TUBE
A new advanced technological Wind Tunnel built in-house at MET HQ in Italy.
Aerodynamics has always been at the core of MET’s approach to helmet design. From the pioneering concept of using helmets to guide airflow beyond the shoulders, MET has consistently pushed innovation forward. This vision led to the creation of the Wide Body Design, a breakthrough in time-trial helmets introduced with the Drone model in 2013.
Now, MET takes another step forward with Tube, a dedicated wind tunnel built within our headquarters in Valtellina. Designed specifically for cycling, Tube enables precise aerodynamic and thermal testing, providing an essential tool for developing high-performance helmets. The facility also allows for testing bicycles, rider positions, and cycling equipment, making it a key asset in the pursuit of aerodynamic efficiency.
Tube complements MET’s existing research and development hub, which already includes crash testing laboratories, virtual Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis, and 3D prototyping. Together, these resources make MET’s Talamona headquarters the most advanced center for helmet development. This focus on specialisation ensures every product is backed by rigorous research and engineering.
Beyond product innovation, Tube plays a crucial role for professional athletes and teams. Having an in-house wind tunnel enables MET to work closely with World Tour teams, triathletes, and mountain bike racers to refine the helmet-athlete-bike system. Riders from UAE Team Emirates XRG, world-class triathlete Daniel Baekkegard, and MTB World Cup teams have already utilised Tube to optimise their performance.
Aerodynamics is just one part of the equation. Ventilation is equally critical to performance and efficiency. Tube allows MET to measure airflow with scientific precision using a thermal mannequin head. Ventilation has always been a key strength of MET helmets, with recent designs achieving up to 33% improvement over previous models. By analysing heat dissipation and airflow distribution, Tube helps refine ventilation systems, ensuring riders stay cool even under peak exertion.
With Tube, MET reinforces its commitment to advancing cycling helmet technology. By combining aerodynamics, ventilation, and real-world testing, MET continues to shape the future of performance-driven helmet design.
