One of the best options for ski helmets is the Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet with Visor. Its innovative design merges the protective features of a helmet with the clarity of integrated visor technology, offering comfort, style, and safety for a wide range of skiing conditions.
Whether you’re navigating resort slopes or tackling backcountry trails, this helmet/visor combo caters to skiers seeking functionality and superior performance.
We will go over all of the Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet’s features, functionality, and practical application in this review.
A brief overview
The Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet with Visor seamlessly combines convenience and safety. Designed with Chromapop lens technology, it delivers exceptional color contrast and clarity while ensuring UV protection.
The Koroyd energy absorber and MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) add advanced safety features without compromising its lightweight design.
Whether you wear prescription glasses or value a fog-free ventilation system, this helmet excels in addressing various skiing needs. However, its visor frame could use improvement, particularly in sealing to prevent snow accumulation in extreme weather.
Things We Enjoyed
- Exceptional field of view provided by the visor.
- Effective anti-fog performance with a well-designed ventilation system.
- Photochromic lens options for adaptable visibility in changing light conditions.
- Comfortable OTG (over-the-glass) compatibility for prescription glasses wearers.
- Advanced safety with Koroyd honeycomb energy absorber and MIPS technology.
Things We Did Not Enjoy
- Lens sealing issues in high wind and heavy snowfall.
- The bulky visor design makes carrying swappable visors less practical.
- Premium pricing compared to competitors like the Giro Vue Helmet.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
| Lens Type | Hybrid Cylindrical/Toric Lens |
| Lens Options | Sun Platinum Lens, Everyday Mirror Lens, Rose Flash Lens, Clear Lens |
| Safety Technology | MIPS, Koroyd Honeycomb |
| Ventilation | Adjustable vents |
| Weight | Lightweight EPP foam construction |
| Compatibility | Audio-compatible ear pads, OTG-compatible |
| Accessories Included | Visor sock, helmet bag, hard case, microfiber bag |
Test and Review of the Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet with Visor
1. Price
Priced between $320 and $350, the Smith Survey MIPS sits at the higher end of the market. Available on platforms like Amazon, Evo, and major retailers, the premium price reflects its cutting-edge technology, including Koroyd energy absorbers, Chromapop lens technology, and MIPS safety features. For skiers prioritizing safety and convenience, this investment is worthwhile.
2. Peripheral Vision
The hybrid cylindrical/toric lens offers an impressive field of view, rivaling high-end goggles. With its integrated design, the visor eliminates the need for additional goggles, reducing distractions and enhancing visibility on the slopes.
3. Smith Survey MIPS Lens Technology
The helmet’s Chromapop lens technology improves flat-light performance, making it easier to navigate variable skiing conditions. Enhanced color contrast and clarity provide confidence in tricky terrains and low-visibility scenarios.
4. Available Lens VLT Range
The Smith Survey MIPS helmet includes multiple lens options with varying Visible Light Transmission (VLT) ranges:
- Sun Platinum Lens (13% VLT): Ideal for sunny, clear days.
- Everyday Mirror Lens (23-25% VLT): Versatile for overcast and mixed conditions.
- Photochromic Rose Flash Lens (30–50% VLT): Adapts to changing light for all-day skiing.
- Clear Lens (89% VLT): Perfect for night skiing or low-light conditions.
5. UV Protection
All lenses provide 100% UV protection, shielding your eyes from harmful rays during extended outdoor sessions.
6. Smith Survey Visor Frame
The visor frame delivers a sleek, minimalist look. However, in high wind or heavy snowfall, the lack of foam seals allows snow accumulation, which can be frustrating for skiers in extreme conditions.
7. Flat Light Performance
The Photochromic Rose Flash Lens particularly excels in flat light, offering enhanced visibility and reduced glare. Combined with Chromapop technology, the helmet ensures clarity even on overcast days.
8. Anti-Fog Performance
The ventilation system prevents fog buildup effectively. Adjustable vents allow skiers to regulate airflow, maintaining a fog-free experience across varying temperatures.
9. Swappable Visors
While the helmet supports swappable visors, the process requires extra tools, making quick changes on the slopes impractical. Carrying extra lenses can also be inconvenient due to their size.
10. OTG Compatible
Designed for skiers who wear prescription glasses, the visor fits comfortably without compressing frames. The OTG compatibility ensures a secure, unobstructed fit.
11. Survey Helmet Features
Adjustable Vents
The single-slider control allows easy temperature regulation for changing weather conditions.
Koroyd Energy Absorber
The Koroyd honeycomb structure absorbs impacts efficiently while reducing the helmet’s weight.
Audio-Compatible Ear Pads
The audio-compatible ear pads include pockets for wireless speakers, enabling entertainment or communication during skiing.
Removable Lining
The removable helmet lining simplifies cleaning and increases durability.
12. Visor Sock and Helmet Bag
The included visor sock and helmet bag offer practical solutions for protecting your gear during transport or storage. The soft lining prevents scratches, ensuring the visor stays clear and functional.
