Expert Comparison: Smith Scout Helmet vs Smith Mission MIPS Helmet
VS
Side by side comparison | |  Out of stock |
|---|---|---|
Price | $90.00 | $140.00 |
Color options |    |  |
User rating | 5(1) | 5(6) |
The Curated Take | Best for beginner skiers due to its durability, comfort, and adjustability. | Best for snowboarders seeking safety, comfort and durability in a helmet. |
Helmet style | Half shell | Half shell |
MIPS | No | MIPS |
In the world of snow sports, safety is paramount, and a good helmet is a non-negotiable. Today, we're comparing two top-notch helmets from Smith: the Scout Helmet and the Mission MIPS Helmet. Both helmets are designed with the safety and comfort of the wearer in mind, but they each have their unique features and benefits. The Scout Helmet is a great entry-level option, offering durability, comfort, and a reasonable price point. However, it lacks the MIPS technology found in the Mission MIPS Helmet, which provides added protection against rotational impacts. Both helmets are compatible with Smith goggles and have adjustable vents for customized climate control. However, the Mission MIPS Helmet is lighter and has a more advanced ventilation system. In the end, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Smith Scout Helmet summary
The Smith Scout Helmet is a fantastic choice for beginner skiers or those who prefer a more relaxed skiing experience. It's designed with ABS impact protection, which absorbs impact and increases the helmet's durability. The Scout Helmet is compatible with all Smith goggles, reducing fogging and ensuring a seamless fit. It also features a simple aesthetic design with multiple color options, making it easy to match with any skiing ensemble.
However, the Scout Helmet does not have MIPS technology, which is designed to counteract the forces of rotational impacts. This means that if you're planning on skiing more aggressively or in more consequential terrain, you might want to consider upgrading to a helmet with both ABS and MIPS safety features.
The Scout Helmet also lacks a micro-adjustment system, which is often found in other helmets to allow for tightening and loosening based on the size of your head or what base mask you're wearing. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Scout Helmet is a solid, reliable option that offers great value for money.
The Smith Scout Helmet is a great choice for entry-level or more relaxed skiers looking for a durable, safe, and comfortable helmet at a reasonable price point.
The Smith Scout Helmet is a great choice for entry-level or more relaxed skiers looking for a durable, safe, and comfortable helmet at a reasonable price point.
Smith Mission MIPS Helmet summary
The Smith Mission MIPS Helmet is a step up from the Scout Helmet, offering additional safety features and a more advanced design. The standout feature of the Mission MIPS Helmet is the inclusion of MIPS technology, which provides an extra layer of protection against rotational impacts. This makes the helmet an excellent choice for more aggressive skiers or those who frequently tackle challenging terrain.
The Mission MIPS Helmet also features a lightweight in-mold construction, which fuses the interior of the helmet to the exterior for a one-piece design that's super lightweight. It also has a ventilation system with adjustable vents, allowing you to fine-tune breathability on the fly. This has been a fantastic feature throughout the season, from winter storms to spring skiing.
Despite its advanced features, the Mission MIPS Helmet remains comfortable and easy to wear, thanks to its adjustable fit and removable ear pads. It's also durable and holds up well against wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for multiple seasons.
The MIPS technology, which is all about reducing the shock from rotational impacts, gave me a real sense of security, especially when tackling the more challenging trails. It’s reassuring to have that level of protection without feeling like you're wearing bulky equipment.
The MIPS technology, which is all about reducing the shock from rotational impacts, gave me a real sense of security, especially when tackling the more challenging trails. It’s reassuring to have that level of protection without feeling like you're wearing bulky equipment.
Similarities
Both the Smith Scout Helmet and the Smith Mission MIPS Helmet are designed with the safety and comfort of the wearer in mind. They both feature a lightweight design and are compatible with all Smith goggles, reducing fogging and ensuring a seamless fit. Both helmets also have adjustable vents for customized climate control, and they both offer a variety of color options to match any skiing ensemble.
In terms of durability, both helmets are designed to withstand high impacts and hold up well against wear and tear. They also both have removable ear pads for added comfort and versatility.
Differences and Who They're Good For
While both helmets offer excellent protection and comfort, they cater to different types of skiers. The Smith Scout Helmet is a great entry-level option for beginner skiers or those who prefer a more relaxed skiing experience. It's a straightforward, no-frills helmet that offers great value for money. However, it lacks the MIPS technology found in the Mission MIPS Helmet, which provides added protection against rotational impacts.
The Smith Mission MIPS Helmet, on the other hand, is a more advanced option that's ideal for more aggressive skiers or those who frequently tackle challenging terrain. It's lighter than the Scout Helmet and has a more advanced ventilation system, making it a more comfortable option for intense runs or warmer days.
Analysis on Who’s the Winner
When it comes to safety, the Smith Mission MIPS Helmet takes the lead with its MIPS technology, which provides added protection against rotational impacts.
In terms of comfort, both helmets offer a comfortable fit, but the Mission MIPS Helmet's lightweight design and advanced ventilation system give it an edge, especially for more intense runs or warmer days.
For durability, both helmets are designed to withstand high impacts and hold up well against wear and tear. However, the Mission MIPS Helmet's in-mold construction makes it slightly more durable than the Scout Helmet.
Finally, in terms of value for money, the Scout Helmet is a great entry-level option that offers excellent protection and comfort at a reasonable price point. However, if you're willing to invest a bit more for added safety features and advanced design, the Mission MIPS Helmet is worth the extra cost.
Conclusions
In conclusion, both the Smith Scout Helmet and the Smith Mission MIPS Helmet are excellent options for skiers and snowboarders. The Scout Helmet is a great entry-level option that offers durability, comfort, and a reasonable price point. However, it lacks the MIPS technology found in the Mission MIPS Helmet, which provides added protection against rotational impacts.
The Mission MIPS Helmet, on the other hand, is a more advanced option that's ideal for more aggressive skiers or those who frequently tackle challenging terrain. It's lighter than the Scout Helmet and has a more advanced ventilation system, making it a more comfortable option for intense runs or warmer days.
In the end, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. But no matter which helmet you choose, you can rest assured that you're getting a high-quality product from a trusted brand. So gear up, hit the slopes, and enjoy the ride!
