HELMET SHOWDOWN: GIRO LEDGE MIPS VS. BERN WATTS EPS HELMET

When it comes to hitting the slopes as a snowboarder, your gear isn’t just about style but safety and performance. Your helmet, mainly, is crucial in protecting you during those epic runs and daring tricks. In this in-depth comparison, I’m pitting two affordable, top-notch helmets against each other: the Giro Ledge MIPS Helmet and the Bern Watts EPS Helmet.

Both the Bern snowboard helmet and the Giro snowboarding  helmet are designed to meet the demands of snowboarders, offering a blend of safety, comfort, and style. Whether you’re a park enthusiast or a backcountry explorer, this showdown will help you make an informed decision, ensuring you ride in both style and security. For more snowboarding helmet choices, check out my list of the best MIPS helmets in 2023 to amp up your safety and style on the slopes.

 Stevan Blazin

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 Stevan Blazin

Giro Ledge Helmet: Key Features

Let’s dive deeper into each of the standout features of the Giro Ledge MIPS Helmet, giving you a closer look at why it can be a perfect fit for your next ride.

Hard-Shell Construction for Maximum Protection

The foundation of the GIRO Ledge MIPS is its hard-shell construction. This feature ensures your head remains well-protected even in the most intense riding situations. It’s like having a sturdy fortress for your noggin, giving you the confidence to push your limits and tackle those challenging runs.

EPS Foam Liner for Impact Absorption

Inside the helmet, you’ll find an EPS foam liner. This isn’t just any foam – it’s designed to absorb impacts effectively. It’s like a shock absorber for your head, reducing the force of any collisions and providing that essential extra layer of safety for your adventures on the slopes.

Superior Ventilation with Stack Vent™

I love a good ventilation system for those long days on the mountain, and the Ledge helmet delivers. The Stack Vent™ Technology and Super Cool Vents work together to keep your head snug and cool. Say goodbye to overheating and fogged-up goggles – these vents ensure optimal airflow, allowing you to focus on shredding.

Auto Loc™ 2 Fit System

The Auto Loc™ 2 Fit System works wonders when it comes to comfort and convenience. It’s removable, durable, and self-adjusting, eliminating the hassle of finding the perfect fit. The helmet’s soft elastic fit band at the back, combined with the fixed-position straps, ensures that the helmet cradles your head just right. Plus, the on-the-fly vertical tuning feature makes it easy to accommodate different goggles and head shapes, eliminating that annoying helmet gap.

Seamless Compatibility with Giro Goggles

For snowboarders who value a secure fit and a sleek look, the GIRO Ledge MIPS is a dream come true. It seamlessly pairs with all Giro goggles, ensuring that your eyewear stays in place no matter how radical your ride is. The removable goggle retainer and ear pads add to the helmet’s versatility, allowing you to customize your setup to suit your style and conditions.

MIPS Technology for Enhanced Safety

The Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) is the icing on the cake when it comes to safety. This cutting-edge technology reduces rotational impacts , crucial for reducing the risk of brain damage and other head injuries. It’s like having an extra layer of security for your brain, offering peace of mind while you push your limits on the slopes.

Compatibility with Audio Systems

The Giro Ledge MIPS is compatible with aftermarket Giro audio systems from Outdoor Tech. This is fantastic for riders who enjoy jamming out while shredding. Now, you can rock your favorite tunes without compromising safety. It’s all about enhancing your riding experience and adding more fun to your adventures.

Certified Safety

Safety is paramount, and the Giro Ledge MIPS Helmet boasts the CE EN1077 certification, meeting the highest safety standards. When you strap on this helmet, you’re consciously prioritizing your well-being on the mountain.

Bern Watts EPS Helmet: An Overview

The Bern Watts EPS Helmet is another fantastic option for snowboarders seeking a blend of style and protection. Let’s break it down:

All-Season Versatility

Having tackled various slopes during different seasons and weather conditions, I can attest to the importance of a versatile helmet. If you feel the same way, this Bern snowboard helmet is the one to consider. It’s designed to be adaptable, ensuring you have the perfect gear for every snowboarding adventure.

If you’re looking to tailor your helmet for different weather conditions, you can customize it with seasonal upgrades—a premium, moisture-controlling summer liner, as well as a winter liner. You can buy these accessories separately.

CrankFit Dial System

This lightweight system allows precise and fine-tuned adjustments, ensuring your helmet fits like a glove. No more headaches from ill-fitting helmets. Air channels also play their part by pulling fresh air through the front vents and allowing warm air to escape through the back vents, keeping you cool and comfortable no matter how intense your adventure gets.

MIPS for Enhanced Brain Protection

Similar to the Giro Ledge MIPS helmet, this Bern snowboard helmet also features the essential MIPS technology, protecting your noggin against high-force impacts. Knowing you have MIPS on your side gives you that extra peace of mind when pushing your limits.

ThinsHell Technology for Durability

The Bern snowboard helmet combines durability and safety seamlessly with its ThinsHell technology. This cutting-edge design balances a tough ABS or polycarbonate shell and interior EPS foam thickness.

The result? A helmet that’s not only safe but also durable and strong. Whether tackling the toughest terrain or just cruising, the ThinsHell technology ensures your helmet can handle it all, keeping you protected ride after ride.

Classic Style

Last but certainly not least, the Bern snowboard helmet brings style to the forefront. With its baseball-hat-inspired hard visor and classic Bern styling, you’ll look and feel like a pro rider no matter where your sport takes you. It’s the helmet that protects your head and elevates your style game. So, wherever you’re shredding those slopes, you’ll do it with flair and confidence.

What’s Your Verdict?

I’ll share mine first. As an avid snowboarder, I’ve had the privilege of putting the GIRO Ledge MIPS Helmet and the Bern Watts EPS Helmet to the test. From my experience, these helmets are outstanding options for riders. The Giro helmet’s seamless goggle compatibility and snow sport-focused design were a huge plus.

On the other hand, the Bern snowboard helmet impressed me with its versatility. Plus, the ThinsHell durability is a feature any snowboarder can appreciate. Your choice between these fantastic helmets will ultimately come down to your specific needs and riding style. They are both affordable and safe options. Which one will it be?

To explore more helmet options, check out my comprehensive list of the best MIPS snowboarding helmets for 2023. It’s a great resource to help you find the perfect gear for your snowboarding adventures while prioritizing safety.

 Happy shredding!

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