Comparisons with Other Smith Ski Helmets
The Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet with Visor stands out in the Smith Optics lineup due to its innovative design, advanced safety features, and integrated visor technology. Let’s compare it to two other popular models: the Smith Method Helmet and the Smith Valence Ski Helmet.
Smith Method Helmet
The Smith Method Helmet shares several core technologies with the Survey MIPS Ski Helmet, such as Koroyd energy absorption and adjustable vents for temperature control. However, it lacks an integrated visor, which makes it less appealing for skiers who wear prescription glasses or prefer the convenience of a helmet/visor combo.
Key differences:
- Lens Technology: While the Method helmet supports Chromapop lens technology, it does not come with a visor.
- This requires skiers to purchase and wear separate goggles, which can be cumbersome for OTG-compatible needs.
- Target Users: The Method is better suited for traditionalists who don’t mind separate goggles, whereas the Survey helmet caters to those looking for a seamless experience with integrated visor functionality.
- Skiing Conditions: The Method is a great choice for resort skiing, but its lack of an integrated visor makes it less practical in high wind and heavy snowfall conditions where the Survey helmet excels.
Read also: How Much Does a Ski Trip Cost? Complete Cost Breakdown
Smith Valence Ski Helmet
The Smith Valence Ski Helmet emphasizes comfort and warmth, making it a top pick for skiers prioritizing insulation during colder conditions. However, it falls short in terms of Koroyd energy absorption and the cutting-edge MIPS technology that enhances the impact protection found in the Survey helmet.
Key differences:
- Safety Features: Unlike the Valence, the Survey helmet incorporates MIPS technology and a Koroyd honeycomb structure, which provide superior impact protection for skiers navigating challenging terrains or backcountry trails.
- Helmet Design: While the Valence is known for its cozy fit and excellent helmet lining, it lacks the fog-free ventilation system and adjustable vents of the Survey helmet, making it less effective in regulating temperature during intense activity.
- Helmet/Visor Combo: The Valence relies on goggles instead of a visor, making it less convenient than the Survey helmet, especially for skiers who prefer the convenience of swappable visors.
Why Choose the Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet with Visor?
The Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet with Visor is a leader in the Smith Optics range, bridging the gap between comfort, convenience, and performance.
- It outshines the Smith Method Helmet by eliminating the need for separate goggles and offering better OTG compatibility for prescription glasses wearers.
- It surpasses the Smith Valence Ski Helmet with its integration of advanced safety features, such as Koroyd energy absorbers and MIPS technology, while still maintaining a lightweight design.
- Its helmet/visor combo and additional features like a visor sock, helmet bag, and audio-compatible ear pads make it the ultimate choice for versatile skiing conditions, including resort skiing and backcountry adventures.
For skiers who prioritize UV protection, flat light performance, and an enhanced field of view, the Survey helmet is an unmatched option in its category.
Finalization
The Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet with Visor is a premium choice for skiers who value safety, visibility, and comfort. With advanced features like Chromapop lens technology, Koroyd energy absorbers, and fog-free ventilation, it’s tailored for both resort skiing and backcountry adventures.
However, minor design flaws, such as lens sealing and the bulkiness of swappable visors, may deter some users. Despite these shortcomings, the helmet’s overall performance and convenience make it a top contender in its class.
The Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet with Visor is a dependable and fashionable choice for skiers who are prepared to make a quality investment.
FAQ’s
1. Is the Smith Survey MIPS Ski Helmet with Visor OTG compatible?
Yes, the Smith Survey MIPS is OTG-compatible, providing a comfortable fit for skiers who wear prescription glasses.
2. What is the VLT range of the available lenses?
The lenses offer a range of VLT options, including 13% for bright sun, 30-50% for variable light conditions, and 89% for low-light environments.
3. How does the Koroyd Energy Absorber enhance safety?
The Koroyd Honeycomb absorbs impact more efficiently than traditional EPP foam while reducing weight and enhancing safety and comfort.
4. Does the helmet provide UV protection?
Yes, all lenses in the Smith Survey MIPS offer 100% UV protection, shielding your eyes from harmful rays.
5. Can the visor fog up in snowy or humid conditions?
The helmet’s fog-free ventilation system prevents fogging, even during high wind and heavy snowfall.
6. Are there audio-compatible features in the helmet?
Yes, the helmet includes audio-compatible ear pads with zipper pockets, allowing the use of wireless speakers.
7. How does the Smith Survey compare to the Giro Vue Helmet?
While both helmets feature integrated visors, the Smith Survey MIPS offers better lens technology, such as Chromopop lenses, and advanced ventilation.
8. What accessories are included with the helmet?
The Smith Survey MIPS comes with a visor sock, helmet bag, hard case, and microfiber bag for added protection and convenience.
9. Can the lining of the helmet be removed for cleaning?
Yes, the helmet features a removable lining, which makes it easy to clean and maintain.
10. Is the helmet suitable for backcountry skiing?
The lightweight design and excellent ventilation system make the Smith Survey MIPS suitable for resort and backcountry skiing alike.
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