Smith Ski Helmets: A Complete Guide
From the premium, throw-in-the-kitchen-sink Nexus to the budget Rodeo, we compare and contrast all of Smith’s 2026 ski helmets
Updated:
Jan 30, 2026Smith is the leading snow helmet maker, and with a wide range of models to choose from, we are here to help you hone it in. Below we break down Smith’s ski helmet lineup, highlighting differences in comfort, ventilation, safety features, adjustability, and more. To compare Smith helmets against each other, see our helmet comparison tool below the write-ups. For a detailed look at the broader market, see our guide to the best ski helmets.
Best for: Resort skiers who want maximum comfort and features.
Key features: Incredibly plush padding, full Koroyd coverage, magnetic buckle.
Tech specs: 1 lb. 3 oz., Hybrid in-mold construction, 24 vents (18 adjustable)
Replacing the shortly lived Quantum, Smith’s Nexus sits at the tippy-top of their expansive lineup. Smith helmets are known for being comfortable in general, but the Nexus takes it up a level with ultra-premium padding, an incredibly soft-touch interior, and an unobtrusive Boa fit system. Altogether, it’s the most comfortable ski helmet we’ve ever worn and received rave reviews from our testers.
On the safety front, in addition to the MIPS liner, with the Nexus you get full coverage of energy-absorbing Koroyd technology (the honeycomb-like material that is visible through the vents). Helmets like the Smith Level MIPS below use Koroyd more sparingly and only at the top of the head, called Zonal Koroyd. In addition, the Nexus features a hard-plastic exoskeleton, which boosts damage against dents and gives the shell a sturdy overall feel.
Similar to the popular Vantage 2 (covered below), the Nexus has a dual system of adjustable vents to dump heat when needed (it has 24 total vents and 18 adjustable, whereas the Vantage has 40 total vents and 28 adjustable). The Nexus runs a tad warmer than the Vantage 2 with additional padding and is one ounce heavier, so its ideal use is in-bounds at the resort. You could bring the Nexus into the backcountry on occasion without a doubt, especially given its robust venting system, but realistically it’s a bit less capable as a crossover helmet.
In the end, the Nexus is Smith’s attempt to throw all of its premium features against the wall (it didn’t even bother making a non-MIPS version), and with a price tag to match. At $70 more than the Vantage MIPS, it’s for those with deep pockets but you certainly won’t be disappointed by the comfort, durability, or performance. Simply put, it’s the crème de la crème. For more, read our review of the Smith Nexus MIPS.
Best for: Skiers who want arguably the most well-rounded helmet money can buy.
Key features: Tons of customizable ventilation, high-quality foam and overall feel, lots of protection.
Tech specs: 1 lb. 2 oz., Hybrid in-mold construction, 40 vents (28 adjustable)
The rising price of helmets is one of our gear bugaboos—it seems to be even more noticeable in this category than a lot of other notoriously expensive ski equipment—but sometimes it’s understandable. That’s the case with the new Smith Vantage 2 MIPS, which costs $20 more than its previous version. The bump in price doesn’t seem bad at all when you consider that Smith undoubtedly improved this helmet. Instead of zonal Koroyd, the Vantage 2 now features a “Full Koroyd” build, in which the honeycomb-like material wraps fully around the helmet between its shell and liner. Add in a MIPS liner, and you have a lid that stands up safety-wise to the Smith Nexus, which costs $70 more.
Designers also almost doubled the Smith Vantage 2’s vents compared to the OG Vantage, and it now boasts an incredible 40 openings, 28 of which are adjustable. That’s even more than the Nexus, and the Vantage 2 stands alone as Smith’s airiest resort-oriented lid. (It weighs 1 lb. 2 oz., so while you probably won’t hate carrying or wearing it in the backcountry, a lighter, touring-specific model like the Smith Summit MIPS would be the better choice.) And, while it lacks the super-high-end padding of the Nexus, the Vantage 2 is still plenty comfortable. Its interior features a mix of breathable mesh and padding that is neither too thin nor too bulky, and everything adjusts evenly via a Boa system. This helmet basically disappears on your head while you’re wearing it, which is about as much as you can ask for, given the amount of protection and ventilation it offers.
