Abstract: A self-seeking, load-distributing, load-balancing and shock-managing head-engaging system for use inside, and in association with, the shell of a helmet, including (a) a collection of configurationally changeable, shock-absorbing pads removeably and changeably attached/attachable effectively as a variable distribution to the inside of such a shell, and (b) a cinchable, self-seeking/adjusting, self-load-balancing and load distributing chin-strap subsystem operatively associated with the pad distribution, and also attached to the shell. This sub-system is sensitive to the then-particularities of such a pad distribution, and is operable, on cinching of the subsystem through the simple act of pulling on just two strap ends, to stabilize the associated helmet shell on the head of a wearer, with all of the pads in the then-distribution of pads being thereby drawn into proper, defined, shock-managing, load-distributing and load-balancing condition relative to the wearer's head.