Prototype of the ‘Hincherton Hayfever Helmet’

A prototype of the ‘Hincherton Hayfever Helmet’, a device consisting of battery powered fan, air filter and clear plastic bubble helmet, developed by Richard Hinchcliffe to prevent the onset of symptoms of hay fever, United Kingdom, 1980s

As treatment options for his hay fever had little impact, British architect Richard Hinchcliffe decided to develop a device to prevent him breathing in pollen in the first place. His patented device consists of a belt pack with a battery-powered fan that wafts filtered air through a hose to a clear plastic bubble encasing the wearer’s head. Hinchliffe claimed the helmet would provide a full half-day’s relief even when used for only 20 or 30 minutes and then removed.

Approximately 600 were sold in the early 1980s and were featured on United Kingdom breakfast televisions shows and on the front page of ‘National Geographic’ in October 1984. However, the device was difficult to wear in the warmer summer months and it was difficult to hold conversations as the sound of the person speaking was muffled. The device takes its name from combination of Hinchcliffe’s surname and his business partner, Ann Atherton.