Smith Mission Snow Helmet Review

Quick Specs:

Construction:  Injection-molded

Material: Polycarbonate

Weight:  15.9 ounces

Vents:  14

Visor/Brim: No

Pro:  Comfortable, audio compatible ear pads

Con: Adjustable dial can be tricky with gloves on

Overview

If you are in the market for a lightweight and affordable snow helmet that can do it all, the Smith Mission helmet should be at the top of your list. Below we look at why you should make this your next helmet purchase before hitting the slopes.

Overall Review 

The Smith Mission Helmet is a low-priced versatile snowboard and skiing helmet. This helmet has an adjustable dial fit system with adjustable vents. Designed to be a lightweight backcountry helmet with a look that fits any style. This helmet can cover your needs traveling down the mountain or at the terrain park.

Helmet Fit and Comfort

The Mission helmet comes in 4 different sizes that will fit a variety of head shapes. The adjustable dial system at the back of the head provides additional adjustment to ensure the right fit. Adjusting the dial with gloves on can be tricky, and we found it’s easier to adjust without gloves.

The helmet ear pads fit tightly but do not cause discomfort or squish your ears. They also offer a soft feel and keep you warm when worn without any head covering on downhill runs. One of the best features of this helmet is that the ear pads are Aleck audio systems compatible.

Adjustable Ventilation 

The Smith Mission snow helmet comes with 14 vents that will help cool you down after long downhill runs. The ten vents on the top of the helmet are adjustable and can be opened or closed from the back of the helmet. It is not the best venting helmet on the market but it is capable of providing adequate air flow during and after your many runs down the mountain.

Helmet Weight and Construction

The light weight construction of the Smith Mission snow helmet is a big feature. Its 15.9 oz weight is light enough for use all day skiing or snowboarding.

The adjustable dial-in system adjusts to your head without leaving any pressure points. The mold in style helps reduce its overall weight and when matched with its thick pads allows for a comfortable and secure fit.  This helmet also is equipped with MIPS safety technology. What is MIPS?  MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System.  The helmet’s construction includes a thin material, a slip plane/liner, when on impact allows the material to move independently of the helmet.  This safety technology is designed to reduce the chance of brain injury when in a crash.

Goggle Fitment 

The Smith Mission had no issues fitting a large range of goggles. Its shape and helmet line did not interfere with any goggles paired with it.

It has two vents in the front that direct the cold air over your goggles to prevent fogging. These vents help warm air to escape after a long splitboard run. The google retainer is lightweight and adequate for holding your goggles in place during your runs.

Conclusion

The Smith Mission snow helmet’s lightweight, adjustable venting and low price tag make this helmet the perfect choice for both skiers and snowboarders alike.