The Benefits of a British-Made Cycling Helmet & Why Sustainability Matters
Dashel has had a tough start to 2025. Our beloved manufacturer in Plymouth, Magma Mouldings has closed down for good. It had a visionary owner and so was the first B Corp plastics manufacturer in the world. It had dedicated, talented staff. However, it hasn’t been enough to guard against the difficult times that we are in. Magma’s largest customer (not us) was sold to new owners, who took the decision to move manufacturing to China. British Manufacturing has been labouring under extremely high energy costs for years and the recent national insurance hike was the final straw. Dashel now moves to a factory in the Midlands which has years of experience in moulding and assembly and as competitors close down, the remaining manufacturers have the opportunity to consolidate and grow.
But as a founder, who has to find capital to cope with yet another UK factory move, it has lead me to question my commitment to manufacture in the UK. Especially as the Research & Development grant is no longer available to businesses like ours. There is competent manufacturing and cheaper labour abroad, but I’ve justified it as follows…
Cycling is more than just getting from A to B. It’s about feeling good, making conscious choices. At Dashel, we’ve always been proud not just to design, but make our helmets right here in the UK.
We have proved that you can have style, safety, and sustainability in one lightweight package, so here’s why we are staying a British-made cycling helmet. One that is proud to be a B Corp brand.
The Benefits of a British-Made Cycling Helmet
1. Craftsmanship You Can Feel
There’s something special about products made with care. Each Dashel helmet is hand-finished by our team of trained assemblers, ensuring it not only looks good but lasts. We believe details matter.
2. There’s a love for British made products abroad. We Brits don’t half do ourselves down, but there’s a real affection and admiration abroad for our manufacturing. Especially if its paired with a unique design.
3. Supporting Local Makes a Big Difference
Every Dashel helmet helps keep jobs, skills, and small businesses alive right here in Britain. The webbing factory that we use in Derbyshire has been weaving since the 1700s!
3. Less Air Miles = Happier Planet
Local production means fewer carbon emissions. Our factory is in the UK, so your helmet doesn’t clock up thousands of travel miles before it reaches you, if you are purchasing in Europe.
5. Ethical Every Step of the Way
Choosing British-made means fair wages, safe working conditions, and knowing that what you buy has been made responsibly.
The Bottom Line
When you choose Dashel, you’re choosing thoughtful design, local craftsmanship, and a brand that puts people and the planet first. We’re proud to be part of a community of cyclists who care.
Thanks for all of you who have submitted reviews telling us why you love your Dashel helmet. It has meant the world to me and my team and we always share these with everyone who makes them. Best, Catherine.
