ABOUT THE SWEET PROTECTION BUSHWHACKER 2Vi MIPS HELMET
For their latest edition of the Bushwhacker helmet, Sweet Protection returned to the drawing board, focusing on safety, technology, and aesthetics. Sweet Protection uses its 2Vi® technology in its highest-end helmets, including this Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS. 2Vi is the integration of three separate safety technologies into one helmet. First is their four-piece shell construction, which utilizes different layers of polycarbonate to strike a balance between elasticity and rigidity.
Secondly, Sweet Protection incorporates four impact shields into the corners of the EPS foam used in the Bushwhacker 2Vi. And lastly, they utilize the MIPS Air system to protect against rotational forces sustained during glancing side impacts, while maintaining a light and well-ventilated design.
The Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS exceeds EU, US, and UK bike standards, as well as the NTA 8776 (e-bike) standard. It has a 5-star rating from Virginia Tech, landing in the top 20 of helmets they have tested (#16 on their list at the time of writing).
Sweet Protection utilizes an integrated 360 Occigrip fit system, with a dial adjuster located at the rear of the helmet to fine-tune the fit. STACC ventilation keeps things cool, with two of the front vents doubling as glasses storage. The visor also has multiple positions, with the fully up position allowing for goggle storage for your old-school enduro rippers. A Y-strap divider keeps straps off the ears, and a Fidlock magnetic buckle secures the helmet at the chin.
The latest version gives the Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS a modern look, offering five colorways and three sizes, ranging from 53cm to 61cm. The Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS weighs 430 grams (M/L) and retails for $250.
THE DIRT
Sweet Protection was a company I knew from my time as a whitewater rafting guide (they make kayak helmets), and seeing its high safety ratings, I had been wanting to give the Bushwhacker a try for a while. While the Virginia Tech helmet safety ratings aren’t the end-all be-all of helmet protection, it is good to know the Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS received such high marks.
I also liked that the Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS exceeded the EU, ES, UK, and e-bike standards. At The Loam Wolf, we ride a lot of e-bikes, so it’s nice having half-shells that are tested to higher standards. Despite the e-bike rating that often makes helmets a bit bulkier, the Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS had a slimmer profile (comparatively) and an overall clean look and aesthetic.
Safety and high ratings don’t mean much if the helmet doesn’t fit well. Any Virginia Tech trophy will likely be negated if the helmet doesn’t fit your head right. This wasn’t the case for me with the Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS. It sat and adjusted to my head well, remaining secure without feeling too tight. The Y-straps kept the straps off my ears, and a Fidlock buckle is what I expect from a helmet in this price range.
While it wasn’t the most breathable helmet I’ve tested, I didn’t find the Bushwhacker too hot, especially for an eMTB-rated helmet. Additionally, the ventilation that doubles as a sunglasses holder was undoubtedly the easiest I’ve used. This was the only helmet where I’ve been able to store and remove my sunglasses one-handed, without needing to stop and adjust.
To be quite honest, it was difficult to find things I disagreed with regarding the Sweet Protection Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS helmet. Yes, it is a bit pricey, but not when compared to other top-tier trail helmets from different brands. However, those other brands may offer a larger size range. While most mountain bikers will have no issues with the 53cm to 61cm size range, those on either end of the spectrum may be looking at different brands.
The Wolf’s Last Word
If your head isn’t too small or too large, the Bushwhacker 2Vi MIPS helmet, or any Sweet Protection helmet for that matter, should be on your list. I’ve had the opportunity to try several different helmets over the years, and the Bushwhacker 2vi MIPS has risen to the very top. 
Price: $250.00
Website: Sweetprotection.com
SHARE THIS REVIEW
ABOUT THE WOLF
The local boy — Travis was born and raised in Bend, OR. Skateboarding consumed his life until his high school years (yes, he can still kickflip), but was replaced by mountain biking…then rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and finally back to mountain biking. After a stint in the big city, Travis returned home, trading a teaching career to be an okay mountain biker and above-average journalist. He is an outspoken 90s grunge fan, cornering poor souls in conversations about the meaning behind the lyrics of Alice In Chains’ “Would.” Most days, Travis hopes to be outside, whether that is on an early morning ride or a hike with his family (the best days include both).
Rank: Contributing Writer
Size: 5’8” / 172cm | 195lbs / 88kg
Social: @travis_reill_writes
SUPPORT AND JOIN THE LOAM WOLF PACK
Did you find this review helpful? Would you like the chance to review (and keep) products? Are you interested in saving big bucks by getting exclusive Members Only discounts from industry brands all while helping support a small, rider-owned media crew? We have big plans for our members beyond big discounts and product giveaways! To learn more and help support small, independent media, visit our Member’s Page.