Gear review | Mammut Haute Route helmet

Features & equipment

The Haute Route is based on a hybrid construction consisting of an ABS hard shell and EPP and EPS foam shells. This construction combines high impact resistance with low weight - on paper, this gives it a clear advantage over classic hardshell helmets. Particularly noteworthy is the triple certification for skiing, mountaineering/climbing and cycling. It can even be used for ski races.

I tested the helmet in size M (for a head circumference of 55 to 59 cm). At 380 grams, it is very light for both a classic ski helmet and a multi-use helmet. Classic ski helmets often start at 500 grams, while competitors such as the Sweet Protection Ascender MIPS are slightly lighter at 430 grams.

The Petzl Meteor, which is often seen in the mountains, is significantly lighter but has no ski or bike certification. Otherwise, the helmet has the classic features of an adjustable fit with dials as well as removable and washable pads and attachments for a headlamp or ski goggles. Another positive feature is that a lightweight helmet beanie is included.

The strap of the chinstrap is comfortable and the stowage is also well solved - a point that often causes trouble with other helmets. It remains simple: there is no special padding, but I didn't notice anything negative about this.

The helmet fits more like a climbing helmet or hat and not like a full-face helmet. If it is adjusted to your head size, it has a good fit without causing pressure points. However, this is also a question of the individual head shape.

The MIPS, which is now frequently found on "state-of-the-art" helmets, is not installed here, which is incomprehensible at first glance. There may be design reasons for the multiple certification, but I don't know for sure.

I have worn the helmet when tobogganing and ice skating with the children as well as on the piste and on (piste) ski tours and can't report anything negative. Even on the ascent, it was relatively cool in warm temperatures. However, I only did this for PowderGuide, as I wear the helmet on my backpack for normal ascents.

It fits well, is light, the goggles fit perfectly (no-gaper) and it is very competitively priced. A clear recommendation from me.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that Mammut not only does nothing wrong with the "Haute Route", it simply gets a lot of things right. It is multi-certified, lightweight, the basics are right and there is even a really good helmet cap on top as an add-on. The whole thing for 140 euros is really a very well-rounded overall package by Mammut standards.

Advantages & disadvantages

Technical data

RRP € 140

• Construction: Hybrid (ABS hard shell, EPP & EPS foam)

• Certifications:

  • CE EN 1077 (ski)

  • CE EN 12492 (mountaineering/climbing)

  • CE EN 1078 (cycling)

• ISMF-approved

• Ventilation: Large openings & internal air channels

• Adjustment: 360° adjustment system with adjustment wheel

• Padding: Removable, washable (bamboo)

• Extras: Headlamp/goggle attachment, beanie included

Click here to visit the Mammut website for more information.

The helmet was provided to PowderGuide free of charge by Mammut. You can find out how we tested it in our test statement.