Looking for a new ski or snowboard helmet and thinking about going for a POC ski helmet? But are they any good in terms of safety, style, fit,…? We picked out a freeride backcountry ski and snowboard model in the POC range and tested the POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ for an entire winter season.
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Author bio
“Hi! I’m Manou and I am a former competitive and sponsored freestyle & freeride skier. I’m a ski instructor as well and I practice my passion for skiing for more than 30 years now.“
About POC ski helmets
POC is a Swedish company that designs and manufactures ski helmets and other protective gear for winter sports enthusiasts. POC ski helmets are known for their high quality, innovative design, and superior protection features.
Dedicated focus
Since 2005 they are in business to develop protective gear for skiërs/snowboarders, cyclists and mountain bikers. That dedicated focus and extensive scientific research over the years has made them the leading manufacturer in protective gear today.
Concerning research and development (R&D) of new products POC established two scientific forum: POC Lab and WATTS LAB. These “labs” brings together some of the finest minds in research, medicine and safety.
POC’s mission statement: “With a mission to ‘Protect lives and reduce the consequences of accidents for athletes and anyone inspired to be one’ POC has a crystal clear vision to provide optimized personal protection and safety through developing products of unquestionable quality and relevance.”
POC sports
Advanced materials in POC ski helmets
One of the key features of POC ski helmets is their construction. They are made with advanced materials, such as carbon fiber and aramid, which are both lightweight and incredibly strong. This allows the helmets to provide excellent protection without adding unnecessary weight or bulk.
Another important aspect of POC ski helmets is their ventilation system. These helmets are designed with multiple vents that allow for maximum airflow. It keeps the skier or snowboarder cool and comfortable on the slopes. This is especially important for skiers who are out on the mountain for long periods of time.
In addition to their construction and ventilation, POC ski helmets also offer a variety of other features that enhance their overall quality and performance. For example, some models feature a built-in audio system.
Exceeding safety standards
POC also places a strong emphasis on safety in the design of their helmets. All POC ski helmets are rigorously tested to ensure that they meet or exceed safety standards set by organizations such as ASTM, CE, and CPSC. This ensures that skiers can trust that their POC helmet will provide the protection they need in the event of a fall or impact.
POC Fornix Mips POW JJ REVIEW
All that sounded very promising so it was time to put one of these POC helmets to the test. We spend most of our time in freeriding in the backcountry. So we were looking for a model that fits our needs, both in style and features.
We found just that in the POC Fornix Mips POW JJ and ordered one via one of the online retailers.
About the POC Fornix series
The POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ ski helmet is a top-of-the-line option for skiers who want the best in both style and safety. Its sleek, modern design and advanced safety features set it apart from other helmets on the market.
You can currently choose between 3 editions: POC Fornix, POC Fornix MIPS and POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ. Read about the differences below.
Style of the POC Fornix MIPS
In terms of style, the POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ ski helmet boasts a unique look. Its clean, streamlined design is both stylish and functional.
What we very much liked about this helmet is that they don’t look bulky on your head when wearing them. A lot of other helmets on the market unfortunately do.
The POC Fornix MIPS model comes in a variety of colors, making it easy to find one that suits your personal taste.
However, the POW JJ edition comes only in one color: Bismuth Green Matt
The POW JJ edition
The POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ edition is a collaboration between POC and the world famous freeride legend Jeremy Jones. You now probably get were the “JJ” comes from right 😉 ?
10% of sales from this edition goes to Protect Our Winters. This is an organization that helps passionate outdoor people protect the places and lifestyles they love from climate change. So now you also get the “POW” part.
Differences between the POC Fornix MIPS and POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ?
Apart from the POW logo on the helmet and the “bismuth green matt” color, there is no technical difference compared to the “normal” POC fornix MIPS. Basically, these are the same helmets with the same features.
Fit
The POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ ski helmet fits comfortably and securely on a wide range of head sizes. An adjustable retention system allows you to customize the fit to your head shape, while the lightweight construction won’t weigh you down while you’re out on the slopes.
It is also possible to remove the ear pads and part of the cushioning (retention system is not removable). That way you can wear a beanie underneath them. However, we must mention that the fit is better when you wear the POC Fornix with it’s standard setup (ear pads attached). Probably, the protection is also better when wearing the helmet with ear pads.
Sizing
The POC Fornix MIPS helmets come in XS-S (51cm-54cm), M-L (55cm-58cm) and XL-XXL (59cm-62cm). This sizing is true to your head circumference.
Weight
Although it is not the lightest ski helmet on the market, with a weight of 17,02 ounces or 484 grams you’ll easily forget that you are wearing the POC Fornix.
Comfort
Comfort is also a key feature of this helmet. It features an adjustable ventilation system that allows you to control the airflow to your head, keeping you cool and comfortable on the slopes even on the warmest days. Additionally, the helmet has a soft, padded liner that provides a comfortable and snug fit.
Goggle chimneys
The goggle chimneys at the front of the helmet are a nice feature that enhance comfort on the mountain as well. During our time testing the helmet we did not deal with the foggy goggle lenses.
The chimneys in the helmet make sure that condensation and air flow can exit your goggle through the helmet.
Air vent system
Some days you feel hot, some days you feel cold. With the air vent system you can easily open or close the vents on the helmet. It also proved useful when ski touring our boot packing short distances.
Safety
Safety is the most important feature of any ski helmet and the POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ ski helmet excels in this area. Equipped with a MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) liner that reduces rotational forces on the brain in the event of an impact, this helmet offers added protection for your head in case of any accidents.
What is MIPS?
MIPS stands for “Multi directional Impact Protection System”. Linear or straight-on impacts can lead to skull fractures and bleeding. However, studies show rotational impacts can lead to concussion and serious traumatic brain injuries. MIPS protects your head against these rotational impacts. More info about MIPS how it works is described here.
Aramid reinforced liner
These helmets protect your head against penetration of sharp objects. Thinks of tree branches or rocks for instance. The Aramid panels in the helmet add structural strength so that it enhances protection for these specific dangers.
Quality
In terms of quality, the POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ ski helmet is built to last.
Well that is not entirely true of course. Because this helmet consists of an EPS liner it means that it is for single impact use only.
You had a big crash and landed hard on your head? Check your helmet and inspect if there are no cracks in the EPS liner or outer shell. If you took a big hit it’s probably wise to change helmets.
Don’t be confused. The above has nothing to do with the quality of the helmet. The EPS liner is supposed to break instead of your skull ;).
Further, the POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ has the premium feel you would expect from a ski helmet in this price range.
POC Fornix Mips: yay or nay?
Overall, POC ski helmets are known for their high quality, innovative design, and superior protection features. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out on the slopes, a POC ski helmet is an excellent choice for keeping yourself safe and comfortable on the mountain.
The POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ ski helmet offers advanced safety features and a sleek, modern design. The MIPS liner reduces rotational forces on the brain in the event of an impact while the durable and lightweight construction provides a comfortable and secure fit. The adjustable ventilation system allows for easy control of airflow, keeping the head cool and comfortable on the slopes.
Overall, the POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ ski helmet is a great choice for skiers and snowboarders who want the best in safety, style, fit, comfort, and quality. Its advanced safety features, sleek design, and comfortable fit make it a top choice for keeping you safe and comfortable on the slopes.
