#1 on this list
Vantage 2 Mips
Smith
The Smith Vantage 2 Mips targets aggressive resort riders and sidecountry skiers who want maximum temperature regulation and top-tier protection without cutting corners. Long regarded as an industry benchmark, it excels across fluctuating winter conditions thanks to an expansive dual-zone ventilation system that allows independent airflow control across the front and rear of the helmet. Reviewers routinely praise its refined shape and out-of-the-box comfort, which minimizes hot spots during all-day resort sessions. Under the hood, the helmet combines an in-mold lower section with a durable hybrid ABS upper shell, reinforced by Koroyd honeycomb structures that absorb impact while keeping air moving. Rotational energy management comes via an integrated Mips liner tied into a 360-degree Boa fit system, wrapping tension evenly around the head rather than merely cinching from behind. The result is a rock-solid, draft-free interface when paired with Smith goggles and most medium-to-large third-party eyewear. The clear drawback is price and bulk. At nearly $300 and weighing around 18 ounces, it is an investment piece and sits slightly heavier on the head than stripped-down alpine models. Additionally, while the vents seal effectively against heavy snow, the sheer number of moving slider parts adds slight mechanical complexity compared to minimalist lids. **Highlights** - Hybrid shell construction combining ABS durability with lightweight in-mold materials - Zonal Koroyd coverage for energy absorption and improved airflow - Dual-zone regulator climate control with 21 adjustable vents - Integrated 360-degree Boa fit system for balanced tensioning - Mips rotational impact protection - Engineered AirEvac system prevents goggle fogging **Watch-outs** - High price point near $295 - Noticeably heavier and bulkier than backcountry-specific shells
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#2 on this list
Summit Mips
Smith
The Smith Summit Mips is built specifically for backcountry skiers, ski mountaineers, and splitboarders who need reliable head protection without the dead weight or bulk of a traditional resort helmet. Stripped of thick fleece linings and heavy plastic components, it prioritizes packability, airflow, and dual safety certifications. It meets both alpine skiing standards and international mountaineering criteria, making it legal and safe for technical alpine climbing as well as steep descents. Weighing in at roughly 16 ounces, the Summit uses an in-mold construction supplemented by Koroyd in critical impact zones along the sides. Instead of a bulky dial retention system, Smith employs a minimalist, pack-friendly cable adjustment system that stows flat against the shell when strapped to the outside of a pack. Ventilation is passive and generous, maintaining steady airflow during high-output skinning in mild conditions. The trade-offs center around resort comfort and insulation. Because the Summit is designed to fit over a beanie or ball cap, its included padding is minimal, offering little warmth in sub-zero chairlift environments. It also lacks switch-operated vent covers, meaning you cannot close the openings when encountering wind-driven sleet or heavy wet snowfall. **Highlights** - Dual-certified for both ski touring (ASTM F 2040 / CE EN 1077) and mountaineering (CE EN 12492) - Lightweight in-mold construction with targeted Koroyd inserts - Low-profile Boa-driven fit system that packs flat - Integrated headlamp routing clips and pack carry attachment loops - Mips brain protection system **Watch-outs** - Minimal padding provides little thermal protection in cold resort weather - Non-adjustable passive vents cannot be sealed in heavy rain or spindrift - Premium backcountry price tag around $260
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Vantage 2 Mips | Summit Mips |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 18 oz (approx. 510 g) | 16 oz (454 g) |
| Construction | Hybrid SL shell with in-mold lower | In-mold shell with targeted Koroyd inserts |
| Impact Tech | Mips safety system and zonal Koroyd | — |
| Venting | 21 vents with dual-zone regulator | — |
| Fit System | 360-degree Boa adjustment dial | — |
| Audio Compatible | Yes, compatible with Aleck systems | — |
| Certifications | — | ASTM F 2040, CE EN 1077, CE EN 12492 |
| Rotational Protection | — | Mips safety system |
| Ventilation | — | Passive high-flow channels |
| MSRP | — | Approximately $260 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Vantage 2 Mips
- Dual-zone ventilation with 21 vents allows precise climate control in all conditions
- 360-degree Boa dial system delivers an even, pressure-free wrap around the head
- Zonal Koroyd and Mips offer advanced direct and rotational impact absorption
- AirEvac integration channels air away from goggles to eliminate lens fogging
- Priced near $295, representing a significant upfront investment
- Weighs around 18 ounces, making it bulkier than backcountry-specific helmets
- Mechanical vent sliders can be susceptible to freezing up in wet, icy conditions
Summit Mips
- Dual-certified for alpine skiing and technical mountaineering
- Lightweight 16-ounce chassis with low-profile, pack-flat Boa harness
- Generous fixed ventilation channels keep air moving on ascents
- Integrated headlamp clips and pack carry attachment loops
- Passive vents cannot be closed against heavy spindrift or rain
- Minimal internal padding offers very little standalone warmth
- Thin in-mold shell is prone to exterior scuffs during transit
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.