The best MTB helmet you can buy

Smith Forefront 2

As the first MTB helmet built with Koroyd material, the original Smith Forefront was a true pioneer. Its recently updated successor goes by the name of Forefront 2 and uses the same honeycomb composite formed from small plastic tubes. The new Forefront employs even more Koroyd panels and provides more back of the head coverage than its predecessor. As an optics-manufacturer, Smith put great emphasis on eyewear compatibility, making the Forefront 2 compatible with pretty much all types of glasses and goggles. For the Forefront 2, Smith implement the popular MIPS system. Our test helmet, was the cheaper version without MIPS though.

All in all, the Forefront 2 is very well-manufactured, with the EPS foam and the shell forming a seamless unit. We can’t say the same about the ‘miracle’ Koroyd material. Unfortunately, in some places (especially the edges) the small plastic tubes are not well-processed and look a bit cheap. Whilst some of the elements fit perfectly into the EPS shell, other sections reveal unpleasant gaps and collapsed honeycombs – something that QC shouldn’t oversee. While the padding is fairly minimal, the Forefront still provides a good fit and a high level of comfort. The large Koroyd surface affects the airflow. While the honeycomb structure allows for good ventilation at low speeds, it generates less ventilation than classic helmets on fast descents and flatter trails. The price tag of € 230 (with MIPS) is rather painful.

Price € 200 | Weight 357 g | Info smithoptics.com