The Invisible Guardian: Smith and Mips highlights gear and technology used by legends and champions

January 16, 2025

Many winter athletes rely on helmets for protection, but what about the unseen tech working behind the scenes?

Stockholm, Sweden; January 16, 2025. /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ –  Mips, renowned for its leadership in helmet safety systems, continues to set the industry benchmark, treating standards as a starting point rather than the finish line. The Mips® safety system is designed to help address the energies associated with rotational motion during certain angled impacts—a critical factor in many head injuries. Rotational motion can lead to strain on the brain causing different versions of TBI. Mips technology is designed to help redirect these energies away from the head.

Over years of rigorous research and testing, Mips has evolved its systems to seamlessly integrate into helmets without compromising design or comfort. The result? Modern helmet solutions that maintain minimalist aesthetics and improve ventilation, providing the performance demanded by world-class athletes and recreational riders alike.

“For me, wearing a helmet while skiing is non-negotiable—it’s essential gear. It offers protection from all angles, whether it’s deflecting branches, shrugging off hard snow chunks, or stepping up in life-saving situations. Beyond safety, a helmet keeps me warm when it’s cold, ventilates well when it’s hot, and keeps my goggles in place for ultimate performance. With Mips technology, I see it as there’s an extra layer of defense, crashes are rarely predictable, and added safety when it comes to rotational impacts is a must,” says Sage Cattabriga, a professional skier and 25-year legend of ski films from Teton Gravity Research and more.

Mips Technology Meets Smith’s Legacy of Excellence

Whether carving through powder or taking on technical terrain, riders benefit from a helmet design that emphasizes both function and comfort, while addressing rotational motion during angled impacts.

Smith – global leaders across innovative snowsport produces for over 60 years – designs helmets featuring Mips safety systems tailored to specific needs:

• Mips® Essential Core: A streamlined system offering riders an accessible way to experience Mips technology. (Found in the Smith Glide Jr. Mips helmet)
• Mips® Evolve Core: Built for versatility, this system delivers a refined fit and lightweight design for a range of on-snow adventures. (Found in the Smith Method Pro Mips helmet)

Each system underscores the brands’ shared commitment to progressing helmet safety while maintaining superior fit, breathability, and a low-profile design.

Empowering Riders Through Knowledge

While visible design elements like fit and ventilation often take center stage, it’s the unseen technology—like the Mips system—that works tirelessly behind the scenes. Mips and Smith aim to educate riders on the importance of rotational motion systems in helmets and how innovation continues to enhance rider performance and comfort on the slopes.

With over 25 years of research and more than 1,000 helmet models equipped with Mips technology, Mips has solidified its position as the leader in the field. Collaborating with Smith and other brands allows Mips to bring its latest advancements to winter athletes around the globe, empowering them to tackle the mountains with confidence.

“Every time I head out, I know my helmet is working as hard as I am. The Mips system brings peace of mind, allowing me to focus on pushing boundaries on the slopes,” adds Marion Haerty, professional snowboarder and 4x Freeride World Champion.

Redefining Industry Standards

As the leader in rotational motion impact systems, Mips remains committed to developing the next generation of safety innovations. Together with Smith, the focus remains on creating helmets that deliver optimal performance while setting a new benchmark for the industry. For riders of all levels, Mips and Smith are more than gear—they’re partners in adventure.

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About Mips
Mips specializes in helmet-based safety and is a world-leader in this area. Based on an ingredient brand business-model, Mips’ safety system is sold to the global helmet industry. The technology is based on over 25 years of research and development together with the Royal Institute of Technology and the Karolinska Institute, both located in Stockholm, Sweden. Mips’ headquarters with 85 employees engaged in research and development, sales, marketing and administration is in Stockholm, where its product and technology test facility also is located. The Mips share is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

Currently, Mips has partnered with over 150 helmet manufacturers. Since its inception, the Mips® safety system has been included in more than 1,000 helmet models worldwide.

Further information: www.mipsprotection.com

About Smith

Originating from Sun Valley, Idaho, Smith was founded in 1965 with the invention of the first snow goggle featuring a sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam. With 60 years of innovation and design experience, Smith is widely known today as an industry leader that pioneers advanced eyewear and helmets that incorporate dynamic technologies, optimized performance and clean styling to fuel fun beyond walls. Smith seeks to power thrilling experiences in snow, surf, bike, fish and peak performance outdoor adventures with a comprehensive collection that exudes modern style and vibrant personality. To Smith, the experience is everything. Smith is part of Safilo Group. Additional information is available at smithoptics.com.