What was recalled
In August of 2020, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued an important safety notice regarding a specific line of bicycle helmets manufactured by Active Brands AS. This recall focuses on products sold under the "Sweet Protection" brand name, specifically the Ripper Jr., Ripper MIPS Jr., and Ripper MIPS bicycle helmets. It is crucial for consumers to understand exactly which items are affected, as this was not a blanket recall of all Sweet Protection gear, but rather a targeted action against specific models that did not meet American safety requirements.
The recalled items were identified by their specific model names printed on a label located on the rear back side of the helmet. The recall covers two distinct size categories designed for different head circumferences. First, the Ripper Jr. and Ripper MIPS Jr. helmets were sold in a single size intended to fit heads measuring between 48 cm and 53 cm (approximately 18.9 to 20.9 inches). Second, the standard Ripper MIPS helmet was also sold in one size, but it was designed for larger heads, fitting circumferences from 53 cm to 61 cm (roughly 20.9 to 24.0 inches).
To help you identify if you own one of these recalled units, look closely at the physical characteristics of the helmet. The products were sold in a variety of matte finishes, including black, white, blue, gray, green, pink, and purple. A key identifier is the text "Sweet Protection" printed on the side of the helmet. Additionally, you must check inside the helmet for the manufacturing date. All affected helmets were produced in 2019, with the production month indicated by a number between 9 and 12 (representing September through December). If your helmet matches these dates and models, it is part of this specific recall lot.
The core reason these specific helmets were recalled is that they were originally certified and tested according to the European safety standard for bicycle helmets, known as EN1078. This certification was intended solely for sale in the European market. Because they were designed for a different regulatory environment, they do not comply with the U.S. CPSC federal safety standard for bicycle helmets. While the helmets may have felt sturdy and looked professional, the internal construction and impact absorption capabilities were not validated against the stricter or differently calibrated requirements mandated for safety equipment sold within the United States. This means that even if the helmet looks undamaged and fits well, it does not offer the level of head protection guaranteed by American federal law.
If you purchased these helmets between September and December of 2019, you likely have one of the affected units in your possession. The CPSC emphasized that consumers should verify their helmet against the details above immediately. There were no reported incidents or injuries associated with these specific models at the time of the recall announcement, but the potential risk remained because the safety benchmarks were not met for U.S. roads and conditions. Recognizing the exact model, size, and manufacturing date is the first step in ensuring your safety gear is up to standard.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a fundamental mismatch between what these helmets are designed to do and the safety rules they were built to meet. The Active Brands AS Sweet Protection bicycle helmets involved in this notice—specifically the Ripper Jr., Ripper MIPS Jr., and Ripper MIPS models—were manufactured to comply with the European standard for bicycle helmets, known as EN1078. While that standard provides a level of protection, it is distinct from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) federal safety standard. The CPSC standard is not merely a bureaucratic formality; it is a rigorous set of physical tests designed specifically for the American riding environment and population sizes. Because these helmets were certified only for the European market, they have not undergone the specific impact attenuation and retention system tests required by U.S. law.
To understand why this matters, it helps to look at what actually happens during a fall. When a cyclist hits their head, the force of the impact is transferred through the helmet’s outer shell into an inner foam liner. In a helmet that meets the CPSC standard, that foam is engineered to crush in a controlled way, absorbing energy and slowing down the deceleration of the head. This process reduces the peak force transmitted to the skull and brain. If a helmet does not meet these specific U.S. requirements, the foam may be too hard or too soft, or the shell may not distribute that force evenly. The result is that more energy reaches the rider’s head than it should, significantly increasing the risk of concussion, skull fracture, or other traumatic brain injuries.
There is also the critical issue of retention—the strap system that keeps the helmet on your head during a crash. The CPSC standard has strict requirements for how well these straps must hold up under sudden, heavy loads. Helmets designed to European standards often have different testing protocols for this aspect. If the retention system fails during an accident, the helmet can fly off before it even has a chance to protect you. This is particularly dangerous because it leaves the head completely unprotected at the exact moment of maximum impact. For children and teenagers, whose neck muscles are still developing and who may not have the strength or muscle memory to hold a poorly fitting strap in place, this risk is amplified.
It is important to note that while these helmets look like standard bicycle gear and function as intended in normal riding, their safety margins drop sharply during a high-energy collision. The "Sweet Protection" branding on the side indicates their origin, but it does not guarantee compliance with American safety laws. A helmet can look perfect, fit well, and feel sturdy, yet still fail to provide the necessary protection standards required in the United States. This gap between appearance and actual certified performance is why the CPSC issued this recall. You cannot judge a helmet’s safety by its price tag or its brand reputation alone; it must be verified against the specific federal standard for your region.
