Recently, PMT introduced a more advanced 3D MIPS helmet at the Meiji editorial office, embodying the brand philosophy of “Always Moving Forward.” As a domestic brand, PMT launched the Elegant MIPS helmet in five colors this June, receiving widespread acclaim.
What surprises can this 3D MIPS helmet, based on the PMT Elegant MIPS, bring us, and what kind of user experience can we expect? Let’s unbox it and appreciate its beauty.
Static Display
This time, PMT packaged the 3D MIPS helmet in an “Hermès Orange” outer box. Upon unboxing, it almost led the editorial team to believe that I could afford Hermès.
Compared to previous simpler packaging, this new design exudes a sense of exquisite luxury. I weighed this “Hermès Orange” box, and besides being stunningly eye-catching, it also feels substantial. In simple terms, it is sturdy and robust; perhaps PMT aims to express the intrinsic value of this new product through this hard and flashy packaging.
▲PMT’s orca logo is affixed at the center of the packaging.
▲PMT’s brand philosophy of “Always Moving Forward”.
Our main character is, of course, the PMT 3D MIPS helmet. In addition to the classic black and starry white, PMT has also introduced a “Galactic” coating for this helmet. The water-based paint process gives the helmet a very high-quality appearance under natural light.
I feel that the rich lines create a strong design aesthetic. The smooth and rounded contours resonate with the current aesthetic trends in cycling helmets. The Elegant MIPS design has always been favored by many cyclists, which is likely one of the reasons PMT chose to upgrade this style.
The rear design, resembling an F1 car’s exhaust, uses a double-layer structure, enhancing the three-dimensional feel while also achieving better ventilation.
▲The golden logo on the “Classic Black” still uses the unique embossed engraving process.
▲The “Galactic” coating brings a color-changing effect like a chameleon.
▲The “Starry White” features green glitter in the clear coat for a shimmering effect.
PMT states that this 3D MIPS helmet is made using imported POLYSOURCE 205T EPS material combined with a 1.0mm thick PC outer shell using a dual-mold integrated forming technique. Comparing it to other high-end helmets I have used, the workmanship and quality are on par with international brands, showcasing the rising power of domestic products. I chose this 3D MIPS helmet with the unique “Galactic” coating for evaluation due to its chameleon-like colors.
▲The 29 ventilation holes provide excellent breathability.
▲The 3D multifunctional inner lining label corresponds to the MIPS label’s placement.
The common suspension system structure reserves a hole for ponytails for women, while also adding a diamond reflective sticker at the rear, starting safety awareness from the design—big applause for that!
The multi-segment height adjustable multifunctional adjustment system can completely wrap the head, but it looks relatively simple at first glance. During adjustment, I felt it was a bit stiff, and the quality could be slightly improved.
▲The PMT orca logo stitched on the gray webbing on the left side of the helmet.
PMT has integrated the module separator into a nylon + Teflon blended gray special webbing, which fits the ears better than ordinary Y-shaped webbing and is less likely to loosen. However, the material quality of this module separator is somewhat lacking, occasionally causing discomfort to the edges of the ears.
▲Imported ITW third-generation buckle.
▲The chin padding provided enhances comfort while also absorbing sweat.
Along with the hangtag, there is also a blood type label sticker, which I think shows PMT’s attention to user safety and is a respect for life. Just like everyone hopes never to need it, but we must equip it for your safety.
The actual weight of the M size fluctuates around 288g, while the L size reaches 309g, which seems quite standard. However, thinking back, the SPECIALIZED PREVAIL 3 I used also falls within this weight range. So, does it feel light? Certainly, I didn’t feel any uncomfortable downward pressure while wearing it, thanks to the 3D printed inner lining.
3D Printed Inner Lining
The helmet’s inner cage no longer uses IFTNA’s antibacterial lining but instead employs a polymer 3D printed into a honeycomb structure as the lining (the lining is non-removable). According to PMT’s description of its product, this innovative design not only increases internal ventilation channels but also brings a greater sense of comfort and safety.
▲The honeycomb structure of the 3D LATTICE lining aims for enhanced comfort and breathability.
By completely breaking away from traditional materials, the inner lining utilizes cutting-edge 3D printing technology, which is rarely seen in mass production in China. This is also the most innovative aspect of this helmet; how much charm will it bring us? I will wear it for a cycling experience next.
The front of the lining is equipped with a more comfortable and soft medical silicone sweat guide strip, which I find to be quite creative. It can guide sweat away and prevent the forehead from experiencing the uncomfortable “tears like rain” scenario. Of course, if one is not accustomed to it, they can switch to the ordinary padding that comes with the helmet.
The low-profile black Evole level MIPS protection system is located under the 3D printed polymer lining. This MIPS protection system consists of a low friction layer (LFL) and a low friction coating, both less than 1mm thick. It offers better cushioning compared to the original yellow MIPS and provides a lighter fit.
Wearing Experience
The M size fits me perfectly, without any pressure on the temples or head, thanks to PMT’s design that caters to Asian head shapes. Additionally, the overall shape does not appear to have a “mushroom head” look.
Although the front edge of the helmet is relatively thick, PMT has designed a chamfered shape that provides me with an ideal riding view. Its deeper inner cage is equipped with the Evole level MIPS protection system, which offers a great sense of safety.
In mid-October, the South China region is still extremely hot. The 29 ventilation holes provide me with a comfortable riding experience; the stuffiness is not as intense as before. In such weather, the most noticeable effect comes during high-speed cycling. The 3D printed polymer lining allows me to feel no downward pressure that I usually experience with helmets, thanks to the honeycomb design of this 3D lining providing good support. Compared to ordinary linings, it allows for comfortable airflow around the hair, resulting in an ideal comfort level.
After a round of cycling, I found that the medical silicone sweat guide strip at the forehead not only absorbs sweat but also reduces the unintentional shifting of the helmet during cycling. There is no situation where the ordinary lining becomes soaked and uncomfortable to wear after a ride. Due to the special nature of this lining, the side extensions are relatively limited. If the forehead lining were made longer, it would improve the fit and enhance sweat guiding effectiveness. Another point is that currently, only M and L sizes are available, which does not cater to users with smaller head circumferences.
As a cycling helmet priced at 899 yuan, the 3D MIPS helmet looks almost identical to the Elegant MIPS helmet, which might lessen the impulse to purchase. However, the cutting-edge 3D lining and excellent user experience offer a worthwhile cycling experience, ensuring it won’t disappoint you. I am already looking forward to the upcoming Double Eleven shopping festival on e-commerce platforms.
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