Xiaomi Smart4u is a helmet for cyclists different from the usual ones because it incorporates a rear LED light, which is why it rightfully enters the category of tech devices and for which we decided to deepen the discussion with a contact.
As did
At first glance it looks like a very common helmet for cyclists. In fact, the shape and the materials that make it up do not differ much from that of its “analog” brothers, with 12 holes that ensure excellent ventilation of the head.
It combines polycarbonate for the external shell with sintered expanded polystyrene for the internal padding, guaranteeing extreme lightness (weighs around 370 grams) on one side and at the same time also high impact resistance and consequent good impact absorption in the event of a fall.
The model tested is a size L, for heads with a circumference between 57 and 61 centimeters but is also available in size M, more suitable for women or heads with circumferences less than 57 centimeters.
Through a washer on the back it is possible to adjust the grip of the helmet, thus making sure that it fits perfectly. Just rotate it to adapt it to the shape of your head. The rotation proceeds in small clicks with a really excellent locking, so much so that it is impossible to widen it by trying to pull the inner band of the helmet with force.
Obviously, adjusting this component is not enough to ensure the right protection: the helmet must in fact be fastened by means of the two side straps, in light brown color, by means of a plastic clip under the chin.
Each strap can be loosened or tightened more by adjusting the length of the cable with the two side clips, while the comfort under the chin is guaranteed by a padded velcro strap that protects the cable and can also cover the opening-closing carabiner of the system. safety.
The peculiarity, as we said, lies in the presence of a built-in light on the rear area and equipped with 7 LEDs placed in a row. The flashlight has its own well-designed recess and turns on with the simple press of a button, next to which we find – well protected by a silicone cap – the connector for charging the internal battery.
This is the only discordant note, as it uses a proprietary system that makes use of a special magnetic plug, certainly more practical to use but almost impossible to replace if the cable is damaged.
1 of 14 
How does it work
To turn on the flashlight, simply press the On / Off button for a long time. After about 3-5 seconds the LED light turns on: at that point it will be possible to quickly press the button to switch from one flashing mode to the other, thus selecting the lighting style you prefer (there is a saving mode energy that blinks only one central LED and, one that consumes more energy but guarantees greater visibility, that makes the whole strip of LEDs blink in an almost strobe mode).
How are you doing
The helmet fits quite well, does not weigh and does not bother. It protects the head well and, thanks to its thickness, a mini-front visor is created that also protects from the sun. Battery autonomy (455 mAh) is excellent: 36 hours with the least expensive mode in terms of consumption and exceeds 8 hours with the mode that activates the largest number of LEDs, thus being able to accompany night cyclists for an entire training session in the afternoon and which could continue until late in the evening. It is then fully recharged in about 3 hours even using a common power bank.
Conclusions
Xiaomi Smart4u represents a valid alternative to traditional helmets especially if the intention is to go out by bike at dusk or in the darkest hours. The advantage in fact lies solely in the presence of the rear LED light, which increases – and greatly – the visibility of the cyclist on the road. It does not replace the classic fluo yellow vest with reflective bands but is rather an excellent accessory to accompany your setup.
Too bad there is no front torch or a small flashing white LED, certainly also useful for signaling one's presence even to cars arriving from the front.
Pro
Cons
Retail price
Xiaomi Smart4u is on sale on GearBest at a price of about 38 euros .
