MIPS stands for Multi-Directional Impact Protection and can be found in many of the biggest helmet brands. The technology allows the helmet to slide relative to the head, adding more protection against rotational impact to the brain caused by angled collisions. In other words if you crash the MIPS system allows the helmet to rotate independently around your head. There are two main forces related to brain injury when you crash, linear and rotational. For years helmets protected users from linear impacts, but most crashes would involve a combination of both, that’s where introducing MIPS may mean a higher level of protection. If you have never worn a helmet it is probably because you have never had a crash or injury that has made you think it is necessary, but most people do these days and for good reason. The argument is that if you are good at skiing or boarding and are always in control why would you need a helmet? But it only takes a hidden patch of ice or another rider to lose control to put you at risk. And you know what they say… ‘it’s snow fun being injured’. So which helmets have MIPS technology? Giro and POC both have MIPS technology in some of their helmets, and surprisingly it doesn’t mean a hefty price tag: 1. GIRO LEDGE MIPS HELMET - $159.99: The Giro Ledge helmet is low profile with plenty of ventilation. It is a super simple design helmet, incorporating MIPS (arguably the safest helmet technology) and doesn’t have a huge price tag. This is the perfect helmet for anyone who has worn one before and thinks it’s time to try it out. It will seamlessly match up with heaps of goggles on the market ensuring the user is not only safe but protected from the elements. 2. GIRO NINE MIPS HELMET – $219.95: The GIRO Nine MIPS Helmet is built ultra light featuring the In Form fit system (a flexible pad at the base of the back of the helmet that conforms to your head shape). With the extra money you are getting a lighter helmet that will fit to your head better which of course still has Giro’s Stack Ventilation which regulates airflow to keep goggles from fogging up. 3. POC FORNIX JEREMY JONES MIPS HELMET – $339.99: POC have released a Fornix Jeremy Jones Special. The helmet is made from Aramid fibre to be extremely strong, this when bonded with the helmet structure allows energy to be dispersed over the entire bridge, giving the helmet better energy absorption. The strength of this helmet as well as the MIPS technology, the adjustable size system and the generous ventilation are why this helmet is one of the best. 4. POC RECEPTOR BACKCOUNTRY MIPS HELMET – $429.99: The POC Receptor Backcountry MIPS Helmet is designed for just that – going backcountry. It features double shells, a multi-impact EPP liner and an Aramid Penetration Barrier. All of that as well the MIPS technology this helmet is the premium helmet in snow sports. At $429.99 it is an investment but for the cost you are getting a far superior helmet from most on the market. MIPS is a technology that has taken 19 years to develop by scientists in Sweden. Any helmet whether for the snow or not will have a yellow MIPS logo on the helmet to represent the MIPS technology is being used. Giro and POC are helmets we sell in store and online that both use MIPS, we also have Smith and Pret helmets in store that use MIPS too. For help choosing a helmet online check out our buying guide: HERE If not, when you come in store bring your goggles with you, ideally you don’t want a gap between your goggles and your helmet. Besides that we have plenty of staff in store you can help you pick a helmet that will suit your needs. For tips on your Snow Sport equipment stay in touch with us: facebook/rhythmsnowsports instagram: @rhythmsnowsports twitter: @rhythmsnowsport

Posted by Emily Dorahy on July 14, 2016