Smith Optics Vantage 2 Ski Helmet Review
The most comfortable, fully featured helmet for all-around resort skiing
March 18th, 2026
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Our Verdict
The Smith Optics Vantage 2 is a lightweight, comfortable, fully featured, and protective ski helmet that’s an excellent choice for all around resort skiing. As the successor to the beloved original Vantage, we think the Vantage 2 brings some worthy upgrades in terms of comfort and style.
We’ve spent nearly a full season and dozens of days testing the Smith Vantage 2 helmet in a variety of conditions, from storm skiing to warm spring days. It’s been comfortable and functional through it all, and is the best overall pick in our Best Ski Helmets guide.
We think the Vantage 2 is a great option for dedicated resort skiers who want a helmet that packs tons of useful features (like BOA fit, adjustable vents, a magnetic buckle, and audio compatibility) into a protective and comfortable shell that uses multiple forms of impact protection, including Mips and Koroyd. It’s one of the most comfortable helmets we’ve tested, and has one of the most robust feature sets of the all-mountain helmets on the market while maintaining a low-profile look.
Like the original Vantage, we think the Vantage 2 also has good durability for consistent use on the slopes and travel, too (helmets with lighter in-mold shells, which are often less expensive, are more prone to wear and dents from travel and regular use). The Vantage 2 is new as of this year. We spent more than six seasons testing the original Vantage, and it still looks and works nearly as good as new; we’ve spent a full season in the Vantage 2 and expect the same durability.
If your winter days are spent pining for powder and bluebird days on the slopes, then the Vantage 2 is a worthy buy. Yes, it is a little spendy, but we think if you’re going to splurge, your helmet is a great place to do it. Having a helmet that’s incredibly comfortable and functional means you won’t want to hit the slopes without it, and that’s a great thing.
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Smith Optics Vantage 2 Ski Helmet Specifications
Weight: 18 oz
Impact Protection: Mips and Koroyd
Shell construction: Three-piece hybrid shell
Ventilation: 40 adjustable vents
Fit system: BOA 360 Fit System
Audio: Audio compatible (audio chips or headphones can be placed inside the ear pads)
Warranty: 1 year from date of purchase, and 2-year crash replacement policy
Comparison table
| SKI HELMET | MSRP* | IMPACT PROTECTION | REMOVEABLE EAR PADS? | VENTS | ADJUSTABLE? | AUDIO COMPATIBLE? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smith Optics Vantage 2 | $295 | Mips and Koroyd | Yes | 40, adjustable | Yes, BOA 350 Fit System | Yes |
| Smith Optics Vantage | $275 | Mips | Yes | 21, adjustable | Yes, BOA 350 Fit System | Yes |
| Anon Merak WaveCel | $355 | WaveCel | Yes | 19, adjustable | Yes, BOA 350 Fit System | Yes |
| Smith Optics Method Mips | $160 | Mips | Yes | 8, fixed | Yes, BOA 350 Fit System | Yes |
Best for
We love the comfort and functionality of the Vantage 2, making it one of our favorite all-mountian ski helmets.
Skiers and riders who want a feature-packed helmet with adjustable venting, BOA fit, a magnetic buckle, and audio compatibility for all-around resort riding
Skiers and riders who want lots of adjustable venting options
Folks who love details like a magnetic buckle, BOA fit, and a low-profile but cool and unique look
Skiers and riders who want excellent impact protection (which should be everyone, honestly)
What we liked
We tested the Vantage 2 helmet with multiple different goggles and it worked well with all of them.
Incredibly comfortable
Great venting that’s adjustable
Multiple forms of impact protection, including Mips and Koroyd
Thoughtful features like BOA 360 Fit System and magnetic buckles
Low-profile look
What could be better
Expensive
Vent closure switch can be a little sticky
How we tested
Testing the Smith Optics Vantage 2 on a sunny early season day at Arapahoe Basin.
The Smith Vantage 2 was just released this season, and we spent the full Colorado ski season testing the Smith Optics Vantage 2 ski helmet in a wide variety of conditions. We encountered frigid temps and blowing snow, wet storm days skiing powder, and plenty of mild and sunny days making carves on groomed runs.
Notably, we also have hundreds of days across several seasons in the original Vantage helmet, which was a longtime Treeline favorite, and were able to directly compare the Vantage 2 to the original While we still think the original a good helmet, the Vantage 2 is a noticeable upgrade and our testers are very happy with the improvements in features, performance, and style.
We also tested the Vantage side-by-side with other ski helmets, including the Smith Optics Method, Anon Merak WaveCel, and more.
Performance in the field
The Vantage 2 is made with a three-piece hybrid shell that balances weight, durability, and protection—and it looks cool, too.
