Smith also launches updated Forefront 3 with more ventilation
Smith has released three new mountain bike helmets at Eurobike, an updated enduro open-face Forefront 3, and full-face Hardline and Hardline Carbon models.
The new Hardline is said to have been developed with freeride and slopestyle rider Hannah Bergemann, who has been seen wearing it for the last 6 months.
Smith is yet to release pricing for the new helmets but expects them to be available sometime this year.
Smith Hardline
Previously, Smith’s full face helmet lineup only featured the enduro-focused Mainline.
The brand says its new Hardline helmet is designed for taking on the rowdiest descents and backs that up with the protection to match.
It uses Smith’s signature Koroyd protection, which the brand says adds more impact protection while increasing breathability due to its hollow constitution.
Koroyd is made up of what looks like a couple hundred plastic tubes to create a honeycomb lattice.
There is also MIPS on both Hardline helmets The system is said to reduce rotational forces during big impacts to help limit concussions.
Smith says the Hardline has collarbone impact protection zones. These are claimed to lessen the damage the side of the helmet can cause to collarbones on impact.
There is a large mouth vent on the helmet’s chin bar to aid airflow, with smaller vents on the brow of the helmet bringing air to the top of your head. This air then exits through a sleek horizontal vent in the rear.
Integration with the brand’s AirEvac ventilation system should see fog-free lenses when it’s used with Smith’s latest goggles.
Different thickness liners are provided so you can fine-tune the fit, all of which use an Ionic+ anti-bacterial material to reduce odour.
The visor has been designed to break off on impact to reduce neck injuries, and there is an action camera mount beneath it.
Smith says the Hardline weighs 990g for a size medium, with the Carbon variant shaving 90g at 900g for the same size.
Both helmets feature a D-ring closure.
Smith Forefront 3
The Forefront 3 is said to have 25 per cent more airflow compared to the previous Forefront 2, with the new design now featuring 20 vents.
Smith has also given the helmet a micro-adjustable BOA Fit System, which is said to provide a more secure fit compared to other designs.
The helmet – like the Hardline – also uses Koroyd protection.
Smith says it now features a ‘roll cage’ that helps distribute impact forces throughout its shell for increased protection.
It has got a three-position adjustable visor with a camera or light mounting systems build in.
Smith claims the Forefront 3 tips the scales at 410g for a size medium.