Helmets
Product 2021
Man
The Smith Altus helmet is fitted with MIPS technology that you have in bike helmets, and designed to reduce the impact of shocks to the brain. The Altus is also kitted out with the Koryod® honeycomb structure whose aim is to absorb the energy created in a fall. So, this isn’t a standard polystyrene envelope it provides technology and maximum protection (you would need to do a lab test to have full proof of this efficiency – but presumably this has already been done!)
Out in the action you have a well-designed helmet that is silent (no squeaks) and pretty comfortable to wear. It weighs 480g and therefore average weight for this type of Mips product.
The Smith Altus is quite snug fitting. The foam padding is efficient but not that thick. After hours out skiing the Smith is still comfortable. The traditional wheel head adjustment doesn’t give a pressure point as long as you don’t tighten it too much: then it becomes too tight on either side of the neck. Once adjusted, the Smith Altus sits comfortably and doesn’t move.
Overall the Smith Albus is warm. We tested it in black. Its thermal insulation was really appreciated in the freezing cold, especially around the ears, which are very well protected. At the end of the season, despite the fact you can ventilate at the top of the head, it warms up fast. To adjust this ventilation, you need to remove your gloves because the curser isn’t easy to slide.
The heat insulation around the ears is very efficient, and you do lose slight acoustics but it’s not a problem.
The chin strap is easy and precise to adjust. The foam padding here is wide and comfortable. The classic clip closing system is efficient.
The attachment for goggles is fast (elastic). Despite the Smith Altus’ very shiny finish goggles stay in place when you’re not wearing them : the shape of the front of the helmet keeps them in place.
The Smith Altus is a good helmet kitted out with protective technology in the event of a fall: MIPS and Koryod®. Cozy warm, manufactured with care, pretty comfortable, it enables you to ski with confidence that you have excellent protection.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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