GLADE'S MIPS HELMETS: A NO BRAINER CHOICE FOR THIS SEASON

Hey all - Tanner here (If this is your first stop at the Lodge, check out some of our other posts here).

What is that tiny highlighted sticker on all these helmets and what the heck does MIPS even mean? Is it bogus? Is it legit?

I'm here to tell ya MIPS (or Multi-Directional Impact System) is definitely the real deal. You don't need to ignore it anymore and I'll tell you about it.

Straight from the source - MIPS Protection

MIPS is one of the coolest innovations in helmet tech. Traditional helmets protect you from straight-on impacts—think bonking your head against a rock. They literally just tested them by bashing them with bats over the top. But the reality is, most crashes aren’t perfectly vertical. You’re more likely to hit at an angle, which creates rotational forces that can mess with your brain big time. That’s where MIPS comes in.

Boundary MIPS

Tenmile MIPS

Here’s how it works: inside a MIPS-equipped helmet, there’s a low-friction layer that sits between the shell of the helmet and your head. It’s designed to move slightly—just a few millimeters—when you take a hit. This tiny movement lets your head slide independently of the helmet for a split second, reducing the rotational forces that get transmitted to your brain. It’s like adding a shock absorber for your noggin.

At Glade Optics, we're all about bringing you the best gear for the mountain, so integrating MIPS into our helmet lineup was a no-brainer. Our Boundary MIPS and Tenmile MIPS helmets are built with this tech to give you that extra layer of confidence and protection to do everything from try the smallest feature at the park for the first time or hit the cliff under the lift line you stare at all day.

MIPS in action - MIPS Protection

The Boundary MIPS is perfect for all styles of riders. But, with its lightweight construction, adjustable fit system, and tons of vents, it's a pretty great option if you want to stay light and cool in-bounds or out. And then there’s the Tenmile MIPS, my versatile all-star for skiers and riders. It’s comfy, breathable, and ready for whatever you throw at it, this thing is solid.

Check out these videos for for an inside scoop on those Glade MIPS layers: Boundary & Tenmile

So, is MIPS worth it? Absolutely. It’s one of those innovations that you’ll hope you never have to put to the test—but if you do, you’ll be glad it’s there. Next time you’re shopping for a helmet, look for that little yellow MIPS logo and know you’re getting some seriously smart protection.

Boundary MIPS 

Boundary MIPS

Now, enough about helmet details. Just make sure you have good one and just get out there and use it.

Until next time,

- Tanner Gray

 

Gear seen in this write-up: Boundary MIPS, Tenmile MIPS

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