The Forefront and Overtake will still reign as Smith’s high end cycling helmets for 2018, but they’ll have some serious competition. After introducing the Route and Rover last season, Smith is launching another tier of helmets that will slot in between the two levels.
Equipped with all of their safety features, the new helmets feature select zonal Aerocore panels which are constructed form Koroyd material which is supposed to better disperse impact during a crash. The helmets are also fitted with MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) which has become a popular addition to many helmets these days and is supposed to better protect your brain from rotational impacts.
The Network is their new road focused helmet and it includes a removable visor/sweat liner which velcros in under the front pads.
Both the Network and the Session feature more secure eyewear integration with a new slot for the temples which actually holds them in place.
The Session is the MTB part of the equation and it features the same construction but with an adjustable visor that is goggle compatible. The helmet’s intake ports are also designed to mesh up with the vents on the goggles for better airflow when you’re going full enduro.
Both helmets use a multi position adjustable dial system for fit, and will come in small, medium, and large for $160.
Smith has always been at the forefront of cycling fashion, but this year the colors are wilder than ever. That includes the Cinelli and Splatter version of the Network, and this Overtake in ‘Squall’ with matching glasses. Supposedly, the pattern increases your visibility because the eye is drawn to the contrasting colors and irregular patterns without relying on high-viz yellow or orange.
In addition to the new mid-tier helmets, there is also a new entry level option for both road and MTB. The Portal road helmet and Venture MTB remove the Koroyd and MIPS from the Route and Rover to drop the price down to just $80 ($110 with MIPS). The Route and Rover remain the same, but they also get a price reduction down to $120 to complete the line up.
Everything new should be available by March.
