POC Cytal Helmet Review

The launch of the new POC Cytal helmet is the brand’s answer to those wanting a lightweight, ventilated helmet that retains aero capability and high-level safety features. With a five-star score from independent helmet tester Virginia Tech, the evidence of POC’s commitment to safety is in the proverbial pudding. We have had a POC Cytal on test for the last month and have put it to the test on a range of trail, gravel and even road rides.

Key Details of POC Cytal

• Product: POC Cytal Helmet
• Price (RRP): $500 AUD
• Weight: 263g (Small)
• Sizes: S (50–56cm), M (54–59cm), L (56–61cm)
• Colours: Navy, Orange, Grey, White, Green, Red
• Safety Tech:
  • MIPS rotational impact protection
  • Multi-density EPS foam for targeted crash zones
  • 5-star Virginia Tech safety rating
• Design Features:
  • Aerodynamic profile with integrated rear wing
  • Eye garage for sunglasses storage
  • Ample ventilation for warm conditions
• Fit:
  • 360° dial fit adjustment
  • Slightly small sizing—try before you buy if between sizes
• Best For: Gravel grinding, XC racing, long trail or mixed-surface rides
• More info: poc.com/en-au

The POC Cytal: Hidden Tech

Despite its humble appearance, the Cytal is packed with tech including MIPS, aerodynamic styling, increased ventilation, an integrated wing and an eye garage (aka sunglasses holder). While dedicated cross country riders may gain marginal benefits from a more aerodynamic helmet, aerodynamic gains are really the realm of road and gravel riders. With the availability of marginal-gains technology in an offering that also features a high level of ventilation and safety technology, I would expect to see more cross country riders donning aero-optimised helmets in the future. 

The shape of the Cytal is slightly angular, departing from the rounded mushroom-like fit of earlier POC helmets (no shade, I loved them), which increases aerodynamic efficiency. In essence, the Cytal is the everyday helmet that touts the best of both worlds – ventilation and aero gains – for the rider who tackles a range of conditions. 

In terms of safety features, the Cytal features multiple foam densities in key areas to assist with impact force mitigation in the case of a crash. The shell of the helmet itself features a higher-density top section, with thicker zones across the forehead to ensure minimal deformation if impacted, also assisting the MIPS rotational technology to be most effective – neat! For areas of the helmet less likely to be impacted, POC have used lower-density EPS foam to keep the weight down low.

On the bike

First thing’s first, sizing on the Cytal runs a little small. With a 55cm head I am always in the realm of small-sized helmets and this is true for the Cytal, however it has a much smaller range of adjustment than usual. For those considering the Cytal, it would be worth trying on sizes if you are normally between sizes. That being said, there is a wide size overlap between sizes with the small helmet ranging from 50–56cm and the medium from 54–59cm.

A 360 degree dial easily hones optimal fit and unlike other helmets using MIPS, there is no hair snagging from the internal lining of the helmet. Aesthetically, it’s still a reasonably large helmet on the head. 

The eye garage is a great addition, allowing the quick and easy storage of glasses on the front of the helmet. It’s easy to stash with one hand for eyewear swaps on the go.

In terms of aero gains, well…it’s hard to measure on the trail. What I did notice when commuting to the trail on the road or on open gravel rides was that the helmet was affected with crosswinds more than I have experienced from other cross country, gravel and road helmets. I put this down to the helmet ‘catching’ wind, much like a deep wheel will be pushed by a crosswind. 

Overall this wasn’t a deal breaker at all, simply something to be aware of if riding in windy conditions. The ventilation offered from the Cytal was great, making it a go-to helmet for hot and humid rides. 

Our Take

At $500, the POC Cytal is a premium product that’s targeted to those looking for an ultra-safe helmet with loads of features on board. For those who enjoy elbow-to-elbow racing at a cross country event, long gravel adventures, and maybe even a little bit of road action on the side, the POC Cytal is a feature-packed helmet to consider if you’re chasing marginal gains.

Tested with POC Elicit Sunglasses in Hydrogen White.