Not long ago full-face helmets were strictly for downhill riding, but with the rise of enduro racing came trimmed-down helmets like Smith’s new Mainline. With low weight and lots of ventilation as top priorities, enduro riders can enjoy the protection of a full-face without wearing a hot, sweaty anchor on their heads.
Bikerumor previewed the Mainline helmet earlier this year, and since then Smith sent me one for a complete review. The helmet arrived very recently so my review will have to come later; for today let’s check out a ‘First Look’ overview of their newest full-face.
The Mainline’s in-molded shell sits over a layer of Koroyd, a unique protective material that Smith employs in their helmets. If you’re not familiar, it’s the part that looks like a bunch of straws glued together. I’m pretty stoked to try out one of Smith’s Koroyd helmets; they certainly appear light and well vented, but I haven’t had the chance to ride one yet.
For further protection against rotational impact forces on your brain, the Mainline also includes a MIPS liner. Here’s one important thing consumers should note; While the Mainline is marketed directly as an enduro lid, it is certified to ASTM F1952 standards so you can take it to the bike parks or wear it while Downhill racing.
The Mainline helmet’s ventilation looks promising. I’m no wind tunnel technician but its large vents look well positioned to promote plenty of intake up front and exhaust out the back. The chin bar isn’t quite as lean as Fox’s Proframe, but its wide open front should let plenty of air into your lungs.
The Mainline also features AirEvac channels above each eye, designed to help air flow through your goggles and reduce the chance of fogging. We’ll soon see how they perform through some hot summer rides…
