The Method MIPS is Smith's mid-range snow helmet. It has MIPS, a liner that lets the helmet shift slightly in an angled impact to cut rotational force on your head, plus fixed vents and venting that works with Smith goggles.
This review covers how the Method fits, what owners like and dislike and how it compares with the Method Pro.
What It Is: A Simple MIPS Helmet
The Method has 8 fixed vents, so you can't close them on cold days. Smith designs the front to pull air through Smith goggles and cut fogging.
It uses a self-adjusting fit, an elastic band at the back instead of a dial. The ear pads come out and work with helmet audio. It meets the ASTM F2040 and CE EN1077 Class B standards.
On the Slopes: Comfortable and Warm
Owners say it is comfortable all day. One instructor has worn a Method for a few years and finds it very comfortable, even at -5 F and below. They like that you can pop the liner out to wash it and wear a beanie or balaclava under the helmet in the meantime.
The same instructor said the elastic band is enough for them, so they didn't need the dial on the Pro version. Another owner called it a solid choice.
One rider said the Method is like an updated Smith Maze, so it fits largely the same. They said Smith goggles fit best with it, but they also had no problems with Dragon or Giro goggles.
Where It Excels
The Method shines for riders who want a simple, comfortable MIPS helmet from a brand known for goggles. One rider with the Smith Squad MAG XL, 4D MAG XL and I/O MAG XL said those goggles all go well with the Method.
Where It Falls Short
The fit is round. One owner said it isn't uncomfortable all day, but they prefer a more oval shape. Another rider said head shape matters, so try it on or buy where you can return it.
The goggle clip gets one harsh review. One owner said the clip at the back is cheap and useless, and expects goggles to fall off it all the time.
The fit system is basic. An owner who tried both versions said the standard Method uses an elastic strap you have to take the helmet off to adjust.
Durability gets one bad report. One rider said their new Method rippled along the back edge and dented on top without any impact. Smith advised a warranty claim, and the rider returned it to the retailer for a refund.
The "Method or Method Pro?" Question
You'll find this question in most Method threads. The Pro adds a dial at the back to adjust the fit and a magnetic buckle. One rider who tried on the Pro after owning the Method said the fit is a lot better because of the dial.
Not everyone agrees. A rider who ordered both preferred the standard Method. They said its liner is softer and warmer, and it fit snugger on their narrow head. Another rider said the Pro's dial had to be very tight to feel secure, so they went with the standard version.
Here's the take from owners: the standard Method is enough for most riders. If you want to adjust the fit without taking the helmet off, get the Pro.
Pro tip: If the Method is slightly tight, one owner said you can remove some of the padding.
Who Should Buy It
Buy the Smith Method MIPS if you want a comfortable MIPS helmet at a fair price, you have a round head and you ride with Smith goggles.
Look elsewhere if you have an oval head, want vents you can close or want a dial fit.
Alternatives
The Smith Vantage MIPS is the higher-end Smith helmet that one shopper picked instead of the Method. Read our full Smith Vantage MIPS review.
The Smith Maze MIPS is the Smith helmet that one rider said fits largely the same as the Method. Read our full Smith Maze MIPS review.
The Oakley MOD5 MIPS suits riders who wear Oakley goggles, and one rider said Oakley helmets were the most comfortable for them. Read our full Oakley MOD5 MIPS review.
Verdict
The Smith Method MIPS is a comfortable, simple MIPS helmet that works well with Smith goggles and stays warm in deep cold. The fit is round, the goggle clip is weak and one owner's shell deformed early. If it fits your head, it is a solid helmet for the price.
