Top 10 Ski Helmets

Although its use is not mandatory in certain countries, you should definitely wear a good ski helmet when practicing snow sports. Entry-level skiers are more likely to fall, but advanced skiers are the ones who generally have more serious accidents. So, whatever your level, make sure you protect yourself before you hit the slopes.

Today’s helmets are made from high-quality materials that offer great impact resistance while featuring ergonomic, comfortable, and casual designs. Also, they can use advanced technologies such as the MIPS system, which dramatically reduces the risk of brain damage in the event of an impact.

Many designs are available on the market, and it can be a bit confusing to understand their differences. Don’t worry, though! In this article, I’m going to explain the main characteristics to consider when choosing a good helmet. In addition, I will review the best models of the year, so that you can find the one that best suits your needs.

Check out other guides to find the best intermediate skis, pants, goggles, jackets, ski poles, and ski boots.

THE 10 BEST SKI HELMETS

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SMITH VANTAGE MIPS

FEATURES: MIPS protection system. Aerocore construction. BOA system for improved fit. Detachable Snapfit ear pads.

Considered the best ski helmet for several consecutive years, the Smith Vantage offers the perfect balance between protection, comfort, and style. The ventilation system features 21 adjustable vents that guarantee constant airflow. It’s not the lightest on the list because it has a more robust construction. However, it’s so comfortable that you will forget you are wearing it. It’s a bit expensive, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best options on the market.

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OAKLEY MOD 5 MIPS

FEATURES: MIPS protection system. Modular Brim System. BOA closure for a better fit.

The Oakley Mod 5 seriously rivals the Smith Vantage. The interchangeable-brim MBS system makes it compatible with different types of goggles. Actually, many skiers prefer the Oakley Mod 5 because of the goggle-compatible feature, the innovative ventilation system, and the modern design. The main drawback is that it’s not very lightweight, so it wouldn’t be the best option for backcountry skiing.

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POC OBEX SPIN

FEATURES: Ultralight fit system. Perfect integration with Poc brand goggles. High-performance EPS liner for added protection.

The Poc Obex Spin is a premium model with great performance and a pretty light weight for a hybrid construction. The high-resistance ABS front provides solidity to the design. It’s compatible with Poc aid ear pads, which are equipped with micro and speakers, so you can stay connected at all times. The aid ear pads are sold separately. Overall, it’s a high-quality option at a slightly more affordable price.

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SCOTT SYMBOL 2 PLUS

CHARACTERISTICS: WRAS 2 adjustment system. D30 protection for energy absorption. MIPS system. Winner of the ISPO Gold award.

Scott has used the latest technology to create a high-performing, innovative design. The ventilation system is really efficient, and the airflow is constant, sometimes even when the vents are closed. This can be a problem for people who are sensitive to the cold. It’s quite lightweight, which makes it a great option for off-piste skiing.

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SWEET PROTECTION SWITCHER MIPS

FEATURES: BIO-MAPPED protection based on head geometry. Occigrip mechanism for a custom fit. Washable inner lining.

The Sweet Protection Switcher has received several awards, as well as many positive reviews from elite skiers. It provides great temperature control, as it features one of the most advanced ventilation systems on the list. Also, it’s equipped with MIPS technology and is comfortable to wear. Overall, it’s one of the best options of the year.

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BLACK CREVICE GSTAAD

CHARACTERISTICS: Antibacterial inner lining. Adjustable chin strap. Lightweight, in-mold construction.

The Black Crevice is the perfect option for those looking for a model with an integrated visor. The visor can be very helpful for people with prescription glasses because it allows them to use their glasses under the visor, which is more comfortable than wearing glasses under the goggles. This is not the only advantage, though. The Black Crevice Gstaad offers great performance, a light weight, and a comfortable fit. In addition, it doesn’t have the exorbitant price of other high-end models, and it’s available in many colors.

MID-RANGE AND BUDGET RANGE

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GIRO NINE MIPS

FEATURES: Thermostat control venting. MIPS protection system. Form 2 fit system. Lightweight. Great fit.

This is an improved version of the classic Giro Nine, which has been popular for many years due to its great overall performance, comfort, and reasonable price. This is, without a doubt, one of the best mid-range options of the year.

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SMITH CAMBER

FEATURES: BOA adjustment system. Efficient AirEvac 2 ventilation. Audio-compatible Snapfit ear pads.

The Smith Camber is perfect for those looking for high-end features at a good price. It has a comfortable antibacterial inner lining, and it’s highly impact-resistant, lightweight, and ventilated—all at a spectacular price. It’s available in a MIPS-equipped version too.

