The POC Ventral MIPS was released April 2022 after ceding to the MIPS marketing juggernaut.
I'll reiterate the purpose of these bike helmet reviews as I have done on past posts. My goal in this post is to provide information unavailable in other reviews, particularly around fit as so much of a cyclist's experience is impacted by the fit. Perceptions of overall comfort and helmet sizing will naturally vary. However, ventilation and wind noise will also vary based on the air gap between a cyclist's head and the helmet. If a cyclist fits in on the smaller side of the range in a helmet's circumference range, there is more room for air flow around the head, for example.
The safety and protection of a cyclist is also impacted, no pun intended. The industry emphasizes oblique impacts and angular accelerations during those impacts. And while it's difficult to quantify, it's straightforward to imagine how a looser fitting helmet allows the helmet to pivot on your head easier than a tightly coupled one. In fact MIPS depends on a tight fitting helmet to produce its results as the impact tests are done on a rubberized head form.
Aerodynamics is the final area impacted by fit. but often overlooked. If a cyclist is in-between sizes and has to upsize, than the larger frontal surface area creates more drag. Since drag is defined as the drag coefficient multiple by the frontal surface area, the additional effect is predictable and linear. In any circumstance other than a custom fit helmet, there is some additional drag associated with using an off the shelf, injection molded helmet as the helmet is larger than necessary.
What's new in this helmet?
The POC Ventral has existed in various shapes and forms since at least March 2018 as the original POC Ventral the successor of airy but polarizing Octal road. The POC Ventral was meant as an aero helmet though as far as I can tell, very few cyclists purchase it for that reason. It's not a brick in the wind, it just lacks the traditional shape of an aero helmet.
Following the POC Ventral was the POC Ventral Air and Spin. The latter had a gel like substance in the padding intended to allow the helmet to slip in an oblique impact mimicking MIPS. However it was also one of the few remaining major brands, and one that's marketed its investment in safety, defying the MIPS marketing machine (Kask is the other). That is till the POC Ventral MIPS replaced the Spin.
The POC Ventral MIPS is the first helmet from POC with the MIPS system. Otherwise it looks and feels the same as the POC Ventral Spin. Personally, I found the Spin pads really comfortable. The gel padding, while adding some weight, conformed to my head better than a traditional foam padding system.
How's the helmet on the bike?
I don't know if it's the most aerodynamic helmet and I've tested the Specialized Evade, Giro Air Attack and Giro Eclipse but it's surprisingly good given it's mushroom like shape. It's quiet on fast descents which is always a good sign.
The most notable feature of the helmet are the huge vents, and they work well. You can feel the air rushing past your head, particularly the sides.
How's the helmet fit and sizing?
The helmet has a slightly rounded, wider shape than most oval shaped helmets. It's not a round shape helmet by any means, but on my head, a medium rubs the back of my head and puts pressure on it in a way that other helmets made for the North American market don't. There's a lot more space on the sides and temple region of the helmet.
What do other reviewers say about this helmet?
The following reviews of the POC Ventral Air MIPS are from different publications that have tested the bike helmet. To give an unbiased review, I examine, collect, and present the top three Google results for « POC Ventral Air MIPS review” not including any evaluations in which the helmet wasn't actually used and instead served as a regurgitation of the product press release from the manufacturer. I don't differentiate between the mainstream and cycling media since anyone can ride a bike and give a decent review.
Outdoor Gear Lab ranked the POC Ventral Air MIPS, 4.4 out of 5 stars, and commented, «This uniquely designed helmet offers excellent airflow and performance that warrant its high cost.” According to their review, the helmet is exceptional from its unique design, sunglass storage, and many color options. However, it is one of the most expensive helmets and provides many of the same advantages and features as other helmets and may not be the style of everyone. It is light, durable, and ventilates well, best for cyclists looking to cool their heads on a hot day and those tired of neck strain on long rides.
A member of the Bicycle Network commented: "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." His review focuses on the design of the helmet with aesthetic design, a range of colors, lightweight, large ventilation holes, and an eye garage. Although he was drawn in by its looks, he mentioned a few disadvantages, including its high price and the fact that there is no adjustability for the ear straps, making it unsuitable for those with large ears.
A member of the RIDE Media tested the bike helmet and commented, “POC’s Ventral Air MIPS helmet is light!” He listed other benefits of the helmet including its bright hard-shell, excellent ventilation, and clever strapping configuration – “The strap is long” which offers many adjustment options. He mostly reviewed the layout and gave a few suggestions on wearing the helmet while cycling. His minor criticisms focused on the sizing, saying that there wasn't much of a difference in the overall sizing (between the small and medium sizes). Also, he claimed that on his first ride, he discovered that the two pronounced front parts of the helmet squeezed in on his forehead quite a bit, leaving an obvious mark and causing a degree of discomfort.” He provided advice on adjusting the helmet to prevent that discomfort from happening. So, even the finest helmet might not be the best if comfort and sizing are not considered.
Overall, the press has given positive feedback, with the biggest remarks on its high price, and, like any other helmet, its inability to be the ideal size for every head shape and size. There are varied comments about the helmet's size, adjustment, and comfort.
What are the helmet specifications?
Coming soon.
How's it feel after extended ride testing?
This is a placeholder for future helmet testing of this model.
Is the POC Ventral MIPS the best bike helmet for you?
As I always say, the best bike helmet is the one that fits you. The Best Bike Helmet Finder is a good place to start. Helmets are a very personal decision both for reasons of sizing and fit but also style and performance preferences. You aren't going to ride with it if it's uncomfortable.
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