Sweet Protection Primer MIPS in the test: This head protection is a nobrainer

With the Primer MIPS Sweet is aimed at all bikers who want to wear a high-quality helmet without emptying their bank account. 100 euros cheaper than the in-house Bushwhacker, the Primer vies for the favour of price-conscious trail bikers. The promise: Function, protection, ventilation and comfort in a stylish package. Our test editor used the Sweet Protection helmet for a good six months.

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Sweet Protection Primer MIPS helmet in detail

• Price: 149 Euro >> at Bike Components, Rose or Mountain time
• Sizes: SM / ML / LXL (in test)
• Colours: Graphite / Hyper Violet / Matte Black / Matte White / Misty Turquoise / Panther / TUSKN / Willow Green / Woodland (in test)
• Protection standards: CPSC 1203 / CE EN 1078
• Weight: 414 g (BIKE measurement)

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How the MTB helmet from Sweet Protection feels on the trail

Although Sweet always combines two sizes, the Primer MIPS in size LXL fits our tester's large head without any problems. This is by no means a matter of course for all helmets with such a sizing system. Thanks to the 360 Occigrip Fit System, the width can be adjusted with a single turn of a dial. Operation of the conventional buckle is intuitive and has been learnt from an early age. Overall, despite the thin padding, the Primer sits very comfortably on the head and is completely forgotten after a few minutes of riding.

>> Here we explain in detail how to adjust an MTB helmet correctly.

>> We have also tested knee pads from Sweet Protection.

Although the Sweet Protection Primer MIPS is rather heavy, very little sweat collects in the thin padding, even on hot days. Drops of sweat running out of the forehead pad onto the goggles? Not a chance! This is also due to the large ventilation openings, which allow a constant flow of air through to the head. Speaking of goggles: if required, they can be stored in the ventilation slots, where they can be clamped in for uphill riding, for example. In most cases this works well, but with very delicate goggle models the eye protection does not stay in place permanently. On the trail, the Primer provides a secure riding experience, does not bounce and has MIPS on board just in case.

>> MET also has a new, affordable helmet with MIPS in its programme. Click here for the presentation.

>> Oneal has also integrated a new safety technology into its helmets.

BIKE conclusion

I like to wear the Sweet Protection Primer MIPS on my head for everything from trail to light enduro use. The comfort is great and the feeling of safety is high. The price is reasonable and I like the style. Thumbs up! - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor

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