Giro Ratio MIPS - Best Budget Helmet
The Giro Ratio MIPS defies its budget price by offering adjustable vents, reliable MIPS safety, and good warmth, making it the top choice for cost-conscious skiers.
- +Includes adjustable ventilation, a rare feature in its price range, with 6 controllable vents
- +Surprisingly warm and comfortable due to a thick, fleece-like liner and snug ear pads
- +Offers solid impact protection with MIPS technology at a very accessible cost
- -Bulky ABS plastic construction feels heavier and less streamlined than in-mold helmets
- -Interior lining and ear pads may pack out and show wear faster than premium materials
- -Fit adjustment dial can be less refined and harder to operate with thick gloves on
The Giro Ratio MIPS stands out in the crowded budget helmet category by including features typically reserved for more expensive models, most notably an adjustable ventilation system. With six vents that can be opened or closed via a top slider, it provides a level of temperature control absent in competitors like the Smith Rodeo. This, combined with a thick, fleece-lined interior and well-padded ear flaps, makes it a surprisingly warm option for resort skiing in cold conditions. Safety is not compromised, as it includes the MIPS slip-plane liner designed to reduce rotational forces during an impact.
The construction utilizes a durable ABS plastic hardshell, which is tough and dent-resistant but adds noticeable weight and bulk compared to lighter in-mold designs. Over time, the comfort materials may show signs of wear, such as pilling, and the fit system, while functional, lacks the micro-adjustability of premium Boa dials. However, for occasional skiers, beginners, or anyone seeking essential protection and comfort without a significant financial outlay, the Giro Ratio MIPS delivers exceptional value and performance that far exceeds its price point.