REASONS TO BUY
Warm
Stylish
Comfortable
Durable
Easy to use
REASONS TO AVOID
Fixed vents
Pret Cynic X Review
A solid helmet that looks cool and gets the job done without standing out in any performance area
Credit: Backcountry
RELATED: Best Ski Helmets
Our Verdict
If you're not familiar with Pret, now's the perfect time to get caught up. The Cynic X is a welcomed new wave helmet with great protection features like MIPS and RECCO and a killer low profile design. This helmet is very easy to use with a magnetic buckle on the chin strap, and an easy dial to adjust the fit. It does have fixed vents, though, which isn't always ideal on a storm day or to hold in heat when it's really frigid. The modest weight and simple design make the Cynic X an ideal one quiver option for those looking to ride the resort and backcountry.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Cynic X is a low profile helmet designed with the ripping freeride skier in mind. With durable construction and major style points, this MIPS-equipped helmet screams protection and performance.
Performance Comparison
The Cynic X is a no frills helmet with attitude.
Credit: Alex Bogner
Fit and Comfort
The Cynic X is a comfortable helmet. With the RCS QR fit system, Pret's dial adjuster, this helmet can fit a variety of head sizes without significant pressure points. The fit system is easy to use with audible indexes for each turn of the dial. With the added safety feature of MIPS, it does make the sizing run on the smaller size, which could be a consideration when deciding the right size. The blended wool fabric and eco-smart recycled polyester fleece lining is soft and has great padding. The liner can be taken out completely to wash out all that sweat from working hard all day on the hill. The earpieces are soft and fit great, but for those looking to blast some tunes, or feel the wind on their ears, they can also be easily taken out.
This helmet fits like a glove with a relatively large range of adjustment.
Credit: Shawn Whisenand
Warmth
The Cynic X is incredibly warm due to the ability of the blended wool fabric, and eco-smart polyester fleece to retain heat. With a limited number of vents, this helmet works best on those frigid days on the mountain. A few degrees of added warmth can really make or break the enjoyment of your ski day, and the Cynic X should keep your head toasty and happy all day.
The Cynic X has a cozy wool and fleece liner that is appreciated on cold resort days.
Credit: Shawn Whisenand
Ventilation
12 fixed, open vents work to keep air continuously flowing through the Cynic X. This process helps regulate your head temperature and keep your goggles from fogging up. We prefer ventilation systems that include a toggle to open and close the vents, making them more adaptable to the weather of the day.
Although there is definitely air moving through the helmet, it does not dump enough heat to really ventilate efficiently on warm spring days. To allow more air to move through the helmet, remove the pads that cover the ears, which will increase venting from the bottom of the helmet.
The fixed vents in the front work great for defogging goggle lenses, while the other fixed vents help constantly keep air moving through the helmet.
Credit: Alex Bogner
Weight
If you are a resort skier looking to get a lighter helmet without sacrificing any features, Cynic X is the one for you. Coming in at just under 15 ounces, this is one of the lightest helmets in the review that still has insulated padding and ear covers. If you're looking to shed some extra weight, the ear covers can be easily taken out.
Goggle Compatibility
With every goggle we tested with the Cynic X, the helmet was universally compatible with each brand. During testing, we paired the helmet with Smith, Scott, and Abom goggles. Each goggle made great contact with the helmet, thus creating a seamless fitting between the two. The goggle strap in the rear of the helmet is a thick rubber strap that is fixed with a strong classic snap button. The loud snapping noise brings about a comforting feeling knowing that our goggles are fastened and not moving anywhere.
Alex highlighting the goggle compatibility with a pair of Smith goggles.
Credit: Shawn Whisenand
Style
The Cynic X gets major style points from everybody we talked to. Its simple matte finish gives it a professional look that appeals to both the young and seasoned vets alike. The matching color on the vents and logo help to distinguish the Pret helmet from the rest of the pack. The wool ear pads also help to give this helmet its own flare. If a storm rolls in, you'll have no problem flipping up that hood with the Cynic X's low profile design. The sleek low profile may also help save room in your pack on the occasional day in the backcountry.
A simple design that appeals to the likes of many, including those ripping freeride skiers.
Credit: Shawn Whisenand
Value
The Cynic X is offered at a solid price point and comes with great value. With MIPS & RECCO technology, a well designed protective shell, you're sure to get your money's worth out of this helmet. We think the value is strong with this helmet.
The Cynic X offers great value for solid protection on the hill.
Credit: Alex Bogner
Conclusion
If you're an avid skier seeking out a minimalist helmet with a great design, the Cynic X is right for you. For those resort skiers that also split their time in the backcountry, this helmet is lightweight and slim enough to help you save weight and space in your pack. In addition to shedding some weight, the price point is middle of the road, while still offering top notch protection and high-tech features like MIPS.
All smiles while testing the Cynic X. Sleek, teched-out, and comfortable for a reasonable price.
Credit: Alex Bogner
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Alex Bogner
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