The Sweet Protection Primer MIPS helmet offers all the features ambitious mountain bikers need. With its low volume and extraordinary ventilation, the helmet is a minimalistic companion on the trail. The breakaway visor can be adjusted easily on the fly, and the helmet offers an optimized fit, improved ventilation, and lightweight construction, making it the most used MIPS helmet safety system. The robust and comfortable Primer Mips meet and exceed the CPSC 1203 and EN 1078 norms (double certification) and are available in sizes S/M, M/L, and L/XL for $150.
The integrated 360 Occigrip Fit System with on-the-fly height adjustment ensures a snug and secure fit. With its efficient ventilation, the helmet provides airflow through the helmet, keeping you cool and comfortable even during intense rides. This helmet also has an easily adjustable breakaway visor designed to rip off upon impact. The Primer MIPS helmet is equipped with MIPS Evolve technology, a low-friction layer that reduces rotational forces to the brain. Plus, it’s specifically crafted to integrate seamlessly with Sweet Protection eyewear so you can focus on the trail ahead. This robust and progressive-looking two-shell construction ticks all the boxes, – and offers reliable protection, allowing you to ride confidently and push your limits.
Impressions
I have a relatively large head (24″/61cm), and the L/XL size worked perfectly, with plenty of room for adjustment from their 360 Occigrip Fit System. The adjustment range allowed me to wear a standard thin skull cap or a thicker cold-weather cap. It offered a secure and stable fit when snugged down without slop or slippage.
The adjuster wheel dial worked adequately and stayed securely locked in position, but it was not the easiest to twist with gloved hands and felt a bit too small. Above the wheel, the cradle has a three-position height adjustment system that quickly and easily slides upward or downward, helping fine-tune the fit.
I had no hot or tight spots, and the helmet’s tall interior height offered an excellent overall fit. The padding on the front and top of my head was soft and thick, providing plenty of plushness and comfort. The rear padding portion by the adjuster wheel was a bit thinner but provided enough comfort so that the plastic section didn’t dig into my head. Unfortunately, the rear padding started to unpeel and curl just below the wheel, though it didn’t entirely fall off.
The visor has a nifty locking system that offers three adjustment click/slot positions. It provides smooth and easy transitions into those positions; slide it up or pop it down. However, I wish it sat lower for optimal sun protection in the bottommost location. Flipping the visor upwards makes it simple to stash your goggles out of the way.
It has 13 vents for air circulation. Six massive inlet vents in the front and sides of the helmet bring in fresh, cool air, while seven rear exhaust vents draw out heat. The system provided efficient ventilation, keeping me cool and comfortable even during intense rides, from the heat of the summer to the chill of the off-season.
The helmet provides good coverage over the ears and back of the head yet still offers a more standard design and fit, so it feels good on any ride, from cross-country to gravel to full-on heavy-duty enduro. I like the helmet’s styling—simple, practical, and classic. And I love the Panther color! It integrates perfectly with Sweet Protections’ eyewear lineup, including the tested Memento RIG Reflect.
The Primer MIPS Helmet is comfortable and protective, has excellent ventilation and fit, and is easy to adjust. It also offers the safety of MIPS Evolve technology.
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