Expert Pick #04

Sweet Protection Trooper 2Vi MIPS.

Sweet Protection's 2Vi platform layers a carbon-fiber Varioshell over a dual-density inner liner for progressive energy absorption. The Trooper is overbuilt by design — the helmet Sweet's freeride team wears and backcountry skiers reach for when help is hours away.

Sweet Protection Trooper 2Vi MIPS

The Verdict.

9.2/ 10

Gavler Meta-Score

Buy this if you ski hard enough that the question is not whether you'll crash but how violent that crash will be. The carbon Varioshell and dual-density inner liner are the most overbuilt construction on this list, and the MIPS rotational layer plus 2Vi platform deliver protection-per-gram that justifies the premium spend. Pass on it if you ski mostly groomers in cold weather — the Smith Level MIPS covers that use case at $100 less, and the Trooper's smaller adjustable vents will run warm on spring corn.

The Gavler Verdict

Precision Engineering

2Vi Carbon Varioshell

Thermoplastic-laminated carbon-fiber outer shell paired with EPS/Vinylnitrile dual-density inner liner absorbs high-speed and low-speed impacts through different layers.

MIPS Rotational Layer

Low-friction inner liner redirects oblique-impact rotational forces — the dominant injury vector in angled ski falls.

Twin Front Airflow Tabs

Two adjustable front vents open for skin-track heat dump and close for cold-day insulation — designed for backcountry temperature swings.

Technical Specifications

ConstructionCarbon-fiber-laminated Varioshell + EPS/Vinylnitrile liner
Rotational ProtectionMIPS
CertificationCE EN1077 / ASTM F2040
Weight (Size Medium)~19 oz / 540 g
VentsTwin adjustable front tabs + passive vents
LinerRemovable, washable
Fit NoteRuns small — size up if between sizes

The Scoreboard

Expert Consensus93%
Community Rating90%

9.2 reflects strong expert-vs-community consensus; freeride and backcountry-leaning reviewers consistently rank higher, while resort-skier reviewers note the constrained venting and small-running L/XL sizing.

Cast Your Vote

Do you think Sweet Protection Trooper 2Vi MIPS deserves the #4 spot in Best Ski Helmets?

Best Price Availability.

Prices checked April 2026

Price History

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$320

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$320

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Global Critique

The Trooper has a dedicated following among skiers and the third iteration of this industry stalwart does not disappoint.

PowderGuide

Sweet's proprietary thermoplastic-laminated carbon fiber shell is ready for battle with anything that might threaten your head.

Backcountry.com

Engineered to outperform without compromising on weight and volume.

Sweet Protection (Manufacturer)