Sweet Protection Arbitrator MIPS Review: Full Face Confidence, Half Shell Flexibility
Timberline Bike Park, Mt. Hood. The first thing I did before dropping in wasn’t fuss with suspension or check tire pressure. It was swapping out a couple of the fit pads inside the Sweet Protection Arbitrator MIPS helmet. I wanted it snug, no wiggle, no distractions. By the time I pointed my front tire down the trail on my first run, I knew I had something different strapped to my head.
I’ve spent decades riding in half shells. They’re comfortable, light, and fine for most days. But rolling into a typical lift-assisted bike park with only a half shell always left a sliver of hesitation in the back of my mind. The Arbitrator flipped that switch. This is a true two-in-one helmet, giving you the confidence of a full face when you want it and the ease of a half shell when you don’t.
Fit and comfort
The Arbitrator isn’t just a half shell with a bolt-on chin bar. Sweet Protection clearly built this with serious riding in mind. After swapping out the pads, the fit locked in with no pressure points, and it stayed that way through a day of lift laps. I never got that heavy helmet fatigue that creeps in after hours of riding. Ventilation surprised me too. I never felt like I was overheating, even when standing in line under the sun.
Confidence where it matters
The biggest difference was psychological. In a half shell, I’ve always been a little more cautious, especially when the trail pointed straight down. In the Arbitrator, I rode more aggressively and with less second-guessing. Knowing that the MIPS system and downhill-certified shell had me covered let me focus on the ride, not the risk. For those who spend hours digging and then want to throw on pads for a few laps after trail work, that confidence is worth a lot.
Versatility in real life
Here’s where the helmet really earns its keep: versatility. I’ve ridden plenty at the local city bike park in Portland with the chin bar removed. Without it, the Arbitrator feels like a sturdy half shell. Light enough for pedaling, but still overbuilt compared to your average trail helmet.
For trail builders moving between trail work and riding, there’s an appreciation of not having to haul two helmets. Pop the chin bar on for bike park laps, take it off for a casual spin or even while moving tools around on the trail.
Built to last
Trail builders and riders alike know the abuse gear takes. Helmets get tossed in trucks, stuffed in gear bags, dropped on rocks at trailheads. The Arbitrator doesn’t feel fragile.
The shell has a solid, durable build that inspires confidence it’ll hold up to daily use. It’s not the cheapest helmet out there (MSRP sits at $349.95), but you’re essentially getting two helmets in one. Given how much we invest in bikes, tools, and gear, the value makes sense if it means long-term durability and safety.
For trail builders who ride
For many, trail work days turn into ride days, whether planned or not. You spend the morning cutting in a new line, and by the afternoon, someone’s asking, “Want to test it?” That’s where the Arbitrator shines. It’s practical for the in-between lives we lead: part digger, part rider. You don’t need to overthink what helmet to bring. This one just works.
Verdict
I wouldn’t call the Arbitrator perfect, but it’s close. No helmet is perfect. It’s also about preference.
The cheek pads can feel a little snug until you break them in, and carrying the chin bar when it’s not in use takes some creativity. But those are minor trade-offs compared to the peace of mind and flexibility it offers.
For me, this helmet isn’t just gear. It’s insurance that I’ll get up and ride another day, even if I take a spill. It’s durable, versatile, and confidence-inspiring. For those splitting your time between building trails and riding them, the Arbitrator makes a lot of sense. One helmet. Two purposes. No excuses.
Quick Specs
Weight: 980 g (M/L)
Certifications: CE EN1078, ASTM1952 DH, CPSC 1203
MSRP: $349.95
Features: Convertible full-face to half-shell design, MIPS protection system, adjustable fit pads
Sean Benesh
Sean is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Trail Builder Mag. He is also the Communications Director for the Northwest Trail Alliance in Portland, Oregon. Sean also owns and roasts coffee for Loam Coffee.
