, and just as importantly, how to recognize when it’s time to pause.” -Crash Patch
Very promising device but we do not want to give anyone a false sense of security when it comes to brain trauma. Crash Patch is quick to point out that it is not a medical device and is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or treat any medical condition. A color change does not indicate that an injury has occurred, and the absence of a color change does not indicate that an injury has not occurred. This product is not intended to substitute professional medical evaluation. Always seek evaluation from a qualified medical professional.
