Smith Method MIPS Ski Helmet Review
Light, comfortable, well-ventilated and low-profile helmet for all ski conditions
The Smith Method MIPS helmet integrates well with a wide variety of goggles, though we found the best fit with Smith goggles like the I/O (pictured) and Smith Squad. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
January 22nd, 2025
Our verdict
The Smith Method MIPS helmet is a solid everyday choice for resort skiers and riders. It has an excellent blend of safety features, comfort, performance, and style all at a reasonable price. We think the inclusion of both MIPS and Koroyd for safety and protection in a helmet at this price is a good value. It’s incredibly comfortable and we love that it comes in a wide variety of colors. We also like the soft ear covers, the overall fit and low profile design, and the option to add bluetooth-compatible headphones.
This helmet is best for everyday resort skiers and snowboarders who want a helmet that prioritizes comfort and style without sacrificing safety. While you could use this helmet for backcountry skiing, we’d recommend something more pared down, like the Sweet Protection Ascender MIPS or the Smith Summit MIPS, both of which are designed for backcountry skiing and have triple certifications, which includes climbing. But, if you wanted to use the Method for occasional backcountry skiing, we’d recommend removing the inner padding and carrying just the shell to wear over a hat or beanie.
Overall, this is an excellent helmet that is versatile, comfortable, and relatively affordable. While there are higher-end helmets out there, there’s not much we miss when wearing the Method MIPS.
We write mission-driven gear reviews. To find the best gear, we combine expert reviews, everyday user opinions, and rigorous independent trail testing—never pop-up or display ads. We are reader-supported and may make a small commission from some qualifying affiliate links. Learn more.
Specs
Weight: 14 oz. (for size medium)
Safety: MIPS and Koroyd
Ventilation: eight fixed vents
Fit: Low profile fit with self-adjusting internal harness
Audio: Compatible with Aleck audio systems (not included)
Color options: Slate, Cosmos, Sunrise, Sage Brush (tested), black, white, navy
Comparison table
| SKI HELMET | VENTS | VISOR | AUDIO COMPATIBLE | ADJUSTABLE | REMOVABLE EAR PADS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smith Method | 8 | Yes | Ear pads are audio-chip compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Smith Method Pro | 9 | Yes | Ear pads are audio-chip compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Smith Vantage MIPS Men's Women's |
21 - adjustable | Yes | Compatible with Outdoor Tech audio systems | Yes - Boa 360 fit system | Yes |
| Pret Cynic X2 | 12 - fixed | No | Audio Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Smith Level MIPS | 20 | Yes | Yes, Aleck, Outdoor Tech, Skullcandy | Yes | Yes |
Who is it for
The author testing the Method MIPS helmet with the Smith I/O Mag goggles on a stormy powder day. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
The Method MIPS helmet is ideal for resort skiers and riders who want comfort and style paired with essential protective features. The helmet has a low-profile design that is stylish without forgoing brain protection. It is also incredibly comfortable.
If you perhaps dislike wearing a helmet for reasons like comfort and style, the Method MIPS might be the secret to persuading you to protect your melon when you’re out on the slopes. The sleek design makes it more subtle, and it’s easy to pull a hood over the helmet, too.
If you’re already a dedicated helmet-wearer, you’re likely to find ample comfort and features here. Especially at this price, we think the Method MIPS is an excellent choice for a very wide range of resort skiers and riders.
For this review we also tested the Method Pro helmet, which is slightly more expensive and has some upgraded features, like a BOA fit system and FIDLOCK magnetic buckle. We actually found the Method MIPS to be slightly more comfortable than the Method Pro, but did appreciate small details like the magnetic buckle. If you like the Method MIPS but want those added premium features, consider the Method Pro.
How we tested
The Method MIPS helmet is warm and comfortable in almost all conditions, including this single digit storm day at Breckenridge resort. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
We tested the Method MIPS helmet over several days of resort skiing in Summit County at both Breckenridge and Arapahoe Basin resorts. We spent about 25 days between November and January testing both the Method MIPS and Method Pro helmets.
Our tester encountered a very wide range of conditions in her testing. Some days were unseasonably warm, mild, and sunny. On a handful of days she skied mid-storm with heavy snowfall, cold temperatures, and plenty of moisture—including one particularly memorable knee-deep powder day. She also skied in single digit and sub zero wind chill conditions with brutal winds.
