7 Best Smith Bike Helmets of 2025

The SMITH Persist delivers far more than its budget-friendly label suggests, punching well above its weight with serious safety tech like MIPS and zonal Koroyd coverage—features typically reserved for premium models. With 21 large vents and Smith’s AirEvac ventilation system, it excels at airflow and prevents fogging when paired with Smith eyewear, making it a standout for riders who wear sunglasses daily. This helmet tackles core pain points—heat buildup, poor fit, and compromised protection—without asking you to compromise your wallet.

In real-world testing, the Persist shines on long summer rides where breathability is crucial. The fixed vent layout channels air efficiently across the scalp, and the dial-adjustable fit system provides a snug, wobble-free hold on bumpy roads. While it doesn’t have full Koroyd coverage like higher-end models, the zonal placement on impact zones still delivers lightweight, energy-absorbing protection that meets both CPSC and CE standards. However, on rougher terrain or technical descents, the lack of a visor and reduced rear coverage becomes noticeable—this is built for smooth tarmac, not trail chaos.

Compared to the pricier Smith Dispatch or Network, the Persist trades some visibility features and ruggedness for affordability and simplicity. But for urban commuters and weekend road riders who want trusted protection and reliable ventilation, it’s a no-brainer. It doesn’t offer an integrated light or e-bike certification, but what it does deliver—cooling, comfort, and certified impact resistance—it does exceptionally well for the cost. Against the Express, it offers better ventilation and stronger protection thanks to Koroyd, making it a smarter value despite the slightly higher price.

The Smith Network is the ultimate hybrid warrior—equally at home on fire roads, gravel paths, or city lanes, thanks to its rugged-yet-refined design that blends MTB toughness with road helmet breathability. It features zonal Koroyd and MIPS technology, delivering targeted impact protection without adding bulk, while the Ionic+ antimicrobial lining fights odor on multi-day use. This helmet solves the common dilemma of choosing between trail-ready durability and commuter-friendly ventilation, offering a true do-it-all balance.

During mixed-terrain testing, the Network handled everything from rain-slicked descents to midday climbs with impressive composure. Its 15 optimized vents maintain airflow without sacrificing structural integrity, and the AirEvac integration kept Smith sunglasses fog-free even during steep climbs. The fit system is smooth and secure, with enough range to suit oval and round head shapes alike. That said, it’s not the lightest in the lineup, and on long climbs, you’ll notice its slightly denser build compared to ultra-light models like the Trace.

Against the Forefront 2, the Network skips the full Koroyd cage and skeletal roll bar, trading some mountain-specific armor for greater versatility and lower weight. It’s less aggressive than the Engage but more adaptable than pure road lids like the Express. Ideal for gravel grinders, hybrid commuters, or riders who refuse to be typecast, it delivers premium safety and comfort across disciplines. When stacked against the Persist, it offers better sweat control and build quality, justifying its higher cost for riders who demand more.

Built like a trail tank with race-day brains, the Smith Forefront 2 is engineered for riders who push limits on technical descents but refuse to cook their heads on the climb back up. It boasts complete Koroyd coverage and a skeletal roll cage structure, delivering one of the most robust impact protection systems in the lineup, while MIPS integration reduces rotational forces from angled crashes. Add in the AirEvac venting and 20-channel airflow, and you’ve got a helmet that’s as focused on performance as it is on survival.

On aggressive trails, the Forefront 2 inspires confidence—its low-profile visor deflects branches, the VaporFit dial offers micro-adjustable precision, and the vents stay clear even in dusty conditions. The 380g weight (medium size) is respectable given the armor-level protection, and the goggle integration is flawless, with secure storage and zero fogging. However, that protective density makes it overkill for casual riders or road use, and in stop-and-go traffic, it feels bulkier than necessary.

Compared to the Engage, the Forefront 2 offers more comprehensive Koroyd shielding and a stiffer structure, making it better suited for enduro or downhill use. Against the Trace, it’s heavier but significantly more protective—ideal when safety trumps grams. It’s the go-to for serious mountain bikers who prioritize protection without sacrificing cooling. While it costs the same as the Trace, it delivers more armor and trail-specific features, making it a stronger pick for off-road extremists.

The Smith Trace is a masterclass in weight-saving innovation, tipping the scales at just 280 grams—making it the lightest helmet in Smith’s lineup and a dream for climbers and speed seekers. It uses Aerocore construction with full Koroyd coverage, merging featherweight design with serious impact absorption, while the MIPS system adds crucial rotational protection without adding girth. For riders who feel every gram and every degree of heat, this helmet is a game-changer in comfort and efficiency.

