Pret Cynic X2 MIPS - Best Comfort & Sleek Design
The Pret Cynic X2 MIPS prioritizes all-day comfort and a streamlined, modern look, featuring a unique wool-blend liner and user-friendly details at a competitive price.
- +Exceptionally comfortable, temperature-regulating liner made from a wool-blend and recycled polyester fleece
- +Sleek, low-profile aesthetic with a premium look that avoids a bulky appearance
- +Convenient magnetic Fidlock buckle and a large, glove-friendly RCS Fit System dial for easy adjustments
- -Ventilation system is non-adjustable from the exterior; requires removing the helmet and liner to open/close flaps
- -In-mold construction is less durable and more susceptible to cosmetic damage than hybrid shells
- -Fixed vent design may not provide sufficient airflow for very high-output activities
The Pret Cynic X2 MIPS distinguishes itself by focusing intensely on wearer comfort and understated style. The interior is lined with a premium blend of wool and recycled polyester fleece, which feels soft against the skin, naturally regulates temperature, and resists odors. This contributes to a comfort level that testers often describe as superior to many helmets at higher price points. Externally, the helmet boasts a clean, low-profile design that looks more like a modern bike helmet than a traditional bulky ski lid. Usability features are well-considered: the magnetic Fidlock buckle allows for easy one-handed operation, and the oversized RCS Fit dial on the back is easy to grip and turn even with thick gloves.
Safety is covered with a MIPS liner. The main functional compromise is the ventilation approach. While it has 12 fixed vents, the opening and closing mechanism is via fabric flaps on the underside of the liner, requiring the helmet to be removed for adjustment—a significant inconvenience on the mountain. The in-mold shell is also less robust against everyday knocks than hybrid designs. For skiers who value exceptional comfort, a sleek aesthetic, and smart features above maximum vent control, the Cynic X2 MIPS is a compelling and highly comfortable mid-range option.