Review: Smith Code MIPS Helmet

By Ski Expert
Lucia L

Smith Code MIPS Helmet
$105.00
$210.00
50% off
8 photos
The Curated Take
4.0/5
The Smith Code MIPS Helmet is ideal for riders seeking a lightweight, skateboard-style helmet. It features a sleek design with removable earmuffs and padding and is equipped with MIPS protection for enhanced safety. However, it lacks a BOA adjustment system and has fewer vents compared to other Smith helmets, which might affect warmth and fit customization. The helmet's durability is commendable, though the matte finish may wear off over time. It's particularly suitable for warmer days as the vents can't be closed. Overall, this helmet offers good value for money, combining essential safety features with a simple, lightweight design.
Ideal for
- More like a skateboard-style helmet
- Removable earmuffs and padding
- Equipped with MIPS protection
Not ideal for
- Lacks a BOA for adjustment
- Not as many vents as other Smith helmets
- Not super warm
Waterproofing

The Smith Code helmet does not have closing vents, which might steer away buyers. However, the vents are placed around the helmet in a way that water should not get...Read more
Durability

I have taken some nasty spills with this helmet, and so far it has held up great. The material seems pretty solid, as well as the padding, earmuffs, and clips....Read more
Comfort

While this helmet is not equipped with a BOA system to easily adjust the sizing, there is a clip-in, clip-out system to slightly adjust the fit. This system has elastic...Read more
Ventilation

The Smith Code is equipped with eight vents that go around the helmet, two of which are right on the front. These vents make sure that the helmet is super...Read more
Adjustability

Although the helmet doesn't have a BOA system to adjust the sizing, it has this clip-in, clip-out system that allows for change between a few charges. The helmet must come...Read more
Protection

One thing I look for in all helmets is the MIPS protection system. My Smith Code is equipped with this system, which helps increase protection. I do think the helmet...Read more
Curated Experts are not sponsored by brands. Their reviews are based on their honest experiences testing products.
Lucia L

About the helmets
- Model: Smith Code MIPS Helmet
Test conditions
- When I bought these: during the 2023 season
- Where I’ve used it: on all terrain around the PNW
- How many times I've used it: 97
Expert Reviews of the Smith Code MIPS Helmet
Lucia L I bought the Smith Code helmet last year and have absolutely loved it. It’s light and not as bulky as other helmets, so it fits well under hoods. I took all the padding out and really like how simple it looks. That being said, this helmet is really, really simple. Size adjustments are limited, and the vents don’t close. The vents are on the back, though, so no rain or water comes in through the top. The front vents keep the helmet breathable and are made so that my brain doesn’t freeze when cold air blows in. This helmet is also equipped with MIPS and provides all the safety needed, skipping the frills.
Product Specs
Age Group | Adult |
Gender | Unisex |
Model year | 2024 |
Helmet style | Half shell |
MIPS | MIPS |
Helmet venting | Fixed Venting |

Review Ratings
Waterproofing
4/5
Lucia L gave 4 of 5 stars. The Smith Code helmet does not have closing vents, which might steer away buyers. However, the vents are placed around the helmet in a way that water should not get into them. Additionally, there are some layers in the vents that prevent most water from coming in. The helmet is also sleek enough to wear under a hood, so in the worst cases a hood will save you.
Durability
4/5
Lucia L gave 4 of 5 stars. I have taken some nasty spills with this helmet, and so far it has held up great. The material seems pretty solid, as well as the padding, earmuffs, and clips. I did notice that over time the matte finish of the helmet started to wear off a little bit, especially where I rest my goggles on the helmet when not wearing it.
Comfort
4/5
Lucia L gave 4 of 5 stars. While this helmet is not equipped with a BOA system to easily adjust the sizing, there is a clip-in, clip-out system to slightly adjust the fit. This system has elastic in the rear that stretches to fit comfortably. The liner that comes in the helmet is soft and well padded, which adds to the comfort. The earmuffs aren't overly stuffy, which can be a problem with some helmets.
Ventilation
4/5
Lucia L gave 4 of 5 stars. The Smith Code is equipped with eight vents that go around the helmet, two of which are right on the front. These vents make sure that the helmet is super breathable and well ventilated while wearing it. I never felt that it was too warm; however, it does get a bit breezy in there, especially on the colder, windy days. It was not brain freeze worthy, but wearing a balaclava is recommended.
Adjustability
4/5
Lucia L gave 4 of 5 stars. Although the helmet doesn't have a BOA system to adjust the sizing, it has this clip-in, clip-out system that allows for change between a few charges. The helmet must come off to get adjusted, which is not super ideal when riding. However, once it's adjusted, it should be good for the day.
Protection
4/5
Lucia L gave 4 of 5 stars. One thing I look for in all helmets is the MIPS protection system. My Smith Code is equipped with this system, which helps increase protection. I do think the helmet could offer more protection if it were a bit thicker, for the material seems pretty slim and thin. But I have taken a good number of spills with this helmet, and it's held up super well.
FAQs
What do you love about this product?
Lucia L My favorite bit about the Smith Code helmet has to be how sleek and simple the design is. I am not a huge fan of a bulky helmet and was looking for something that would be sleek and light. The Code is on the thinner side. which helps reduce the bulk. Additionally, it doesn't have adjustable vents, which helps slim out the design. Overall the helmet is compact, thin, and pretty lightweight.
What was your favorite moment with this gear?
Lucia L The moments I enjoyed the most with this helmet had to be during the warmer days. I removed all the padding and ear covers from the helmet, which made it even lighter and sleeker. However, that also made it a bit colder, especially as the vents don't close. On the warmer spring days, this helmet was perfect as it was breathable and lightweight, similar to a skate helmet.
Why did you choose this product?
Lucia L I chose the Smith Code helmet, as I was looking for something lightweight and sleek that would not feel bulky while riding. This helmet fit the bill. The simple design is very light and smooth — I can easily wear a hood over the helmet, and it feels snug but quite open. The padding and earmuffs are easy to remove, which can reduce the weight and snugness of the helmet.
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