TL;DR: POC is a staple in the helmet and protective equipment game and offers a number of quality helmets to suit your fancy, and this article will guide you on your POC helmet purchasing journey.

When buying a POC helmet, consider your individual use, your head size, the amount of money you're willing to spend, and if there are any special features you may want. This article will overview Curated's offerings of POC helmets and explain some of the different helmet models and key features.

I'm a relatively early adopter among professional snowboarders, so at least start wearing and advocating for the use of helmets. I'm no stranger to going fast and taking chances, and I decided back in 2011 that whatever style points may be deducted by wearing a helmet is far outweighed by the added protection and security a helmet provides me with. It did take a little getting used to wearing a helmet, but today, I'd feel utterly naked without it.

Who is POC?

POC is a Swedish protective equipment brand founded in 2004 with the mission to "protect lives and reduce the consequences of accidents for athletes and anyone inspired to be one." POC has a rich heritage in the ski racing industry, and its first helmets were designed for competitive ski racers. Over the years, POC has adapted its product development and technical innovations to serve recreational skiers and snowboarders adequately. POC offers an array of high-performance gear, including both snow & mtb helmets, full-body protective gear, gloves, goggles, sunglasses, and apparel.

What to Consider When Buying a POC Helmet

1. What's the helmet for?

POC offers a range of helmets specifically for snowsports. Put some thought into what your main use is, what your skiing/riding style is, and what level of protection you're after. If you run hot or spend a lot of time on the up track, finding a lightweight and well-ventilated helmet may be your priority. Adversely, if you ride casually and are only on a slope a handful of days a year, a more baseline helmet model should suffice.

2. What's your head size and shape?

A properly fitting helmet is crucial in maximizing both safety and comfort. To determine the correct size, it is recommended that you measure the circumference of your head. POC helmets are available in various sizes, so make sure you're getting a properly fitting helmet for the most enjoyable experience in the mountains.

3. What features are important to you?

Think about the features you want in a helmet. Do you seek the added climate control of adjustable ventilation, or is a more simplified model with fixed vents more ideal for you? POC has helmets that are audio-compatible if music and communication features are important to you and helmets with extra protection from impacts if you're riding more critical terrain or are a bit of a wild card out there on the slopes. Read this article geared specifically toward helping you choose a ski or snowboard helmet.

4. How much should a POC helmet cost?

The cost varies a bit depending on which specific model and what features it offers. POC is a high-end protective equipment company; their helmets are of the utmost quality and do come at a premium. POC's entry-level helmets start at around $150, yet they can be found on sale through Curated at around the $100 mark after a discount. Their top-tier helmets are designed for racing and competitive athletes and can cost around $500.

Different Types of POC Helmets

Below, you will find some of the most recommended POC helmets that we offer here at Curated, as well as what some of Our Top Winter Sports Experts have to say about them.

POC Obex Pure : Best for Bigger Protection on a Lower Budget

Experience pure joy with the Obex Pure, a ski helmet where nothing but protection stands in focus. The Obex Pure is one of the lightest ski and snowboard helmets in its class, yet it is adaptable enough to be ideal for a wide variety of riding conditions.

Benefits:

• EPS Liner: Optimal lightweight protection.
• PC Shell: The strong, durable PC shell gives a strong bond with the helmet liner for exceptional structural stability.
• 360° Fit System: A 360° adjustment system that give you the utmost control of a comfortable and custom fit.
• Natural Ventilation: Ventilation channels ensure optimized airflow through the helmet for increased comfort and temperature control.
• Communication Headset Compatible: Compatible with the POC Aid Communication Headset.

Keep in Mind: Lacks adjustable ventilation and the added protection of MIPS technology.

POC Obex MIPS: Best for Added Protection and Climate Control

The POC OBEX MIPS® Helmet offers all-day comfort and protection to all-mountain skiers and snowboarders. This helmet provides adaptable protection for a variety of skiing and snowboarding styles and is lightweight and well-ventilated.

Benefits:

• MIPS Evolve: The classic Mips Evolve Brain Protection System is proven to reduce the severity of head injuries.
• EPS Liner: Optimal lightweight protection.
• Dual Material Shell: An outer PC shell featuring a top section of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) gives the ultimate balance of strength and durability in a lightweight package.
• 360° Fit System: A 360° adjustment system makes it easy to find a comfortable, secure fit.
• Adjustable Ventilation: Control airflow through the helmet, giving comfort across a broader range of temperatures.
• Communication Headset Compatible: An audio compatible helmet that allows you to simply insert a POC Aid Communication Headset for music and communication features at your fingertips.

Keep in Mind: Helmets may save your life, yet they won’t make you indestructible.

POC Fornix MIPS POW JJ Helmet: Best for Those Who Run Hot

The POC Fornix MIPS® POW JJ Helmet offers a lightweight option with great protection, and even better ventilation, to backcountry skiers and snowboarders. This helmet is designed and endorsed by legendary backcountry snowboarder Jeremy Jones.

