POC Cytal Helmet Review
A Standout In The Premium Category
The POC Cytal is a race oriented road helmet that blends high performance with incredible protection . It carries a 5-star rating from the independent Virginia Tech helmet program, and POC notes it currently ranks first among road helmets in those tests and third overall across all categories. At $350 dollars this helmet is right up there with the most expensive helmets you'll find, but hey, it's just your brain you're protecting.
On the head, the Cytal feels purpose built for speed and long days. It might just be the most comfortable helmet we have tested. We've used helmets from all the big brands like Lazer, Smith, and Giro. The POC Cytal just fits perfectly snug. POC shapes the shell around an integrated wing that guides air above and below the helmet to boost both aerodynamics and cooling. Deep internal channels push air through the liner so you get consistent ventilation at low and high speeds, not just when you are barreling down a descent. It really does work.
Coverage and safety details are thoughtful. The upper portion of the dual-density EPS is denser, and zones around the forehead are thicker to help limit deformation so the rotational protection system can do its job. Fit is handled by a lightweight 360 degree adjustment system and fully adjustable strap dividers under the ears. POC includes an additional for the top of the helmet so you can really fine tune the fit. The dial system works well and at this point is a mainstay across all premium helmets.
Unique features of POC Cytal
Mips Air Node rotational protectionRather than using a traditional floating liner, the Mips Air Node system is seamlessly laminated directly to the helmet’s comfort padding, creating a sleek, low-friction layer that moves subtly to reduce rotational forces during angled impacts. This integration eliminates excess material and weight, maintaining the Cytal’s compact profile and ventilation. The result is a helmet that offers advanced rotational protection without compromising its lightweight feel, aerodynamic efficiency, or the snug, performance fit that riders expect from a premium helmet.
Integrated wing
A structural wing is molded into the shell to steady airflow over and through the helmet. The result is an aero profile that also enhances ventilation, making the Cytal an everyday aero choice. For long days of bikepacking these types of improvements can really add up.
Large airflow channels
The POC Cytal features some of the deepest airflow channels we have seen. In fact, they're one of the most visually striking elements of this helmet. The Cytal is instantly recognizable thanks these channels. They make a huge difference on hot days and slow climbs.
Dual-density EPS and PC shell
The Cytal’s dual density EPS liner uses a denser upper layer to absorb high-energy impacts and a lighter lower section to manage lower-speed forces, striking an ideal balance between protection and overall weight. This type of construction allows the helmet to stay light and responsive while maintaining serious crash performance. Surrounding it all, a tough polycarbonate outer shell adds structural stability, helping the Cytal better distribute impact forces and resist everyday wear from transport or rough use.
Eye garage
This might be our favorite feature of the POC Cytal. High friction pads at the front securely hold your sunglasses in place. When combined with the POC Elicit shades it works incredibly well. We tested this mountain biking through Utah's backcountry and can confirm this is no gimmick.
Who is POC?
POC is a Swedish brand known for bringing lab driven safety to performance cycling and snow sports with clean, functional design. Their helmet line often tests well in independent programs, and the Cytal continues that focus with a top tier Virginia Tech result paired to a race ready feature set. POC has long been an equipment provider to EF Pro Cycling and you'll recognize the legend Lachlan Morton rocking their kit.
The takeaway
If your priorities are race ready protection, everyday aero efficiency, and real ventilation on both climbs and flats, the POC Cytal hits the mark. The 350 USD price is justified by the best in class independent rating, integrated aero features, and a refined fit system that disappears on the road.
POC Cytal Helmet
The POC Cytal Helmet is the most comfortable helmet to have ever graced our brain bucket.
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