Durability
Thankfully, our testers didn’t take any big crashes in the Vantage 2, but that’s not really what helmet testing is about for skiers—there are third-party lab tests that do the impact testing on not-real brains for a reason.
But durability outside of impact protection still matters. The shell material of the Vantage 2 is sturdy, and because of the hybrid construction, it’s less likely to dent or scratch during travel—issues that are more cosmetic than anything, but still worth noting. The buckle and goggle attachment also seem like they will last a long time.
As we mentioned before, we have used an original Vantage helmet for 6 seasons, and it still works great. There are some scratches on the shell, but not a single dent, and the bungee goggle strap has since broken. Again, these are all cosmetic, and the helmet still functions great.
Comfort and fit
One standout in testing the Vantage 2 is that our testers often forgot about the helmet once they put it on. That’s exactly what you want to hear when it comes to comfort. The helmet is light, comfortable, and has a good, secure fit. The BOA-360 fit works well and is easy to adjust, and the magnetic buckle is easy to use with or without gloves on. And the adjustable vents help to keep it comfortable as temperatures change throughout the day.
The Vantage 2 is considerably lighter and is more comfortable overall than its predecessor. It’s also more low profile, adding to the comfort, style, and fit of the helmet under a ski jacket hood.
Venting
The vents in the Vantage 2 are adjustable, even with gloves on.
The venting is another noticeable upgrade in the Vantage 2. There are 40 vents in this helmet, and those came in handy during an unseasonably warm winter in Colorado. The adjustability options are great and overall easy to use. When testing in conditions closer to freezing rain than actual snow (everything in sight, including our goggle lenses and outerwear, was covered in a rime-like ice), the vent switch froze, making it harder to move back and forth. These conditions are rare and not ideal skiing conditions anyway, but it is worth noting.
Audio compatibility
The audio compatibility in this helmet is also seamless. The chips are easy to take in and out, and sit very comfortably when in place.
Goggle compatibility
The Vantage 2 integrates seamlessly with the Smith Optics 4D MAG goggles.
Smith Optics helmets, including the Vantage 2, are designed with a venting system that integrates specifically with Smith Optics goggles. While this pairing often offers the best performance, it’s not necessary and the ventilation in the helmet still is helpful no matter what goggles you choose.
Ease of use
This helmet has multiple features that increase comfort and ease of use. The magnetic buckle is easy to clip and unclip even with gloves or mittens on. The slide adjustments for the vents are located on the top of the helmet and they’re easy to reach and slide open or closed with a gloved hand. Likewise, the BOA adjustment system is quick, simple, and comfortable to adjust as needed.
Features
Weight
The Vantage 2 helmet lands in the middle of the pack as far as all-mountain ski helmets go. It is noticeably lighter than the original Vantage, which is one of the upgrades in its design. While there are lighter helmets out there (like the Smith Optics Method and Method Pro), we think the Vantage 2 offers an excellent balance of weight, performance, safety features, and durability.
Shell Material
The shell of the Vantage 2 uses a hybrid, three-part construction that puts the hardest plastic in places most likely to see impact, and uses lighter plastics in other areas to save weight and add comfort.
Mips and Koroyd Impact protection
If you look closely, you can see the small cylindrical chambers inside the vents that make up the Koroyd impact protection structure.
Safety features in the Smith Optics Vantage 2 include two primary impact protection systems: Mips and Koroyd. Mips is a critical element for reducing the force of rotational impacts on the brain. Koroyd helps to reduce direct impacts, as the thin polymer tubes crunch down upon impact, absorbing and dispersing that away from the rider’s head and brain.
BOA 360 Fit System
The Vantage 2 helmet uses a BOA 360 Fit System, which is generally considered one of the best fit options for high-end helmets. This allows for micro adjustments to secure the helmet comfortably to your head.
Ventilation
There are a whopping 40 adjustable vents on the Vantage 2, which makes for great temperature control.
The Vantage 2 has the most vents of any helmet we’ve ever tested, with a total of 40. These vents are placed throughout the helmet, with most of them on the top in rows. These vents are adjustable with two switches on the top of the helmet for precise temperature regulation.
Audio compatibility
The Smith Optics Vantage 2 is audio compatible and audio chips can be placed in the ears.
The ears of the helmet liner zip open and can hold audio chips. We tested this with the Smith x Aleck Nunchucks, but it works with similar systems, too.
Sustainability and ethics
Smith Optics is working towards zero plastic waste in their packaging.
Smith Optics Vantage 2 vs. similar ski helmets
The most similar helmet we’ve tested to the Vantage 2 (other than the original Vantage, of course) is the Anon Merak WaveCel. This helmet offers a very similar high-end feature set, including adjustable vents, BOA-360 fit, top-end impact protection, a magnetic buckle, and high durability. We think both are great helmets, but the Smith Optics Vantage 2 is lighter and likely to be more comfortable for a wider range of head shapes.
