#8 on this list
Ratio Mips
Giro
The Giro Ratio Mips is targeted at recreational resort skiers and occasional riders who demand proven safety credentials and reliable fit without crossing the $150 threshold. Positioned squarely in the value segment, the Ratio adopts many design cues from Giro's top-tier helmets but trims away luxury materials and complex vent systems to deliver practical, unpretentious head protection. The helmet utilizes a robust hard-shell construction featuring an injection-molded ABS outer cap bonded to an EPS foam core. Protection is enhanced by an integrated Mips liner, providing peace of mind against rotational forces during angled falls. Giro's Form Fit dial system is one of the best in this price bracket, offering 6 centimeters of circumference adjustment and vertical tuning to minimize goggle gap and cradle the back of the head comfortably. Thermal management is handled by Giro's Thermostat Control system, which lets you manually slide the top vents open or closed. However, at this price tier, the sliders feel slightly plasticky compared to premium models, and the interior fleece lining is basic. Overall weight is also noticeable, making this helmet best suited for lift-assisted skiing rather than backcountry hiking. **Highlights** - Reliable injection-molded ABS hard shell paired with an EPS foam liner - Mips technology included at an accessible price around $145 - Thermostat Control adjustable venting with external sliding switch - In Form Fit system provides vertical and horizontal dial adjustments - Stack Vent technology channels warm air away from goggle lenses **Watch-outs** - Heavier overall profile best suited strictly for resort riding - Interior padding and sliding vent hardware feel utilitarian compared to higher-end models
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#9 on this list
Brigade Index MIPS
Salomon
The Salomon Brigade Index MIPS addresses environmentally conscious skiers and freestyle riders who want high safety performance with a closed-loop lifecycle. Salomon designed the Brigade Index to be 96% recyclable at the end of its functional life, using a mono-material approach centered on polyolefins that can be broken down and remanufactured without the toxic separation processes typical of mixed-composite helmets. Despite its sustainable design focus, the Brigade Index does not compromise on baseline protective performance. It features an in-mold construction bolstered by a Mips liner to help manage rotational energy during angular impacts. The helmet incorporates an integrated dial fit system for micro-adjustments on the fly, and independent reviewers highlight its comfortable, secure wrap around the head. It also sports a clean, skate-inspired look that appeals strongly to park and freeride communities. At 17 ounces, the Brigade Index is neither ultralight nor heavily insulated. Its ventilation relies on fixed passive air channels, meaning you cannot shut down airflow when riding chairlifts through frigid squalls. Additionally, participating in Salomon's full recycling program requires mailing the helmet back via their collection channels, which requires extra consumer follow-through once the product reaches retirement. **Highlights** - Eco-forward design engineered to be 96% recyclable via mono-material polyolefins - In-mold construction paired with Mips rotational protection - Integrated micro-adjustable dial fit system ensures consistent contact - Low-profile freestyle aesthetic designed for park and all-mountain skiing - Removable ear pads compatible with audio drops **Watch-outs** - Passive ventilation lacks mechanical closure sliders for severe weather - Recycling benefit requires consumers to actively return the helmet to Salomon at end-of-life
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Ratio Mips | Brigade Index MIPS |
|---|---|---|
| Shell Type | Injection-molded ABS hard shell | — |
| Impact Foam | Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) | — |
| Rotational Safety | Integrated Mips liner | — |
| Adjustment System | In Form Fit System with vertical tuning | — |
| Ventilation | Thermostat Control adjustable sliding vents | Fixed passive airflow channels |
| Goggle Integration | Stack Vent front-channel alignment | — |
| Weight | — | 17 oz (482 g) |
| Construction | — | In-mold polyolefin shell and liner |
| Safety Tech | — | MIPS rotational protection system |
| Fit System | — | Integrated rear dial adjuster |
| Recyclability | — | 96% recyclable via manufacturer return |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Ratio Mips
- Certified Mips rotational impact protection at a budget-friendly price point
- Durable injection-molded ABS hard shell resists cosmetic drops and dings
- In Form dial system provides circumference and vertical angle adjustment
- Thermostat Control slider lets riders close vents on cold lift rides
- Noticeably heavier than in-mold helmets, limiting uphill utility
- Interior fleece padding and ear covers feel basic and utilitarian
- Vent slider switch feels stiff and plasticky under cold conditions
Brigade Index MIPS
- Engineered to be 96% recyclable through manufacturer return system
- Equipped with MIPS liner for rotational impact absorption
- Intuitive rear dial fit system creates a secure, uniform wrap
- Skate-inspired shell geometry integrates cleanly with modern goggles
- Passive vents cannot be closed during heavy storms or freezing squalls
- Closed-loop recycling requires users to actively ship the helmet back
- Middleweight profile offers no weight savings over conventional lids
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.