We know that many parents buy these helmets because of their stylish matte finishes in colors like black, white, blue, gray, green, pink, and purple. It is natural to trust a product that looks professional and well-made. However, safety standards exist precisely because visual cues can be misleading. The lack of reported incidents so far is reassuring, but it does not mean the risk is zero. It simply means that no one has yet been harmed in a way that was linked back to this specific model. By understanding the mechanical failure modes—improper energy absorption and potential strap failure—we can see why replacing these helmets is a necessary step for peace of mind, even if you have never had an accident.
Who is most at risk
The primary group affected by this recall consists of parents, guardians, and caregivers who purchased bicycle helmets for young children. Specifically, the hazard targets users of the Active Brands AS Sweet Protection-branded Ripper Jr. and Ripper MIPS Jr. models. These items were manufactured in a single size designed to fit head circumferences ranging from 48 cm to 53 cm (approximately 18.9 to 20.9 inches). This measurement range typically corresponds to children roughly between the ages of 4 and 7, though individual growth rates vary significantly. Because these helmets were intended for younger riders who are still developing their balance and coordination, they represent a vulnerable demographic where head protection is critical during frequent falls.
There is also a secondary group at risk: older children and adolescents who may have outgrown the smaller sizes but fit into the Ripper MIPS model. This specific helmet was sold in one size accommodating head circumferences from 53 cm to 61 cm (20.9 to 24.0 inches). While these users are generally more experienced cyclists, they are still at risk because the fundamental safety flaw applies to all units regardless of the wearer’s skill level. The confusion often arises because "Sweet Protection" is printed on the side, and the helmets feature matte colors like black, white, blue, gray, green, pink, and purple. These aesthetic choices make them popular for casual riding, school commutes, or park play, increasing the likelihood that they are in active daily use rather than stored away.
The core reason these specific users are at heightened risk is not just age, but a critical regulatory mismatch. The recalled helmets were tested and certified according to the European standard EN1078, which means they were legally intended only for sale in the European market. They do not comply with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) federal safety standard for bicycle helmets. In the United States, CPSC standards are specifically designed to account for the types of impacts common in American cycling environments and the average head dimensions of U.S. consumers. When a helmet meets European standards but is sold here, there is no guarantee it has undergone the rigorous impact attenuation testing required to protect a child’s developing skull during a typical American backyard or street accident.
Furthermore, because none of the recalled incidents have been reported to date, we cannot know exactly how many accidents have occurred with these specific models. However, the absence of reports does not mean the risk is low; it simply means no one has yet suffered a head injury severe enough to be documented in official databases. Children are particularly vulnerable because their heads are heavier relative to their bodies compared to adults, meaning they fall forward more often and take impacts directly on the forehead or top of the head. If the internal foam structure or retention system of these helmets does not meet U.S. standards for energy absorption, a seemingly minor tumble could result in a concussion or worse. Therefore, any adult responsible for ensuring the safety gear of a child aged 4 to 12 who rides a bike should treat this recall with immediate urgency, regardless of whether the helmet looks undamaged or was bought recently.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before taking any action, it is critical to confirm that your specific helmet falls within the scope of this recall. Because Active Brands AS manufactures a wide variety of protective gear, and because "Sweet Protection" is a brand name rather than a single product line, simply seeing the logo on the side of your helmet is not enough to guarantee it is part of this issue. You need to verify several specific physical details. The recalled items are exclusively the Active Brands AS Sweet Protection-branded Ripper Jr., Ripper MIPS Jr., and Ripper MIPS bicycle helmets. If your helmet has a different model name, such as a standard Ripper (without "Jr." or "MIPS") or a completely different series, it is not included in this recall.
The first thing you should check is the size and fitment, which varies by model. For the Ripper Jr. and Ripper MIPS Jr. helmets, look for a label on the rear back side of the helmet that indicates they are sold in one size only, designed to fit head circumferences from 48 cm to 53 cm (18.9 to 20.9 inches). For the standard Ripper MIPS helmet, the label will indicate it is also one size but fits larger heads, specifically circumferences from 53 cm to 61 cm (20.9 to 24.0 inches). If your helmet does not match these specific sizing parameters for the named models, it is likely not part of this recall.
