Stop Wasting Money on the Wrong Smith Helmet!

Choosing the perfect helmet is one of the most important decisions any mountain biker can make. Not only does a helmet protect your most valuable asset—your head—but it also needs to fit well, feel comfortable, and offer features that suit your riding style. 

With Smith offering six different mountain biking helmets, each with varying price points and unique features, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. How do you know which helmet is right for you? Should you settle for an affordable option, or is it worth investing in the top-tier model? 

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll break down every detail of Smith’s helmet lineup, from the budget-friendly Convoy to the premium Mainline. Whether you’re a casual rider, an aggressive enduro enthusiast, or someone who’s into e-bikes, this article will help you make an informed choice and stop wasting money on the wrong helmet.

Smith helmets range from $85 to $310, and while the price difference might seem steep, the features and protections they offer vary significantly. I’ll cover everything from ventilation systems, visor adjustability, and MIPS technology, to unique coatings on helmet pads and integrated crash sensors. 

By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what each helmet brings to the table, and which one fits your needs and budget. Let’s dive into the details and find the perfect Smith helmet for you.

Smith Helmet Lineup Overview

Smith offers six distinct mountain bike helmets:

• Convoy - $85 (Entry-level)
• Engage - $130
• Session - $170
• Payroll - $200
• Forefront 2 - $250
• Mainline - $310 (Full-face)

Each helmet targets different types of riders and riding styles, from casual trail riders to aggressive enduro and e-bike enthusiasts. Below, I’ll break down each model, highlighting their features, certifications, fit, and who they’re best for.

Smith Convoy — The Budget-Friendly Entry Point

The Smith Convoy retails for $85, making it the most affordable option in the lineup. Despite its low price, it still packs some essential features that Smith is known for. The Convoy includes:

• A fixed visor
• 20 vents for airflow
• VaporFit adjustable rear dial for a customized fit
• MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) inside for added brain protection
• Standard removable pads

One cool aspect of the Convoy is its integration with Smith Bobcat sunglasses. The helmet’s design allows you to store sunglasses on top without interfering with comfort, and it works well with Smith goggles as well. For riders who want a reliable helmet without the bells and whistles, the Convoy is a solid choice.

Smith Engage — Stepping Up the Game

At $130, the Engage introduces several upgrades over the Convoy. The key features include:

• Multiposition adjustable visor with side locking tabs
• Zonal Cordura padding on the sides to enhance durability
• 21 vents for slightly improved airflow
• CPSC and EN1078 safety certifications
• MIPS inside for impact protection
• Removable, washable pads
• Integration with Smith Bobcat sunglasses featuring side slots for secure storage

The Engage weighs just an ounce more than the Convoy (12 oz vs. 11 oz), but the added features like the adjustable visor and zonal Cordura padding make it a noticeable upgrade, especially for riders who want more customization and durability.

Smith Session — Enhanced Comfort and Antimicrobial Protection

Moving up to the $170 Session, you get more refinements geared toward comfort and hygiene:

• 15 fixed vents (fewer than Engage but designed for better airflow)
• Adjustable visor (though it clicks less firmly than the Engage)
• CS and EN1078 certifications
• Zonal Cordura padding on the sides
• VaporFit adjustment dial
• MIPS inside
• Ionized antimicrobial treatment on pads to reduce odor and keep fabric fresh
• Integrated eyewear storage under the visor and rear slots, compatible with goggles

The Session weighs the same as the Engage but adds the ionic treatment on the pads, which is a great feature for riders who sweat a lot or want to keep their helmet fresh with minimal hassle. The airflow design is optimized for goggle wearers, helping reduce fogging.

