Review: K2 Phase MIPS Helmet

Published on 01/27/2024 · 3 min readCurated Expert, Ray H, has tested this product to give you their unbiased, definitive take.
Ray H, Snowboarding Expert
By Snowboarding Expert Ray H
5 photos
Photo by Ray H

The Curated Take

5.0/5

The K2 Phase MIPS Helmet is ideal for skiers and snowboarders looking for a safe, comfortable, and versatile helmet. It features MIPS technology for advanced brain protection, particularly in rotational falls. The helmet is known for its unmatched comfort, lack of internal pressure points, and soft, warm padding. Its adjustability stands out, accommodating different headwear due to the K2Dialed fit system. The helmet is also highly durable and provides excellent ventilation for both warm and cold days. However, it does have minor drawbacks, such as the brim sometimes hitting goggles and a fraying buckle cover.

Ideal for
  • Added protection
  • Unmatched comfort
  • Great ventilation
Not ideal for
  • Brim sometimes hits goggles
  • Buckle cover frays
Waterproofing
Ray H, Curated Expert
I haven’t had any issues with waterproofing on the K2 Phase MIPS Helmet. On the wettest of days, it keeps my head dry and warm. What is unique is great...Read more
Durability
Ray H, Curated Expert
I bought this helmet first a few years ago. I rode with it for about three years and never once had an issue with durability. Everything stayed intact from the...Read more
Comfort
Ray H, Curated Expert
Many helmets have uncomfortable pressure points inside due to the styrofoam protective layer. The K2 Phase MIPS doesn’t have this, and the padding is softer to the touch than many...Read more
Ventilation
Ray H, Curated Expert
In the front of the K2 Phase MIPS Helmet, there are adjustable sliding vents to deliver air to the front. I crank it open if it’s a spring skiing day,...Read more
Adjustability
Ray H, Curated Expert
The K2 Phase MIPS Helmet allows me to adjust the tightness of what I’m wearing underneath my helmet. On a cold day, I wear a beanie, so I turn the...Read more
Protection
Ray H, Curated Expert
MIPS is a brain protection system that can offer increased protection in falls where the head experiences rotational forces from contacting the snow or other objects. I fell so hard...Read more

Curated Experts are not sponsored by brands. Their reviews are based on their honest experiences testing products.
About the helmets
  • Model: K2 Phase MIPS Helmet
Test conditions
  • When I bought this: 3 years ago
  • Where I’ve used it: All over the country in pow, groomers, park, and ice.
  • How many times I've used it: 50

Expert Reviews of the K2 Phase MIPS Helmet

 The K2 Phase MIPS Helmet is the only helmet I’ve ever bought more than once. It's not because it isn't durable, but because I took a nasty spill and needed a new one. But, hey, that’s what they’re for, right? The overall comfort of the helmet is unmatched. I’ve noticed some helmets have pressure points that are a nuisance and feel uncomfortable. The K2 Phase fits comfortably around my head with or without a hat underneath. The unique feature is that in the back, there is a dial to adjust the overall tightness of the helmet on my head to always give me the best fit, whether I have a beanie or a face mask on. In addition, there are also adjustable vents in the front to open for those warmer spring days to get a little extra air to my head. Even on the coldest days when these vents are closed, I do not feel any air seeping through. I would recommend this helmet to anyone, whether a beginner or an expert.

Product Specs

Age GroupAdult
GenderMen's
Model year2023
Helmet styleHalf shell
MIPSMIPS
Helmet ventingActive Matrix Venting System

Review Ratings

Waterproofing

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. I haven’t had any issues with waterproofing on the K2 Phase MIPS Helmet. On the wettest of days, it keeps my head dry and warm. What is unique is great waterproofing and breathability when I’m sweating. It allows me to release some steam and not overheat. It really is a great balance. I'm glad K2 has perfected it.

Durability

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. I bought this helmet first a few years ago. I rode with it for about three years and never once had an issue with durability. Everything stayed intact from the exterior shell and the inside padding to the ear flaps and strap under the chin. I had to buy a new one because I took a nasty spill and cracked the back of it. I would expect any helmet to crack if anyone fell as hard as I did. But my head didn’t crack, and that’s the important part!

Comfort

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. Many helmets have uncomfortable pressure points inside due to the styrofoam protective layer. The K2 Phase MIPS doesn’t have this, and the padding is softer to the touch than many helmets on the market. In addition, the ear flaps are thick and soft and keep my ears extra warm and comfortable.

Ventilation

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. In the front of the K2 Phase MIPS Helmet, there are adjustable sliding vents to deliver air to the front. I crank it open if it’s a spring skiing day, and I want my head to breathe a bit. Vice versa on the coldest days when I can keep it closed and stay warm.

Adjustability

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. The K2 Phase MIPS Helmet allows me to adjust the tightness of what I’m wearing underneath my helmet. On a cold day, I wear a beanie, so I turn the K2Dialed fit system to loosen my helmet to fit my head and the beanie comfortably. When it’s warm out, I can do just the opposite and tighten it for a safe and snug fit.

Protection

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. MIPS is a brain protection system that can offer increased protection in falls where the head experiences rotational forces from contacting the snow or other objects. I fell so hard one time it cracked the outer shell of the helmet while catching a heel edge. My brain and head were more than okay, so I now only trust the K2 Phase MIPS Helmet. I have since bought another one, and it’s a relief knowing I have that added protection. 

FAQs

What do you love about this product?

The best part about the K2 Phase MIPS Helmet is the adjustability and comfort. With the dial on the back, it can always be adjusted to fit correctly, whether I'm wearing a beanie, skullcap, or nothing.

What was your favorite moment with this gear?

My favorite moment was catching a heel edge off a jump, smacking my head, and walking away fine. Head protection is so important.

Why did you choose this product?

I first chose this helmet because it was comfortable and fit my needs to adapt to changing weather conditions depending on what’s underneath my helmet. I bought my second one because it saved my head from serious trauma the first time I wiped out.

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