Toyota’s Racing Partner TOM’s Develops Anti-Bear Helmet

TOM’s, a renowned Japanese tuning and motorsports company, has helped develop a lightweight helmet called Protect Light to keep people safe from bear encounters. The helmet is aimed at farmers, walkers, and anyone uneasy about Japan’s growing number of bear sightings. The project was created by TOM’s subsidiary Ishino Shokai in partnership with Tohoku Tachibana, and the helmet is priced at 14,800 yen (about $90). The Protect Light helmet features a large polycarbonate shield that hangs in front of the wearer’s face and can be lowered close to the chin, providing a protective barrier between the face and potential hazards. However, the manufacturer stresses that the helmet does not guarantee protection against bear attacks and may still be damaged or penetrated by strong impacts, claws, or teeth. The helmet weighs 540 g (1.2 lbs) and is available in white or gray. This unusual product is a departure from TOM’s typical tuning products for Toyota and Lexus vehicles, but it highlights the company’s ability to innovate and adapt to unique challenges.