Are Hard Shell Helmets Safer Than Microshells?

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Hi All,

Just a quick question someone here may be able to answer. About four years ago I made the switch to wearing a Knucklebone Jumper hard shell helmet instead of the usual Giro, Bell and MET microshell helmets I'd been wearing previously. I tried the Jumper on in the shop and it immediately felt more strong and solid than the microshells I've worn, and I feel much safer and confident wearing a heavier duty helmet. The Jumper's a bit old and tired these days so I'm now wearing a Bell Faction (which I love).

My question is do hard shell skate style helmets actually protect any more than microshells? They have more coverage at the back and things are less likely to penetrate the shell, but are they any more (or even less) protective in general than their thinner shelled cousins?

Thanks for any info
MMSR