Review: Smith Scout MIPS Helmet

Published on 02/08/2024 · 3 min readCurated Expert, Annika L., has tested this product to give you their unbiased, definitive take.
Annika L., Ski Expert
By Ski Expert Annika L.
6 photos
Photo by Annika L.

The Curated Take

4.5/5

The Smith Scout MIPS Helmet is an excellent choice for skiers and snowboarders seeking a reliable, all-around helmet for everyday use. It combines industry-standard ABS and MIPS protection to safeguard against direct and rotational impacts, making it suitable for beginners and experts. Its adjustable pads ensure a customizable fit for various head sizes, enhancing comfort and protection. While it may feel slightly heavy and could benefit from improved ventilation, its durable construction and compatibility with Smith goggles for reduced fogging make it a practical option. The helmet's simplicity, effectiveness, and style offer great value, especially for those prioritizing safety without unnecessary extras.

Ideal for
  • Great for everyday skiing and snowboarding
  • ABS and MIPS protection
  • Adjustable pads for different head sizes
Not ideal for
  • Could have slightly better ventilation
  • Slightly heavy feel
Waterproofing
Annika L., Curated Expert
The hardshell exterior of the Smith Scout provides excellent waterproofing for everyday use. If it is pouring rain or I am out in a blizzard all day, I can expect...Read more
Durability
Annika L., Curated Expert
This helmet is made with durable materials that are scratch-resistant and protective. I have bumped many trees and branches on backcountry adventures, and I can hardly tell from the exterior....Read more
Comfort
Annika L., Curated Expert
The Scout is a comfortable helmet that can be adjusted to fit my head size. The inner pads can be adjusted to customize the fit and can also be removed...Read more
Protection
Annika L., Curated Expert
The Smith Scout features industry-standard MIPS and ABS protection systems that will protect my head in the case of a crash or impact. With adjustable pads and a liner, this...Read more
Ventilation
Annika L., Curated Expert
The Scout does not have vents on the top or front, so overall ventilation could be slightly better. Other helmet options offer vents that can be opened and closed; however,...Read more
Adjustability
Annika L., Curated Expert
The Smith Scout has a variety of adjustable features to customize the helmet to my head. This includes an adjustable and padded chin strap, removable earpads, and an adjustable inner...Read more

Curated Experts are not sponsored by brands. Their reviews are based on their honest experiences testing products.
About the helmets
  • Model: Smith Scout MIPS Helmet
Test conditions
  • When I bought this: 2018
  • Where I’ve used it: Resort, backcountry, high Alpine, and sledding
  • How many times I've used it: 200

Expert Reviews of the Smith Scout MIPS Helmet

Annika L. The Smith Scout MIPS Helmet is a great all-around helmet for beginners and expert skiers alike. Behind the helmet's simple aesthetic is top-of-line, industry-standard ABS and MIPS protection, keeping one's head safe from direct and multi-directional impacts. The Scout is equipped with removable pads to increase ventilation on warm days and keep me warm on cold days. They also allow me to adjust the helmet to a variety of head shapes and sizes. There is a clasp on the back to secure my goggles and seamless integration with Smith goggles to reduce fogging. I have used this helmet for many years, and it has served me well at the resort and in the backcountry. This helmet is a great choice for skiers of all kinds who want a reliable, stylish helmet that will perform in all conditions.

Product Specs

Age GroupAdult
GenderUnisex
Model year2025
Helmet styleHalf shell
MIPSMIPS
Helmet ventingFixed Venting

Review Ratings

Waterproofing

5/5
Annika L. gave 5 of 5 stars. The hardshell exterior of the Smith Scout provides excellent waterproofing for everyday use. If it is pouring rain or I am out in a blizzard all day, I can expect the earpads to get damp; however, in my experience, even when damp, the helmet stays warm and comfortable. The Smith Scout is "beanie compatible," so if I need extra insulation from the elements, I can easily fit a hat or balaclava underneath with no discomfort.

Durability

5/5
Annika L. gave 5 of 5 stars. This helmet is made with durable materials that are scratch-resistant and protective. I have bumped many trees and branches on backcountry adventures, and I can hardly tell from the exterior. All the components are high quality, and after five years of use, nothing has broken or shown any signs of wear and tear.

Comfort

4/5
Annika L. gave 4 of 5 stars. The Scout is a comfortable helmet that can be adjusted to fit my head size. The inner pads can be adjusted to customize the fit and can also be removed for increased ventilation on warmer days. The chin buckle is equipped with a padded cover, so there is no chaffing on my chin.

Protection

5/5
Annika L. gave 5 of 5 stars. The Smith Scout features industry-standard MIPS and ABS protection systems that will protect my head in the case of a crash or impact. With adjustable pads and a liner, this helmet is customizable to my head so that it fits snuggly and maximizes the protective features of the helmet.

Ventilation

4/5
Annika L. gave 4 of 5 stars. The Scout does not have vents on the top or front, so overall ventilation could be slightly better. Other helmet options offer vents that can be opened and closed; however, the Scout has eight simple vents. There is one vent above the goggle to decrease fogging, vents on the back of the helmet, and the ear padding can be removed if desired.

Adjustability

4/5
Annika L. gave 4 of 5 stars. The Smith Scout has a variety of adjustable features to customize the helmet to my head. This includes an adjustable and padded chin strap, removable earpads, and an adjustable inner fit system that allows me to customize the fit to my specific head shape. This also allows me to wear a hat or balaclava underneath without sacrificing comfort.

FAQs

What do you love about this product?

Annika L. I love that the Smith Scout MIPS Helmet is simple, effective, and stylish. It has all the features I need to feel protected, warm, and confident without any unnecessary bells and whistles. The Scout features a multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS) to keep me feeling safe on my most daring days on the mountain. Additional features include insulated and removable ear flaps, an adjustable inner liner, and seamless anti-fog integration with Smith goggles.

Why did you choose this product?

Annika L. I chose the Scout because I was looking for a helmet that would fit my small head and last me a long time. The Scout checked all the boxes for me, with adjustable pads that keep the helmet snug on my head and durable materials that barely have a scratch on them. And the price was right; the Scout is an affordable helmet that appeals to both beginners and experts alike. The matte finish, which is available in many colors, is a great addition to any ski aesthetic.

What is the value for the money versus other options?

Annika L. The Smith Scout is excellent value for the money. Safety should be the number one priority when purchasing a helmet, and the Scout features both MIPS and ABS technology that minimizes head and spine injury in the case of a crash. At around $105, this helmet provides everything one needs without breaking the budget and will be more durable than other lower-quality helmets of a similar price.

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