There’s no denying the quality of Smith’s premium helmets like the Quantum and the Vantage. But when it comes to old fashioned industrious protection, the Mission is our helmet of choice. A fleshed-out feature-set and mild heft just over a pound make the Mission an easy choice for a daily resort helmet or something that can stay in your ski pack in the backcountry.
Second to practicality is a very reasonable price point. The Mission is nearly half the weight of other premium helmets on this list, with comparable amenities where it counts most- keeping your head safe.
Unpacking the helmet a little bit: the Mission has both MIPS technology to keep you protected from rotational impacts, as well as the same force-dampening koroyd layer you see in the Vantage and Quantum.
This light honeycombed layer in large part contributes to both the low weight and great airflow that we love in a backcountry helmet.
While it might be a little light on the resort amenities, between the safety features and the portability the Mission is an excellent option for skiers looking to split their time on and off the resort.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Balances safety features and low weight in a way that’s meaningful to people who split their time between the resort and backcountry
-
Admirably priced given the care in its construction and versatility
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Removable earpads and adjustable vent system for serviceable climate control
Things we don't like:
-
You miss out on some of the optimization benefits of opting for a dedicated resort helmet for lower weight
Specs & Features
- Lightweight In-mold Construction
- Aerocore Construction
- MIPS Rotational Protection
- Regulator Adjustable Climate Control
- AirEvac Ventilation
- 14 total vents
- Adjustable Dial Fit System
- Snapfit SL Earpads
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Balances safety features and low weight in a way that’s meaningful to people who split their time between the resort and backcountry
-
Admirably priced given the care in its construction and versatility
-
Removable earpads and adjustable vent system for serviceable climate control
Things we don't like:
-
You miss out on some of the optimization benefits of opting for a dedicated resort helmet for lower weight
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