In our view, the Vantage 2 provides better value than the Nexus and its burdensome price tag. However, you can get MIPS, Koroyd (if only the “Zonal Coverage” in strategic areas), and decent adjustable ventilation with Smith’s $160 Descend MIPS. Does the Vantage 2 feel better overall than its less-expensive sibling? Yes, and it’s more durable than the Descend, too. But don’t feel like you’re locked into crazy prices if you want Smith quality. For more, read our review of the Smith Vantage 2 MIPS.
Best for: Resort-only skiers who want a premium helmet at a reasonable price.
Key features: Superb, full-coverage padding, excellent warmth.
Tech specs: 1 lb. 3 oz., Hybrid in-mold construction, 20 vents (10 adjustable)
The Nexus and Vantage 2 show casual interest in the backcountry world, but that’s not the case with the men’s Level and women’s Liberty. And resort skiers are the beneficiaries: For $45 less than the Vantage 2, we think it’s a better downhill helmet overall with very few compromises. Starting with comfort, the supportive yet plush padding covers the entire shell circumference, fully isolating you from the MIPS liner and plastic fit system. This best-in-class interior cushioning received universal praise from our testers, and it provides higher levels of warmth than the Vantage 2. With the vents closed, we’ve worn the helmet without a balaclava on days dipping into the single digits Fahrenheit with no issues.
It’s worth mentioning that while the Vantage 2 (and the Nexus to some degree) can be worn on the occasional tour, the Level MIPS’s warmth and weight make it a non-starter for the skin track. Simply put, you are likely to overheat quickly, even with the 20 total vents, 10 of which are adjustable (we even find ourselves sometimes overheating while hiking to in-bounds terrain). Regarding that adjustability, the Vantage 2 and Nexus both have dual sliders that allow you to open up a portion of the vents, whereas the Level has a single adjustment for all 10 (this means you are unable to open up some but not all, or control where on your head you want to dump heat). Finally, with the Level you get Zonal Koroyd in the area around the top of the head, but not full coverage like the Vantage 2 and Nexus.
In the end, the Smith Level MIPS is our favorite overall helmet for resort skiers, and we’ve tested a lot of helmets. The $45 cost savings over the Vantage 2 MIPS is significant, you don’t give up anything in terms of durability or build quality, and the extra padding and warmth are a nice bonus on top. The Vantage 2 likely will remain a top seller due to its versatility, but the Level wins in bounds and for less money. For a deeper dive, read our review of the Smith Level MIPS.
Best for: Backcountry specialists.
Key features: Low weight and profile; maximum ventilation.
Tech specs: 1 lb., Hybrid in-mold construction, 33 vents (all fixed)
The Smith Vantage 2 MIPS can do a fine job for hike-to inbounds terrain or shorter touring missions, but those who love skiing deep in the backcountry will want a helmet built for that purpose. The Summit MIPS is Smith’s leading backcountry lid with a low weight of 1 pound all-in and 33 total vents, all of which are fixed and open permanently for maximum breathability. Certified for both mountaineering and alpine skiing as well, the Summit is optimized for touring with headlamp straps, built-in bungees to secure it to a pack, and a fit system that folds out of the way.
On the safety front, in addition to the MIPS liner and sturdy shell, you get energy-absorbing Zonal Koroyd at the top of the head. Looking at all of these features together, including a Boa fit adjustment system, it’s clear that the Summit is not a stripped-down, minimalist design. The generous, non-adjustable ventilation and lack of ear pads means you won’t want to use the Summit at the resort, but that’s what it’s built for.
There is no real competition for the Summit within Smith’s lineup—their Method (below) is light enough but it lacks ventilation for uphill work. Looking at the wider ski helmet market, the Salomon Mtn Lab ($290) is the OG in the backcountry skiing world. The Mtn Lab is an impressive 2 ounces lighter at just over 14 ounces and includes a merino wool liner and ear pads for additional warmth on cold days. That said, the Salomon lacks MIPS and does not have any Koroyd, so it’s a step down on the safety front. For more, read our review of the Smith Summit MIPS.
Best for: Those seeking a minimalist, low-profile design.
Key features: Low weight, sleek profile, includes MIPS and Koyrod.
Tech specs: 14.1 oz., In-mold construction, 8 vents (all fixed).
