Smith Forefront MIPS Helmet

Long known for its on-trend sunnies and sleek lineup of snow goggles and helmets, Smith entered the bike helmet world in 2013 with a bang and the introduction of the Forefront. Almost immediately a favorite for its featherweight construction and forward thinking design, the Smith Forefront MIPS Helmet takes the platform a step further with industry-leading Multi Directional Protection System (MIPS) technology and its ability to reduce impact force and decrease concussion risk in the event of a crash. MIPS comprises of a strategically anchored, thin liner on the inside of the helmet that looks exceptionally simple, but serves a big purpose. That little liner is designed to move independently of the helmet shell and reduce impact force on your brain compared to standard, non-MIPS helmets. It may cost a hair more than a similar non-MIPS equipped helmet, but if you do happen to crash, MIPS reduces your risk of concussion and dramatically increases your chances of walking away without a head injury.Smith accomplishes a blend of minimal weight and maximum protection through the use of its patented Aerocore technology. This construction employs Koroyd material, which looks a lot like the bundles of straws you may have used in science class to protect eggs when you dropped them off a roof. It's not much of a coincidence, as this honeycomb construction yields a claimed 30% reduction in forces transmitted to your noggin, as compared to the industry standard EPS foam. It's particularly useful for building helmets, because it requires a minimal amount of material, so there's no unnecessary weight. It also has the desirable effect of maximizing air-flow, keeping you cool when you're working hard.The padding is minimal to keep air flowing freely, featuring an X-Static lining with Reactive Cooling Performance to help manage odor and keep you cool. Fit tuning is handled by Smith's VaporFit retention system, which utilizes a click-wheel adjuster that's borrowed from the snow h...