First look at the Smith Route MIPS

The Smith Route provides many of the benefits of a top-end lid at a more budget friendly prize point. Featuring good ventilation, the Koroyd technology that is designed to absorb an impact, versions that use the multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS) and lid designed to keep you safe.

The Koroyd inserts are designed to reinforce the helmet which uses an EPS foam construction. The miniature tubes that look quite like a honeycomb are designed to absorb more energy on impact than traditional helmets. Additionally, the availability of the MIPS option means that the new Route provides increased protection in the chase of an impact. Smith’s top-end Overtake uses Koroyd on roughly 75 per cent of the helmet.

The Route strategically places the increased protection on the areas of the head where it will most effective with four panels placed around the temple of the wearer’s head. As a result, more EPS foam is used than the top-end Overtake but provides more airflow than it’s more aerodynamic counterpart.

The helmet is also designed to be functionally useful with an adjustable fit system Smith call VaporFit. A good snug fit is important with any helmet and the Route doesn’t compromise with it’s comfort. The helmets clean and classic design is meant to fit seamlessly with the company’s eyewear.

The Route is available in three sizes and eight colours. Only the black and white versions are available without MIPS while the other six comes only in MIPS models. With MIPS the helmet retails for $215 while the models without MIPS retail for $180 making the helmet budget friendly.