Scott is one of an increasing number of brands that have been getting into the enhanced protection world of MIPS – a sheet of low-friction plastic mounted inside the shell of the helmet that offers 15mm of extra movement in both forward and sideways planes during a rotational impact.
Adding MIPS only adds 15 to 20g to the weight of a helmet – in this case the Stego, which falls firmly in the enduro side of the trail family of helmets – but it offers considerable extra protection.
Crucially, it has done so without obviously compromising other performance aspects like breathability and ventilation, which has cemented the Stego’s esteemed status here at BikeRadar since we first tested it in 2013, awarding it the same high score.
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Large holes in the yellow MIPS liner mean there’s no compromise in airflow through the big front, side and rear vents. The liner sits over broad internal channels too, so the wind whistles over your scalp when you get up to speed. Minimal padding means no lingering sogginess if you get sweaty on the way back up.
The shell shape is broad, which will trip some riders’ style alarms (the large size is particularly massive) but there’s enough adjustment in the free floating, dial tightened cradle for a secure and supportive fit.
The dropped rear offers plenty of skull protection, and there’s also extra protection in front of the ear to guard this vulnerable area. The top surface is smooth, which helps the helmet slide during crashes, and also provides a good mounting point for cameras and lights.
The small skull gripper segments have lasted better than on other lids we’ve used and there’s no fabric to smell like rancid milk after a summer season. Edge strap anchoring means easy fitting and minimal strap slap and specs interference, and the snaplock fastener simply works. Full hardshell coverage makes it kit bag and accidental kickabout proof too.
The broad shovel of a peak provides masses of shelter whatever the weather, while that deep-dish rear offers reassurance. If you tend to pedal rather than push or uplift then the extra ventilation is worth the additional outlay over the similarly protective MIPS version of Giro’s Feature.
