The story behind OICAN
What does it take to achieve the impossible?
Sometimes it starts with persistence. Sometimes with a desire to make a change.
And sometimes, with the need to protect someone you love.
That’s where OICAN began.
The idea
It all started summer 2020
In the summer of 2020, Sofie’s son had just turned one. That’s when the family learned he was living with a chronic condition that made him more vulnerable to injury if he fell.
Since he was still unsteady on his feet, they were advised to use a cut-out cushion under his clothes for protection. But it was uncomfortable, visible, and drew unwanted attention from other children.
That’s when the first ideas began to take shape.
Research
A gap in everyday protection
As Sofie started digging deeper, one thing became clear: there was plenty of protection for sports and high-risk activities – but almost nothing designed to work discreetly in everyday life.
She shared her thoughts with her sister Sarah, and together they decided to give it a try.
But where do you even begin?
The founders
To find a solution
Neither Sofie nor Sarah had any prior experience in protective equipment or the apparel industry. Sofie has a background in political science with a focus on sustainability, while Sarah studied health and behavioral science.
But both have always been problem-solvers. From an early age, they learned one simple mindset: if you want something, you work for it. A problem? You find a solution.
Testing materials
"You wont find what you're looking for"
Most protective materials on the market are made from PU or PVC plastics – materials that can be harmful to both users and those who produce them.
Sofie and Sarah were clear about one thing: they didn’t want to reduce one risk by creating another. But was it really possible to find a material that could offer protection while still being discreet, comfortable, and kind to the environment?
A materials expert told them they wouldn’t find what they were looking for.
The result
An unique technology
What could have been the end became the beginning of something new.
With support from Science Park incubators and Vinnova, a cross-disciplinary team was formed – bringing together researchers, material experts, and biomechanical engineers. Together, they challenged conventional thinking. And four years later, a new solution began to take shape.
A new kind of protective material.
Non-toxic and just a few millimeters thin—yet designed to absorb impact from everyday bumps. Thanks to its slim profile, it can be seamlessly integrated into hats and headbands without compromising comfort or style.
Created to offer an extra layer of protection in everyday life.
OICAN TODAY
For all ages
Today, OICAN is a brand for people of all ages. Whether it’s children exploring the world or adults and seniors on the move – it’s for everyone.
Our goal
Our goal is to redefine how we think about everyday protection.
SafeHat & SafeBand
Take a look at our collection of headbands and hats for all ages. Shop now!
Team OICAN
Sofie Hellström
CEO & CO-founder. Product development & research.
Experience in sales, law, and sustainability.
Sarah Hellstrom
Head of Marketing & CO-founder.
Experience in startups and entrepreneurship since 2014.
Karin Brolin
Expert consultant at Lightness by Design, specialized in impact biomechanics, with a long academic track record from KTH and Chalmers.
Anton Ohlsson
Digital Marketing Specialist
Nina Starck
Design and trend analyst.
Previous experience at a high level within HM, Lindex and IKEA.
Christopher Wadmann
Engineer and product developer.
Experience within the university world.
Marie Rudenstam
Entrepreneur. Business Adviser, Business development, Go To market strategist.
CO founder of Belleco.