Smith Payroll — Designed for E-Bikes and Aggressive Riding

The Payroll, priced at $200, is a larger helmet built with aggressive trail riders and e-bike enthusiasts in mind. Key features include:

• 19 vents for balanced airflow
• Adjustable visor with three positions
• VaporFit dial adjustment
• MIPS inside
• Zonal Cordura padding on the sides
• Ionized antimicrobial treated padding
• Additional padding for comfort and protection
• Certifications: CPSC, EN1078, NTA 8776 (e-bike specific), AS/NZS 2063
• Integrated sunglass storage on top (no rear storage)
• Designed for more protection with a bigger shell volume

The Payroll stands out because it is the only half-shell mountain bike helmet with e-bike certification, making it ideal for those who ride at higher speeds or want extra protection. Its larger size and thicker shell offer peace of mind for enduro and aggressive trail riders.

Smith Forefront 2 — The Premium Half-Shell Helmet

At $250, the Forefront 2 is Smith’s top-of-the-line half-shell helmet with nearly every feature you could want:

• Three-position adjustable visor (best clicking mechanism among the lineup)
• Cordura padding all around the helmet (except the very top)
• VaporFit dial with integrated Alec crash sensor option
• MIPS inside
• Ionic antimicrobial treated pads
• Two-pad system for brow and top of helmet
• Integrated mount point for lights or action cameras
• Excellent sunglass and goggle integration with dedicated storage slots
• Good airflow optimized for goggle ventilation

The Forefront 2 combines comfort, safety, and smart tech, including the optional Alec crash sensor, which can notify emergency contacts if you crash. It fits similarly to the Engage, Session, and Convoy but offers superior sunglasses and goggles storage and overall premium features. If you want the best half-shell helmet Smith offers and money isn’t a concern, this is the helmet to get.

Also Read: Specialized Turbo Levo SL 4 vs Whyte Kado RSX - 2025’s Best eMTB?

Smith Mainline — Full-Face Protection for Downhill and Enduro

The Mainline is a full-face helmet priced at $310, designed for downhill and aggressive enduro riders who demand maximum protection. Here’s what you get:

• Chin guard for full-face protection
• Adjustable visor with locking mechanism
• 21 vents for airflow
• Cordura padding all around
• MIPS inside
• Extra padding around the top, neck, and cheeks
• Additional cheek and neck pads included for customized fit
• D-ring style strap closure
• Certifications: CPSC, EN1078, NTA 8776, AS/NZS 1952 (downhill rated)
• No sunglass storage but excellent goggle compatibility
• Raised bar in the back to hold goggle straps securely
• Optimized airflow for goggle ventilation

This helmet is perfect for riders who prioritize protection above all else, especially in downhill or high-speed enduro scenarios. The full-face design adds significant coverage, and the helmet’s certifications reflect its suitability for demanding riding conditions.

Smith Mountain Bike Helmet Comparison Table

Helmet Model	Price	Vents	Adjustable Visor	MIPS	Pad Treatment	Certifications	Crash Sensor Option	Sunglass Storage	Best For
Convoy	$85	20	No (fixed)	Yes	Standard Pads	CPSC, EN1078	No	Top only	Entry-level riders
Engage	$130	21	Yes (multiposition)	Yes	Cordura on sides	CPSC, EN1078	No	Top & rear slots	Casual to moderate riders
Session	$170	15	Yes	Yes	Cordura + Ionic treatment	CS, EN1078	No	Top & rear slots	Comfort-conscious riders
Payroll	$200	19	Yes (3 positions)	Yes	Cordura + Ionic treatment	CPSC, EN1078, NTA 8776, AS/NZS 2063	Optional ($20 extra)	Top only	Aggressive/enduro and e-bike riders
Forefront 2	$250	Varies (around 20)	Yes (best clicking)	Yes	Cordura + Ionic treatment	CPSC, EN1078, NTA 8776	Yes (built-in)	Top & rear slots	Premium half-shell enthusiasts
Mainline (Full-face)	$310	21	Yes	Yes	Cordura + Ionic treatment	CPSC, EN1078, NTA 8776, AS/NZS 1952	Yes	No sunglass storage	Downhill and aggressive enduro riders

How to Choose the Right Smith Helmet for You

With such a wide range of helmets, how do you decide which one suits your needs? Here are some key considerations:

1. Riding Style and Protection Needs

If you’re a casual rider or just starting out, the Convoy offers excellent value with basic protection and comfort. It’s lightweight and well-ventilated but lacks an adjustable visor and premium pad treatments.

