Smith Vantage MIPS Snow Helmet Review

Quick Specs:

Construction:  Hybrid

Material: Koroyd

Weight:  17.5 ounces

Vents:  21

Visor/Brim: No

Pro:  MIPS technology, Adjustable venting

Con: Price is on the higher end

Despite the higher price, Smith Vantage is one of the industry leaders in snow helmet design and performance. Let’s take a look at what makes this a top-rated helmet.

Overview

The Smith Vantage is a top-performing ski helmet. It features a sleek hybrid design making it one of the best-looking helmets available today. The adjustable vents give you the climate control you need whether its adding airflow on a warm day or the ability to keep the heat in during the coldest downhill runs. The BOA adjustment wheel gives you the perfect fit without compromising on weight.

Safety

The Smith Vantage MIPS is built with a Hybrid SL shell construction. This helmet features the MIPS system and Zonal Koroyd material, which helps to absorb energy and reduces rotational forces that gives greater protection for the head. The Smith Vantage MIPS holds several different safety certifications which proves that wearing the Vantage will provide you the protection during the winter while riding the terrain park or taking on last ski run for the day.

Fit and Comfort

The Vantage is available in four different helmet sizes and fits a wide variety of head shapes. The adjustable BOA 360 Fit System is an easy to use dial, that with a just slight turn will ensure maximum comfortability and can be operated with your gloves on.

The Vantage MIPS also has removable Snapfit SL2 ear pads that do not press too tightly which makes it one of the most comfortable MIPS helmets on the market.  Another quality feature is that it is compatible with Aleck, Skullcandy, and Outdoor Tech audio systems.

Ventilation and Warmth

The Smith Vantage MIPS adjustable vents put it at the top of the skiing helmet market. The 21 vents allow you to fine-tune the helmet to any condition found on the slopes.  With the vents closed, it provides the warmth you need during your downhill snowboard runs in even the coldest of weather. Open a vent or two to get the required ventilation and cool you down when trekking uphill for your next splitboard run.

The XT2 antimicrobial lining helps keep the Vantage odor free.

Shape and Goggles

The Vantage is available in many matte color options giving it high points in the style category. A few of the matte color options available are matte black, olive, french navy, and carnelian. The striped, woolen earpieces only add to the overall style score.

The overall shape and size of the Vantage works well with most goggles. The strap holder is simple to use and does a good job of keeping the strap in its correct place.

The small brim on the front only adds to the look of the helmet and did not interfere with the goggles when placed on the helmet’s brim.

Helmet Weight

The helmet’s weight is about average despite its helmet size, features, and comfort. It is still light enough for cross-country runs even with all the adjustability it offers which can add a significant amount of weight to the snow helmet.

Conclusion

The Vantage proves that Smith can make a top-performing helmet that has style and an appealing shape that remains lightweight and versatile. If you are an avid skier, or snowboarder, and are looking for a top-tier helmet that looks good, the Smith Vantage should be your choice when you are looking to buy.