Smith Nexus Mips Helmet and Smith 4D Mag Goggles Review

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Ski season is in full swing, thanks to the latest round of storms. This year, I’m testing out Smith Optics’ new Nexus Mips Helmet paired with their 4D MAG Goggles, a sleek, high-performance combination designed to turn heads and elevate your time on the slopes.

Since 1965, Smith Optics has been a leader in eyewear innovation, starting with Dr. Bob Smith’s invention of the first sealed-lens ski goggles. Over the years, they’ve expanded into helmets and sunglasses, blending cutting-edge safety features with a commitment to enhancing the skiing experience. From advanced lenses to built-in protective technologies, Smith has set the standard for both style and functionality.

The Nexus Mips Helmet and 4D MAG Goggles represent some of Smith Optics’ most advanced gear yet. I’m excited to put them to the test this season and explore how well they perform both individually and as an integrated system.

The Smith Nexus Mips Helmet

The Smith Nexus Mips Helmet is engineered for maximum comfort and advanced safety, offering a blend of innovative features and thoughtful design. Its exterior combines a lightweight in-mold shell with a durable Bombshell ABS exoskeleton, creating a low-profile design without sacrificing strength or protection.

Smith Nexus Mips Helmet

Safety

At the core of the Nexus Helmet are two standout safety technologies: KOROYD and Mips. KOROYD, known for its “crumple, absorb, protect” mantra, features a honeycomb-like structure that compresses during impact to absorb collision energy, providing exceptional protection for the brain. This design also enhances ventilation, allowing air to flow freely for improved breathability. In the Nexus Helmet, KOROYD offers full-coverage protection, maximizing both safety and comfort. Mips, or Multi-Directional Impact Protection System, complements the KOROYD layer by addressing angled impacts that can cause harmful rotational forces on the brain. Using a low-friction layer inside the helmet, MIPS allows it to “slide” upon impact, reducing rotational motion. Together, KOROYD and Mips create one of the most advanced safety systems available in a helmet.

Koroyd

Comfort

Smith ensures the Nexus Helmet excels in comfort as much as it does in safety. The BOA 360 Fit System provides precise, micro-adjustable sizing for a snug, all-day fit, while its dial design eliminates pressure points. Temperature regulation is handled by the dual regulator climate control system, which allows the vents at the front and back of the helmet to be opened or closed independently, tailoring airflow to weather conditions and preventing “ice cream headaches” in cold weather. The helmet’s 24 vents are part of Smith’s AirEvac system, which actively removes warm, moist air and replaces it with fresh, cool air, ensuring comfort and preventing goggles from fogging.

Boa System

Additional Features

Additional features enhance the Nexus Helmet’s functionality and versatility. The interior is lined with IONIC+ antimicrobial fabric, which uses sweat-activated technology to combat odors. Removable ear pads make the helmet suitable for warm spring skiing, and compatibility with Aleck Audio systems enables hands-free group communication and voice-controlled music. The Fidlock magnetic buckle rounds out the thoughtful design, allowing effortless one-handed operation, even while wearing gloves.

Ionic Antimicrobial System

Fidlock Clip

With its unparalleled safety, comfort, and meticulous attention to detail, the Smith Nexus MIPS Helmet sets a new standard for performance and style on the slopes.

About the Smith 4D MAG XL Goggles

The Smith 4D MAG XL Goggles are designed with an oversized lens and frame to provide the widest possible field of vision. Specifically crafted for larger faces, these goggles offer a 13% greater field of view compared to the standard 4D MAG Goggles, making them a standout choice for those who prioritize expansive visibility on the slopes.

Smith 4D Mag Googles

Lenses

The lenses of the 4D MAG XL Goggles feature a unique curved design known as Birdseye Vision, which increases the field of view by 25%. This enhanced peripheral vision helps skiers and riders better detect obstacles and other people, improving both safety and performance. Additionally, Smith’s ChromaPop lens technology heightens color clarity by filtering out crossover between colors, ensuring vibrant and distinct visuals in various light conditions.

To combat fogging, the goggles incorporate a 5X anti-fog inner lens. When paired with a helmet that utilizes Smith’s AirEvac system, such as the Nexus Helmet, the goggles maintain clear visibility by efficiently venting warm, moist air. The MAG system further enhances functionality by allowing for rapid lens changes using integrated magnets, making it easy to adapt to changing light conditions. Each pair comes with two lenses: the ChromaPop Photochromic Red Mirror lens, ideal for bright conditions, and the bonus ChromaPop Storm Blue Sensor Mirror lens, perfect for low-light scenarios.

Chromapop Lenses

Features of the 4D MAG XL Goggles

The 4D MAG XL Goggles are also OTG (Over-The-Glasses) compatible, offering a comfortable fit for those who wear glasses. The goggles feature an extra-wide silicone-backed strap, designed to sit securely in the strap retention hook of the Smith Nexus Helmet. A quick-fit adjustment system ensures a perfect fit for all-day comfort.

For added convenience, the goggles come with a soft microfiber bag and a hard-sided case. The case is ventilated to allow the goggles to dry properly when not in use, preserving their performance and durability.

Vented Case

With their innovative lens design, top-tier technology, and thoughtful details, the Smith 4D MAG XL Goggles are an excellent choice for skiers and snowboarders seeking maximum performance and versatility.

Thoughts on the Smith Nexus Mips Helmet and the Smith 4D MAG XL Goggles

I absolutely love the combination of the Smith Nexus Mips Helmet and the Smith 4D MAG XL Goggles. These two products complement each other perfectly, offering unparalleled comfort, functionality, and performance.

