Smith Optics Vantage MIPS Women’s Snow Helmet Review
The Vantage women’s snow helmet by Smith Optics offers certified protection and top of the line performance and features. This model will fit a wide range of head shapes and is best described as durable and solidly comfortable while still maintaining a low weight. When it comes to choosing a new helmet, the overall shape of the model is the most important criteria. This best suits individuals with relatively round heads but the included Boa system works to make up for slightly different sizes and shapes.
Often finding a helmet that’s comfortable to wear for an extended period of time is tricky, and finding a helmet that’s also compatible with a wide range of goggle styles is nearly impossible. Fortunately, this Smith Optics model seems to have it all, including a high consumer rating and a ton of color scheme options that will make any snow bunny happy.
Smith Optics Snow Helmet Assessment and Features
This helmet is equipped with a solid goggle interface that gives the wearer more control over visibility, removable ear pieces and vents for ultimate comfort when in use. The look of this helmet is more modern and very versatile. Consumers can choose from thirty-two different colors including cargo, light blue, black fire, navy, solar charcoal, stone mill, ember legacy, metallic truffle and much more.
When it comes to comfort and the overall fit, the manufacturer has a reputation for being very compatible with a wide range of head shapes. However, consumers noted the helmet tends to press slightly on the forehead. The patented Boa tensioning system works to neutralize most variations in head shapes. The helmet’s removable ear pieces tend to hug close, but most users can agree the pressure is comfortable. The snug fit works to prevent drafts but can be uncomfortable for consumers with sensitive ears. However, they do strike a delicate balance in design are aren’t considered too drafty or tight. Keep in mind that the goggles you choose will have the biggest impact on the overall warmth of the helmet.
Described as one of the lightest helmets on the market, the Vantage also comes with twenty-one sealable vents, the removable ear pieces and Boa adjustment. The light weight of the helmet can be attributed to the innovative design.
With an extensive venting system, the Vantage is also known for being one of the best ventilated snow helmets around. The user can configure the venting system for hiking, skiing, windy days, and high altitudes. The vents themselves are divided into a few groups. The vents that are located closest to the front can be closed or opened together using a slider mechanism. The vents found along the lower rear remain open, but do not let in any unwanted air. The last group of vents are found on the crown of the helmet and are also adjustable and open and close using a slider mechanism.
This snow helmet is also highly compatible with a wide range of goggle styles. Choosing a helmet and goggle combination that works is essential to your experience out on the slopes.
Also included is the Skull Candy, Bluetooth and twin tip link audio system, which allows you to enjoy your favorite tunes or answer your phone, effortlessly when you’re out on the slopes.
Women’s Ski Helmet Pros and Cons
Pros: Considered an excellent well-rounded, high end model that works well for snowboarding and skiing, it’s a versatile helmet that provides safety, comfort and style. Like most models of in-molded helmets, this product comes with an effective expiration date. The manufacturer does not guarantee the safety of this model after the said date.
One of the warmest helmets we reviewed, the Vantage is also substantially lighter than other models in the price range, but this does not seem to affect the overall durability of the helmet. The adjustable vents and removable earpieces were a huge selling point for this model. The Boa tension system is very easy to adjust. Comfortable, breathable, pairs great with a wide range of goggles and an option for headphones located in the ear muffs, this is one of Smith Optic’s bestselling products and it has a lot to offer.
Cons: One consumer noted that the goggle lock located on the back of the helmet tends to wear out over time as the goggle strap wears away at it. Another consumer mentioned that after a long day of wear they found that the band that’s tightened from behind tended to put a lot of pressure on the top of the ears. Also, a consumer stated that the head tightening band would cause their jacket to put stress on the spinner, loosening the helmet, whenever they made sharp movements. Another complaint involved the Skull Candy audio kit. One consumer stated that the sound quality was somewhat mediocre and that the wiring and volume/switch controls are often problematic and too delicate. The volume and switch controls failed often with moderate use. Another issue involved the helmet’s fit, with a consumer who felt that either the contour of the helmet was off or that there simply wasn’t enough padding. They stated that when used, the helmet put too much pressure on the top of their head, making the helmet uncomfortable to use for longer than half an hour. Another common issue involved the high price tag that comes with this model, however, due to the innovative lightweight design and solid construction, we feel the price is very reasonable.
Consumers who were unsatisfied with the fit the Vantage offers recommend the POC Receptor Bug Communication ski helmet, which is another model that has a reputation for durability and comfort.
Women’s Ski Helmet Conclusion and Rating
Consumers who purchased Smith Optics Vantage MIPS Women’s Snow Helmet gave it an impressive rating of five out of five stars, which makes this our top rated ski helmet. Designed for extended use and equipped with an extensive venting system and highly adjustable strap, and an audio option and a wide range of colors, it comes as no surprise that this Smith Optics model has a reputation as one of the best snowboard helmets around.
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