Skip to main content

Smith Forefront MIPS helmet


This visually-striking lid breaks the mould by using a combination of EPS and Koroyd to provide impact protection. Goggles and glasses fit happily under it, and there’s even a threaded mount point for a cameras or light. Its coverage is much less extensive than some of its competitors’, especially around the temples, and the peak is very short. We had mixed reports about comfort, with some riders swearing by the fit but others complaining of a harsh feel due to the small, thin pads. It’s comparatively hot to ride in, with the relatively dense Koroyd liner restricting airflow. We think it’s positive that companies are investigating the use of alternative, possibly improved, impact protection materials, but there are conflicting reports when it comes to Koroyd’s effectiveness.

Weight 330g
Sizing S, M, L

Price $255



Popular posts from this blog

ENVE M50 29" Wheels

Utah based company ENVE have been making drool-worthy carbon components for some years now. Despite the fact that carbon rims are becoming more and more common on mountain bikes these days, you can guarantee that ENVE wheels will be a talking point when someone is eyeing off a steed. Instantly, the big bold logos on each rim scream "fast", "light" and to some extent, "expensive" The kids call this 'bling'.

KONA SHRED

With a reputation for no-nonsense ruggedness and a background in the always progressive and punishing riding of Canada, Kona have been building hardcore hardtails for longer than almost anyone else. The Shred is the most expensive bike on test but it’s a proper trail tank.

GT Zaskar Evolution

While some bike models last just a couple of years, others change with the times to stay at the top of riders’ wishlists. In the second part of this series looking at the evolution of bikes that enjoy enduring popularity with UK riders, we turn to the GT Zaskar – a bike that was at the forefront of our sport for a long time and still has plenty of appeal today.

COMMENCAL EL CAMINO 3

Commencal are going from strength to strength at the moment and they’ve taken their tough trail hardtail bang up to date with 650b wheels. With its skinny rims, crankset and fork, the El Camino certainly isn’t perfect and it’s the least hardcore bike here. The handling, smoothness, speed and all-round agility of the basic bike still make it a real blast for technical trail riding though, and it’s a great base for upgrading over time.

CANYON SPECTRAL AL 9.0 EX

CANYON’S COLOUR-COORDINATED Spectral AL 9.0 looks like a bike that means business. With a wishlist of components, it’s hard not to question the fantastic price of this stunning new bike from Germany.