POC Fornix MIPS Snowboard Helmet Review 2024
Last Updated on 27 February 2024
It’s coming to that time of the year again where, if you haven’t already, it’s time to start thinking about what snowboard helmet you want for the season ahead.
One option is the POC Fornix MIPS. Claiming to be a great all-mountain helmet that delivers enhanced protection, style, and comfort while exploring the mountains, this helmet is one to consider.
With so many to choose from, it can often feel like a minefield as to which one is the best choice to keep your head protected and maintain warmth, all-day comfort, and good ventilation. Let’s delve further into the POC and see if we can answer the question: is the POC Fornix MIPS the right choice for your winter activities?
Best Features of the POC Fornix MIPS
When it comes to picking the right snowboard helmet, knowing what the best features are is a great step to determining what helmet is right for you.
When you’re skiing or snowboarding, you want to spend more time enjoying your snow sport rather than worrying about whether you’re helmet is up to the task of protecting you when you need it the most.
Read more: Snowboard Helmet: 9 of the Best For Men, Women & Kids in 2023
Read more: 11 of the Best Ski Jackets to Hit the Slopes of 2023-2024
Here, I list the best features of the POC Fornix MIPS and how they might sway your decision.
MIPS Protection
Thanks to the introduction of the MIPS system, the POC Fornix MIPS brings enhanced rotational impact protection, giving you the confidence to enjoy the slopes wherever you are. I don’t know about you, but this feature alone is a great sway factor and is one that many people, I’m sure, will feature highly on their list of things to consider when looking at snowboard helmets.
Better Fit
The POC Fornix MIPS has an updated internal shape that delivers a comfortable fit for all-day enjoyment on the mountain. I love the toggle adjustment at the back of my POC helmet, giving me the best fit when I’m ready to go. The last thing I want when I’m coming down the mountain is for my helmet to move about, and thanks to the toggle wheel that’s not a problem.
Great Ventilation
If you’re going to be wearing a helmet all day, you want one that’s not only comfortable to wear, but one that will give you added ventilation when you need it the most. This is what you get with the POC helmet.
With this helmet, there is a little lever that you can open and close on the top. This is great when you’re on the move and want some ventilation if you’re getting warm. Similarly, if the weather is awful and you want to keep that warmth in, you can easily close the vents off. And you can do this without taking your helmet off when you’re on the move.
Lightweight
The last thing you want when you’re wearing a helmet is for it to be too heavy. I found my POC Fornix MIPS was light enough while remaining a sturdy piece of kit for snowboarding. Not once since I’ve had my POC have I ever felt uncomfortable wearing it. It’s like fitting a glove on your head delivering a snug fit.
No Fogging Issues
I don’t know about you, but with some of my previous snowboarding helmets, I’ve had issues with my goggles fogging up. The Fornix has chimney vents under the front of the helmet, which is great at letting heat escape without fogging the goggles up.
Thanks to these vents, you have one less thing to worry about when you’re snowboarding or skiing, meaning more time enjoying the mountain.
POC Fornix MIPS Price
This can be an expensive helmet, but you certainly get what you pay for. It’s available from several retailers, but expect to pay around £165.
Product Pros
Product Cons
What is POC?
POC is a Swedish brand that was founded in 2004. Known for its helmets, eyewear, and clothing, POC is a well-known name that delivers products aimed at solving a problem while protecting the lives of the people who use them.
POC’s mission is to “protect lives and reduce the consequences of accidents for athletes and anyone inspired to be one.”
With such a bold mission statement, the POC brand may be one to think about for your next outdoor adventure.
My Experience
I’ve had my POC Fornix MIPS for around eight years. We, roughly, get away for a snowboarding holiday two or three times a year and my POC is what I always use. Whatever I’m coming down on the mountain, I’m confident knowing that I have something on my head that’ll do the job of protecting me.
I also love the smooth, no-frills design of it. It’s not a helmet that stands out, but when you’re looking for a helmet to wear, you’re only concerned by what it can deliver and not by how it looks. The ear pads on the sides of the helmet are a great addition for added warmth.
Read more: The Best Skiing Holidays for Beginners in 2023
Read more: 10 Best Skiing Resorts in Austria: Discover the Alpine Paradise
What attracted me the most to the POC was the MIPS system, its comfortable fit, and the ease of opening the vents at the top of the helmet. Wherever I am in the mountains, I know this is a helmet I can rely on. You want to feel you have the best protection when doing something you enjoy and I think the POC Fornix MIPS delivers that.
Should I Buy the POC Fornix MIPS Helmet?
Yes, if you’re after a helmet from a reputable brand that knows what it’s doing.
When it comes to snowboarding or skiing this season, you want a helmet that’ll keep you protected, but one that will keep you warm and provide maximum comfort throughout the day.
That’s what you’ll get with the POC Fornix MIPS helmet.
