In case you didn’t know, POC was one of the first companies to adopt the MIPS system. While some companies are still getting on board with that idea, POC has already moved on to a whole new concept. Their unique SPIN technology will be featured in the new Tectal Race, Octal X and Coron Air MTB helmets.
At a glance the SPIN helmets look like basic cycling lids. The surprising thing is that the benefits of the SPIN technology are all produced by the padding. Injected with silicone, the pads resist rotational forces by offering a specific degree of shear so your head will tilt or turn within the helmet during an impact.
POC says based on their own tests SPIN equipped helmets have shown better results than their equivalent MIPS versions, and they resist three different types of impacts. They must be pretty confident in the idea, as POC has decided not to produce MIPS helmets any longer…
The SPIN (Shearing Pads INside) equipped helmets are capable of resisting roll, yaw and pitch impacts. If you’re not familiar with those terms, roll is essentially when your head tilts to either side, yaw is when your head turns left or right, and pitch is when you go OTB and dive straight into the ground, pushing the helmet backwards.
Since the silicone pads shear in any direction, they’re able to minimize all kinds of impacts. While the magic is largely in the pads themselves, POC was careful to ensure their placement inside the shells will provide maximum protection as well.
As for the foam, POC prefers using EPP as opposed to EPS. EPP foam rebounds after an impact, so the helmets can better withstand multiple hits without sacrificing safety. Do note, any large impacts or shell damage will still render an EPP helmet useless, but you won’t have to consider tossing it after a few minor knocks.
Coron Air SPIN:
Despite the lack of a removable chin bar, the Coron Air SPIN was designed with both DH and enduro riding in mind. POC doesn’t feel that multi-piece helmets are as safe as a true full-face, so instead they lightened up their lid and greatly improved the ventilation.
At roughly 950g, the new Coron Air is a whopping 400g lighter than the outgoing Coron. To increase airflow the main vents were enlarged, new vents were added along the top of the eye port, and channels in the foam liner were dug out much deeper than before.
The Coron Air SPIN also features a breakaway visor and pull-out cheek pads for easy emergency removal. Last but not least, the Air SPIN version retails for much less than the previous Coron did at $275 USD. Sizes XS-XXL will be available in Black, White or Orange/Green.
Tectal Race SPIN:
Designed for enduro riding, the Tectal Race SPIN features POC’s aramid bridge construction, and a fully wrapped unibody shell. POC’s dial-adjusted retention system provides a snug fit.
The Tectal also features an elastic goggle clip on the back, and an adjustable visor. This model is even outfitted with a Recco reflector to help search and rescue teams find you if you get lost in the backcountry. The Tectal Race SPIN sells for $220, in sizes XS-XXL. Color choices are Black/White, White/Black or Black/Blue.
Octal X SPIN:
For XC or gravel riders, the Octal X SPIN is a lightweight lid that was derived from POC’s Octal Road helmet. The X SPIN version boasts a few extra safety features for off-road applications.
POC’s aramid weave lines the full-wrap unibody shell, which provides more coverage than the road version. They’ve also included a Recco reflector for additional out-of-bounds safety. The Octal X SPIN Retails for $250. Buyers will have a choice of Orange, Black, Blue or White colors in sizes XS-XXL.
POC brought their SPIN helmets to show off at Crankworx, but they’re not available quite yet- These new lids will officially be introduced at Eurobike this fall alongside POC’s full 2018 bike collection.