We tested this helmet primarily with the Smith I/O Mag and Smith Squad goggles, but also used it on a handful of days with other goggles from Smith, Zeal, and POC. While testing, we assessed fit, comfort, warmth, protection, and goggle compatibility, while also considering the smaller details.
What we liked
Incredibly comfortable
Sleek, low-profile design
Inclusion of both MIPS and Koroyd for added protection
Reasonably priced
Good color options
What could be better
Fit system not as precise as BOA models
No magnetic buckle
Features
We love the Smith Method MIPS helmet for its combo of comfort, safety features, and style, all at an affordable price. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
The Smith Method MIPS helmet packs a good amount of features into a relatively affordable package, including MIPS and Koroyd for impact protection, and vents and fleece-lined ear pads for comfort. Here’s a rundown of the individual features included with the Method MIPS helmet.
Weight
The Method MIPS weighs 14 ounces for a size medium. This puts it on the lighter side of the spectrum—for reference, the popular Smith Vantage, our overall winner in our best ski helmets guide, weighs 18 ounces for the same size. We’ve mentioned before that this helmet has a bit of a sleek and minimal look. It has that feel, too, thanks in part to the light weight.
Material
The Method MIPS is made with a plastic outer shell and inner polystyrene foam layer. The liner has foam padding and a fleece material lining the ears for added comfort.
Construction type
The exterior shell of the Method MIPS helmet fuses to the inner foam with in-mold construction. This adds durability while also helping to save weight. The inner foam is a lightweight EPS (expanded polystyrene), which is standard for most ski helmets and does a good job of adding protection while keeping the helmet light and comfortable.
Safety certifications
The Method MIPS has an ASTM (The American Society of Testing and Materials) Class B safety certification for alpine skiing and snowboarding.
Fit system
The author getting ready for a day of skiing in the Method helmet. We love the color options available for this helmet and the ability to color coordinate with your goggles. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
The Method MIPS uses what Smith calls a “lifestyle fit system.” This means that the liner of the helmet has a small elastic in the back center that allows it to stretch as needed to fit your head comfortably. While this system is not as precise as a BOA, it is quite comfortable and our tester felt the helmet was plenty secure without needing any additional adjustment options.
Ventilation system
The Method has eight fixed vents that help with airflow and temperature regulation. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
The Method MIPS has eight total vents: four at the top on the back, two on the back at the bottom, and two in front just above the goggles. These vents are fixed, so they cannot be closed and are always open. The two vents in front work in unison with Smith goggles to help mitigate fogging. This worked well in testing, and we found these vents to help when wearing other brands of goggles, too.
Goggle compatibility
The Method MIPS has a fairly simple shape that works well with most goggles we tried. It might be tricky to pair extra-large frame goggles with this lower profile helmet, and we did find the best fit when using Smith goggles with this helmet. However, testing with some Zeal and POC goggles we also found a comfortable and compatible fit.
Audio compatibility
This helmet has a zipper in the liner that allows you to use a Bluetooth audio system in the helmet if desired. The Method MIPS is designed specifically to work with the Aleck audio system. We tested this and found it to work very well.
Adjustability
The adjustability on the liner of this helmet is quite simple. Rather than using a more complex and precise BOA system, this has a simple piece of elastic at the back of the liner that stretches as needed with your head. We found this to be very comfortable and were able to get a snug and secure fit.
Durability
While we have only 15 days in testing this helmet so far, we have had no durability issues or concerns. Our tester has used other similar Smith helmets in the past that have lasted several seasons and hundreds of days. It is worth noting that this helmet is a little lighter, which is great for comfort. But that means it is a little easier to dent or ding the shell if it gets tossed around, especially compared to a heavier and burlier helmet like the Vantage.
Temperature regulation
The eight different vents on this helmet work well overall to maintain a comfortable temperature when skiing. These vents don’t close, so on particularly windy and cold days we did like wearing a hood over the helmet for added warmth and protection from the elements.
Impact protection technology
The Method MIPS, as indicated in the name, uses MIPS for rotational impact protection in case of a fall, collision, or crash. Additionally, there is zonal Koroyd (a welded co-polymer) in high-impact areas of the helmet that helps to absorb energy and add protection in the event of a crash.