Next, inspect the manufacturing date and certification markings, as these are the most definitive identifiers. These helmets were certified according to the European standard EN1078, which confirms they were intended for the European market rather than the United States. To verify the production date, look inside the helmet where you will find a printed manufacturing date. The recalled units all share two specific characteristics: the production year is 2019, and the production month is a number between 9 and 12 (September through December). If your helmet was manufactured in any other year or outside that four-month window, it is safe from this recall.
Finally, consider the visual appearance and sales context. The recalled helmets were sold in matte finishes rather than glossy ones, available in black, white, blue, gray, green, pink, and purple. While color alone cannot confirm a recall, the combination of a matte finish, the "Sweet Protection" branding on the side, the specific model names listed above, and the 2019 production date (months 9–12) inside will definitively identify if your helmet is one of the affected units. If you are unsure about any of these details, do not guess; use the contact information provided by Active Brands to verify with a specialist.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Active Brands bicycle helmets, your immediate priority is to remove the product from service. The first and most critical step is to stop using the helmet right away. Do not lend it to a friend or give it to a family member who might use it without checking the label. Even if the helmet looks perfectly fine on the outside, the internal structure may not meet the U.S. federal safety standard required for bicycle helmets in this country. Continuing to wear it while riding creates an unnecessary risk of head injury because the protective capabilities have not been verified for our specific regulatory environment.
Once you have decided to stop using the helmet, you need to identify exactly which model you have to ensure you are dealing with a recalled unit. Look closely at the side of the helmet for the "Sweet Protection" branding and check the label on the rear back side for the model name. You will find the manufacturing date printed inside the helmet; look specifically for the year 2019 followed by a month number between 9 and 12. If your helmet matches one of the specific models—Ripper Jr., Ripper MIPS Jr., or Ripper MIPS—and falls within the size ranges mentioned, it is definitely part of this recall. The helmets were sold in various matte colors including black, white, blue, gray, green, pink, and purple, so color alone will not help you rule out the recall.
After confirming that your helmet is recalled, you have two clear options for resolving the issue. The most straightforward path is to return the helmet directly to the store where you originally purchased it. Bring the receipt if you have it, as this often speeds up the process. If you cannot return it to the store, or if you prefer to handle the refund through the manufacturer, you should contact Active Brands AS or Sweet Protection directly. You can reach them by phone at 800-364-4385 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to orders.na@activebrands.com or visit their website at www.sweetprotection.com and click on "Safety Notices" at the bottom of the page for detailed instructions.
When you contact the company, explain that you are returning a recalled helmet due to non-compliance with U.S. CPSC standards. They will arrange for a full refund. Do not attempt to modify or repair the helmet yourself, as this is not a fixable issue; the problem is fundamental certification, not physical damage. By following these steps promptly, you ensure that you are fully reimbursed and that a potentially unsafe piece of equipment is removed from your home. It is much easier to deal with the logistics of a return now than to worry about safety later.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
When a safety recall is issued, the most pressing question for any consumer is how to resolve the issue without incurring additional costs or risking further injury. In this specific case involving Active Brands AS and their Sweet Protection line of bicycle helmets, the remedy is straightforward and entirely focused on removing the hazardous product from your possession. Because these helmets do not comply with U.S. CPSC federal safety standards, they cannot be repaired to meet those specific regulations. Therefore, the official remedy provided by the manufacturer is a full refund. There is no option for repair or partial credit; the goal is to ensure you are financially whole while ensuring the unsafe item is returned. To initiate this process, you have two primary avenues available to you, both designed to be accessible and customer-friendly. The first and often most convenient option is to return the helmet directly to the store where you originally purchased it. Many retailers have established protocols for handling manufacturer recalls, which can streamline the refund process for you. If you still have your receipt or proof of purchase, this method is typically very efficient. However, if you no longer have the receipt or if the original retailer is no longer in business, you do not need to worry. The second option is to contact Active Brands AS directly. They have set up dedicated channels to handle these claims regardless of where the helmet was bought. If you choose to contact the company directly, you can reach their customer support team via phone, email, or their website. For those who prefer speaking with a representative, you can call 800-364-4385. It is important to note that this line is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. If you are located in a different time zone, please adjust your calling hours accordingly to ensure you reach an agent during their business day. For those who prefer written communication or need to send documentation such as photos of the helmet’s labels, you can email orders.na@activebrands.com. Alternatively, you can visit the official Sweet Protection website at www.sweetprotection.com. Once on the site, scroll to the bottom of the page and click on "Safety Notices." This section contains all the necessary information and forms required to process your refund claim. When you contact them, whether by phone, email, or via the website, be prepared to provide specific details about your helmet to verify it is part of the recall. You will need to confirm the model name (Ripper Jr., Ripper MIPS Jr., or Ripper MIPS), the size fitting range, and the manufacturing date printed inside the helmet. Having this information ready will help expedite your refund process significantly. Remember, the company is committed to making this experience as smooth as possible, so do not hesitate to ask questions if any step is unclear.What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to look at a bicycle helmet and see only the exterior—the sleek matte finish in black, white, or blue, the convenient "Sweet Protection" branding on the side, and the comfortable fit around your head. We often assume that because an item looks sturdy and well-made, it will perform exactly as we expect in a critical moment. However, ignoring this specific recall for Active Brands AS Sweet Protection bicycle helmets means continuing to rely on equipment that has not been proven safe for use in the United States. The core issue is not necessarily that the materials are cheap or fragile, but that these items were certified under the European standard EN1078 rather than the mandatory U.S. CPSC federal safety standard. This distinction matters deeply because it means the helmets have not undergone the specific impact testing protocols required to ensure they protect riders on American roads and trails.
