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Snell Memorial Foundation

3628 Madison Avenue
916-331-5073

About Us

The Snell Memorial Foundation is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to research, education, testing and development of helmet safety standards. Since its founding in 1957, Snell has been a leader in helmet safety in the United States and around the world.

As a memorial to Pete, a group of scientists, physicians, racing colleagues and friends teamed together in a dedicated effort to promote research, education, testing and development of standards geared to improve the effectiveness of automotive racing helmets. Through their work, the Snell Memorial Foundation was established in 1957. The Foundation has a Board of Directors that oversee the Foundation's operations. The board is comprised of Medical Doctors and Ph. Ded research scientists and engineers, all of which have distinguished themselves in the areas of safety and/or head injury.

Today, Snell is known for its ongoing work in setting, maintaining and continually upgrading the most authoritative helmet standards in the U.S. and throughout the world. Snell tests thousands of helmets each year and maintains its objectivity by remaining independent of helmet manufacturers, as well as local and national governments. Its state-of-the-art testing facility is located in North Highlands California, just outside Sacramento.

Helmets meeting Snell Standards provide the highest level of protection available. Snell Standards significantly surpass those set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) and the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission's 16 CFR Part 1203.

In order to continuously monitor the quality of helmets being sold to the public, Snell purchases and tests samples of currently certified helmets from the marketplace. These helmets are tested only in Snell labs by Snell technicians. Should a currently certified helmet fail, the helmet manufacturer must take corrective action to Snell's satisfaction.

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