Smith Optics Signal MIPS review

The Signal MIPS helmet marks a a change in focus for Smith Optics and introduces a safety packed helmet to a whole new audience, thanks in part to a price point hitherto unknown to the premium company (barring its Maze Bike urban helmet which is targeted at a very different audience). We reckon it's one of the best budget bike helmets and also one of the best bike helmets for commuters.

The Signal MIPS shares some of the characteristic styling found on all of Smith's premium helmets, but it's a little bit more boxy. The brand has also saved cash by swapping out some of the high-end technology and laborious construction techniques available on the range topping models, but of course it still meets the relevant safety requirements.

This helmet does still have a high quality in-moulded construction, utilising a single density polystyrene main material that's been heat moulded to a durable outer shell. The shell is thick enough to take the abuse the day-to-day commuter or regular user will put it through.

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The straps have a thicker weave than on the more expensive versions and are not as soft or malleable, but I didn't find them them uncomfortable or obtrusive. An adjustable clip enables the user to adjust the straps around the ear and jawline. It does use the same quick-release clip as on all of Smith's other helmets.

The same can be said for the Vaporfit retention system, the easy to use dial system is comfortable and actually wraps the entirety of the head rather than the 270 degrees of its other versions. The pads are comfortable and in general use I have found the Signal MIPS to be as good as many, much higher priced helmets, in terms of its ability to just get on with the job and virtually disappearing from your thoughts when riding.

It also came out at just 7 grams heavier than the £200 Trace helmet, mainly thanks to it's lack of complicated safety tech like the Koroyd material used in the Trace. Talking about safety, as the name implies the Signal does have a MIPS liner to reduce the rotational forces of impacts and potentially mitigate injuries.

The Signal MIPS is not the best looking helmet in the world. It is a touch square and chunky looking from the front and with its basic gloss colour it does look a little bit like a pumped up toddler helmet or as someone else mentioned, a bit like it's made for a Lego or Playmobil figure.

However, if you like or simply don't mind the simpler styling you will find the Signal MIPS to be a well ventilated and safe helmet that does have plenty of cross-over appeal for everyone from commuters to gravel and cross-country riders. And being designed by a brand specialising in eyewear you can be assured there's a place to put your glasses.