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SMITH MISSION

FEATURES: Aerocore construction. Koroyd tubular structure. Snapfit ear pads. Good value for the money.

The Smith Mission offers comfort, impact protection, and perfect integration with Smith Optics goggles. Plus, it’s pretty lightweight. The main downside: The Smith Vantage and the Smith Camber feature better ventilation systems. It’s available with the MIPS system at a slightly higher price.

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SALOMON PIONEER

FEATURES: EPS 4D technology for improved shock absorption. AdvancedSkin ActiveDry lining for moisture absorption.

The Salomon Pioneer has all the advantages of premium models, except the MIPS system, at a more affordable price. The padded chin strap and adjustable back dial will help you find the perfect fit. The ear pads are compatible with the audio system.

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SALOMON BRIGADE

CHARACTERISTICS: EPS 4D foam reinforcement for shock absorption. Removable, washable inner liners. Adjustment dial.

ABS shells are more impact-resistant than in-mold and hybrid models. The Salomon Brigade is perfect for resort skiing, off-piste skiing, terrain parks, mountaineering, and ice climbing.

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SMITH HOLT

FEATURES: Lifestyle Fit adjustment system. AirEvac 2 ventilation. Airflow temperature control.

It would be difficult to find another good-performing model at such a low price. The main features are: efficient ventilation, fantastic shock-absorption system, light weight, and comfortable fit. If you are looking for a good helmet without breaking the bank, this could be your best option.

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THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND BEFORE CHOOSING YOUR MODEL

DO I REALLY NEED TO USE A HELMET?

Regarding the mandatory use of ski helmets, regulations vary from country to country. For instance, using a helmet is mandatory at some ski resorts in the United States and Canada. In many European countries, you are not required to wear one if you’re over 14 years old.

Whether you are a beginner or an advanced rider, the risk of an accident is always there. Sometimes, especially among experienced skiers who like to go fast, the crash can be very serious. Other times, it’s just a small accident, silly fall, another skier hitting you, etc.

Wearing a helmet reduces the risk of serious or life-threatening injury. Therefore, it’s important to follow this recommendation and always wear a helmet. Remember that a responsible skier is a skier who protects himself.

Some people think that helmets are uncomfortable and unattractive, but that’s not true. Today’s models are designed to protect you from possible impacts while guaranteeing comfort, a light weight, and cool designs.

CONSTRUCTION TYPES

Manufacturers use two different layers to build high-quality helmet cores. Then, they add padded linings that make them more comfortable. Generally, there are three types of construction:

High-impact ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

This is the strongest and most durable construction, but also the heaviest, and it usually has the poorest ventilation. These models are quite popular among entry-level skiers, as they are resistant and affordable. The inner part is made of a hard foam glued to the outer shell, which is built with highly-resistant ABS plastic.

In-mold

In-mold helmets don’t provide as much impact resistance, but they are lighter and usually better ventilated. Also, these models are very comfortable to wear. The outer shell is made of a thin layer (usually polycarbonate), while the inner layer is made of EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam. Both layers are molded together.

Hybrid

Hybrid models are lightweight, comfortable, and highly shock-resistant. These high-end models offer a perfect combination of the other two types of construction. They can have an ABS layer on the front and an in-mold layer on the back. They offer great resistance, durability, a light weight, and ventilation. This is the favorite choice among advanced skiers. The only problem is that they can be quite expensive.

COMFORTABLE PADDED LINERS

One of the factors that most affect comfort is the quality of the padding in the inner layers. Premium models feature high-quality padded liners that improve comfort and overall fit. In addition, these liners provide thermal insulation—they protect your head from the cold and the wind. Otherwise, some people like to use ski hats under the helmet to improve weather protection.

VENTILATION

If you want to feel comfortable while skiing, make sure you get a model with good ventilation. This will help sweat evaporate and will improve the airflow, which is the key to keeping the right temperature inside the helmet.

The most commonly used ventilation systems are:

Passive ventilation: Several vents are placed in the helmet, and they always remain open. To ensure proper ventilation, you should get a model with at least 2 to 8 air vents. If you need more ventilation, choose a helmet with 10 to 24 vents.

Active ventilation: In this design, the air vents are manually adjustable, so you can leave them open or closed, depending on the weather conditions. This is a really helpful feature, as you won’t need the same ventilation in a winter blizzard as you do on a mild spring afternoon.

WEIGHT

I recommend that you choose a lightweight model that will help you feel comfortable while skiing. After all, you’ll be wearing this piece of gear for a good portion of the day.

To give you an idea, lightweight adult helmets can weigh between 350 grams and 450 grams. Average-weight designs can be around 500 grams. Don’t buy a heavy model, as it will make you feel tired by the end of the day.

