POC Obex Mips Review

The POC Obex Mips was simply a joy to wear for our testing team. Unlike so much of the competition, this option offers a much more modest profile, which we appreciated whether wearing it or carrying it around in our backpacks. Our testing process included weeks of real-world testing to ensure our results were as accurate as possible.

Performance Comparison

Impact Test

We gave this crucial metric 25% of the total score of the POC Obex Mips. We sent each and every helmet to the world-renowned ACT Lab to perform a standardized series of impact tests, objectively formulating a bottom-line score from 1-10. This option came in at about average.

At the ACT lab, a “slow impact” test and a “fast impact test” were carried out on the Obex, and from there, a final 1-10 score was determined. Continue reading to learn how this option's final score of 6.2 was determined.

Slow Impact Test Results

With a sensor inside, we dropped the Obex 1 meter onto a flat anvil to determine the “slow impact” score. This option didn't do as well, with a score of 5.3.

Fast Impact Test Results

To determine the “fast impact” score, we dropped the Obex 2.3 meters onto a flat anvil, using the opposite side of the helmet used for the slow impact test. Interestingly, this option performed better in this scenario with a score of 7.1, greatly aiding its overall performance in the impact test metric.

Comfort

We gave this metric 25% of the total score of the Obex Mips, since most skiers and riders will be wearing a helmet for hours at a time. We tested this metric by logging weeks of ski missions in each helmet, keeping detailed notes along the way regarding comfort. While comfort is fairly subjective, we had multiple people wear each helmet to formulate a consensus. The Obex came in at the front of the pack.

The Obex Mips was a comfortable helmet for multiple testers, striking a great balance of being form-fitting but not too tight. The headspace itself was friendly for various people, but what really stood out were the ear flaps, which cozily cupped the ears. We absolutely loved this design, though it may not work for everyone due to the tighter fit.

Warmth

We gave this metric 20% of the total score of the Obex Mips, since most skiers and riders will be wearing their helmets during the chillier months of the year. We tested this metric by simply wearing each model throughout the winter season, from bluebird outings to moody storm days. Just like the comfort metric, we gathered multiple opinions to form a consensus. This option came in towards the top of the review's line-up.

The Obex Mips offers decent protection from the cold, with relatively minimal venting and an easy-to-operate vent closure system when the temperatures plummet. The closer fit of the Obex may make it challenging to fit an under-helmet hat or buff, depending on how this model fits you, which will make this a much chillier helmet. The aforementioned ear flaps also added some warmth, though they weren't the most insulating in the lineup.

Ventilation

We gave ventilation 15% of the total score of the Obex Mips, to help you size up each option's ability to keep you cool during warm days or high-output skiing/riding. In addition to our robust field testing, we deliberately skinned uphill wearing each helmet for a standardized cardio circuit. Each round of testing was carried out with similar ambient air temperatures and while wearing the same layers. This option scored about average in this metric.

The Obex Mips, despite having fewer vents than some of the competition, offers decent airflow initiated from the four front vents to the four rear vents. The 3 vents on top, which can be easily opened or closed, did aid in breathability, but their modest size kept them from really cooling things off. With less insulating ear flaps, we could keep from overheating, and on really warm days, we could take the ear flaps off entirely.

Usability

We gave this final metric 10% of the total score of the Obex Mips. We simply kept detailed notes on each helmet's ease-of-use throughout a full ski season, also examining each helmet's features and how useful/user-friendly these features were for a day of skiing or riding. This model came in above average.

The Obex Mips boasts a simple construction, with an intuitive vent closure system and a no-frills chin strap wrapped in fleece, as previously mentioned. Our primary complaint, which slightly decreased the overall score of the Obex in this metric, was its ear flaps. While these were very comfortable, they were sometimes prone to detaching from the helmet when putting it on. We concluded this detachment was due in part to the fact that the Obex is a more snug fit, and some might find this to be enough of a nuisance to move on to another model. Our testing team got used to the occasional unclicking of the ear flaps, easily re-attaching them with some practice, and still ended up loving this helmet.

The Obex Mips truly stands out in our review lineup due to its low profile, especially when considering so many ski helmets are bulky. This ultimately makes for a fantastic experience for the wearer, also only weighing 17.6 ounces. We are also big fans of the rear goggle strap, which was easy to use even with gloves on.

Should You Buy the POC Obex Mips?

This helmet is worthy of your consideration if you're tired of the large, clunky ski helmets that are more commonly found in this category of helmets. The Obex Mips also boasts excellent comfort and a snug, yet not too tight, fit. If you're seeking the absolute highest impact test scores or need something more spacious, we'd look elsewhere, but many shoppers will be very happy with the Obex.

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