Bumpers: Impactful Information

Back in 1971, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 215, which in essence made bumpers on automobiles mandatory. But long before they had to, auto manufacturers were not only adding bumpers to their cars, they were elevating the bumper to a high art form. Back in the 50s, a time known for design flamboyance and the massive use of chrome plating, artillery shell-shaped bumpers known as Dagmars were in vogue. Crafted from solid slabs of pure American steel, the look fell out of style by 1960 due to massive weight and a switch in auto design to a more aerodynamic look.

Today, most vehicle bumpers are actually hidden inside the body work behind the bumper covers. Massive chrome slatherings no longer appeal to the American consumer, and the more streamlined looks have taken precedence. Front and rear bumpers are now integrated into the sleek body stylings, with the actual shock-absorbing functionality cleverly disguised within the inner workings of the chassis. Unfortunately, it seems like the big bumper fad has finally run its course—or has it?

There is one group of automotive enthusiasts out there embracing the benefits and style of ultra-massive bumpers—the off-roaders. Realizing that the rigors of off-road driving takes a serious toll on their vehicles, companies like Smittybilt and Rugged Ridge are building elaborate bumpers, complete with plates and bars and heavy-duty welds. These set ups are designed to hold jacks, winches and other off-road tools, as well as the ability to take a beating. Plus, if a driver needs to help a buddy get unstuck, they can just kiss the other rig with their off-road bumper and be on their way.

Whether you’re a fan of the old artillery-shell styled Dagmars on a 58 Caddy, the sleek plastic bumper covers found on modern day street cruisers or those solid-steel, skid-plate equipped winch-mount bumpers that are all the rage in the rock-crawling scene, the aftermarket is the place to find ‘em. Just make sure your vehicle’s equipped with bumpers in some form or another, cuz without ‘em, you’ll be getting a quick fix-it-ticket from those boys in blue.