When I pulled on the Engage test helmet for my recent trail days testing the Fuel EX, I was looking for a helmet that could handle long hours, varied terrain while remaining comfortable. After all, you want to be focused on the ride and trails rather than thinking about what’s on your head. I can say that for a mid-tier trail helmet, the Engage delivered on all these fronts.
Available in several colours including huckleberry/lichen (the best descriptor here would be burgundy, lemon and forest green), matte chalk and matte black (tested). The Engage MIPS is available in small, medium and large sizing with a head circumference range of 52–62cm to suit all types of melons.
From the moment I strapped the Engage MIPS on my head I instantly felt that the fit was solid. The dial-adjust fit allows micros adjustment to lock you in nicely, and the extended rear coverage gives good confidence when you’re out on rougher single track. The visor features two-position adjustment, for looking stylish while sessioning new lines.
The shell is an all in one construction with lightweight, in-mold zonal Koroyd absorbing energy in the case of a crash. In addition to this, the Engage features a MIPS slip-liner layer to reduce rotational acceleration in the case of a crash to mitigate head injury, showing that Smith is dedicated to providing safety technology even though the Engage MIPS is a more value-oriented model.
It sits comfortably, the interior padding is minimalistic, and after a couple of hours I barely noticed it – a win for those riding for longer sessions. In addition to this, I noticed that the Engage is designed with a smaller flat section around the temple padding, which also helped divert sweat away from my eyes – a great feature for the Australian summer.
On the trail
Ventilation is one of the major positives here: The Engage MIPS features 21 vents, plus Smith’s AirEvac system (for eyewear integration) keeps things cool on hot climbs or when you’re cruising exposed trails in the sun.
The temperature is really starting to heat up here in Canberra, and I was able to test the Engage during a few super hot days, and the airflow allowed by the vents of the Engage MIPS meant I wasn’t getting swampy under the lid. If you live somewhere that has a very humid climate, (anywhere in Queensland or across the coast) this is a huge bonus.
Smith’s eyewear integration in their helmet range is smart – the front channels make stowing sunglasses or rolling up goggles easy.
While Engage is not the very top tier in terms of raw protection (there are higher-spec helmets in the range that use Koroyd protection more extensively), if I didn’t know this I would think it was one of the more premium in the line up.
Size wise, the Engage offered a roomer fit than many helmets, so could be the lid you’re looking for if you tend to find yourself in between sizes.
Our take
The Engage makes a lot of sense to me. It feels safe and not too heavy (around 350g for size M as tested) and comfy, with good airflow and smart features. If I had to pick one helmet for general trail use, especially when cost is considered, I’d feel confident wearing the Engage MIPS.
Pros
- Clever eyewear integration
- High quality build at moderate price point
- Comfortable and cool
Cons
- Couldn’t find any!
RRP: $195
Website: smithopticsaustralia.com