In real-world use, the Trace disappears on your head—whether you’re attacking a hill or cruising through hot city streets, the 18 optimized vents and XT2 moisture-wicking liner keep airflow steady and sweat under control. The VaporFit system ensures a locked-in feel, and the ultra-thin webbing eliminates pressure points. However, its minimalist shell offers less rear coverage, and the lack of a visor or integrated light limits its appeal for trail or urban riders needing extra features.

Compared to the Forefront 2, the Trace sacrifices full structural reinforcement for low mass, making it better for road racers and XC riders than downhill diehards. Against the Engage, it’s faster and cooler but less protective on high-speed crashes. It’s the top choice for weight weenies and performance purists who want maximum safety with minimum burden. For the same price as heavier models, it delivers unmatched lightness and race-ready refinement.

The Smith Engage earns its title as Best Overall by striking a near-perfect balance between protection, comfort, and trail smarts—making it the helmet you grab when you don’t know what the day will bring. With zonal Koroyd, MIPS, and a two-position adjustable visor, it delivers serious mountain-ready defense without feeling like a construction helmet. The Ionic+ lining fights odor on long rides, and 20 fixed vents ensure constant cooling, even when crawling up steep switchbacks.

On technical trails, the Engage performs with confidence—its low-bulk webbing and secure dial fit prevent bounce, and the visor adjusts seamlessly to block sun or rain. The AirEvac system integrates flawlessly with goggles, eliminating fog and enhancing vision in all conditions. While it doesn’t have the full Koroyd wrap of the Forefront 2, its zonal coverage still absorbs impacts efficiently. It’s also heavier than the Trace, but that’s the trade-off for greater durability and trail functionality.

Next to the Forefront 2, the Engage is slightly less armored but more versatile for all-day rides. Compared to the Network, it offers better MTB-specific features like the adjustable visor and rugged build. It’s ideal for intermediate to advanced trail riders who want a single helmet for everything from flow trails to rock gardens. At the same price as more specialized models, it offers the best all-around mix of protection, comfort, and smart design.

The SMITH Express is a commuter’s secret weapon, blending minimalist style with critical urban safety features like a removable sun visor and pop-in rear light—a rare combo at this price point. With MIPS protection and 13 well-placed vents, it keeps your head safe and cool during daily rides, while the dial-fit system ensures a secure, customizable hold. It solves the urban rider’s biggest issues: low visibility, glare, and helmet bulk, all while looking sleek enough for city streets.

In real-world commuting tests, the integrated light snaps in effortlessly and boosts rear visibility in traffic, while the visor cuts morning sun glare without distorting vision. The 13-vent layout is modest but effective for moderate-paced rides, though it can feel warm during intense efforts. The matte neon yellow finish adds passive visibility, but the lack of reflective straps (outside the light) limits nighttime safety compared to the Dispatch.

Compared to the Dispatch, the Express lacks Koroyd and a rechargeable light, making it less robust for high-speed e-bike use. But for traditional road commuters and casual riders, it offers strong protection and smart visibility tools at a bargain price. Against the Persist, it trades ventilation for urban-specific features, making it a better pick for city riders who value safety and style over maximum airflow. It delivers essential tech where it counts—without the premium tag.

The Smith Dispatch is engineered for the electric age, built to meet NTA-8776 e-bike certification while packing Koroyd, MIPS, and a built-in rechargeable rear light—making it one of the most safety-forward helmets for urban and e-bike riders. Its 8 fixed vents may seem sparse, but the AirEvac system and VaporFit dial ensure comfort during stop-and-go rides, and the matte finish resists scratches from daily use. It directly tackles the e-commuter’s fear: higher speeds, heavier bikes, and poor visibility.

On real-world e-bike routes, the Dispatch proved its worth—the light stays bright for hours, enhancing presence in traffic, and the Koroyd zones absorb impact effectively at higher velocities. The Ionic+ lining manages sweat well, even when riding hard in summer heat. However, the vent count limits airflow on long climbs, and the fit system, while solid, isn’t as precise as the VaporFit dials on premium models. It’s best for short-to-mid distance urban trips, not endurance rides.

Compared to the Express, the Dispatch offers superior protection with Koroyd and a stronger light, justifying its higher cost for e-bike users. Against the Engage, it lacks trail-ready features like a visor but excels in city-specific safety. It’s the top pick for e-bike commuters who need certified protection and all-day visibility. For the same price as mountain-focused lids, it delivers urban-centric innovation that’s hard to beat.