Introducing - POC Calyx: Elegant helmet for winter bikers, mountain and snow sports enthusiasts

Biking, skiing, climbing - these disciplines place very different demands on a helmet. While protection from falling rocks is the main focus in mountaineering, impact protection in the event of a fall onto hard ground is essential for biking. Accordingly, helmets are developed separately for each discipline. And they also have to pass different test standards. And this is exactly where the Calyx from Swedish manufacturer POC comes into play. It has been designed to pass the test procedures for all three types of helmet: Cycling, skiing and climbing or mountaineering. Versatile mountain sports enthusiasts will therefore find an ideal all-rounder here.

Bikers benefit from the Calyx's insulation in winter. This is because classic bike helmets are optimised for optimum ventilation for sweaty climbs in the heat. The Calyx is a winter helmet that can withstand sub-zero temperatures with optional ear pads. Without a helmet cap or headband.

The facts about the POC Calyx winter helmet

• Helmet for cycling, skiing and mountaineering (triple certified: EN 1078 and CPSC 1203, EN 12492, ASTM F2040-18)
• MIPS rotational impact protection (to test the MIPS system)
• Integrated Recco reflector (localisation by rescue services possible)
• Optional warming ear pads can be fitted (included!)
• Ventilation adjustable in three stages
• Foldable adjustment system for compact storage size
• Four colours
• Weight: 540 / 600 grams (with/without ear pads, measured in the BIKE lab, size M-L)
• Three sizes: XS/S, M/L, L/XXL
• Price: 250 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
• Lighter carbon version available, -100 grams according to manufacturer, 400 euros
• Neck warmer included in the scope of delivery

What distinguishes the POC Calyx winter helmet from a classic bike helmet?

The fact that the POC Calyx is not a classic bike helmet becomes immediately clear when you pick it up. Significantly fewer ventilation openings and a slightly higher weight. This helmet is not suitable as a year-round solution for cyclists. This is because the robust shell will almost certainly get too hot in high temperatures. Using the Calyx on a bike is only really worthwhile at temperatures just above zero degrees, as it reliably keeps your head and ears warm. It can also really come into its own when commuting by e-bike in winter. Practical: With this winter helmet, you can save yourself the extra step of wearing a helmet cap or headband. On classic bike tours, however, where the going gets tough on steep climbs, most bikers will quickly get too warm when the thermometer rises above freezing. However, the removable ears offer good customisation options for different areas of use and temperatures.

POC Calyx: workmanship and details

At 250 euros for the standard version, the price of the Calyx is steep. We know that from the Swedes. Fortunately, the Calyx, as with other POC helmets, has a particularly appealing build quality. The helmet is a real head flatterer, the edges and transitions are extremely cleanly designed. The Calyx could easily pass as a design object and would also look good as a decorative piece on a living room shelf. Although we have not yet tried the Calyx in continuous use, we know that other POC helmets are particularly durable. In our experience, the Swedes' helmets remain stylish and in top condition for a long time, both functionally and visually. Based on our first impressions, the Calyx seems to be no exception.

The fit of the POC Calyx is smaller

First things first: a helmet has to fit well, otherwise it can't protect you properly and will be annoying on tour. Trying it on is therefore a must. We ordered the Calyx in size M/L (55 - 58 cm). A size that the POC Kortal Race helmet (to the test of the POC Kortal Race Mips) fits perfectly on the head of our testers with a measured circumference of 58 cm. However, the Calyx felt quite a bit smaller. We would go for a larger size here. The helmet itself feels great to wear, and the classic ratchet system allows it to be adjusted to the size of your head. The workmanship is excellent and the soft materials offer a high level of comfort. This also applies to the comfortable ear pads.

With MIPS and Recco, the Calyx has two additional safety features on board. The MIPS rotation system is designed to protect the brain in the event of a fall. We were able to prove beyond doubt that this actually works on our in-house helmet test bench. The Recco reflector starts at a different point. Its main use is for localisation in the event of an avalanche burial. However, it can also help mountain rescue teams to locate missing or fallen mountain sports enthusiasts in summer.