Smith Convoy MIPS helmet review

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Cost ★★★★☆

Performance ★★★★☆

Overall Score ★★★★☆

Verdict: Designed for trail riders who want affordable yet solid protection, the Smith Convoy MIPS is a versatile and budget-friendly MIPS mountain bike helmet that prioritises safety, ventilation, and comfort.


The Convoy has a lightweight in-mould construction, seamlessly fusing the outer shell with the EPS foam liner for durability and impact absorption that incorporates the MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) to reduce rotational forces during angled impacts.

It features Smith’s adjustable VaporFit system, allowing for 270-degree fit adjustment via a simple dial, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for a variety of head shapes. The helmet is available in multiple sizes (S, M, L, XL) and accommodates a wide range of riders.

With 20 optimised vents, the Convoy offers excellent airflow to keep riders cool, even during intense trail sessions. The AirEvac™ system helps direct warm air away from the forehead and integrates well with Smith eyewear, preventing fogging in goggles or glasses.

 

The inclusion of MIPS technology is a major plus, helping reduce rotational motion transferred to the brain in certain impacts. The extended rear coverage provides extra protection at the back of the head, a critical area for mountain biking accidents. Despite its affordability, the Convoy meets CPSC and CE EN 1078 safety certifications, ensuring it adheres to industry standards.

Smith designs its helmets with eyewear compatibility in mind, and the Convoy is no exception. The front channels allow riders to securely store sunglasses when not in use, and it integrates well with Smith’s own range of eyewear.

 

Weighing approximately 300–350g, depending on size, the Convoy remains lightweight and comfortable for long rides. It comes in a variety of matte colourways, ranging from classic black to more vibrant hues, appealing to different rider preferences.

 

The Smith Convoy MIPS is a good entry-to-mid-level MTB helmet that balances safety, ventilation, and comfort at a competitive price. While it may lack high-end features like a magnetic buckle or Koroyd impact protection found in Smith’s premium models, it delivers solid performance for everyday trail riders. Its MIPS integration, secure fit, and ventilation make it a reliable choice for those looking for affordable yet effective head protection on the trails.


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Chris Shirley MA FRGS

About the Author:

Chris is the founder of Hiatus.Design, a mission-driven branding and website design company that works with clients all over the world.

Over the course of his life, he has travelled to more than 60 countries across six continents, earned two Guinness World Records, completed the legendary Marathon des Sables, summited Mont Blanc and unclimbed peaks in Asia, become a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS), rowed across the Atlantic Ocean and obtained a Masterʼs degree in Business Management (MA).

https://www.hiatus.design
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