In a world of endless tacky and lackluster ski helmets, one company has a taken a tasteful approach to perfect the art of head protection. As I walked the aisles of Outdoor Retailer earlier this year, I kept noticing a common theme: An abundance of ski helmets that screamed with their vibrant colors and over the top exterior designs.

The ones that could stomach the mirror test, were ultimately so minimalistic that they lacked virtually any functionality; not to mention, they made me question their true level of safety. After a while, I started to wonder how it could be so difficult to design a decent looking and functional helmet? Then I stopped at Team Wendy’s booth and spotted their M-216 Ski Search and Rescue Helmet. Wow I thought, the perfect ski helmet does exist!

To my disbelief, there was one company out there who decided to create an ultra-clean, eye-catching, tactical ski helmet that was loaded with numerous safety and operational features. I just had to own one. But before I tell you why I think this is the greatest ski helmet of all time, I’d like to first tell you a little more about Team Wendy and why they do what they do, the best.

Team Wendy History:

You might be wondering where the company name “Team Wendy” comes from. The story begins in 97’ with the daughter of the chairman who skied into a crevasse at Mammoth Mountain. Unfortunately, at the time, ski helmets were only worn by a relatively few number of people.

The accident had caused a traumatic brain injury and ultimately lead to the passing of Wendy 90 days later. To remember Wendy, far beyond what a monument or similar could ever do, Team Wendy was created.

Team Wendy Saves Lives:

With a goal to offer the best protection available on the market, while also uncovering the causes and preventative measures of TBI, Team Wendy produced their first ski helmet ever. While it featured proprietary multi-impact foam technology (Zorbium Foam) for protection, it was relatively heavy and didn’t pass the mirror test all too well.