We like how Smith helmets look in general, but admittedly, many of the options above feel a bit more technical in nature. For those who want a sleek, low-profile design, enter the Method MIPS. For a reasonable $160 with MIPS ($130 without), this in-mold design integrates the polycarbonate shell and foam from the beginning, with the result being a one-piece setup that significantly reduces bulk compared with two-piece ABS designs. With a fleece-like lining along the ear pads, forehead, and chin strap, the Method is relatively simple but gets the job done.
A helmet at this price does come with compromises. Starting with ventilation, the eight fixed openings allow air to come through unimpeded, so most skiers will want to pair it with a balaclava on colder days for additional warmth. Of course, without adjustable vents, you can’t shut the helmet down for warmth, and eight vents are relatively light to begin with for spring-like conditions. Importantly, the Method also lacks an adjustment dial for fine-tuning fit, which we think is quite important. That said, Smith has released a Method Pro MIPS for $185, which tacks on an adjustable fit system and a magnetic chin buckle for another $25 (read our in-depth review of the Smith Method Pro MIPS).
In the end, the Smith Method is a fine option for those who ski mostly in moderate conditions, don’t run particularly cold, or don’t mind throwing a balaclava underneath when necessary. Realistically, it’s a couple of steps down in comfort from Smith’s premium offerings like the Nexus, Vantage 2, and Level, but we appreciate the streamlined design and lower price point for those who want it. To see our full write-up, check out our Smith Method MIPS review.
Best for: People who want to save cash for other ski gear, but still want a full-featured helmet.
Key features: Adjustable ventilation, MIPS, and Koroyd, all at a sub-$200 price point.
Tech specs: 1 lb., In-mold construction, 16 vents (8 adjustable)
Many of our accolades go to high-end Smith helmets like the Nexus MIPS and the Vantage 2 MIPS, but there’s plenty of value to be had further down the brand’s lineup. The new Descend MIPS is the poster child for this type of helmet, with enough features to keep most skiers happy and protected without the price (and, to be fair, some of the performance) associated with more expensive models.
Let’s hit the positives first. The Smith Descend MIPS costs less than half the Nexus and $135 less than the Vantage 2, and yet it also has MIPS technology as well as Smith’s Koroyd material, which provides crumple-zone protection. It only has Koroyd (which lies between the helmet’s shell and liner) in key areas, unlike those more premium models, which are fully wrapped in the stuff. But that’s still basically the same amount of Koroyd as the Level MIPS ($250), and cheaper models don’t have it at all. The Descend also weighs merely 1 pound—the same as Smith’s backcountry-specific Summit MIPS lid—and has a high degree of ventilation thanks to eight adjustable openings (there are 16 vents overall).
Comfort and warmth are this helmet’s biggest drawbacks, but it’s not terrible in either category by any stretch. Our tester found that the Descend’s ear pads were oversized and resulted in a bit too much pressure. The padding proved fine, but wearing the Descend is a decidedly less luxurious experience than donning the Nexus or the Vantage 2. (The Descend’s proprietary fit system, instead of a Boa, contributes to that feeling as well.) It also isn’t insulated enough to wear by itself on crazy cold days like the Level is, although a beanie will fix that. Again, though, you’re saving a huge amount of money compared to the Nexus, Vantage 2, and Level, and you get much higher quality than you would with the Smith Holt and Rodeo. The Descend may be a middle child, but it’s also a can’t-miss. For more, read our review of the Descend MIPS.
Best for: Newbies and those on a budget.
Key features: MIPS and an adjustable dial.
Tech specs: 1 lb. 3 oz., ABS construction, 10 vents (all fixed)
Smith’s Holt has been a budget favorite for many years (and still is), but the Rodeo is a fun entry into the category. In terms of upgrades, you get a MIPS liner and an adjustable fit dial, both of which are missing on the dated Holt. Notably, the Rodeo is the only helmet on our entire list to feature recycled materials, which we appreciate, although we expect others to follow suit in coming seasons. At $40 more than the Holt and with the additional safety and fit features, the Rodeo MIPS is a solid all-around value.
As with any budget helmet, you get what you pay for to a certain degree. The padding on the Rodeo MIPS is lower quality than the helmets above and a little thin along the forehead in particular, the vents are permanently open and will require a balaclava in the cold, and the helmet’s thick ABS shell adds bulk and heft. If you ski frequently, we think spending up for a more comfortable helmet is well worth it and it can and should last for many years of hard use. But for new skiers, those who get out infrequently, or are on a tight budget, the Rodeo gets you MIPS safety technology from a quality brand like Smith for just over $100. And yes, there is a non-MIPS version for $85. For a deeper dive, read our review of the Smith Rodeo MIPS.
