Smith Triad MIPS Bike Helmet: Road Cycling meets Gravel Biking
The Smith Triad MIPS Bike Helmet offers certified protection with a sleek, modern design. It features Zonal Koroyd® and MIPS® for impact and rotational force absorption, a VaporFit™ system for adjustable comfort, and 19 vents for airflow. It meets CPSC, EN 1078 and AS/NZS 2063 standards and suits both men and women.
Whether you’re pushing pace road cycling or navigating gravel biking paths, the Smith Triad MIPS Bike Helmet combines state-of-the-art safety tech with smart connectivity.
This article covers everything you need to know – fit, features, smart functions, and what sets this helmet apart – so you can ride with confidence and clarity.
“Smith Triad MIPS Bike Helmet is engineered for road, gravel, and everyday riding – combining state-of-the-art tech with real-world performance.”
Let’s start with all the main details that you want to know, if you don’t know already. Then, we will look at what some people may consider to be Dealbreakers!
📊 Specs Summary
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Construction | In-mold polycarbonate shell with EPS foam |
| Safety Tech | MIPS® + Zonal Koroyd® |
| Sizes Available | Small (51–55 cm), Medium (55–59 cm), Large (59–62 cm), Extra Large (61-65cm) |
| Ventilation | 19 fixed vents |
| Fit System | VaporFit™ adjustable dial system |
| Weight | Approx. 290g (size M, without sensor) |
| Certification | CPSC, CE EN 1078, AS/NZS 2063 |
| Optional Tech | Aleck Crash Sensor |
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Disclosure Statement.
Page Content
Construction & Safety Features
The Smith Triad helmet is built with serious protection in mind. It uses Zonal Koroyd®—a lightweight material that absorbs energy during crashes. This helps reduce the risk of head injury without making the helmet bulky. It also features MIPS® (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), which reduces rotational forces during angled impacts.
Some versions of the Triad include the Aleck Crash Sensor, which sends your location to emergency contacts if it detects a crash. Inside the helmet, the Integrated Skeletal Structure adds strength, acting like a roll cage to keep you safer in hard impacts.
Fit & Comfort
Getting the right fit is simple with the VaporFit™ Dial Adjustment System. This system wraps 270 degrees around your head and adjusts easily with a dial at the back. It gives you a secure, custom fit every time. The helmet also includes an Ionic+® antimicrobial lining that controls odor and keeps things fresh even after sweaty rides. At about 290 grams (medium size), the helmet feels light and comfortable for long periods of wear.
Ventilation & Eyewear Integration
With 19 fixed vents, this helmet keeps your head cool. Air flows smoothly through the AirEvac™ Ventilation System, which also works with Smith eyewear to reduce fogging. The helmet includes special front and rear channels for storing sunglasses when you’re not wearing them. This keeps your glasses secure and handy, without needing an extra case.
Design & Variants
The Triad MIPS comes in a range of matte colors, including a limited-edition matte black with a topographic print for the Aleck version. Sizes go from Small to Extra Large, so most riders will find a good fit. The design is sleek and modern, aimed at cyclists who care about performance and style.
Road Cycling and Gravel Biking
This helmet is designed for serious cyclists. It’s great for gravel biking and road cycling enthusiasts who want strong protection, great fit, and modern features. Whether you’re training, racing, or doing long weekend rides, the Triad MIPS fits the bill. It suits both casual and competitive riders looking for comfort and safety.
VIDEO: How To Measure For A Bike Helmet
Related Article: How Should A Bike Helmet Fit?
BUY THE SMITH TRIAD HELMET
Buy now, or continue reading…..
Dealbreakers? 😟
The Smith Triad MIPS Bike Helmet has a lot going for it in terms of comfort, technology, and safety features. However, for some customers considering this helmet, potential dealbreakers include:
Pricing & Value
Why is the Smith Triad bike helmet priced higher than some alternatives?
The Triad offers a premium combination of MIPS, Koroyd, and optional Aleck crash detection—delivering superior safety and comfort.
Fit & Comfort
Can I adjust the side straps?
Side strap adjustability is minimal, but the rear VaporFit dial ensures a secure, customized fit.
Why does the Smith Triad bike helmet feel deeper than others?
The deeper profile enhances protection. Riders preferring a shallower fit can fine-tune comfort using the retention system.
Compliance & Safety
Is the Smith Triad bike helmet certified for e-bike use?
The Triad meets standard cycling safety certifications but is not certified for e-bike use. Consider Smith’s e-bike certified helmets for that need.
This content was originally published on headsdontbounce.com. If it appears on another website, it is a violation of the copyright owned by headsdontbounce.com.
Features & Technology
Can I choose a different color if I want the Aleck Crash Sensor version?
The Aleck-equipped Triad is currently only available in Matte Black/Topo. Smith is exploring expanded color options based on rider feedback.
How do I check the battery level of the Aleck Crash Sensor?
