POC Octal Helmet
- bestbikekit
- Apr 9, 2017
- 2 min read
You either hate it or love the look of POC's Octal range of helmets. They do two main versions, the Standard version (which i have here) or the MIPS version. Personally I like the styling and the range of colour options available and thats what lured me to purchase one. The one I have is in the Cannondale colour scheme, and in this colour scheme the EPS liner is white unlike most helmets where its black.

Colours
This standard version comes in 8 different colour's, these are as follows:

Hydrogen White, Bohrium Red, Fluorescent Pink, Granate Red, Cannon Green (the one I have), Navy Black, Garminum Blue, Unobtanium Yellow
Features
The helmet has 21 vents, ok you might say some other brand has more but these ones are massive. What POC say themselves is "This ventilation design allows more air to flow through the helmet, which also results in improved aerodynamic performance", now unless someone has a wind tunnel for me to use I will have to take them for there word.

Close up of the adjustment mechanism
I found the size adjustment mechanism easy to use and its lightweight in design. The helmet also features Coolbest padding which helps to further reduce the temperature at the contact points. There is an eye garage on the front of the helmet for holding your glasses in place, this consists of two rubberized pads. I have only tested it with my Oakley Jawbreakers but it held them firmly in place.
It has a high performance EPS liner, optimized in density. Fully wrapped unibody shell construction. The straps are mounded into the liner and have a good range of adjustment.
Comfort

CoolBest padding helps to further reduce overheating
I found the helmet comfortable to wear and it feels very light. There is no risk of your head overheating with those large vents or the Coolbest padding. I also found it easy to adjust with the small dial on the back which is even easy to use with gloves on. The only thing that was a different to other helmets I own or have seen is this one comes down quite low at the side's, but i suppose this is to provide better protection in the event of a crash but don't worry, it doesn't take long to get used to it.
Size's, Weight & Safety Standards
It comes in three sizes S, M & L
EN 1078
Small: 50-56 cm (185 g) Medium: 54-60 cm (195 g) Large: 56-62 cm (225 g)
CPSC 12.03
Small: 50-56 cm (230 g) Medium: 54-60 cm (250 g) Large: 56-62 cm (285 g)
Certified to
EN 1078, CPSC 12.03, AS/NZS2063-2008

Sizing sticker, CE mark & Region safety standard placed in between those huge rear vents
Conclusion
Overall I am well impressed with it, I like the styling and the features. I find it comfortable to wear and well vented. Its also easy to adjust on the move. The main drawback I have with it though it the price, while it is a premium helmet and packed full of features, it is expensive (check your local shop for current pricing)
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