Expert Review: POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ Helmet

Published on 04/03/2023 · 5 min readThis review is my honest opinion of the helmet, which I purchased with my own money in September of 2020.
By Snowboarding Expert Grant R.

All photos courtesy of Grant R.

About this Review: This review is my honest opinion of the helmet, which I purchased with my own money in September of 2020.

My take

The POC Fornix MIPS Pow JJ Helmet is a great fit for any rider who is looking for solid protection with a sleek look.

Adjustable fit system

About the helmet I own

  • Model: 2020 POC Fornix MIPS Pow JJ Helmet
  • Size: XL-XXL

About me

  • Height: 6’3”
  • Weight: 170lbs
  • Head circumference: 60.96cm
  • Goggles: Oakley Line Miner L
  • Experience: 12 years of snowboarding

Test conditions

  • When I bought this helmet: September 2020
  • Days tested: 100+
  • Where I’ve used it: Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
  • How I’ve used it: Big mountain, resort riding, backcountry

How it performs

Adjustability
4/5
Comfort
5/5
Durability
5/5
Protection
4/5
Ventilation
5/5
Waterproofing
5/5

What I was looking for

I was on the hunt for a new helmet because I wanted something really protective, preferably with MIPS, as I had taken a crash which forced me into buying another helmet. Some characteristics I was looking for were affordability, or value for the price, good ventilation, protection, durability, and comfort. I was seeking better protection in this new helmet, and with the MIPS system, I knew I was in for that.

Why I chose this gear

I chose this particular helmet because I could justify the price with the features it provided. Plus, it is comfortable, well-protected, and very adjustable. I considered getting the same helmet I had before (The Smith Maze MIPS), but I wanted a model with features such as better ventilation and better protection.

Inside of helmet/ear pads

What I love about it

  • Protection: Due to the MIPS system, I definitely feel well protected from varied impacts to the head when wearing this helmet. I have taken some decent crashes—some being what would otherwise be considered “season-ending” kind of crashes—but with this helmet, I was protected from that outcome.
  • Comfort: It is quite comfortable, which adds to its protective feel. Though I did notice there can be some odd pressure points on my temples.
  • Sizing: For me, this helmet fits pretty well, though it can feel a little bulky at first due to its protective padding.
  • Fit system: The fit system is super adjustable, as it includes a BOA dial in the back that controls the entire fit around the circumference of my head. Mine also came with some extra padding to slim down the size if needed.
  • Liner: The liner is high quality, soft, and comfortable.
  • Breathability: Breathability was one of this helmet’s big selling points for me. The helmet includes 10 vents: six that can be opened and closed simultaneously with a single slide mechanism on the top part of the back of the helmet; two in the front that can be opened and closed separately to one another; and two in the back that remain open. This makes for some awesome ventilation and versatility. There are also some more mesh-like vents on the ear pads.
  • Goggle compatibility: This helmet has a flat brim, allowing no gap between the goggles and the helmet. Further, an elastic “clip” keeps them secure on the helmet—which I find is a lot harder to break off.
  • Weight: This helmet is surprisingly lightweight for having a little more padding than normal. I wouldn’t say it is the lightest of helmets, but it doesn’t feel too heavy. POC claims the weight is 450 grams.
  • Durability: While it has held up very well, I will say the helmet’s finish can be a little easy to scuff. However, the overall construction of the helmet feels really solid and not cheap at all.
  • Quality of Materials: From the fabric in the liner to the plastics used and everything in between, this does not feel like a cheap helmet whatsoever. However, I felt that it took a little while to break it in, as some of the paddings—such as the earpads—felt stiff at first.
  • Style: A more traditional helmet style with no brim or any strange lines; it’s just a straightforward brain bucket.

Issues I’ve encountered

  • Earpads: These keep my ears nice and warm and have some soft padding around the outer portion, which allows for a better fit with headphones. However, they aren’t compatible with drop-in speakers. On the other hand, the ear pads can be removed without removing the liner.

Some wear and tear

Favorite moment with this gear

While I was climbing a ridgeline in Park City in order to ride the Murdocks Bowl, I noticed how much the opening and closing vents came in handy. This helmet was so comfortable and breathable. I didn’t even feel the need to take it off while I was hiking through the snow.

Value for the money vs. other options

For a slightly higher price, there are certainly other great helmet options out there. Though I found I could justify the POC Fornix’s price due to it being a high-quality helmet with a lot of cool bells and whistles. While my model is a 2020, the 2023 model offers more comfortability, as well as an even more adjustable fit. Another more basic helmet I would compare this to is the Giro Ledge FS MIPS. While the Giro has a lot less going on, it’s a great helmet for the price—especially for those who are just looking for something to protect their head.

Final verdict

This helmet is great for someone who is looking for a high-quality helmet with lots of cool, usable tech.

Grant R., Snowboarding Expert
5.0
Grant R.
Snowboarding Expert
With over a decade of experience in everything outdoors, along with countless adventures, I’ve had some great times along the way and have learned many valuable life lessons..Consider me your personal gear specialist, let’s get you Curated
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Written by:
Grant R., Snowboarding Expert
5.0
Grant R.
Snowboarding Expert
With over a decade of experience in everything outdoors, along with countless adventures, I’ve had some great times along the way and have learned many valuable life lessons..Consider me your personal gear specialist, let’s get you Curated

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