Gearbox: 2026 Helmets

Sweet Protection Daymaker MIPS

To reach 460 grams, Sweet Protection made what our tester called a “just-enough-frills” helmet. “It has enough features to make it work inbounds but is simple and light enough to work in the backcountry,” he explained. He sweat a bit while hiking, but it didn’t fog his goggles. On top of 13 interconnected vents, two vents sit on the forehead just above the goggles to dump heat. “The dial system and magnetic goggle clip worked really well,” he added. Sweet Protection’s Occigrip Turn dial adjusts both the height and the diameter of the inner cage, and our tester found it molded well to his head. However, he suggests trying one on before committing: “Helmet shape is super head specific.” 

Anon Merak WaveCel

“An awesomely comfortable 50/50 helmet,” said our tester. The 360-degree Boa dial is easily adjustable with gloves and “snugs down nice and evenly with no pressure points.” A small brim on the helmet keeps snow off goggles, and our tester appreciated the magnetic buckle. More importantly, he felt safe due to Anon’s WaveCel technology that works like a crumple zone to reduce impact and redirect shock. “I didn’t test it fully, thankfully, but the crushable, zig-zagged WaveCel inside is comforting,” our tester reported. He docked points for the weight, 480 grams, and limited venting, saying, “Adjustable ventilation and weight are great for resort comfort, but I wouldn’t skin in this helmet.”

Backland Atomic UL

“Very versatile,” said a tester after putting each of the UL’s certifications (skiing, climbing and biking) to use. Weighing in at 340 grams and made from 43% recycled materials, this helmet is light and protective thanks to a hybrid foam that’s resilient in multiple impact scenarios and molded directly into the shell for durability. With just a goggle clip and headlamp attachment and minimal padding, this is a true backcountry product. He did find the rear dial easy to bump, causing him to often readjust after putting his pack on, and he noticed the chin strap could inadvertently loosen. 

Pret Fury X

There’s a lot packed into Pret’s tried and true Fury X: Haleo antimicrobial EPS foam; a new adjustable fit system; in-mold, multi-shell construction that offers extra protection around high-impact zones; an easy-to-use, per our testers, magnetic buckle; and a multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS). One tester noted that with the ear flaps on, he’d prefer this helmet at the resort, while the other removed the padding and found it perfect for the backcountry. Another complimented the adjustable vents. Both were impressed by the lightweight: 421 grams in a size medium. “After two seasons in this helmet, I’m still pleased by how lightweight and durable it is,” concluded our female tester.

Scott Couloir Tour Helmet

At just 350 grams, Scott’s Couloir Tour Helmet felt “more akin to a lightweight climbing helmet than a traditional ski helmet,” per our tester. “The headlamp holder is simple and secure and works with or without goggles,” he praised. Our tester appreciated the “solid ventilation, minimal yet comfortable padding and the eco-conscious design.” According to Scott, the helmet is more than 33% eco-content by weight. “I have a small head and often have a hard time finding well-fitting helmets,” he explained. “The Couloir Tour wrapped my head snugly and securely without any uncomfortable pressure points.” 

Our Gearbox reviews are published in the back of each issue of Backcountry Magazine. Subscribe to read our gear coverage when it’s first published in print.

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