Other Helmets in Smith’s Lineup
Above we cover in detail the most prominent ski helmets in Smith’s lineup, but there are a few others worth mentioning.
The Smith Code MIPS ($240) has more of a skate-style design with minimal venting (it has six total fixed vents). Similar to the Method, the Code is light and sleek, comes with MIPS and Koroyd for added safety, and has a Boa 360 system for dialing in fit. For those who frequent the park or just love the look, it’s another quality lid with steez.
The Smith Altus MIPS ($215) is a classic mid-range design, with enough features to make life enjoyable at the resort. The helmet has a simple look that splits the difference between the sleek Method and the techy Vantage, is ventilated enough for season-long use, and is light enough to fade into the background during the day. It has its budget tendencies, including cheaper-feeling foam and no hard-shell plastic for dent protection, but there’s enough there to appease most weekend warriors.
Compare Smith Ski Helmets
It’s rare that we’d call a nearly $300 helmet “worth it,” but it’s hard to argue that the updated Vantage 2 MIPS isn’t worth its price tag. It has just about everything you’d want in a well-rounded bucket, although you might find more value in a cheaper helmet if you don’t hit the hill that often.
Comfort
Warmth
Ventilation
Weight & Bulk
Durability
Sustainability
The ultimate resort helmet, Smith’s Level (women's Liberty) mixes a high-end, plush interior with a durable shell and adjustable ventilation system for everyday alpine performance. It’s too heavy and insulated for the backcountry but otherwise a standout in quality, warmth, and comfort.
Comfort
Warmth
Ventilation
Weight & Bulk
Durability
Sustainability
With adjustable ventilation and a soft-touch interior at a budget-friendly price, Smith’s new Descend has a lot going for it. The thick ear pads won’t suit everyone—and they’re not easily removed—but for resort skiers seeking a capable, reasonably priced all-rounder, this lid is well worth a look.
Comfort
Warmth
Ventilation
Weight & Bulk
Durability
Sustainability
Smith Helmet Glossary
Koroyd Technology: This safety feature is found in many of Smith’s mid-range and high-end ski helmets. The honeycomb design is made of a series of small tubes bonded together that fit between the hard plastic shell and foam interior. The tubes crumple on impact, absorbing energy while allowing air to flow through the straw-like openings. Most Smith helmets feature Koroyd in a section of the helmet, such as the sides, but the Smith Nexus MIPS and Vantage 2 are fully lined with the material.
MIPS: Short for Multi-directional Impact Protection System, this safety feature is designed to move separately from the rest of the helmet in an angled impact to reduce rotational forces and brain injury. In Smith’s lineup, the feature is available on every model except for the budget Holt and typically costs $30 more than the non-MIPS version. We’ve found MIPS-lined helmets fit slightly smaller than non-MIPS designs—not a big surprise since there’s another layer—but otherwise, it’s unlikely you’ll notice it at all.
VaporFit: Smith’s in-house adjustable fit system. The design features a twist dial at the back that tightens or loosens the fit around the side of a wearer’s head. Unlike the high-end Boa dial (below), the VaporFit system doesn’t fully wrap around the forehead, but it still offers plenty of adjustability to get a snug fit.
Boa 360: Found on Smith’s premium helmets like the Vantage 2 MIPS and Nexus, this fit system is an upgrade over the VaporFit designs. The wire-based system wraps fully around your head, eliminating issues with pressure points, clicks smoothly, and offers micro-adjustability.
AirEvac: A fancy term for openings in the brim of the helmet that is designed to encourage airflow out the top of your goggles to limit fog buildup. All of Smith’s snow helmets have some form of this technology, from the budget Holt and Rodeo MIPS to the top-end Vantage and Nexus.
Round Contour Fit: A growing number of Smith’s ski helmets are offered in two helmet shapes: standard and round contour (example: the Level Round Contour Fit). We’ve found Smith’s standard fit to be best for heads with an average shape—somewhere between slightly oval and slightly round—while the round contour shape is noticeably round.
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