Helmet Reviewed: Smith Method Pro Helmet
MSRP: $165.00
Color: Matte Black
Size: Large (59-63cm)
Product Details from Smith
Protection
- Lightweight in-mold construction fuses the exterior shell and EPS foam for a one-piece design that’s lightweight and durable
- Zonal KOROYD® coverage for lightweight, energy-absorbing, and ventilated impact protection
- Mips® Brain Protection System reduces rotational forces caused by angled impacts to the head
- Certification: ASTM F 2040, CE EN 1077:2007 CLASS B
Fit / Integration
- Designed for ultimate integration with Smith goggles for maximum comfort and venting
- AirEvac ventilation system integrates with Smith goggles for fog-free lenses
- Micro-adjustable dial fit system for easy, on-the-go size adjustment
- Available in Round Contour Fit to better match rounder head shapes
Features
- Eight fixed vents for consistent airflow
- Magnetic chin strap buckle makes for easy one-hand operation
- Aleck® audio systems compatible
- Removable Snapfit SL2 ear pads add warmth and are audio-chip compatible
- Removable goggle strap lock for streamlined shell when goggles are worn under helmet
- Beanie compatible
Intended Use:
Snowboarding, all snow sports, anyone looking for a lightweight helmet with superior MIPS protection for your brain.
Review Date and Location: November 2024 – February 2025 in Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah.
Review:
The Smith Method Pro Helmet is a top-tier choice for skiers and snowboarders seeking a blend of safety, comfort, and style. This helmet is an upgrade from the standard Method MIPS, offering additional features that enhance its performance and usability.
I had the opportunity to test the Smith Method Pro MIPS Helmet over the last few months. From the moment I put it on, I could tell that this helmet was designed with comfort in mind. The micro-adjustable fit system allowed me to achieve a snug, custom fit that stayed secure throughout the day. I generally do not like ear pads in my helmets, and they were easily removed from this helmet.
On the slopes, the helmet’s performance was outstanding. The hybrid shell construction provided a sense of security, and the MIPS technology offered peace of mind, knowing I had extra protection. One of the most impressive aspects was the AirEvac ventilation system. In variable conditions, my goggles remained fog-free, and my head stayed cool and dry. The magnetic chin buckle was a convenient feature, allowing me to quickly fasten and unfasten the helmet with mittens on.
Despite the fixed vents, which I initially worried about in colder conditions, I found that wearing a thicker buff kept me warm without compromising ventilation. The Koroyd technology, described below, not only enhanced safety but also contributed to better airflow.
Design and Construction
The Method Pro MIPS helmet is designed with a hybrid shell construction, combining a lightweight in-mold construction with a durable ABS shell. This design ensures a robust yet lightweight helmet that can withstand the rigors of intense skiing and snowboarding. The helmet features MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), which reduces rotational forces during angled impacts, providing enhanced protection for the brain.
Additionally, the helmet incorporates Koroyd technology, a honeycomb-like structure that absorbs impact forces and enhances ventilation. This technology is strategically placed in high-impact areas to maximize safety without compromising breathability.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is a key aspect of the Method Pro MIPS helmet. The interior padding features thin but dense foam in critical areas such as the forehead, back of the head, and neck. This padding provides all-day comfort without adding bulk. The helmet’s lining is soft and cozy, enhancing the overall comfort level. The helmet also includes a micro-adjustable fit system, allowing for precise adjustments to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.
The ear pads are designed with a contoured fit, thicker at the base and thinner where the main part of the ear sits. This design eliminates pressure points and ensures a comfortable fit. The helmet is also beanie-compatible, allowing for additional warmth on colder days. The ear pads are also easily removed for those who prefer not to use them.
Ventilation
The Method Pro MIPS helmet features eight fixed vents that provide consistent airflow, helping to regulate temperature and prevent overheating. While the fixed vents offer good ventilation, they cannot be closed, which may be a drawback in extremely cold conditions. However, I found that wearing a thicker buff or balaclava can help mitigate this issue.
Performance
The Method Pro MIPS helmet excels in various performance aspects, making it a versatile choice for different skiing and snowboarding conditions. The helmet’s lightweight construction and low bulk make it suitable for both resort and backcountry use. The AirEvac ventilation system efficiently vents out moisture, preventing goggle fogging and ensuring clear vision.
The helmet’s magnetic chin buckle allows for easy one-handed operation, even with gloves on. This feature adds to the helmet’s convenience and usability. The helmet is also compatible with Aleck audio systems, allowing riders to enjoy music or take calls without removing their helmet.
Durability and Safety
The Method Pro MIPS helmet is built to last, with a durable construction that can withstand multiple impacts. The in-mold construction fuses the exterior shell with the EPS foam liner, creating a one-piece design that enhances durability. The helmet complies with ASTM F 2040 and CE EN 1077:2007 Class B alpine ski and snowboard helmet safety standards, ensuring it meets rigorous safety requirements.
Overall Impressions
The Smith Method Pro MIPS Helmet is a high-performance helmet that offers a great balance of safety, comfort, and style. Its hybrid shell construction, MIPS technology, and Koroyd protection make it a standout choice for advanced snowboarders and skiers. I found the helmet’s comfort features, including the micro-adjustable fit system and magnetic chin strap buckle, ensure a snug and comfortable fit for all-day wear.
While the fixed vents may be a drawback in extremely cold conditions, the helmet’s overall performance and features make it a great investment. Whether you’re carving down groomers, hitting the terrain park, or exploring the backcountry, the Smith Method Pro MIPS helmet delivers exceptional protection and comfort.
| Style: |  (4.5 / 5) |
| Comfort: | (4.5 / 5) |
| Performance: | (4.5 / 5) |
| Overall: | (4.5 / 5) |