What is a Mips Helmet?

• Ski crashes often involve twisting falls or collisions. 

• Mips adds an extra layer of protection against rotational forces. 

Smith, Giro, POC and Salomon all produce Mips ski helmets.

• Fit: Always ensure a snug, secure and comfortable fit.

• Weight: Mips helmets will weigh slightly more, but the difference is minor.

• Price: Expect to pay £20-30 more than a standard helmet.

• Certification: Ensure the helmet complies with up-to-date safety standards for skiing.

What it is: The European certification for non-motorised snowsports like skiing and snowboarding. This is used in helmets sold in the UK.

What it involves: It includes requirements for shock absorption, penetration and retention systems. There are design requirements, including the area of coverage and the field of view.

Classifications:
There are two subcategories within CE EN1077:

Class A: These have hard ears and more coverage around the sides of the head, and they must pass higher impact tests. Mainly found on race helmets.

Class B: These will have softer ear pads and usually include features tailored for recreational skiers. They account for a vast majority of ski helmets sold.

What it is: The American standard for recreational snowsports, developed by ASTM.

What it involves: Helmets are subjected to impact tests after exposure to different environmental conditions, and ‘roll-off’ tests to ensure they remain in place during use.

Where it's used: This is an American test, but many helmets sold will meet ASTM as well as EU safety standards.

Do all helmets have Mips?
No, not all helmets have Mips. It is a specific protection technology. To identify if a helmet has Mips, look for the yellow dot on the back of the helmet. The product packaging for the helmet should confirm the inclusion of a Mips system. Online, you will usually find Mips mentioned in the product name and description.

What does Mips stand for?
Multi-directional Impact Protection System

Are Mips helmets safer?
By wearing a Mips helmet, rotational forces acting on the brain are deflected. This can significantly reduce the risk of injury to the head and brain, providing an additional level of safety.

Do you need a Mips helmet?
You don't need a Mips helmet. A certified helmet that fits securely is the priority. But a Mips helmet provides enhanced protection against rotational forces in oblique (angled) impacts, which are common in falls. Choosing a Mips helmet is recommended for increased safety as it can reduce the risk of concussions and other serious brain injuries.

For skiing, Mips adds important extra protection where traditional helmets may fall short. If you spend time on the slopes, choosing a Mips helmet is a smart investment in safety. Head in store to try different helmets out, and our experienced staff can guide you towards the best one for you.