Product reviews
Personally, I want to always keep my noggin safe… Especially when I’m weaving through the streets of Melbourne during morning and afternoon peak hour. You might ask yourself “should I get the lower priced helmets or the helmets at the top end of the range”. Essentially according to the Australian and New Zealand standards for bicycle standards, any accredited helmet (those which have been tested to the AS/NZS 2063:2020 testing standards) will protect you upon impact. You can read more about product safety standards in Australia here. There are however some key differences that determines a helmets price point, such as weight, aerodynamics, adjustment and ventilation (amongst many others).
Words by: Jarrad Clatworthy
I am reviewing the top end of the helmet market and am looking at the POC Ventral Air Mips (RRP $350 AUD), which promises some of the best ventilation (through specific airflow zones) across all riding speeds. Swedish brand POC is well known for their high-quality workmanship both across the cycling and skiing markets. My first introduction to this brand wasn’t via the bike, but instead on the ski slopes of Mt Hotham where I was intrigued by the bright colours of the POC branded ski helmets… My 9-year-old self was also convinced that I would be a better skier if I owned one myself. I am happy to finally get my hands on a POC helmet (of the cycling variety) – which is equally as popular in the cycling community with a strong reputation for innovation, high level of safety and bold design. The POC Ventral Air Mips is the helmet that keeps on giving. This model might not be as light as some competitors, but that doesn’t hold it back. The first thing that caught my eye were the top-notch finishes across the whole helmet. The POC Ventral Air Mips is sculpted to perfection with clean seamless lines throughout the whole body of the helmet. This is done with a seamless blend of the inner body to the outer body – giving it a clean and premium look. This feature isn’t only for aesthetic reasons though, but also increases the overall structural integrity of the helmet. The helmet is thoughtfully designed with large ventilation holes that allow for excellent air flow, both at high and low speeds (this was thoroughly tested during the ‘commuter cup’ on the Gardeners Creek trail… regulars on this trail will know all too well, about the speed discrepancies on an average commute). The simple dial adjustment dial on the back is sturdy and works well with easy adjustment on the go. It is however worth mentioning that there is no adjustment around the straps near your ears, which I found to be missing on majority of high-end helmets (if you have large ears – take note!). An extra feature of this helmet is the addition of an ‘eye garage’ which is essentially high-friction pads at the front of the helmet that allow you to store your sunglasses while riding (I haven’t lost my sunglasses yet…which is great!). The eye garage was tested with a competitor’s brand of sunglasses and still worked seamlessly. In summary, this helmet is at the top of the pile for a reason. With innovative technology making the helmet well ventilated and protected, as well as a great design making the helmet comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. I only received one negative comment about the helmet when someone on the local group ride called me a ‘block head’. Overall, this helmet is at the top of the list of my 2022 cycling additions. For purchase in Australia visit au.pocsports.com/
Does price make a difference?
POC Ventral Air Mips review
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