Smith Vantage 1 vs Smith Vantage 2
We like the low profile look and lighter design of the Vantage 2 compared to its predecessor, the original Vantage.
Compared to the original Vantage, the Smith Vantage 2 is a worthy upgrade. The Vantage is still a great helmet and it’s likely easier to find on sale now. But if you’re torn between the two, don’t hesitate to splurge on the Vantage 2. It’s lighter, has more venting, boasts a lower profile look—and all of that, we think, increases the overall comfort. The upgrades in weight savings, venting, and style are worth it.
Should you buy the Smith Optics Vantage 2 ski helmet?
Buy if you want a top-end ski helmet for all-around resort riding that’s comfortable, durable, protective, and boasts lots of features. If you’re an avid and dedicated resort skier, we think this helmet is worth the investment for its comfort and protection.
Skip if you’re on a tight budget—there are equally protective options out there for less, they just won’t have the same robust feature set, like the BOA fit, adjustable vents, and a magnetic buckle. You may also want to look elsewhere (perhaps to the Smith Optics Method) if you want a very light and very low profile option and don’t mind sacrificing a little durability to get that.
Where to buy the Smith Optics Vantage 2 ski helmet
The Smith Optics Vantage 2 ski helmet is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership
Evo
Pros: 365 day returns, store locations in ski towns for easy last-minute pick-up, may offer rentals if you want to try before you buy, earn 10% back in Rewards
Advice on where to buy
In general for gear, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI. If your funds allow, many people find it is faster to order two sizes and return whichever one didn't fit as well. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down.
Similar ski helmets
Smith Optics Vantage
Impact Protection: Yes, Mips
Visor: Yes
Removable Ear Pads: Yes
Vents: 21, adjustable
Adjustable: Yes, BOA 360 Fit System
Audio Compatible: Yes, Outdoor Tech audio systems
The original Smith Vantage has been a longstanding winner as best overall in our ski helmet review, and while we like the Vantage 2 even more, this is still an excellent choice—especially since you can often find it at a better price or on sale now. It has excellent safety features and ventilation, but it’s heavier and bulkier than the new Vantage 2 overall.
Smith Optics Vantage
Impact Protection: WaveCel
Removable Ear Pads: Yes
Vents: 19, adjustable
Adjustable: Yes, BOA 360 Fit System
Audio Compatible: Yes
The Anon Merak WaveCel helmet has an excellent, durable construction with top-notch safety features, including Wavecel impact protection—which is very similar to the protection you get by having both Mips and Koroyd in a helmet. This helmet has a lot of features, too, including the BOA Fit System and ample adjustable venting, making it another top-end choice.
One tester found an excellent fit with the Merak while another thought it wasn’t quite right with her head shape given the more oval fit. The Smith Vantage 2 is lighter and a little more comfortable overall, but the Merak is an excellent choice for durability and safety features. The Anon Merak WaveCel is more expensive than the Smith Vantage 2 and costs $50 more. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Anon Merak WaveCel ski helmet.
Anon Merak WaveCel
Impact Protection: Mips
Removable Ear Pads: Yes
Vents: 8, fixed
Adjustable: Yes, BOA 360 Fit System
Audio Compatible: Yes
The Smith Optics Method helmet is a very lightweight and low-profile option that is also very comfortable. It’s more affordable than the Vantage 2 as well. It also comes in a Pro option that has higher end features like the Vantage 2, including BOA and a magnetic buckle. If you want a simple and low profile helmet, consider this. But if you want the best features, including adjustable vents, and a bump up in durability, go for the Vantage 2. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Smith Optics Method ski helmet.
Smith Optics Method Mips
Why you should trust us / About the author
A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held a WFR, AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and Avalanche Rescue Certifications and is working to become an avalanche education instructor. She’s now a full time writer and editor in the outdoor space and has been testing and writing about gear for over a decade.
Stasia grew up in northern Utah where she learned to ski not long after she learned to walk. She’s since spent every winter on snow, skiing in places from Alaska to Japan, with plenty of turns taken around her home in Summit County, Colorado. She gets out to ski multiple times a week throughout the season, no matter the weather and conditions. That means she’s used her gear in everything from bluebird days to full-on storms and whiteouts, and along with anyone who skis in the Tenmile range, plenty of wind. She’s tested many different helmets in all of these conditions, and over a few decades of skiing has learned exactly what makes a good one—thankfully based more on everyday comfort than hard crashes.
Find more of Stasia’s writing on her Treeline Review author page.
