Reviews You Can Rely On

Scott Symbol 2 Plus D Mips Review

Superior comfort, top-tier impact performance, and innovative features make it the ultimate ski helmet choice
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Scott Symbol 2 Plus D Mips Review
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Price:  $240 List
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Manufacturer:   Scott
By Isaac Laredo ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Nov 13, 2024
87
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#1 of 12
  • Impact Test - 30% 9.5
  • Comfort - 25% 8.3
  • Warmth - 20% 8.5
  • Ventilation - 15% 8.0
  • Usability - 10% 8.5

Our Verdict

The Scott Symbol 2 Plus D is a Mips helmet that stands out as our top choice for skiers and snowboarders seeking premium comfort and protection. It delivered the top performance in our Impact Test lab results, suggesting it offers a higher margin of protection than competing helmets in this review. We also gave it our highest score on Warmth, and it scored near the top on Comfort. It also offers other features we found useful. The helmet offers uniquely-designed earpads which we found deliver improved auditory awareness without sacrificing warmth. The earpads are also a comfortable fit, even when used with earbuds. This model is expensive, but it is a worthwhile investment that will be satisfying on multiple levels to anyone looking for a high-quality helmet.
REASONS TO BUY
Super warm
Comfortable
Impressive impact test results
Earpads work great with headphones
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive

Compare to Similar Products

 
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Helmet and Impact Test
Top Pick Award
Best Ventilation
Best Buy Award
Best Value for Crash Test Analysis
Best Buy Award
Affordable, Minimalist, and Great Impact Test Results
Top Pick Award
Best Low Profile Helmet
Price $240 List$108.00 at Evo
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$99.95 at Backcountry
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$159.95 at Evo
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Bottom Line Look no further for the ultimate ski helmet choice, offering superior comfort, top-tier safety, and innovative featuresThis model stands out as one of the top choices we've tested, thanks to its sleek design and expertly designed adaptable ventilation system.One of the best models we have tried due to its low profile and highly engineered adjustable ventilation systemEquipped with Mips, adjustable vents, and an adjustable dial, this model offers high-end features and strong performance at a great priceA budget-friendly choice for riders in search of a simple skate-style helmet that provides reliable protection and comfort without extra features and a high costPerfect for individuals in search of a helmet that is lightweight and low-profile that is hardly noticeable compared to bulkier models
Rating Categories Scott Symbol 2 Plus... Smith Vantage Mips Giro Ratio Mips Giro Ledge Mips Pret Cynic X2 Mips
Impact Test (30%)
9.5
6.5
9.1
8.7
6.0
Comfort (25%)
8.3
8.5
6.5
7.0
8.5
Warmth (20%)
8.5
8.0
7.5
6.6
7.5
Ventilation (15%)
8.0
9.0
7.0
6.0
6.3
Usability (10%)
8.5
9.0
7.0
6.0
8.0
Specs Scott Symbol 2 Plus... Smith Vantage Mips Giro Ratio Mips Giro Ledge Mips Pret Cynic X2 Mips
Measured Weight (Large) 19.8 oz 17.7 oz 21.7 oz 21.8 oz 17.2 oz
# of Vents 44 20 10 8 12
Audio Compatibility No Yes Yes No Yes
Removable Ear Covers Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Goggle Attachment Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Visor No No No No Yes (brim)
Adjustment System RAS 2 system Boa Fit System In form dial Auto Loc 2 RCS QR Fit System
Rotational Impact Protection System Mips Mips Mips Mips Mips
Certifications EN1077:2007, Class B, EN12492:2012 ASTM F 2040, CE EN 1077 Class B CE EN 1077 CE EN1077 ASTM F 2040, CE EN1077 B06
Number of Sizes 3 3 4 4 4

Our Analysis and Test Results

The Scott Symbol 2 Plus D is our favorite helmet because of impressive impact testing results, superior warmth, comfort, and other useful features. In the following sections, we'll detail our test findings and share how the Symbol 2 stacks up versus competing products.

