POC Amidal Helmet
https://poc.com/en-us/product/amidal-cpsc-uranium-black-matt
Price: $270
Sizes: S (51-55cm), M (55-59cm), and L (59-62cm)
# of Vents: 14
Safety/Protection Technology: Mips Air Node
11 Matte Colors: Black, Fluorescent Orange, Apatite Navy, Hydrogen White, Hydrogen White/Uranium Black, Indicolite Blue/Carnelian Orange, Olivine Green/Thulite Pink, Pargasite Green, Prismane Red, Uranim Black, Uranium Black/Hydrogen White
Weight: 340g(Size S); 350g (Size M); 380g (Size L)
Light Integration: Knog Mini rechargeable light (sold separately for $45)
How obtained: Company sample
Available: Online, retail
RBR advertiser: No
Aero, Lightweight, and Excellent Ventilation
In conjunction with Sea Otter Classic, POC unveiled its new road and gravel helmet, the Amidal. I’ve been testing it on a variety of road and gravel rides, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 85 degrees F and distances up to 65 miles. My impression of this new helmet is that it fits really well, is aerodynamic, and provides outstanding airflow. It is also more streamlined than previous POC helmets I’ve reviewed.
The 360-degree fit system distributes retention evenly around my head. I wear a size small helmet, and sometimes I’m unable to secure a solid fit. The Amidal uses a single rear dial for a perfect custom fit without pressure points. Out of the box, no strap adjustments were necessary, but the straps are fully adjustable if needed. At only 340 grams for a size small, the polycarbonate outer shell with an EPS liner maintains structural rigidity while keeping weight in check.
Magnus Gustafsson, Hard Goods Director, POC, said, “Our objective in creating the Amidal was to develop a helmet from all our extensive safety, ventilation, and aerodynamic expertise and encapsulate it in a new form. The Amidal has many standout features, notably its streamlined silhouette, refined rear exhaust ports, and bespoke rear Knog light. But what also sets the Amidal apart is the comfort and balance which will support and energize long and short rides alike.”
POC validates aerodynamic and cooling performance through computational fluid dynamics testing across a range of speeds. The large front vents capture air and channel it through the helmet via linear internal channels. This unique design keeps air flowing over the rider’s head at all speeds.
Two safety features are available with the Amidal helmet: Mips Air Node and a Knog Mini light. The Mips system protects the brain from rotational forces. During an oblique impact, the helmet moves independently of the rider’s head.
Knog Mini Rechargeable Light
https://poc.com/en-us/product/knog-x-poc-helmet-light-fluorescent-orange
An optional rechargeable, waterproof light that attaches to the rear of the helmet was specially made by Knog for the Amidal. Weighing a mere 17 grams, the Mini offers four light modes (high steady, low steady, high flash, ECO flash). To complement your helmet, the case is available in three colors (white, black, and fluorescent orange).
Having a light mounted on the back of a helmet increases visibility to drivers, especially in low-light conditions. It is a $45 option that sounds good in theory, but I had some issues with the design. First, the light must be removed from the helmet to be recharged. The Mini uses an integrated USB-A connector, so it must be plugged into a USB port to be charged. With a silicone strap closure, even though it is medical grade, it will eventually break from constantly removing the light to charge it.
Another issue I had was with the runtime: 2 hours on High and 26 on ECO. I was using it on High Flash (30 lumens), and it would die before the end of the ride. For a commuter who rides a short distance, the runtime will not be an issue. Plus, once at work, it can be plugged in to recharge.
Bottom Line
The Amidal helmet fits securely and comfortably, keeps your head cool at any speed, and provides protection via the Mips Air node. At $270, with multiple colors to choose from, POC’s Amidal with the optional Knog Mini light will keep you protected in style.
POC Elicit + Sunglasses
https://poc.com/en-us/product/elicit-purple-quartz-translucent-clarity-road-sunny-silver
Price: $210-$300 (depending on model)
Weight: 22g
Frame Colors: 10
Lens Options: Various Clarity Lens Technology
Lens Style: Shield/wraparound
Lens Treatments: Ri-Pel™ and anti-scratch protection
Frame Style: Frameless
Frame Material: Bio-Grilamid
Interchangeable Nosepiece: Yes
Fit: Medium and large faces
Style Tested: Hydrogen White frame with Clarity Trail and Clear lenses
Stylish, Ultra-lightweight Sunglasses
POC’s new Elicit+ sunglasses are extremely lightweight, weighing only 22 grams. Combine that with a frameless design and a large shield lens for an unobstructed view of the road or trail ahead. The Zeiss lens provided a sharp, clear view, whether I was riding on a gravel or a paved road.
The snap-in hinges allow the temples to detach from the lens in the event of a crash. This reduces damage, and the temples snap back into place.
I received the Hydrogen White frames with the Clarity Trail lens, which is designed for partly sunny days. A clear lens was also included in the case, ideal for low-light conditions, evening rides, or to protect your eyes from wind and debris. Being frameless, the curved single lens has beveled or chamfered edges for safety and reduced weight. Lastly, the lens provides UVA and UVB protection.
For added protection against dirt, sweat, oil, and dust, both lenses are treated with RI-PEL™. In addition, an anti-scratch coating is applied to protect the lens from damage.
What’s in the Box
The Elicit+ sunglasses come in a hardshell zipper case, an extra nosepiece, and a microfiber bag that doubles as a cleaning cloth. The Elicit comes with all the same items but only one lens.
Bottom Line
The Elicit and Elicit + pair perfectly with the Amidal helmet. However, they are an excellent pair of sunglasses, better suited to someone with a medium-to-large face. As you can see from the photos above, they overwhelm my narrow face.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
Haven’t seen the VT Tech safety review yet.