SHAPE AND SIZE

To ensure the right protection, your helmet shouldn’t feel too tight or too loose. It must fit the shape of your head without resting on your neck. Also, it should be compatible with your ski goggles.

Here’s a simple way to measure your head. Take a tape measure and place one tip on your forehead, just over the eyebrows. Now wind the tape around your head until you cover the entire circumference.

If you don’t have a tape measure, you can use a regular string, and then measure the length of the string with a ruler.

Using this measurement, you’ll know which helmet size you should buy. Most models indicate exactly the head size for which they are designed. For example, they can be indicated as: Size M = 55-59 cm.

Other models have standard sizes (S, M, L) and include an adjustable dial in the back. Also, many models include chin straps that improve the overall fit.

Make sure your helmet is never too loose, as if it is, it won’t protect you effectively in the event of an accident.

WHAT IS MIPS?

MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System. This new technology was first designed in Sweden after neurosurgeon Hans von Holst became very interested in creating safer helmets. von Holst cared for patients who had suffered severe brain injuries and he decided to improve these protection systems.

The MIPS system consists of a special lining placed inside the helmet that allows relative movement between the helmet and the head, thereby adding greater protection from rotational movement. When it runs into an external element (tree, ground, etc.), the inner lining moves along with the head, considerably reducing the impact force.

Every year, new models come out with improved MIPS systems to ensure the best protection. Fortunately, not only the most expensive models use this technology, but also some budget models as well.

RECCO

The Recco system was designed to find people who have been trapped under an avalanche or who have gotten lost. Some helmets include a Recco transponder that responds to signals from a Recco detector. These devices are very small and don’t require batteries. This can be an important feature for backcountry skiers.

GOGGLE COMPATIBILITY

Unless you choose a model with an integrated visor, you’ll need to make sure your helmet is compatible with your goggles. Most of the time, they will fit pretty well. To be on the safe side, consider choosing both products from the same brand, as most manufacturers design them to be compatible.

WOMEN-SPECIFIC DESIGNS

Most helmets are unisex, so they will fit perfectly for both men and women, as long as you choose the right size. For marketing purposes, most brands have created specific versions for women, whose main difference is just the decoration. Also, women’s versions are available in smaller sizes.

EXTRA FEATURES

Integrated visor

Some models feature integrated visors that work as ski goggles. This 2-in-1 option has its advantages:

1- You won’t need to buy goggles, which will save you some money. 2- People who wear prescription glasses can wear them under the visor without experiencing discomfort (as can happen with regular goggles). 3- The visor allows for some ventilation that prevents fogging.

They also have some drawbacks: 1- Depending on the visibility and weather, you might need to replace the visor with a lighter or darker one, and it takes more time than changing goggles. 2- Sometimes, it’s not easy to find spare visors. 3- Some models don’t fit too well, and they allow too much air to enter the face.

Some skiers love integrated visors, while others don’t. It depends on the preference of each skier.

Audio system

Listening to your music while skiing is really cool! That’s why many manufacturers have incorporated audio-compatible ear pads in their models. For those who want to keep in touch with family, some helmets allow you to answer phone calls while you’re skiing, as they include headphones with microphones integrated into the ear pads.

Go-Pro mount

More skiers want to record their descents on video. Some models include a special mount so that you can install a Go-Pro camera on the front. If you want to have a reminder of your slips, jumps, and stunts, you can choose a model with a Go-Pro mount.

Ear protection

When mountain air gets chilly and the wind blows, your ears can get cold very quickly. That’s why most models include ear pads that improve thermal protection. These pads can be either fixed or removable.

Goggle retainer clip

This is a simple feature that will reduce your risk of losing your goggles while practicing any winter sport. This retainer consists of a small clip that allows you to slide in the goggle strap, which the clip keeps in place.

HOW LONG DOES A HELMET LAST? WHEN SHOULD I REPLACE IT?

According to most manufacturers’ recommendations, you should replace your helmet every time it takes a hit. Some people think that it should be replaced even if it falls to the ground, as the final resistance could be compromised. If in doubt, read the manufacturer’s recommendations to learn how often you should replace it.

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR GEAR

After you ski (and sweat) for weeks, the inner lining will inevitably be dirty and possibly smelly. Make sure your model’s liner is antibacterial, and detachable if possible. Wash the lining with soap and water, then let it air-dry.

When the season is over, or once you’re sure you won’t be skiing until the next year, you can put your helmet (once it’s completely dry) inside an antibacterial bag, then store it in a dry place out of direct sunlight.