Performance Comparison


The video above shows the Impact Test performed at ACT Lab's certified facility of the Scott Symbol 2. This helmet outperformed every other helmet in both the fast and slow impact tests.
Credit: GearLab/ACT Lab

Impact Test


All ski helmets must meet basic minimum regulatory standards for downhill skiing certification, but the level of protection they offer can vary significantly. To evaluate the impact performance of ski helmets, we partnered with ACT Lab, an ASTM/CEN accredited impact testing lab. ACT conducted two impact tests using a brand-new helmet and dummy head outfitted with various sensors.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - this image of the scott symbol 2 shows the helmet after one of the...
This image of the Scott Symbol 2 shows the helmet after one of the impact tests.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The laboratory tests allowed us to measure each helmet's ability to absorb impact forces, as measured by accelerometer force sensors in the test dummy head. The first of two impact tests dropped the helmet from 1 meter to simulate common smaller “slow” impact falls. The second test was from 2.3 meters to simulate higher forces associated with faster collisions, terrain park impacts, or high-speed falls. The Scott Symbol 2 earned top marks for the degree of protection it offered.

Slow Impact Test Results


The Scott Symbol 2 Plus D was the top-performing model in our “slow” impact assessment, even outscoring several helmets with higher price tags.

This chart shows the Scott Symbol 2 Plus D data compared to an average-performing and the lowest-performing model. In terms of this test, the lower the curve, the better the impact test performance.

Fast Impact Test Results


The Symbol 2 Plus D was also the best model for the “fast” impact test analysis, even widening the lead it had in the “slow” tests.

When compared to helmets that produced low or average numbers, the Scott easily outperformed them.

The Symbol 2 exceeded our expectations, as its impact testing performance delivered the best results of all the helmets we tested.


In addition to incorporating Mips rotational motion tech into the Symbol 2, Scott uses a shock-absorbing material in their helmets called D30 that is flexible and soft when you're not applying any force to it, but “on impact, the molecules lock together to spread impact energy and reduce transmitted impact force to the brain.” While we can't verify the specific role of D30 in impact test performance, the design seems to work well — the Symbol 2 delivers impressive impact test results.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - the orange color is the d30 inserts, which covers the front and back...
The orange color is the D30 inserts, which covers the front and back of the head, and the yellow is the Mips liner.
Credit: Isaac Laredo

Comfort


Nothing is better than forgetting you're even wearing a helmet while riding your favorite lines around the resort. We rode around the ski resort and gave the helmet to different head shapes to evaluate the overall comfort of each helmet. The Symbol Plus 2 is a standout pick for comfort as we could easily forget about it.


The Symbol Plus 2 helmet is exceptionally comfortable, rivaling top-rated competitors. The shell fits a round oval head shape the best, but the RAS 2 Fit System ensures a snug, secure fit that adapts to various head shapes without any pressure points. The helmet's user-friendly dial adjuster allows quick and easy adjustments, even when wearing gloves. The 360 Pure Sound are well-designed earpads that offer a comfortable fit without causing any discomfort, especially with earbuds. Their contoured design helps sound travel to the ear, which helped our test team stay aware of our surroundings on the slopes.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - the earpads are warm, reduce drafts, are comfortable, and allow you...
The earpads are warm, reduce drafts, are comfortable, and allow you to hear your surroundings.
Credit: Isaac Laredo

The wide, fleece-lined chinstrap is a standout feature – an often overlooked but crucial element. The Symbol 2 Plus D's soft, comfortable chinstrap significantly enhances the overall wearing experience, especially during long days on the slopes.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - the largest and best skin feel of any chin strap in the review.
The largest and best skin feel of any chin strap in the review.
Credit: Isaac Laredo

The in-mold construction provides a comfortable, low-profile lid that is easy to forget about while riding. We didn't experience any helmet movement or feel an excess of weight. The ride quality from this model was very high and exactly what expert riders demand, and anyone would appreciate.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - the in-mold construction makes this a lightweight, and low profile...
The in-mold construction makes this a lightweight, and low profile lid.
Credit: Isaac Laredo

Warmth


The warmth of a helmet helps avoid the need to wear a big bulky beanie underneath and increases your chances of developing a headache. We conducted thorough testing of each model by using them while skiing at the resorts and cycling with each helmet to determine the temperature where the thin skull cap was needed and how many drafts we noticed. Additionally, we walked upstairs to assess which helmet heated up the fastest. The Scott Symbol 2 Plus D is one of the warmest helmets we have tested due to its smaller vent structure and warm and warmer liner that utilizes fleece.


