Expired but like-new brain bucket

[thstone]

The issue is that the shock absorbing materials inside the helmet degrade primarily based on age rather than use (assuming normal use). Hence, a well-used new helmet will provide much more protection than a brand new 10 year old helmet.

Remember that helmet technology has improved greatly in the last 10 years so a new helmet is also substantially safer in terms of design and materials than an old one.

Add these two up and you are much safer in a newer helmet.