After playing a big role in the rise of MIPS, POC announced at Crankworx that they would be moving away from the protection system in favor of something new. Calling it SPIN or Shearing Pads INside, the technology relies on special pads with silicone injected into the pad itself. The pads can then shear in any direction, reducing the effect of rotational impacts much like the MIPS system.
Made out of the same foam as their other pads (with the addition of the silicone material in side), the pads are just as absorbant and even more comfortable. POC points out that they are not retrofittable to older helmets, so you’ll have to pony up for a new Tectal, Octal, Octal X, or Coron Air Spin model to gain the new protection.
Also shown at Crankworx, the new Coron Air gets a huge makeover, losing about 450g in the process for a ~950g full face lid. The helmet also gains new vents, and EPP multi-impact construction – all while reducing the price by $125 to $275.
Also in the helmet line, one of POC’s previous safety concepts is now actually shipping. The production helmet simply has integrated LED lights in the rear for safety which are can be set to steady or flashing.
However, there was a prototype Corpora Aid helmet that included an internal ‘black box’ with an accelerometer to light up the rear LEDS as brake lights as well as an integrated Flic sensor that will activate if it senses an approaching vehicle.
There’s also the POC Aid app which is a free program that turns your smartphone into its own lighting system. The app can turn your phone into a brake light based on the accelerometer, or it can act as turn signals if you have a programmed route. The app is meant to be used with POC jackets that have waterproof pockets with clear view panels to store your phone while you use the app.
In a small addition to their protection line, POC now offers VPD Air pads in a full sleeve for arm and knee protection.
On the eyewear side, POC was showing their first bike specific goggle called the Ora. Available in three versions starting at $75, there will be a version without foam, with full foam, and a new Clarity version which is their new lens technology. Initially launching on the snow side, Clarity will have Road, Urban, and MTB versions for all performance eyewear and is supposed to offer the perfect color spectrum for the intended environment for better vision.
Moving forward, POC is streamlining their clothing collections with three levels for both road and MTB. At the top, you’ll find Race Day which is the lightest, fastest, and most aerodynamic fits and fabrics. From there you’ll find the AVIP line which is all about Attention, Visibility, Interaction, and Protection – basically the safest clothing possible. Finally, the Essential line which is the more affordable collection.
POC was also showing a few new pieces in the MTB range with a new XC Lite bib that’s practically see through – which is fine since it’s meant as a liner bib. Their new DH bib was on display was well with improved zipper, bigger openings at the legs to fit over knee pads and shoes, and an improved fit. The full line should be available by March.
