Gear reviews | POC Fornix BC

First impression

The helmet is neatly packaged and comes with a microfiber transport or protective bag. When you pick it up, you immediately notice its low weight - the helmet is quite light. It can be adjusted to fit the head very well via an adjustment wheel at the back, has an easy-to-use attachment for the goggle strap and easy-to-activate ventilation.

The safety features of the Fornix BC are less visible, and these set it apart from "simpler" helmets. It is equipped with the latest version of MIPS technology, which is known to greatly reduce the effects of the rotational movement that often occurs during falls. It has been scientifically proven that MIPS can prevent or mitigate injuries, and the technology is now established for various sports. The Fornix BC is also reinforced with aramid, which increases protection against sharp objects by making the shell of the helmet harder to penetrate. Also worth mentioning is the RECCO® reflector, which can make it easier for organized rescue teams to locate you in an emergency. The Fornix BC is also equipped with the relatively new TwiceMe® NFC Medical ID. This allows personal medical information to be stored directly on the helmet, which can be read by rescue services.

Test report

The chip in the helmet is supplied with the relevant information within two to three minutes. The Twiceme app must be downloaded, a user account created and information such as age, contact etc. entered. The cell phone is then held to the top of the helmet. I don't think this feature is a must, but it certainly doesn't do any harm. After all, it allows emergency services to read the information quickly if you are unable to communicate clearly yourself.

After the initial adjustment of the Fornix BC, which works very well and quickly thanks to POC's 360° adjustment system, the helmet fits really well. The adjustment allows a very precise fit so that nothing wobbles or pinches. The goggles are easy to attach. I have tested the helmet with several goggles, all of which fit wonderfully and are a good fit with the helmet.

When skiing, the helmet is very comfortable to wear thanks to its good fit and low weight of half a kilo. Especially when touring, it hardly puts any strain on the ascent. I quickly forget that I'm wearing a helmet, but I have to admit that I'm very used to it. Basically, the helmet behaves inconspicuously, which I see as a positive.

I would like to mention that this helmet is not very warm compared to other models. All the helmets I have used so far have been quite warm, i.e. warmer than a proper hat. Even in really low temperatures, I never put anything under or over it. But in milder temperatures, especially in combination with a lot of exercise, I was naturally too warm. It's different with the Fornix BC. I don't get too warm even when it's above zero and I'm actively skiing, especially when I open the generous ventilation openings. However, at temperatures well below freezing, I either have to put on a balaclava or something similar under the helmet or pull the hood of the ski jacket over the helmet. Of course, this is not a problem, but actually an advantage, as you can easily add something to the helmet, but can hardly leave anything out.

Conclusion

This helmet is very light and comfortable. It's great for ski touring and the ski area. It's not exactly warm, but you can always put more on. I have not noticed any signs of wear, scratches or similar. Although the helmet has already been in use for a few days, it still looks like new, which is why I assume that I will be able to use it for a long time.

Advantages and disadvantages

+ Lightweight

+ Numerous useful safety features

More information

• RRP €250,-

• twICEme® NFC Medical ID

• RECCO®

• Mips®

• Adjustable ventilation

• Goggle ventilation channels

• Aramid bridges

• PC outer shell

• EPS inner shell

• 360° adjustment system

• Goggle clip

• Flexible ear pads

Click here to go to the manufacturer's website for more information.

The helmet was provided to PowderGuide by the manufacturer free of charge for testing. You can find out how we tested it in our test statement.