Benefits:

• MIPS Evolve: The classic Mips Evolve Brain Protection System enhances rotational impact protection.
• EPS Liner: A lightweight, comfortable helmet liner that helps boost protection from impacts.
• PC Shell: A shell made of polycarbonate that is lightweight and extremely durable.
• 360° Fit System: Allows you to dial in your personal helmet fit with a simple twist of a dial.
• Adjustable Ventilation: Helps control airflow through the helmet, keeping you warmer on cooler days and cooler on warmer days.
• Aramid Bridges: Improved structural strength of the helmet, enhanced penetration protection, providing superior impact absorption.

Keep in Mind: This model is currently in high demand and selling out quickly.

POC Obex MIPS Communication Helmet - Best for High Performance Comfort and Clear Communication

Featuring an integrated POC Aid Communication Headset, the Obex MIPS Communication makes it easy to stay connected on the mountain. Lightweight and well ventilated, the helmet is ideal for all-day, all-mountain use for all.

Benefits:

• POC AID Communication Headset: Enjoy high quality sound and music whilst waiting in line or sitting on a lift, with the ability to support communication on the piste or off.
• MIPS: Peace of mind with added protection of brain cells.
• 360° Fit System: Find your perfect fit with an adjustable and customizable fit system.
• Adjustable Ventilation: Helps you stay cool when the action is heating up.
• Dual Material Shell: An outer PC shell featuring a top section of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), gives the ultimate balance of strength and durability in a lightweight package.
• EPS Liner: Adds crash protection without adding much unnecessary weight.

Keep in Mind: This helmet has the highest price tag on this list.

POC POCito Skull Helmet - Best for The Next Generation of Rippers

The POC POCito Skull Helmet for kids is the ultimate protective gear for your little ones. With a full Aramid Penetration Barrier, this helmet provides maximum protection from sharp objects. The adjustable sizing feature ensures that the helmet grows with your child, making it a long-term investment.

Benefits:

• Aramid Penetration Barrier: A feature that adds another layer of protection from impact.
• Adjustable Sizing: Allows for a wide range of adjustments so that the helmet can grow as your child's head inevitably will.
• Goggle Clip with Contact Information: Encourage independent exploration, confident that if your precious cargo ever goes missing in transit, there is a return to sender label attached.
• LED Lamp & Accessory Pack: Provides better visibility in the dark and includes POCito bib in fluorescent orange with reflectors to be worn over the jacket.
• LD Foam Lining: Super comfortable helmet liner that is removable for easy cleaning.

Keep in Mind: This helmet is not intended for full grown adults.

Features to Look for When Buying a POC Helmet

POC offers several different tech or features in their helmet line. Some are unique to just POC's helmets, while some are commonly found industry-wide.

1. 360 Fit System: Gives you the option for a custom, comfortable and secure fit no matter the thickness of your layering choice under your helmet.
2. MIPS® Evolve System: MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is an additional layer within the helmet designed to reduce rotational forces that can result from certain impacts. It's a valuable feature if you're frequently in situations with a risk of angled impacts.
3. Adjustable Ventilation: Climate control with an easy flip of a switch. Puts the ability to regulate temperature in your hands.
4. POC AID Communication Headset: Helmets with this feature come with an integrated audio kit. The low-profile speaker is built into the ear pads and connects with your mobile device for demand tunes and talk capabilities at your fingertips.
5. Aramid Bridges: Swedish engineering builds you a bridge between your head and outside hazards that won’t easily collapse under high loads or hard impacts.

The ideal helmet choice for you is going to be uniquely yours, and you may want to consider what features matter most to you. Whether you prioritize advanced safety elements, added comfort, ventilation, or audio integration, there's going to be a POC helmet that is well-suited for your personal needs and on-snow affairs.

How to Choose the Right POC Helmet for You

Don’t let the plethora of POC helmet choices discourage you. We’ve covered some different helmet models from POC and the power is in your hands when it comes to protecting your head. Below, I’ve described three riders that represent three different “rider personas” when it comes to snow helmet shopping. I’ve detailed what they may look for based on their individual riding styles and needs.

John

John is an advanced rider who spends more time on the ascent than the descent and prefers to “earn his turns” over the convenience of riding a chairlift or gondola. John is known to ride some pretty hairy lines when the conditions align.

Features John should look for:

• Adjustable Ventilation
• Lightweight Protection
• MIPS

Helmet Examples: The POC Fornix MIPS® POW JJ, POC OBEX MIPS®

Juan

Juan is an intermediate skier who never misses a powder day or an important business call, for that matter. He demands clear communication with his clients even when miles away from his desk.

Features Juan should look for:

• POC AID Communication Headset
• Audio Compatibility

Helmet Example: POC Obex MIPS Communication Helmet, POC Obex MIPS, POC Obex Pure

Shawn

Shawn is quite the young shredder who is growing quickly, both physically and as a rider. He may lack the experience and situational awareness of his parents, but it is clear he has a fiercely adventurous spirit.

Features Shawn should look for:

• Adjustable Sizing
• Bright, Highly Visible Colors
• RECCO® Reflector or LED Light

Helmet Examples: POCito Skull Helmet, POCito Obex MIPS

Find the Best POC Helmet for You

Now that we've covered a few of POC's helmets, I hope you are able to experience the newfound bliss of snow helmet perfection. I aim to help you eliminate any headaches during the shopping process and lessen any headaches after an on-snow wipeout. Personally, I am a strong advocate of helmet use, and you are always welcome to contact me directly for my personal insights or any Curated Expert for any additional guidance.