For riders who want a bit more customization and durability, the Engage and Session are excellent mid-tier options. Choose the Session if you want antimicrobial pad treatment and slightly better airflow for goggle use.

If you’re into aggressive trail riding or use an e-bike, the Payroll is designed for you. It offers additional certifications, a larger shell for more coverage, and better protection at higher speeds.

The Forefront 2 is the top-tier half-shell helmet, packed with features like the Alec crash sensor and best sunglass/goggle integration. It’s perfect if you want the best fit, protection, and tech without going full face.

Finally, if downhill or enduro racing is your focus, the Mainline full-face helmet is the safest bet. It offers maximum protection, including chin coverage, and meets rigorous safety standards for high-speed riding.

2. Budget Considerations

Price is often a major factor. The Convoy at $85 is the most budget-friendly, while the Mainline full-face helmet at $310 is a significant investment. The middle helmets range between $130 and $250, offering a balance of features and cost.

Remember, spending more can mean better protection, comfort, and tech, but it should align with your riding needs and frequency. Don’t overspend on features you won’t use.

3. Fit and Comfort

Smith helmets use the VaporFit dial system for easy adjustment. Most half-shell models fit similarly except for the Payroll, which has a larger volume for more coverage. The Mainline full-face helmet offers additional padding and a secure d-ring strap for a snug fit.

Try to consider how the helmet integrates with your eyewear. The Forefront 2 offers the best sunglass and goggle storage, while others have varying slot configurations. The Mainline doesn’t have sunglass storage but excels with goggles.

4. Additional Features

Some helmets include antimicrobial pad treatments to reduce odor, while others offer integrated crash sensors like the Alec sensor in the Forefront 2 and optionally in the Payroll. Consider if these features are important for your riding experience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Smith helmet doesn’t have to be confusing. Your decision should be based on your riding style, protection needs, budget, and preferences for comfort and additional features. The Convoy is a fantastic starting point for those on a budget or casual riders. The Engage and Session offer excellent mid-range options, with the Session adding antimicrobial pad treatment for improved hygiene. For aggressive riders, especially those on e-bikes, the Payroll provides enhanced protection and certifications tailored for higher speeds.

If you want the best half-shell helmet Smith has to offer with top-notch features and tech, the Forefront 2 is the clear winner. And for those who demand maximum protection in downhill or enduro racing, the Mainline full-face helmet is the ultimate choice.

Investing in the right helmet not only protects you but also enhances your riding experience. I hope this detailed breakdown helps you make a confident choice and stops you from wasting money on the wrong helmet. Ride safe and enjoy the trails!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is MIPS and why is it important?

A: MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a technology inside helmets designed to reduce rotational forces during certain impacts. All Smith helmets in this lineup include MIPS, providing an added layer of brain protection.

Q: Can I use goggles with all Smith helmets?

A: Most Smith helmets support goggles, but integration varies. The Engage, Session, Payroll, Forefront 2, and Mainline all offer good goggle compatibility, with the Forefront 2 and Mainline providing the best fit and ventilation for goggles.

Q: What is the Alec crash sensor and which helmets have it?

A: The Alec crash sensor is a smart feature that can detect crashes and send notifications to emergency contacts. It’s built into the Forefront 2 and optionally available for the Payroll helmet for an extra $20.

Q: Are Smith helmets certified for e-bike use?

A: Yes, the Payroll, Forefront 2, and Mainline helmets have NTA 8776 certification, which is specific for e-bike safety standards.

Q: How do I clean and maintain my Smith helmet?

A: Smith helmets have removable pads that can be washed. Models like the Session, Payroll, Forefront 2, and Mainline feature ionic antimicrobial treatments on the pads to help keep them fresh longer. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.