Gear Review
For myself and so many others, safety is always the number one priority while skiing and snowboarding. With that being said, an almost equally important factor to a good day on the mountain is having fun and enjoying yourself. The feeling of freedom and finding your flow as you cruise or dance down the snowy mountain is indescribable. Now, thanks to the upgraded collaboration from Aleck x Smith, I’m able to jam to my favorite tunes, easily stop and start music to converse, answer and end phone calls, and stay connected and communicate with others all within the comfort and safety of a top-tier and innovative helmet while I’m skiing.
This collaboration between Aleck x Smith combines Aleck’s newer, hassle-free wireless audio and communication system, the Nunchucks, with Smith’s most advanced design in the Nexus MIPS helmet. As the official audio partner for Smith, I had recently seen Aleck come across my social media multiple times on separate occasions, which sparked my curiosity. However, before receiving this package from Sun and Ski Sports, it had been years since I’d attempted to listen to music while skiing. From lost AirPods and low-quality sound to almost always riding with my partner or other people, I basically gave up on the idea altogether. Until now.
Aleck Nunchucks Features and Specifications
- High-Definition Sound- Bluetooth 5.2 technology and 40mm drivers provide rich bass and clear audio
- Hands-Free Calling and Music Playback- Built-in microphone and single press (pause song), double press (next song), or triple press (replay song) commands
- Battery Life and Quality: 18 hours of continuous use and operates in temperatures as low as 24ºF (-4ºC)
- Extras and In-App Features- Push-to-talk group commands and GPS friend-finder keep you easily connected
Smith Nexus MIPS Features and Specifications
- KOROYD and MIPS Technology- KOROYD provides better impact coverage thanks to a fully-vented, honeycomb-like material that absorbs more energy (in a crash) versus traditional foam, + MIPS increases safety on angled impacts
- Micro-adjustable BOA 360 Fit System forms and adapts to your head size and shape
- Ionic+ Lining is sweat-wicking, odor-fighting, and stays warm while retaining heat
- 24 total rear and front vents thoughtfully designed to help regulate airflow
Set-Up and Pre-Ski Thoughts
When I first unboxed the wireless headphones and helmet, I could immediately envision how they would work and fit together. After a quick Google search to clarify my initial thoughts, I unzipped the ear-pad section to access the removable foam. Once I removed the small inner square of foam, I was able to insert the headphones into the ears and tuck the connecting cord back into the zippable section. As someone who always takes the earpads out of my helmet for a more comfortable fit, my only small concern was how it would feel with the earpads and the headphones inside. Lastly, I downloaded the Aleck app, and my phone was Bluetooth-paired to the headphones in minutes. It took me less than five minutes to fully set up, and I was ready to ski.
First Day Fit and Feel
On my first day wearing the Aleck x Smith collab, the winds were whipping, the temps were cold, and some snow was falling sideways. It was a great first day testing the helmet and headphones. Thankfully, the helmet fit nicely over my thin balaclava before I dialed in the BOA for a perfect fit around my odd-shaped head. The Nexus helmet runs true-to-size, so I’m glad I went with a size medium for a snug, secure, yet still very comfortable fit. I cued up my music and instantly noticed how easy it was to press the buttons on the headphones to pause or change a song, even through the ear pads with bulky gloves on. In addition to the ease of use, the sound quality was outstanding, especially considering the howling winds. Day one of skiing with Aleck x Smith reminded me why so many people like to shred with music. I felt “in my zone,” skiing freely while still easily pausing or increasing or lowering the volume for chairlift chats (Backpack speaker-blasters, take note!).
What I Love About This Aleck x Smith Collaboration
Now, after a couple of weeks of using this combo every time I ski, the only time my headphones come out of my helmet is for a quick charge. And that’s only been once after the initial charge, in more than 10 days of skiing. Another pleasant surprise involving the battery was its ability to operate flawlessly during some colder days. The temps have been between 15-25ºF depending on elevation, and I never experienced any issues with the headphones. Although Aleck Nunchucks are compatible with a wide variety of helmets from many different brands, the Smith Nexus sets itself apart from the rest thanks to its thoughtful, lightweight, sleek design and KOROYD and MIPS for added safety. I have once again turned into someone who not only listens to music while skiing but thoroughly enjoys the ease and excitement of the experience, thanks to Aleck x Smith.