Liner type
The Method MIPS has a soft and comfortable liner with fleece padding. It’s notably soft compared to many other helmets we’ve tested. The pads inside the helmet are removable and washable (by hand is best).
Warranty coverage
Smith has a 3-year warranty on all of their helmets which covers manufacturer defects.
Performance in the field
The Smith Method MIPS helmet has a sleek and low-profile design that is light, comfortable, and subtly stylish. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
We tested the Method helmet over dozens of days of resort skiing in Colorado. Conditions included everything from single digit storm days and days with wind chill below zero to warm and sunny days in the 30s. The Method MIPS was comfortable through it all.
The soft fleece-lined ear covers on the Method MIPS helmet are incredibly comfortable and we loved the added coziness on those cold days. Rarely did our head feel cold in this helmet. On the absolute coldest and windiest days, it was nice to pull a hood over the helmet to prevent cold air from going through the vents, given that the vents on this helmet are fixed and cannot be closed. We didn’t really find this to be an issue for one, because putting a hood up solved the problem, and for two, because with or without closed vents we would have preferred our hood up in these conditions.
One day in particular, our tester was riding the T-Bar lift at Breckenridge resort in -10-degree wind chill—the wind was so strong that visibility was tough and she couldn’t leave any of her face exposed. With the Method MIPS helmet on and her hood up, her head was warm and comfortable and she was able to keep making laps in the good snow while battling the intense wind at the top of each run.
On warmer days when we were taking fast laps through chunky snow and working up a sweat, the vents on the helmet did their job well. We’ve tested this helmet so far in November, December, and January—all generally colder months in Summit County, Colorado. So we haven’t yet been out in super warm spring conditions, but we have skied a couple of days in the high 30s and low 40s (thanks climate change) so far this season, and never got too hot in this helmet.
We tested the Method Pro with a handful of different goggles, including the Smith I/O Mag, Smith Squad, Smith 4D Mag, Zeal Lookout, and POC Fovea. The helmet fit well with all of these models—somewhat surprisingly, especially given the particularly large frame size on the POC Fovea.
We did find the best and most seamless fit with Smith goggles. We’ve said this before: Smith helmets do work most seamlessly with Smith goggles. This is not to say that you can’t mix and match brands, but each brand, including Smith, designs their goggles and helmets to work in sync.
In our testing we also utilized the option to add Aleck Bluetooth headphones to the ears of this helmet. This works very well and creates a super handy audio system for skiing and riding. (We recommend something like this over headphones because it’s usually more comfortable and because you can listen to music while still being able to hear and be aware of your surroundings.)
While the magnetic clip that comes on the strap of more expensive helmets, like the Method Pro, we didn’t really miss it when testing this helmet. Unless you frequently unclip and take your helmet on and off a lot, it’s one of those things that’s nice to have but certainly not necessary.
The Smith Method Pro helmet has the same fit and style as the Method MIPS, with a few upgraded features. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
We tested both the Method MIPS and Method Pro. The Method Pro is a slightly upgraded version of the Method MIPS. In the field, we actually found the Method MIPS to be both warmer and more comfortable. We do like the more precise BOA fit adjustment on the Pro. While we’ve only tested these two helmets for a few months so far with about 15 or so days in each, the material on the inside of the Method Pro does seem to be more durable than what’s inside the MIPS version. But ultimately, we slightly prefer the comfort offered by the Method MIPS overall.
Thankfully, we did not have the chance to test the crash protection in this helmet. But we do know that both MIPS and Koroyd are highly effective material and design features, should we ever need them.
Smith Method MIPS vs. Smith Method Pro
Weight: 14 oz
Safety: Koroyd and MIPS
Visor: Yes
Ventilation: 9
Audio: No
Color options: 7 options
Smith also makes the Method helmet in an upgraded version, called the Method Pro. This helmet has all of the same look,safety features, and general construction as the Method MIPS. But, it includes some higher end features like a FIDLOCK magnetic buckle that’s a little easier to use with gloves or mittens on, and a BOA fit system in the liner. If these small details matter to you, then the upgrade to the Pro is a nominal price.
