Review: Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet · Women's
By Ski Expert
Jake Lamb
Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet · Women's
$192.50
$275.00
30% off
6 photos
The Curated Take
4.7/5
The Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet is an excellent choice for skiers and snowboarders seeking style, comfort, and versatility. Its lightweight construction and adjustable ventilation system ensure all-day comfort, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The helmet also integrates seamlessly with Smith goggles, preventing fogging. While it fits round head shapes well, those with oval head shapes may find it less comfortable. Its durability, MIPS technology for brain trauma mitigation, and Koroyd impact-absorbing technology prioritize safety, making it a well-rounded choice for mountain enthusiasts.
Ideal for
- Very lightweight
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Stylish
Not ideal for
- Fits a round head shape
Waterproofing
The Vantage is a breathable helmet due to all of its vents. But this also means some water can make its way in on an especially snowy or even rainy...Read more
Durability
I love how light and comfortable this helmet is. Some lightweight helmets sacrifice durability to achieve a desired weight. The Vantage doesn't. It uses a lightweight foam EPS and Koroyd...Read more
Comfort
I have a large head, and I've always had trouble finding helmets that fit just right. I was so relieved when I tried the Vantage on for the first time...Read more
Ventilation
The Vantage has 21 vents, and many of them are adjustable. There are even two separate zones for adjustment, one for the front vents and one for the back. The...Read more
Adjustability
The Vantage has several modes of fit adjustment. The chin strap can be made shorter or longer and positioned forward or backward. I can adjust the internal MIPS harness up...Read more
Protection
The Vantage stood out to me for two main reasons. The MIPS system is a widely used and proven system for mitigating brain trauma. I believe it's actually saved me...Read more
Curated Experts are not sponsored by brands. Their reviews are based on their honest experiences testing products.
Jake Lamb
About the helmets
- Model: Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet · Women's
Test conditions
- When I bought this: November 2021
- Where I’ve used it: I’ve used this helmet while skiing and snowboarding in a wide range of conditions, from chest-deep pow days to slushy spring days.
- How many times I've used it: 75
Expert Reviews of the Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet
Jake Lamb I bought the Smith Vantage after owning a Bern helmet for a few seasons. I was looking for something more technical in style and performance, and the Vantage absolutely delivered.
The wicking lining is exceptionally comfortable and breathable, and the adjustable air vents mean I can let cool air in when I’m skinning up, close them on an extra cold day, or keep snow out on the lift.
I’ve been a Smith goggles customer for many years and was really impressed at the goggles/helmet integration that this helmet offers. I don’t usually have a problem with fogging up, but the Vantage eliminated any fogging.
I have a pretty round head shape, but I‘m not sure someone with an oval head shape would find this helmet as comfortable. Also, size up if one wears a balaclava or beanie under their lid.
This is a really versatile helmet. It's good for touring, resort days, and everything in between. Overall, the Smith Vantage is a very impressive helmet. And I love the added safety of the MIPs system. I would highly recommend this helmet.
Product Specs
| Age Group | Adult |
| Gender | Women's |
| Model year | 2024 |
| Helmet style | Half shell |
| MIPS | MIPS |
| Helmet venting | Adjustable Venting |
Review Ratings
Waterproofing
4/5
Jake Lamb gave 4 of 5 stars. The Vantage is a breathable helmet due to all of its vents. But this also means some water can make its way in on an especially snowy or even rainy day. That being said, water ingress has only been an issue for me two or three times out of nearly 100 days on the snow. This is a sacrifice I'm willing to make for the breathability and versatility that comes with good, adjustable airflow. The only helmet that won't let in any water is one without vents.
Durability
5/5
Jake Lamb gave 5 of 5 stars. I love how light and comfortable this helmet is. Some lightweight helmets sacrifice durability to achieve a desired weight. The Vantage doesn't. It uses a lightweight foam EPS and Koroyd construction internally and wraps everything in a durable hard shell. I don't have to worry about little bumps on the ski lift or it getting jostled around in the back of my car. So far, it's held up to the abuse of two seasons and nearly 100 days on the snow.
Comfort
5/5
Jake Lamb gave 5 of 5 stars. I have a large head, and I've always had trouble finding helmets that fit just right. I was so relieved when I tried the Vantage on for the first time because it fit perfectly. Even with my BlackStrap balaclava on underneath, there's enough adjustment in the fit system to compensate. The adjustable vents ensure I can regulate my temperature to stay cool and dry.
Ventilation
5/5
Jake Lamb gave 5 of 5 stars. The Vantage has 21 vents, and many of them are adjustable. There are even two separate zones for adjustment, one for the front vents and one for the back. The vents can be closed halfway or fully depending on my riding conditions. If it's cold, but I'm working hard, I can close the front vents and open the rear vents to keep my head protected but let the hot air out the back. Or, on a warm spring day, open everything up and keep fresh air moving. Additionally, the Vantage has vents matching the vents in Smith goggles. This pulls fresh air up and through the goggles to keep them from fogging up and to keep my face dry.
Adjustability
4/5
Jake Lamb gave 4 of 5 stars. The Vantage has several modes of fit adjustment. The chin strap can be made shorter or longer and positioned forward or backward. I can adjust the internal MIPS harness up and down to match my goggle fit best, and it is adjustable for head circumference. The Vantage runs a bit small in my experience, especially if I intend to wear a hat or balaclava underneath.
Protection
5/5
Jake Lamb gave 5 of 5 stars. The Vantage stood out to me for two main reasons. The MIPS system is a widely used and proven system for mitigating brain trauma. I believe it's actually saved me more than once on my cycling helmets. Also, Smith uses what they call Koroyd technology in this helmet. Koroyd is like a bunch of high-tech drinking straws assembled into an impact-absorbing layer within the helmet. I feel safe and confident with all of that technology protecting my noggin.
FAQs
What do you love about this product?
Jake Lamb I love the versatility of the Vantage. Its adjustable vents make it useful in all weather throughout the whole season. Its lightweight makes it a solid choice for light touring, but it’s durable enough for daily resort use, too.
What was your favorite moment with this gear?
Jake Lamb My favorite moment with the Smith Vantage was in April 2022, riding in belly-deep powder at Mt. Bachelor in Oregon. We got 7 feet of snow in a week and couldn’t get enough. Working hard on the way down and chilling on the lift back up, the Vantage kept pace. Due to the goggle vents, my Smith goggles never fogged up.
Why did you choose this product?
Jake Lamb I chose the Vantage for a few reasons. I knew I needed a helmet that would work in a variety of conditions. I also wanted a helmet that was safe and confidence-inspiring. The MIPS system certainly helps with that. Lastly, I wanted a stylish helmet. I’ve been really happy with my Smith Vantage.
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