The Symbol 2 has a concentrated ventilation zone, allowing it to retain heat better. These smaller vents also offer dual zone adjustability so that you can open them all, just the front and back, to trap in or release more or less heat. We found the action of the toggles to be relatively smooth but have more resistance than some other models within the review. Fortunately, you can still operate them with the helmet on your head and gloves, but sometimes, it may take more force, especially with the front vents.

The adjustable vent toggle in the Scott Symbol 2 Plus is a bit harder to grab then other models and has some snap to it.
Credit: Isaac Laredo

The fleece lining on the earpads and a harness adjustment system add warmth and a nice next-to-skin feel. This helmet was one of the fastest to build up heat in our stair test with fully closed vents. The fit from the earpads helps keep this helmet very warm, as the snug fit prevents any drafts from sneaking in, which happened to a few competitors.

We could ride without a skull cap in below-freezing temperatures, and this helmet is well-suited for riders in cold or stormy climates.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - adjustable vents help keep the warmth in and the storm out.
Adjustable vents help keep the warmth in and the storm out.
Credit: Isaac Laredo

Ventilation


The ventilation systems of helmets have received incredible improvements over the last ten years to provide strategic and customizable air. We rode each helmet on warm spring days, hiked uphill, and rode our bikes to evaluate the ventilation system. The Symbol 2 offers solid customizable ventilation that is plenty for most riders.


The Symbol 2 features six fixed open vents strategically placed on the sides and rear, ensuring consistent airflow to prevent overheating. Additionally, the helmet has a front vent slide adjuster at the top, which controls two front intake vents and six small vents. The second adjuster manages the back 31 mini vents on the helmet for more adjustability. The second adjuster controls the 31 mini vents on the helmet's top, allowing for precise airflow management. This high level of customizable ventilation is a standout feature and provides effective ventilation that doesn't fall short on spring days.

The strategic venting system relies on airflow to move large amounts of heat but has proved less effective when sitting still. It retained heat after our stair test longer than most helmets in the review. Fortunity skiing and snowboarding are high-velocity sports with plenty of airflow.

The earpads are the most time-consuming to remove compared to other components and not likely something we would do on the chairlift and stuff in our pockets, but we are happy to do it at the start of the day or after we have settled into spring riding. The earpads are well-designed as they are well-ventilated and comfy without being drafty.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - the vent system is comprised of lateral channels underneath these...
The vent system is comprised of lateral channels underneath these small vent covers, which provide effective ventilation.
Credit: Isaac Laredo

Usability


Like most items, a ski helmet's features can make or break the user experience. While riding in and wearing the helmet, we fiddled with all the features to see how they impacted our experience. The Symbol 2 has a nice feature set and provides a user-friendly and enjoyable experience on the mountain. If it had a magnetic buckle, some testers say it would be the perfect helmet for them.


The features of this helmet are generally great. The RAS 2 Fit System is easy to use and offers plenty of range. The 360 Pure Sound is one of our favorite features as it improves the comfort with headphones, and even if you don't wear them, your awareness is significantly improved because of your ability to hear. The adjustable vents add to the experience to create more adjustable climate control. The two things that would improve the experience would be a slightly easier way to remove the ear pads and use a magnetic buckle.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - these are the best earpads we have encountered in any helmet.
These are the best earpads we have encountered in any helmet.
Credit: Isaac Laredo

Should You Buy the Scott Symbol 2 Plus D?


If you're looking for a helmet you can forget about but rely on that has all the bells and whistles, then this model is for you. It delivers top impact testing performance, is incredibly comfortable, and is full featured. If it fits your budget, we think you find it is worth your hard-earned dollars.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - the short answer is we recommend that you buy this helmet.
The short answer is we recommend that you buy this helmet.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

What Other Ski Helmet Should You Consider?


If the steep price tag is a hurdle for you, consider the Pret Cynic X2 as its design focuses on the user experience and ride quality but foregoes a few bells and whistles to come in at a more moderate price point.

scott symbol 2 plus d mips - the sleek back profile of the symbol.
The sleek back profile of the Symbol.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Isaac Laredo