More coverage than their popular Forefront 2, Smith’s new lightweight Payroll mountain bike helmet adds extra protection into an all-mountain lid powered by Koroyd inside, and an optional Aleck crash detection sensor. Together it sums up into a rich Payroll with improved safety all-around, plus it’s now ebike certified, too.
Smith Payroll half-shell trail & enduro mountain bike helmet
Smith quietly rolled out the new Payroll half-shell helmet about a week ago, updating maximum off-road head protection for trail, enduro, and even eMTB riding. It’s still light at a claimed 400g. But thanks to a combo of a MIPS anti-rotational line and those iconic Koroyd honeycombs, it’s also safe enough for higher speed pedelec ebike use, as well.
In addition, it’s one of the first new Smith helmets to integrate Aleck crash detection. We got a sneak peek at the Aleck Tocsen crash sensors last summer. Now rechargeable, the Bluetooth sensor can detect a serious impact and reach out to an emergency contact via the Aleck smartphone app if you are unresponsive. The beauty… it adds security and peace of mind, for just twenty bucks extra!
Tech Details
The new Smith Payroll is a fully-vented mountain bike helmet, protected by a light Koroyd energy-absorbing structure over the majority of its body. Plus, a hidden internal roll cage skeleton to distribute forces in a big impact around those 19 vents. But it keeps those central vents completely open, combined with deep internal channels to maximize airflow over the top of your head.
The Payroll is NTA8776 E-bike, CPSC, CE EN 1078, and AS/NZS2063 certified.
Inside, a MIPS liner reduces rotational forces in an impact. And Smith’s VaporFit system provides full 270° dial-adjust snugness. A 3-position peak tucks down low to keep the sun out of your eyes. But still flips up to make room for sunglasses or goggles.
Smith Payroll – Pricing, options & availability
The new Smith Payroll MIPS helmet sells for $200 direct from Smith. It comes in 4 sizes to fit all heads (S-XL, from 48-65cm). Pick one up in five standard matte colors – Black, Dusk pink, White / Cement gray, Sedona red / Pacific blue, or green Trail Camo.
Or get the $220 Smith Payroll MIPS Aleck edition in matte Black with Topo gray. It builds the rechargeable Aleck crash sensor directly into the helmet’s shell.
