SMITH OPTICS helmets use a polymer material known as Koroyd®, which offers over 30% better impact absorption than commonly used EPS materials while delivering high-level performance in the areas required of a helmet: lightness, ventilation, and aerodynamics. Not only for their functionality, these helmets are popular with many cyclists for their simple, refined silhouettes and color schemes that cleverly highlight the Koroyd, making them favorites among many at Circles as well.
We began carrying Smith helmets relatively early on after they first appeared in the cycling scene. Recently, our lineup has centered on the Network and Persist 2 for road, and the Session and Engage 2 for MTB. This season, two new models have joined the ranks and are garnering attention: the Triad for road and the Payroll for MTB.
Of course, it’s only natural for new models to attract attention, but there is another major reason for this: their rounded shape, which is easier for Asians to wear.
In fact, these aren’t models specifically tailored for the Asian market like the AF (Asian Fit) from GIRO or the WF (Wide Fit) from POC that we introduced recently, but are standard models deployed globally.
This is a bit surprising, but it’s great news for those who have thought, "SMITH helmets look cool and I want to wear one, but... I wish they were a little wider."
I personally haven't been able to wear other M-size helmets at all because they pinch the sides of my head, but with these models, I was able to get them on until they were just one step away from sitting perfectly. It’s hard to tell from the photos, but the actual feel of wearing them is completely different!
Of course, they look great too! So I definitely want many of you to give them a try.
Triad
Color : Matte Black, Matte Pacific, Matte Neon Yellow Viz
Size : S, M, L
Weight : 290g (Size M)
Price : 35,200 JPY (incl. tax)
A road helmet that works for everything from daily commutes to serious rides
The Triad is a road helmet that combines the best features of the top-grade Trace and the mid-grade Network. By incorporating more Koroyd®, both protection and ventilation have been improved.
The internal structure has been updated, with a more rounded molding that achieves a fit suited for Japanese heads. The AirEvac system, featuring 19 vents, efficiently channels air across the front of the head to the rear, minimizing eyewear fogging while riding and ensuring a stress-free view. Additionally, MIPS integration further enhances safety and comfort, making it suitable for everything from racing to E-bikes, which require even higher levels of safety.
The MIPS and adjustment system are integrated, providing an excellent fit.
Small details like the structure that allows you to securely fix eyewear to the front and back of the helmet, and the strap system, add to its convenience and comfort.
Whether it's daily cycling or serious training and rides, the Triad will perform in any cycling situation thanks to its advanced technology and adjustable comfort.
Payroll
Color : Matte Black, Matte Dusk
Size : S, M, L
Weight : 400g (Size M)
Price : 35,750 JPY (incl. tax)
An MTB helmet designed for maximum comfort, ventilation, and storage convenience
The Payroll is an MTB helmet designed so you can confidently enjoy pump tracks and single-track trails. It supports various uses including enduro, trail, and E-MTB, and while it features a lightweight design, it passes strict E-bike safety standards by efficiently placing Koroyd® and MIPS®.
Also, like the Triad, the MIPS and adjustment system are integrated, ensuring a comfortable fit.
There are large vents on the inside that create efficient airflow, keeping you comfortable while climbing and preventing sunglass lenses from fogging up, making descents safe and worry-free.
The visor is adjustable and has three fixed positions. While we’ve paired it with sunglasses here, this mechanism is also very useful for goggles.
With a calculated helmet structure that achieves ultimate ventilation and an internal design updated for the Japanese market, the Payroll is sure to gain a devoted following.
Additionally, new Matte Midnight Navy colors have arrived for the Persist 2 and Engage 2 road models; the beautiful, deep navy is truly attractive.
Of course, our sunglass lineup is also extensive, so please check out our wide variety of offerings.
As an aside, did you notice that the model wearing the red jersey in the opening photo is Liebo from SimWorks USA? Actually, Jeremy Dunn—a.k.a. JD, formerly of THE ATHLETIC—has recently been handling promotions/marketing for SMITH, and through that connection, Liebo helped out as a model.
Memorable for his work as the mastermind behind the RAPHA CONTINENTAL RIDE back in the day, as well as his activities at THE ATHLETIC, we have been indebted to him for a long time. We are excited to see what he does at SMITH OPTICS, so this is definitely a brand we’ll be keeping an eye on.
SMITH OPTICS
SMITH OPTICS was founded in 1965 in Sun Valley, Idaho, home to the first ski resort in the United States. The brand was born when Bob Smith, an avid skier and orthodontist, handmade the world's first fog-free goggles with a double lens, which garnered support from many of his friends. Since then, the brand has continued to develop various technologies and create innovative eyewear.
Throughout its long history, the company has continued to develop helmets in the winter sports field, and in recent years has expanded into the cycling field, where it is pouring effort into the development of innovative cycling helmets using Koroyd.
