Three-part film highlights athlete perspective, helmet science, and brain health to reinforce the importance of helmet use basics.highfivesfoundation.org
Designed as one cohesive documentary with three short chapters (3 minutes each), #HelmetsAreCool blends athlete storytelling, expert interviews, animation, and real-world science to connect with outdoor action sports enthusiasts of all ages.
A Three-Chapter Approach to Helmet Safety
- Chapter 1: The Wise Adventurer
- The Athlete’s Perspective
Featuring professional skier Xander Guldman, the film explores how helmet use builds confidence, supports progression, and enables athletes to push limits responsibly while respecting the mountain.
- The Athlete’s Perspective
- Chapter 2: The Scientist
- Protecting the Brain
A medical perspective on concussion awareness and recovery featuring sports medicine professionals from Tahoe Forest Health System, explaining why the brain is both powerful and fragile and why helmets matter.
- Protecting the Brain
- Chapter 3: The Engineer
- The Science Behind Helmet Innovation
A behind-the-scenes look at modern helmet design with experts from Smith Optics, highlighting advanced impact- and rotation-mitigation technologies that exceed industry standards.
- The Science Behind Helmet Innovation
Throughout the film, animation is used to illustrate complex concepts that can’t be captured on camera, including how the brain moves inside the skull during impact and how helmet technologies reduce force. The result is an engaging, accessible learning tool that meets audiences where they are, on snow, on screens, and in the community.
“Helmet use isn’t about fear…it’s about confidence, respect, and longevity,” said High Fives Foundation Director of Programs, Dani Trujillo. “With #HelmetsAreCool, we’re combining real athlete experiences, medical expertise, and innovation to empower people to make smart decisions that protect their brains and keep them doing what they love.”
About B.A.S.I.C.S.
The B.A.S.I.C.S. program is High Fives Foundation’s long-standing injury prevention initiative, established in 2013, delivering world-class safety education through videos, presentations, and partnerships across the outdoor action sports industry. The 2025–2026 B.A.S.I.C.S. release continues that mission by focusing on helmet awareness and brain health in a format designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. The #HelmetsAreCool documentary is now available for public viewing and will be shared with schools, resorts, industry partners, and communities nationwide. Support for the campaign is made possible by the National Ski Areas Association, Ski California, PistenBully, Ski Wisconsin, SMITH Optics, Ski Utah, Midwest Ski Areas Association, Mountain Guard, Pacific Northwest Ski Areas Association, Ski Vermont, Ski New Hampshire, SkiMaine, West Virginia Ski Areas Association, Minnesota Ski Area Association, Michigan Snowsport Industry Association, and the Lefanowicz Family. For more information on B.A.S.I.C.S. or to watch the video, visit basics.highfivesfoundation.org and follow @Hi5sfoundation #HelmetsAreCool on social media.
About High Fives Foundation
High Fives Nonprofit Foundation focuses on preventing life-changing injuries and provides resources and hope if they happen. It was formed as a way to “pay-it-forward” by the founder, Roy Tuscany, after his own recovery from a spinal cord injury. The Foundation has expanded to help over 1000 Athletes from 47 States & Territories and Canada since its inception in 2009. The High Fives Foundation is a California-based, national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more information, visit www.highfivesfoundation.org. For further information, please contact info@highfivesfoundation.com
