Erin Suski

erin SuSki

Designing with curiosity, empathy, and impact.

As a designer, I’m passionate about creating thoughtful, user-centered solutions that are functional, inclusive, and visually engaging. Each project highlights my process — from research and collaboration to prototyping and final execution — with a focus on solving real-world challenges through design.

Project 3

Watermelon Helmet

Spring 2024

In my second semester as a Product Design student at the University of Minnesota, I had the opportunity to work with representatives from a Kansas City-based cycling group who offered valuable insights into the experiences of children of color learning to bike. During our user interviews, a recurring challenge surfaced: traditional helmets often fail to accommodate larger hairstyles or textured hair, creating both safety concerns and barriers to entry.

Inspired by these findings, I focused on designing a helmet solution for adult riders. I developed a modular, tectonic plate–style helmet that adjusts to fit a range of hairstyles, featuring increased cutouts for greater airflow and hairstyle options. I also addressed the lack of vibrant options on the market, designing a colorful prototype — affectionately dubbed the “Watermelon Helmet” — to celebrate self-expression and inclusivity.

User Research & Interviews
Product Sketching
CAD Modeling
Keyshot Rendering
3D Printing
Prototyping
Product Development
Product Post-Processing

©MMXXI

Erin Suski