Comfort and Fit

The Smith Nexus Helmet is incredibly comfortable and provides a fantastic fit. The polycarbonate shell mold offers a snug initial fit, and the Boa design allows for precise adjustments that make a noticeable difference, especially during long days on the slopes. I find myself using the Boa tensioner several times throughout the day, which keeps the fit secure and comfortable as conditions change.

One of my favorite features of the Nexus Helmet is the dual regulator climate control. Most of the time, I ski with the vents open, but on windy days, I close the front vents to avoid the chilling effects of wind blowing directly against my head. This adjustability prevents headaches and makes the helmet versatile for various skiing conditions.

The integration between the 4D MAG XL Goggles and the Nexus Helmet is seamless. The goggles fit perfectly within the helmet’s opening, providing full coverage against wind and the elements. Additionally, the AirEvac ventilation system ensures the goggles remain fog-free, even during intense physical activity.

No Skin Exposure During Blizzard

Safety Features

Fortunately, I haven’t needed to test the safety features of the Nexus Mips Helmet with any significant impacts. However, knowing that the helmet features full KOROYD coverage and the Mips system provides peace of mind. The KOROYD layer offers comprehensive protection across the entire helmet, minimizing vulnerabilities.

The only aspect I’m still adjusting to is the Fidlock buckle. While it’s a convenient feature, I’m more accustomed to traditional buckles. I’m confident it will become second nature with a bit more use.

4D MAG XL Goggles

The 4D MAG XL Goggles are outstanding, particularly with the enhanced field of vision provided by the Birdseye lens. This is especially helpful when skiing with my kids, as the increased peripheral view allows me to monitor other skiers and riders to keep them safe. The Birdseye lens also enhances the fun of tree skiing, offering a broader and clearer view of the terrain.

At Steamboat Springs’s Mount Werner, where unique weather patterns often result in heavy clouds and significant champagne powder, the ability to switch between lenses for changing light conditions is crucial. The Mag system makes swapping lenses seamless and efficient. I always carry the ChromaPop Storm Blue Sensor Mirror lens for low-light conditions, including snowy days and night skiing, and the ChromaPop Photochromic Red Mirror lens for bright, sunny days. The ease of switching lenses eliminates the need for multiple goggle setups, making the 4D MAG XL incredibly convenient.

I Wish They Came With a Snorkel

In terms of sizing, the 4D MAG XL Goggles are large, but that works to my advantage. While I could have used the standard 4D MAG goggles, the oversized frames fit comfortably over my glasses. Colorado’s dry winters sometimes make wearing contacts uncomfortable, so having goggles that accommodate glasses gives me the flexibility to choose between contacts and glasses as needed.

Overall, the combination of the Smith Nexus Mips Helmet and the 4D MAG XL Goggles has enhanced my skiing experience in comfort, safety, and functionality. Together, they make a fantastic setup for any day on the mountain.

Specs on the Smith Nexus Mips Helmet and 4D MAG XL Goggles Taken Directly From Smith

Smith Nexus MIPS Helmet

• MSRP $330
• Hybrid shell construction blends a durable exterior with a lightweight in-molded shell for durability where you need it most while keeping the helmet light
• Complete KOROYD® coverage for lightweight, energy-absorbing and ventilated impact protection
• Mips® Brain Protection System reduces rotational forces caused by angled impacts to the head
• Exoskeleton enhances impact protection in side impact zones
• Certification: ASTM F 2040, CE EN 1077:2007 CLASS B
• AirEvac ventilation system integrates with Smith goggles for fog-free lenses
• Removable ear pads for form-fitting comfort
• BOA® 360 Fit System offers the most adjustable fit with the turn of a dial for on-the-fly micro-adjustability
• Fidlock® strap buckle offers easy one-hand operation
• Ionic+® antimicrobial lining offers sweat-activated odor control
• Dual regulator climate control offers easy, one-handed front and rear vent adjustment
• Aleck® audio system compatible
• Weight (Size M): 19oz / 550g

Smith 4D MAG XL Goggles

• Smith MAG lens change system uses magnets for quick, easy lens changes
• ChromaPop™ lenses enhance contrast and natural color to make the details pop
• BirdsEye Vision clarifies not just your line, but the riders in your periphery
• 5X™ anti-fog inner lens for advanced fog-free performance
• Over the glasses (OTG) compatible
• Provides 100% protection against UVA / UVB
• Designed for ultimate integration with Smith helmets for maximum comfort, venting and fog-free performance
• QuickFit strap adjustment system lets you find the right fit fast
• Ultra-wide, silicone-backed strap stays put
• Three-layer DriWix face foam wicks moisture for a fog-free fit
• AirEvac ventilation system integrates with Smith helmets for fog-free lenses
• Medium / Large fit; Available in Low Bridge Fit for faces with a lower nose bridge and/or a wide or high cheekbone shape

Final Thoughts

The Smith Nexus Mips Helmet and 4D MAG XL Goggles are a game-changing combination for anyone looking to enhance their time on the slopes. Together they provide exceptional comfort, superior safety features, and unmatched functionality. The helmet’s customizable fit and climate control make it adaptable for any weather condition, while the goggles’ expansive field of view and seamless lens-swapping system ensure clarity in any lighting. Whether carving through powder, navigating tight tree runs, or just enjoying a long day on the mountain, this duo delivers the performance and reliability needed for an outstanding skiing experience. Overall, I couldn’t be more satisfied with this setup, and I highly recommend it to skiers and riders of all levels. For more info on these products or to check them our for yourself, visit smithoptics.com, evo.com or amazon.com.