Battery status is available through the Aleck app, ensuring real-time updates directly on your smartphone.
What should I do if the Aleck sensor makes a high-pitched noise?
Pair the sensor with the Aleck app before charging to avoid the activation alert sound.
App & Connectivity
Do my emergency contacts need the Aleck app too?
Yes, emergency contacts must download the Aleck app to receive crash notifications in real time.
What happens if I forget my phone or it dies while riding?
The crash detection system requires your smartphone to be present and powered. Always ensure your device is charged before riding.
Charging & Maintenance
How often should I charge the Aleck Crash Sensor?
A single charge lasts up to two weeks. Charging is easy with the included USB cable.
Usability & Support
Are instructions included for the Aleck sensor?
Yes, basic instructions are provided. Full setup guidance and support are available through the Aleck app.
User Feedback
Riders praise the helmet for its comfort, airflow, and advanced safety features. Many like how well the VaporFit™ system adjusts to different head shapes. The Koroyd® and MIPS® tech get good marks for making them feel protected. Some reviewers note that the Aleck sensor works well despite requiring your emergency contacts to install the Aleck app.
Pricing 💵
The standard Triad MIPS helmet sells for around $190 USD. The version with the Aleck Crash Sensor is priced at about $210 USD. Both offer the same core safety and comfort features, with the Aleck version adding crash detection for extra peace of mind.
Where to Buy
You can buy the Smith Triad MIPS on the Smith Optics website, and Amazon. These vendors stock multiple sizes and most color variants.
BUY THE SMITH TRIAD HELMET
Were any of those Dealbreakers enough to put you off the Smith Triad Bike Helmet? It’s actually a feature-filled bike helmet and definitely worthy of your serious consideration.
📦 What’s in the Box?
- ✅ Smith Triad MIPS Helmet (selected size and color)
- ✅ Aleck Crash Sensor (optional, pre-installed if selected)
- ✅ USB Charging Cable for Aleck Sensor
- ✅ Instruction Manual & Quick Start Guide
- ✅ Helmet Bag
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Is the Smith Triad MIPS a good option for daily commuters? 🚲
A. Yes. The helmet is specifically built for routine use, including commuting, offering comfort, safety, and ventilation for everyday riding. It combines MIPS for rotational impact protection, Zonal KOROYD for energy absorption, plus the VaporFit dial system, which allows quick, on-the-fly adjustment – ideal for varying headgear or commuter layering. Its antimicrobial Ionic+ lining helps combat sweat odors on daily usage.
Q. Is it lightweight enough for women cyclists (and general lighter-head riders)? 👩
A. Yes. At around 290 g in size M (≈10 oz), it ranks as quite light for a helmet with advanced protection features. While women cyclists, or anyone with smaller head sizes (XS/S) may see a lower measured weight, the 290 g rating already makes it manageable for extended wear. In context, reviewers note it’s competitive with similar performance helmets like Specialized models (~316 g).
Q. Is it overkill for weekend or casual cyclists? 🕐
A. Not really. While the Triad offers high-end safety tech, it’s not limited to elite riders. The helmet is marketed toward a wide range of uses, from focused training to casual riding, so you’ll benefit from the same protection and comfort even on leisurely weekend rides. If you’re looking for something simpler and lower-cost, an entry-level helmet may suffice, but if priority is comfort, safety, and style, Triad delivers without being excessive.
Q. Can you mount a GoPro on the Smith Triad bike helmet? 🎥
A. There’s no dedicated GoPro or action-camera mount or integration channel built into the Triad design. The helmet is optimized for Smith eyewear integration (AirEvac ventilation, storage) but not camera accessories. If mounting is critical, you’d need either adhesive mounts or a retrofit solution, though you’d buy separately.
Q. Does it include sunglass storage like other high-end helmets? 🕶️
A. Yes, it features both front and rear eyewear channels to store sunglasses comfortably mid-ride. The design is built around Smith Performance sunglasses integration, helping prevent fogging and keeping glasses secure when not in use. A few riders have noted it can take a little patience to slide sunglasses into the storage slots around the Koroyd material, but it works well overall.
Q. How effective is the Smith Triad bike helmet’s ventilation system? 🌬️
A. Very. The helmet features 19 fixed vents along with internal airflow channels and the AirEvac ventilation system, which is specially engineered to pull warm air out, notably from behind cycling goggles or sunglasses, to reduce fog and improve cooling. Reviewers describe consistent airflow and comfort during warmer rides or high-effort segments, with little to no overheating.
Bottom line: The Smith Triad MIPS offers a high level of protection, comfort, and airflow. It’s well-suited for daily commuters, occasional riders, and those cycling regularly, even for women/lightweight users. While it lacks dedicated camera mounting, its eyewear integration and ventilation systems are standout features that elevate its everyday usability.
The Final Word
Related Reads:
If you liked this post, why not share it with your friends.
