Fact: brain trauma knows no gender. It’s a good idea to wear a helmet, but fits can be tricky, and let’s be honest, looks matter. Enter Smith’s new Method. With all the bells and whistles of every top-notch helmet technology available today (Mips and KOROYD), the Method is as safe as it gets. What sets it apart from many other offerings, though, is the fit, and this is due to ample use of medium-density padding and elastic-based tension components.

Where some helmets implement BOA-controlled fitment systems, the Method does so with a pressure-distributing elastic-tensioned harness system. We had our whole crew try the Method on, and it fit all of us surprisingly well, without any pressure points. One of the most notable aspects of the Method is its weight. It is incredibly light, which combined with the internal Mips system, can greatly reduce neck strains in whiplash situations, like the good ‘ol dreaded heel edge catch.

If you like to kick out the jams, the removable insulated ear flap has a zippered pouch which can house a separate Aleck audio system. Or, if you’re not into rocking ear flaps, simply snap them out, and run a balaclava or beanie. The method to the Method is simple.