The present invention is a protective helmet having multiple zones of protection suitable for use in construction work, athletic endeavors, and similar activities. The helmet includes a hard outer protective that is suspended over a hard anchor zone by elastic cords extending between an elastomeric zone between the outer and inner zones. Fluid filed bladders are positioned in the elastomeric zone and bulge through one or more of a plurality of apertures located in the outer zone. In one embodiment, an additional crumple zone is present. The structure enables the helmet to divert linear and rotational forces away from the user's braincase.