The real-world consequence of ignoring this warning is a significantly elevated risk of head injury during a fall or collision. Bicycle accidents are unpredictable; a minor slip on wet pavement or a sudden loss of balance can result in your head striking the ground, a curb, or another object. A helmet that does not comply with federal safety standards may fail to absorb impact energy effectively. It might crack upon impact, shift out of place, or simply not provide the necessary structural integrity to prevent traumatic brain injury. While the CPSC has reported no incidents or injuries associated with these specific helmets so far, the absence of reported events is not a guarantee of safety. It simply means that, statistically, no one has yet been harmed enough to file a report, but the potential for serious harm remains because the safety baseline was never met for this market.
Furthermore, continuing to use these helmets creates a false sense of security. You might feel protected because you are wearing a helmet at all, which is always better than nothing. However, partial protection can be dangerous because it may lead to riskier behavior or an underestimation of the severity of a fall. If the helmet fails to meet U.S. standards, it could shatter or deform in ways that leave your skull vulnerable. The manufacturing dates indicate these were produced in 2019, and while the materials may not have degraded over time, the fundamental design approval for the U.S. market is missing. By keeping them, you are gambling with a safety device that was only intended for the European market, where different regulatory frameworks apply. Do not wait for an accident to prove the hazard; the risk is inherent in the non-compliance itself.
Ultimately, ignoring this recall means accepting an unnecessary variable in your safety equation. You have taken steps to be responsible by reading this far, so please do not let inertia stop you from acting. The consequence of inaction is potentially putting yourself or a loved one at risk of a preventable head injury. It is far better to deal with the minor inconvenience of returning the helmet now than to face the physical and emotional toll of a serious accident caused by equipment that was never certified for your safety needs. Your health is worth more than the hassle of a refund process.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall highlights a critical safety gap for Active Brands helmets, the incident serves as a valuable reminder that certified gear is the first line of defense against injury. When it comes to bicycle safety, particularly for children and teenagers whose heads are still developing, relying on equipment that meets rigorous federal standards is non-negotiable. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) establishes mandatory safety standards for bicycle helmets sold in the United States because these regulations ensure that a helmet can absorb impact energy effectively during a crash. Helmets certified only to European or other international standards, while potentially high-quality in their own markets, may not have undergone the specific testing protocols required for U.S. roads and environments. Therefore, always verify that your gear bears the CPSC sticker before purchase, regardless of how reputable the brand appears.
Beyond purchasing compliant equipment, proper fit is equally important for ensuring protection. A helmet that is too loose can shift during an impact, leaving the head exposed, while one that is too tight may cause discomfort that leads to non-use. To check the fit, place the helmet level on your head and tighten the side straps until the helmet sits snugly without rocking. You should be able to slide only one or two fingers between the chin strap and your chin. Regularly inspecting your gear for cracks, frayed straps, or degraded foam is also essential; safety equipment has a lifespan, and materials can degrade over time due to sunlight, sweat, and general wear. If you drop your helmet in a crash, even if it looks fine on the outside, the internal structure may be compromised, and it should be replaced immediately.
Finally, staying informed about product safety is an active part of being a responsible consumer. Sign up for email alerts from the CPSC or subscribe to their weekly newsletter to receive updates on recalls as they happen. Many families do not realize that products often have limited windows for remedy after a recall is announced. By keeping your purchase receipts and registering your products with manufacturers when possible, you ensure that you can act quickly if a safety issue arises. This proactive approach not only protects you from potential hazards but also helps hold companies accountable to the highest safety standards.