When it comes to providing the utmost protection for cycling, skiing, or horse-riding enthusiasts, EGIDE helmets stand as a beacon of craftsmanship and innovation. Carefully crafted by skilled artisans, these helmets go through no less than ten stages of meticulous manufacturing. Every step of the process takes place by hand at their workshops in Nantes and Cholet, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.
1. Selection and Treatment of the Leather
The foundation of EGIDE helmets lies in the selection of premium full-grain leathers from the most reputable tanneries. These leathers are then treated to withstand the harshest conditions, from torrential rain and UV rays to surface abrasions, ensuring the helmets remain durable and reliable in all situations.
2. Carbon / Kevlar / Linen: Selection and Treatment
EGIDE has chosen the finest high-tech materials for their helmets: carbon, Kevlar, and linen. Renowned for their use in aeronautical industry applications, bullet-proof vests, and protective coatings, these materials guarantee the helmets are not only lightweight but also exceptionally robust and safe. To protect the surface, an anti-scratch varnish is meticulously applied.
3. Leather Cutting
The leathers move into the expert hands of the craftsmen, who skillfully cut them by hand. Each leather piece is carefully examined to ensure it contains no imperfections, guaranteeing only the best sections are selected for the helmets.
4. Carbon / Kevlar / Linen: Cutting
Similarly, high-tech materials undergo a precise hand-cutting process using specialized die-cutting punches. The craftsmen strictly adhere to precise draping plans, ensuring every chosen piece meets the highest quality standards.
5. Leather Stitching
The artisan’s skill is a true testament as they meticulously handcraft the seams and stitching using a specially chosen thread known for its exceptional resistance to rain, UV rays, and surface abrasions.
6. Bonding and Fitting
After the surfaces are expertly prepared, the leather is carefully fitted onto the crown, with an adhesive applied to ensure a secure bond. The helmets undergo a thorough inspection once the adhesive has fully dried.
7. Assembly
Each component added during this stage undergoes individual inspection and weighing. Setting the chin strap and small air holes in place, meticulously gluing the protective foam, and installing the visor all contribute to the helmet’s impeccable design.
8. Branding
To add a touch of identity and complete the manufacturing process, elegantly hot-stamping the distinctive EGIDE logo on the helmets and chin straps signifies a product of unrivaled craftsmanship.
9. Certification and Compliance
EGIDE takes safety seriously, subjecting each helmet to rigorous European standards. These include shock absorption, chin-strap retention, and compression tests, conducted under extreme temperatures ranging from -20°C to +50°C. Accredited French laboratories also collaborate in conducting random follow-up tests.
10. Inspection / Shipping
Before leaving the workshop, each helmet undergoes a final inspection, with a unique numbering system enabling individual product tracing. Then, the helmets are carefully packaged and delivered, complete with an owner’s guidebook, all encased in a protective fabric bag.
EGIDE helmets embody the dedication and passion of skilled artisans who combine traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge materials to create top-of-the-line headgear. Through their unwavering commitment to excellence, EGIDE ensures that every helmet that leaves their workshop is a testament to safety, style, and durability, providing the utmost confidence for adventure seekers and athletes alike.