Expert Comparison: Smith Mission MIPS Helmet vs Smith Holt Helmet

Published on 02/13/2024 · 5 min readCompare Smith Mission MIPS Helmet and Smith Holt Helmet. Get expert insight below!
Leonid Cha, Snowboarding Expert
Clint Hobbs, Snowboarding Expert
Brennan P, Ski Expert
Contributed By Snowboarding Expert Leonid Cha, Clint Hobbs, Brennan P, Kyle Strachan, Jed Daltorio and others

VS

 

Side by side comparison

Out of stock
Smith Mission MIPS Helmet
Out of stock
Smith Holt Helmet
Price
$140.00
from:$56.00
30% off
Color options
User rating
5(6)
5(2)
The Curated Take

Best for snowboarders seeking safety, comfort and durability in a helmet.

Best for any kind of riding due to its durability, comfort, and adjustability.

Helmet style
Half shell
Half shell
MIPS
MIPS
No

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 Mission MIPS Helmet and the Holt Helmet. Both helmets are designed with the rider's safety and comfort in mind, but they each have their unique features and benefits. The Mission MIPS Helmet is a feature-rich helmet with MIPS technology for added safety, adjustable vents for customized climate control, and a lightweight design for comfort. On the other hand, the Holt Helmet is a simple, durable, and affordable option that offers great value for money. While both helmets are excellent choices, the Mission MIPS Helmet edges out the Holt Helmet in terms of advanced safety features and customization options. However, the Holt Helmet is a solid choice for those on a budget or those who prefer a simpler design.

The Smith Mission MIPS Helmet is a top-tier helmet that offers a blend of safety, comfort, and style. It's equipped with MIPS technology, which provides an extra layer of protection against rotational impacts. This is a crucial feature as most falls on the slopes involve rotational impacts. The helmet also features a lightweight in-mold construction that fuses the interior and exterior of the helmet into a single piece, resulting in a super lightweight design.

One of the standout features of the Mission MIPS Helmet is its adjustable ventilation system. It has 14 vents, and you can open and close the ones on the top for customized climate control. This feature is particularly useful during intense runs or warmer days when you need extra airflow. The helmet also has a unique AirEvac system that prevents your goggles from fogging up, ensuring clear vision at all times.

The Mission MIPS Helmet also boasts removable ear pads and is compatible with Smith goggles for a seamless fit. It also has a Boa adjustment system that allows for a secure and customizable fit. The helmet is also Bluetooth compatible, allowing for easy communication on the slopes.

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.

Leonid Cha
Snowboarding Expert

The Smith Holt Helmet is a simple yet effective helmet that offers great value for money. It's a stylish helmet with a clean look and smooth edges, making it suitable for any type of riding. Despite its simplicity, the Holt Helmet doesn't compromise on safety or comfort. It's durable and can withstand tough knocks, ensuring that it will last you a long time.

The Holt Helmet features ample vents on the top to help with ventilation. While these vents are not adjustable, they do a decent job of promoting good airflow and preventing goggle fog. The helmet also has a removable goggle clip that secures your goggles in place and prevents snow from getting in.

One of the unique features of the Holt Helmet is its versatility. It's not just a winter helmet - it can also be used for summer activities, making it a great all-year-round option. The helmet also has removable ear pads for extra ventilation during warmer months.

The Holt helmet from Smith is a great option for people who do not want to spend over one hundred dollars but still want to protect their heads and look good doing so.

Clint Hobbs
Snowboarding Expert

Similarities

Both the Smith Mission MIPS Helmet and the Smith Holt Helmet are designed with the rider's safety and comfort in mind. They both feature a sleek and stylish design that's sure to turn heads on the slopes. Both helmets also have a ventilation system to keep your head cool and prevent your goggles from fogging up. They also both feature removable ear pads for extra comfort and versatility.

Both helmets are also designed to be compatible with Smith goggles, ensuring a seamless fit and preventing the dreaded goggle gap. They also both have a goggle clip to secure your goggles in place. Additionally, both helmets are durable and built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use, making them reliable choices for multiple seasons.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both helmets are excellent choices, they cater to different types of riders due to their unique features. The Smith Mission MIPS Helmet is packed with advanced features like MIPS technology, adjustable vents, and a lightweight in-mold construction. This makes it ideal for more advanced riders who prioritize safety and want a helmet that can be customized to their liking. It's also a great choice for riders who often find themselves on challenging trails where the risk of rotational impacts is higher.

On the other hand, the Smith Holt Helmet is a simpler and more affordable option. It doesn't have the advanced features of the Mission MIPS Helmet, but it still offers great protection and comfort. This makes it a great choice for beginners or casual riders who want a reliable and stylish helmet without breaking the bank. It's also a great option for riders who engage in summer activities, thanks to its versatility.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to safety, the Smith Mission MIPS Helmet takes the cake with its MIPS technology and lightweight in-mold construction. For comfort, it's a tie - both helmets offer a comfortable fit and have removable ear pads. In terms of ventilation, the Mission MIPS Helmet wins with its adjustable vents and AirEvac system. Finally, for value for money, the Holt Helmet is the clear winner with its affordable price and versatile design.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Smith Mission MIPS Helmet and the Smith Holt Helmet are excellent choices, each with their unique strengths. The Mission MIPS Helmet is a feature-rich option that offers advanced safety features and customization options, making it ideal for more advanced riders. On the other hand, the Holt Helmet is a simple, durable, and affordable option that offers great value for money, making it a great choice for beginners or casual riders. Ultimately, the best helmet for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. So whether you're hitting the slopes for the first time or you're a seasoned pro, both these helmets are sure to serve you well.

Curated experts can help

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