The Smith Method Pro helmet has a versatile fit that works well with a wide variety of goggles, such as the Zeal goggles in this photo.Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
In testing, we actually found the regular Method MIPS to be slightly more comfortable than the Method Pro, primarily because the liner feels a little softer while the liner of the Pro is a little stiffer. Nonetheless, we think both are excellent for comfortable, low profile, high protection options that maintain style and simplicity.
Similar helmets
Smith Vantage
Weight: 1 lb. 1.5 oz.
Safety: Koroyd and MIPS
Ventilation: 21 - adjustable
Visor: Yes
Audio: Compatible with Outdoor Tech audio systems
The Vantage is one of Smith’s most popular ski helmets and our longstanding overall winner in our best ski helmets guide. The overall look and style of this helmet is a bit more maximalist, while the Method is simple, minimal, and sleek. Both helmets use MIPS and Koroyd for impact protection. But the Vantage has a few features that make it more technical and pricier than the Method.
First, the Vantage uses a two-part shell that adds durability. We can say from experience that the heavier and more durable Vantage can stand to get knocked around more in the back of a car or duffle bag than the lighter Method, though both have ample protection if you crash on the slopes. The Vantage also has far more vents—21 total—and these vents are adjustable so you can close them on cold days and open them up on warm ones.
If those features and the added durability of this helmet appeal to you, it’s worth the extra money. But if you like the simple style of the Method, it’s still an excellent choice.
Weight: 17.2 oz
Safety: MIPS
Visor: No
Ventilation: 12 - fixed
Audio: Audio Compatible
If the Method goes for a subtle and minimal look, the Pret Cynic X2 does just the opposite. It has a much bolder look, though the low-profile design keeps it light and comfortable, even under a hood. The Cynic X2 is a very comfortable and warm helmet, with ample vents for temperature regulation. One notable detail we love about this helmet is the wool earpads.
We think that overall this helmet is equally as comfortable as the Method MIPS. The Cynic X2 also uses MIPS for rotational impact protection but does not have Koroyd like the Method. We think these two helmets offer similar levels of comfort and performance overall, so choosing between the two may simply be a matter of style preferences.
Weight: 19 oz
Safety: Koroyd and MIPS
Visor: Yes
Ventilation: 20
Audio: Yes, Aleck, Outdoor Tech, Skullcandy
The Smith Level helmet reminds us a lot of a paired down and more affordable version of the Vantage. The style is similar to the Vantage, with a two-part shell and 20 adjustable vents. This helmet is also very comfortable and is a nice middle point in terms of price and features between the Method and Vantage. However, it has a notably more technical look compared to the simplicity of the Method. Both the Level MIPS and the Vantage MIPS use Koroyd and MIPS for impact protection.
Should I buy the Smith Method MIPS?
The Smith Method MIPS helmet is light and minimal—a feature we love about this helmet. This makes it a great option for folks who might be hesitant to normally wear a helmet on the slopes. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and sleek helmet that has all of the essential safety features at a good price point, we think the Method MIPS is an excellent choice. There are cheaper options out there, but most of those do not include MIPS—a feature we always want. There are also more premium offerings that have features like magnetic buckles, more vents, the option to open or close vents, and more. But we think for the price, this helmet offers excellent performance and wonderful comfort.
If you’re a resort skier or rider looking for a solid, protective helmet that is both stylish and reasonably priced, we think you’ll be very happy with the Method MIPS. If you like the look and safety features of the Method MIPS but want upgraded features like a BOA fit system and magnetic buckle, the Method Pro offers that for only a little more money.
Why you should trust us / About the author
A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held a WFR, AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and Avalanche Rescue Certifications and is working to become an avalanche education instructor. She’s now a full time writer and editor in the outdoor space and has been testing and writing about gear for over a decade.
Stasia grew up in northern Utah where she learned to ski not long after she learned to walk. She’s since spent every winter on snow, skiing in places from Alaska to Japan, with plenty of turns taken around her home in Summit County, Colorado. She gets out to ski multiple times a week throughout the season, no matter the weather and conditions. That means she’s used her gear in everything from bluebird days to full-on storms and whiteouts, and along with anyone who skis in the Tenmile range, plenty of wind. She’s tested many different helmets in all of these conditions, and over a few decades of skiing has learned exactly what makes a good one—thankfully based more on everyday comfort than hard crashes.
You can see all of Stasia's Treeline Review stories on her author page and her other work on her website.
