How to Choose Ski and Snowboard Helmets

Built with ultralight in-mold construction and a slimline vent system, the alpine-touring compatible Smith Altus MIPS snow helmet offers a modern, low profile with Koroyd® and MIPS® for protection.
Imported.
Best Use | Snowsports |
---|---|
Helmet Style | Snow |
Helmet Construction | In-mold |
Shell Material | Polycarbonate |
Head Circumference | S: 20.1-21.7 inches |
Vents | 10 |
Visor/Brim | No |
Weight | 1 pound |
Gender | Unisex |
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I’ve only been skiing for a year now, so I still have some falls every now and then. This December I went skiing in the Swiss alps and had a pretty nasty fall. I hit my head really bad and my first thought was, “wow, I’m so thankful I had a helmet on!” Because it could have been much worse. Not only that but it’s very light weight, comfortable, and I have a white one so stylish. Super happy with this helmet!
I used it three times. Then the chin strap broke i.e., the male half of the connector came off somehow. I am now using my old helmet. I tried looking for replacement part but it is not easy to find. I do enjoy Smith products and bought all four kids Smith ski helmets and Smith ski goggles along with my new ski helmet and bike helmet this year but I am not sure I will buy Smith gear again due to my helmet sucking. Is there a way to get a replacement helmet? I added a photo with my Smith helmet with broken chin strap along with a picture skiing this season with my old helmet.
I downplayed the earlier review of vent system jamming and regret it now. It happened to me too so I feel compelled to save the next buyer. Bad design or poor quality assurance but I do not recommend this helmet.
Looks and feels great. Tons of functions and features. My head doesn’t sweat as much as I thought it would even with the ear pads in on a 65° Bluebird day. My Squad XL’s never even fogged up. Great combination.
Ordered two for my sons. On both helmets, the vent lever would slide easily to Open, but jammed on the first attempt when trying to close. In both cases the jam seemed to be happening on the top right blade/panel
After using this helmet for just over one season I noticed something digging into my right ear. Upon investigating I found the end of the adjustment mechanism had pulled out of the anchor point in the helmet. I put it back in but it will not stay in place. Not a good design. My old helmet is over 20 years old and is still serviceable. I just thought I would update and maybe be more safe and comfortable. ???
VaporFit retention system is something less than desirable, it doesn't snap into the very well and broke on me within a few weeks of heavy usage - just pay attention and be careful with it. Other than that, the Altus is a great lightweight and well ventilated helmet that's packed with great safety features. I trust it to protect my dome, you should too.
Solid helmet with a great fit/integration with Smith Squad Mag Googles. MIPS makes the helmet fit smaller than advertised, but this was OK for me. If you are at the upper end of the size limit, be wary. Pretty warm, which is great for our cloudy midwest days. Earmuffs definitely make it harder to hear people talking to you.
I have used this helmet a couple of times this season, and the look and fit of the helmet is amazing! I definitely recommend this helmet for everyone and have used multiple Smith helmets in the past. Will continue to use Smith helmets and other products in the future!
First ski helmet that I've bought and couldn't be happier. I measured my head and was in between small and medium --- initially buying a small but had to return for a medium to allow room for my balaclava. It is lightweight, but breaths. Feels and fits great!