Aleck and SMITH Announce Strategic Partnership to Integrate Crash Sensor Technology into Bike Helmets for 2024

South Lake Tahoe, CA (June. 29, 2023) — Aleck^® – the industry-leading maker of wireless helmet audio systems for outdoor sports – and SMITH – the global market leader in snow goggles and helmets, and industry innovator across bike helmets, sport, lifestyle, and prescription eyewear – announce a strategic partnership to integrate Aleck Crash Sensor technology (known as Aleck CS) into a selection of the brand’s premium cycling helmets.

Aleck CS is a patented intelligent impact detector that detects serious crashes and alerts emergency contacts as well as the Heroes Nearby, app users within 1.8 miles (3 kilometers) of the incident. The potentially life-saving technology utilizes the app and SMS to send valuable incident and location information to contacts and the Heroes Nearby, ensuring cyclists receive timely assistance in the unfortunate situation of an accident, even if knocked unconscious.

SMITH is the first brand in North America to launch cycling helmets featuring integrated Aleck CS, debuting in four models come Spring 2024.

“We are excited to announce our partnership with SMITH and the work we’re doing to bring crash sensing technology to more cyclists,” said Stephen Catterson, founder and CEO of Aleck. “The integration of Aleck CS into premium helmets elevates head protection to include impact detection and a valuable connection to help in the event of a serious crash, especially for those riding alone on roads or trails.”

Aleck and SMITH have previously collaborated to bring an award-winning audio and communication system for skiers and snowboarders to the global market. This is the first project launch specific to cycling.

“We’re thrilled to see an evolution extending partnership with Aleck, one of our helmet technology partners,” said Scott Randall, global vice president of product at SMITH. “The introduction of this new crash detection sensor continues to only further our pursuit of bringing meaningful solutions to enhance the customer experience. We take our responsibility to protect our bike riding community seriously and believe that the addition of Aleck’s crash sensor further enhances Smith’s already robust helmet proposition for our riders.”

SMITH’s line of premium helmets with integrated Aleck CS will launch in early Spring 2024. In the meantime, cyclists can utilize impact detection technology now with Aleck’s new helmet mountable Tocsen Crash Sensor. The Tocsen app, designed for crash sensor owners and anyone else willing to lend a hand in case of an emergency, is available to download for free on the App Store and Google Play. For more information, please visit Aleck.io.

About Aleck
Those who adventure have innate kinship. Aleck is a brand that believes this, loves everything outside, and passionately wants to strengthen real bonds between people when they are doing outdoor activities they love. Since launching their award-winning Aleck 006 helmet audio and communications system for skiers and snowboarders in 2019, Aleck has been driving to make outdoor sports—including snow sports, and all forms of cycling—more immersive, social, and safe. Having recently acquired leading impact detection technology company Tocsen, Aleck is also closely partnered with globally recognized sports brands including SMITH, uvex, Alpina and EKOÏ. Their purpose-built premium audio, group communication and crash sensor products are all available at aleck.io.

About Smith
Originating from Sun Valley, Idaho, Smith was founded in 1965 with the invention of the first snow goggle featuring a sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam. With over 50 years of innovation and design experience, Smith is widely known today as an industry leader that pioneers advanced eyewear and helmets that incorporate dynamic technologies, optimized performance and clean styling to fuel fun beyond walls. Smith seeks to power thrilling experiences in snow, surf, bike, fish and peak performance outdoor adventures with a comprehensive collection that exudes modern style and vibrant personality. To Smith, the experience is everything. Smith is part of Safilo Group. Additional information is available at smithoptics.com.