Smith Rover MIPS Review

The Smith Rover is somewhat of a newcomer to the world of bike helmets. Smith's history first making snow sports gear allowed them to represent the mountain biking world with high standards and quality design features, by adding effective ventilation and fit adjustment to all of its cycling helmets. Features like the efficient VaporFit Adjustable Fit system and the airy 18 vents as part of Smith's AirEvac ventilation system is why Smith has made such a seamless transition into making four seasons of gear. The Rover comes stacked ready to see you off for that big adventure on two wheels!

Performance Comparison

Comfort

In comparison to the deluxe padding inside the Leatt DBX 3.0 or the Bell Stoker, the Rover feels good but could use an upgrade to the padding areas. Too much plastic, not enough padding. Like we mention in other reviews, helmets are very subjective. One brand of a helmet may fit your head just fine, but another may not - it's imperative that you try on the brands and style that you like before committing to the big purchase.

Adjustments

The compatibility between eyewear and helmet is a feature we look for during the testing of mountain bike helmets; the glasses fit perfect, but the lack of visor adjustment deters us from wearing goggles. As you can see in the pictures, the goggles still sit directly on the visor, but they fall off easily. Let's hope Smith makes the upgrades for 2018.

Weight

The Rover is not the lightest helmet in the test but has a light, airy feel, much like the Giro Hex. Its stylish look, and excellent ventilation make for a great feel while climbing during those long warm days!

Ventilation

Zonal ventilated protection featuring patented koroyd material along with 18 Optimized Vents, and VaporFit adjustable fit system makes for one of the best-ventilated helmets on the market today.

Protection

The Rover's MIPS technology is the latest in helmet innovation that focuses on protecting the brain during rotational impacts. Aerocore technology teams up with AirEvac for ventilation supreme while an adjustable fit system allows for easy on trail tweaks. Plus, if you ride with Smith's sunglasses or goggles, the compatibility between eyewear and helmet is on point.

Durability

The Rover provides excellent durability throughout the long testing days in the Sierra mountains. All the material held strong, including the visor and MIPs liner and we experienced no durability issues whatsoever.

Best Applications

The Rover MIPS is a trail helmet suited for backcountry tours, all-mountain adventures, and Enduro style riding. Featuring Smith's cutting-edge Koroyd technology, the Rover is ready for dirt with extra protection at key impact areas.

Value

You can also purchase the Rover without MIPS for 150 bucks. The quality design, great features list, and full adjustment give the Rover amazing value.

Conclusion

The Smith Rover is one of the most stylish helmets we tested, with the exception of the award-winning Leatt DBX 3.0. It's such a well-designed helmet, but it could use a few tweaks. One being the padding and plastic inside the helmet, which have not been placed in the best locations.