REASONS TO BUY
All-around performance
Impressive low weight
Clean aesthetic
Great impact test scores
REASONS TO AVOID
Bulkier
Goggle strap an acquired taste
Less ideal ventilation
Smith Method Pro Mips Review
This featherweight option boasts top scores across the charts, proving that some ski helmets can do it all
Credit: Zach Lovell
By Zach Lovell ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ May 14, 2025
Our Verdict
The Smith Method Pro is a true all-arounder in the ski helmet world and is likely to fit the needs of most riders or skiers. At a modest weight of only 15 ounces, this option is hardly felt in your backpack or on your head, making it even ideal for some backcountry tours. We loved the clean aesthetic of this helmet, with a unique design on the backside and a variety of goggles that integrate well with the Method Pro. With such a low weight, our testing team was incredibly surprised by the top impact test scores of this model, disproving the long-running assumption that the best protection has to weigh more. The Method Pro isn't the most breathable or slimmest helmet, and some might not like the goggle attachment, but these complaints are ultimately minor setbacks in an otherwise top-tier model.
Our Analysis and Test Results
We spent weeks testing the Smith Method Pro across several resorts and even logged some large backcountry ski days. We ultimately found this option to be a bar-setting ski helmet in the all-arounder category – this model simply does well in any ski or snowboard setting.
We found the Method Pro comfortable and easy to adjust with the rear boa wheel.
Credit: Syd Knadler
Impact Test
The Method Pro came in at the top of the charts after we impact tested each model.
Slow Impact Test Results
The Method Pro did very well in the slow impact test, coming in towards the front of the pack.
Fast Impact Test Results
The Method Pro did even better with the fast impact test, nearly tying for first place.
Comfort
The Method Pro is generously sized, accommodating a wide variety of head shapes and under-helmet hats. The BOA system in the back easily allows one to dial in the fit, and we loved the fleece wrapped chin strap, which was easy to adjust.
It's also comfortable with a variety of goggle models, accommodating various sizes and shapes of lenses. This option got a slightly reduced score in this metric due to the jumps between sizes, causing a few of our testers to land between sizes, which resulted in them needing to go up one size and tighten down the back of the helmet. Ultimately, the Method Pro is a very comfortable helmet, and most shoppers will find the right size for their head and hat combo.
We took the Method Pro on ski descents of all shapes and sizes, from ski resorts to glaciated backcountry tours.
Credit: Joseph Hobby
Warmth
In terms of retaining heat, this model is one of our favorites.
With limited vents, there are few opportunities for storm snow to make its way underneath the Method Pro. Our testing team all found it easy to “seal” their goggles/helmet system when the weather turned south, and on the coldest of days, the helmet allowed for a hat addition.
Whether skiing deep snow or braving a storm, the Method Pro repelled snow.
Credit: Zach Lovell
As a lightweight helmet, this option doesn't offer the absolute greatest insulation, with minimal fleece or fabric built inside the helmet. However, it's likely one will be able to fit a small hat underneath as needed, so consider sizing appropriately for a variety of conditions.
While there wasn't much insulation built into the helmet, this simple chin strap fleece was both comfortable and warm.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Ventilation
Ventilation isn't the strongest attribute of this helmet. As previously shared, the Method Pro doesn't have much in the way of vents. The six vents included are also all very narrow, making it somewhat difficult to get airflow traveling through the helmet, particularly in warmer temps or higher-output ski days.
Fortunately, we found the Mips liner and the lack of built-in insulation to aid in the overall ventilation, but if breathability is a priority, we'd look elsewhere.
The small vents were great for weather protection, but less ideal for ventilation.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Usability
The Method Pro did fairly well in the usability metric, which we scored by analyzing each option's ease-of-use and overall functionality. We also looked at each ski helmet's features, from the chinstrap buckle to the rear goggle strap.
This helmet has a lightweight, no-frills design that makes a few sacrifices in the name of keeping weight to a minimum. At just 15 ounces, it offers a noticeably different experience from some of the heavier models in our lineup. We even took the Method Pro on several backcountry ski tours and were happy to carry it on big days of uphill travel.
Unlike some options, the Method Pro was a joy to take into the backcountry.
Credit: Zach Lovell
The rear goggle attachment of the Method Pro wasn't our favorite, with a rigid plastic design that doesn't fully lock your goggle strap in place. While we never had a pair of goggles slingshot off the helmet, nearly every other option tested had a design that fully secured the goggles. On the plus side, this unique design was very durable, particularly when compared to the competition that used thinner rubber or elastic for the goggle attachment.
While it doesn't fully latch at the bottom, this design was durable.
Credit: Zach Lovell
There is no way to open or close the vents – they're simply open the whole time. The chin buckle is very secure, with a side slide mechanism that held up throughout all testing. It is also easy to slide headphones into the earflaps.
While the side slide might take a few days to get used to, this buckle was durable and secure throughout testing.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Should You Buy the Smith Method Pro?
This top-scoring option was among our favorite ski helmets in the whole review, thanks to its all-around performance and low weight. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles, this is well-deserving of your consideration if you need a do-it-all option.
What Other Ski Helmets Should You Consider?
If you need a helmet that can vent better, check out the Smith Vantage Mips, which is fairly heavy but boasts large vents that can be opened or closed. If you're looking for an option that has a smaller profile than the Method Pro, consider the POC Obex Mips.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare Smith Method Pro Mips versus top competing products:
—Zach Lovell
You Might Also Like
