Bontrager Solstice Helmet Review

At the end of the year, I noticed my kids were constantly fighting with their helmets. The chin straps just didn’t seem long enough for them anymore … Looks like dad needs to step up and get them out of their Youth helmets.

The latest safety tech in helmet design is MIPS. It’s being integrated into helmets for all different sports. MIPS is an acronym for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System. The technology was created in 2001 by members of the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden. MIPS is a world leader in head and neck protection as a result of over 30 years of experience from its creators in the field of medical technology and research. MIPS technology mimics the brain’s protective structure by reducing rotational forces caused by angled impacts to the head. The helmet’s shell and liner are separated by a low friction layer which allows the helmet to slide, noticeably reducing trauma to the brain in the case of oblique impacts. These angled impacts are considerably more common in action sports compared to the blunt force impacts for which traditional helmets are typically tested.

When MIPS first started making its way into helmets a few years back, it was very expensive. But now, you can find it in sub-$100 range. When doing all of the research for becoming a brand ambassador for D&D Bikes, I learned about the Bontrager Solstice MIPS model. So the boys and I took a trip up to the shop to try them on.

Both boys (11 and 9) fit into the S/M using the dial fit. Should also allow extra room if they want to wear a thin hat under the helmet in the cold. I was surprised to learn that Bontrager has a Crash Replacement Guarantee which provides a free helmet replacement if involved in a crash within the first year of ownership. I wish I had that a few years ago when I wrecked and destroyed a Bell Super after only a couple months.

This helmet is the “enduro” style which gives more protection on the sides and back, but still allows for plenty of vents. I’m a fan of this type of helmet for its functionality and coverage.