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With the Pilot Smith is launching an attractively priced MTB helmet for the 2026 season. The in-mould construction, Mips Evolve Core and 13 ventilation openings are designed to provide safety and comfort. There is also an integrated goggle solution including AirEvac technology to prevent fogging. Weight: 370 grams. Price: only 95 euros.
Smith Pilot: New MTB helmet, fair price, still with mips
New helmet, fair price, clear focus: with the Pilot, Smith is targeting beginners and anyone who wants an uncomplicated start to everyday trail riding. The all-rounder will be in shops from spring 2026 - ready for your first after-work laps as well as weekend adventures off-road.
Smith has opted for a classic in-mould construction combined with a deeper shell at the back of the head.
Mips on board, air in your head
Inside, the Mips Evolve Core System works to reduce rotational forces on angled impacts. The Envolve Core version is not the highest quality, but it still has the basic idea of the feature.
A dial at the back of the head adjusts the fit - once set, the pilot sits firmly in place. There is also a sweat-absorbing inner lining, which should keep you comfortable even on long climbs.
Fresh air is provided by 13 fixed openings. Not a high-end wind tunnel miracle, but enough to keep a cool head even on warm days.
Well thought out for spectacle wearers
Practical: If you are travelling with sunglasses, you can store them in special channels at the front and back of the helmet. The fixed visor keeps low sun out of the field of vision. And thanks to AirEvac technology, the air circulation is channelled in such a way that glasses and goggles fog up less quickly - a feature that is otherwise more familiar from higher price ranges.
Price and availability
The Smith Pilot will be available from specialist retailers and online worldwide from spring 2026. At 95 euros, it remains pleasantly affordable.
Technical data:
- Construction: In-mould with extended rear head cover
- Safety: Mips Evolve Core
- Ventilation: 13 openings
- Adjustment: Rotary wheel system
- Inner lining: Performance liner
- Features: Spectacle channels, AirEvac
- Visor: permanently mounted
- Weight: 370 g (size M)
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Price: 95 Euro >> available here
- Availability: Spring 2026
Assessment by the editorial team
The data sounds promising. For such a stylish open-face helmet with these features, you usually pay over 160 euros - often even more. According to the manufacturer, the helmet weighs around 370 grams in size M and is equipped with the MIPS safety system, albeit not in the high-end version. Either way, it is an exciting offer for less than 100 euros. However, we have not yet been able to test the helmet in practice. - Laurin Lehner, BIKE editor
Laurin Lehner
Editor
