POC Kortal Race MIPS Review - Tested by our Team

Written by Braithan Bailey, Cycleways team member

The POC Kortal Race MIPS is a premium mountain biking helmet, designed to maximise rider safety. I'll discuss what goes into each POC Kortal helmet, from specs and sizing to on-trail performance and more.

What Is the POC Kortal Race MIPS?

First of all, the POC Kortal Race is a helmet I've had for over four years. It's POC's helmet for a lot of riders. Whatever it is one may want out of their helmet, the POC Kortal MIPS will provide it.

POC makes helmets across road, MTB and snow. Within their MTB range, the POC Kortal Race is the protection-focused enduro helmet. If you're smashing 1,000 metres of vert as well as a few grade 5 and 6 trails in the same ride, this is your helmet. It incorporates a number of technologies in its construction, including MIPS an industry-leading concussion-prevention technology, as well as RECCO, a reflector technology that helps search and rescue operators locate you if something goes wrong. 

Coverage is a huge part of the POC Kortal Race MIPS. The helmet extends to every point of your head, from the temple to the very back of you head, to truly maximise protection.

It is also a premium helmet that comes at a premium cost. But what that cost gets you is a meticulously designed and developed helmet that will provide you with peace of mind anywhere you ride. 

View the POC Kortal Race MIPS.

POC Kortal Race MIPS - Full Spec Breakdown 

Shell	One-piece polycarbonate shell bonded to liner
Liner	Lightweight EPS (expanded polystyrene)
Protection technology	RECCO, MIPS, Aramid Reinforced Bridges
Weight	~390g (S/M), ~470g (L/XL)
Fit system	Adjustable Dial
Goggle/glasses compatibility	Yes
Certifications	Meets CE EN 1078, US CPSC 1203, AS/NZS 2063
E-bike specific certifications	Meets Dutch NTA 8776 - Tests impacts at E-bike speeds
Sizing	XS/S 51-54cm, M/L 55-58cm, XL/XXL 59-62cm
Price (at time of publishing)	$489.95 RRP

On the Trail — Fit, Ventilation, and Comfort

Even with all the focus on creating a technologically advanced and safe helmet, POC have still managed to create, in my opinion, one of the most comfortable helmets on the market, even over 5 years since its release. I have quite a big, round head, and unlike a lot of helmets, the Kortal Race MIPS comes right down on my head, rather than sitting higher up. It feels like it's cradling my head in the safest way possible. Like I said, I've had the helmet for over four years, and it's the only helmet I wear whether I'm commuting or mountain biking. 

One thing to be aware of, though, is the few times I have worn glasses while riding (I don't normally) I have noticed the helmet does push slightly down on the top of the glasses. This is presumably due to the coverage of the helmet; it extends down onto the forehead a bit more than other helmets. 

The adjustable visor is a huge plus. If it's pouring with rain or the sun is particularly harsh while I'm riding, I'll simply bring the visor forward a couple notches to deal with it. When it's not needed I push it to its furthest back position. 

All in all, I could - and do - wear this helmet for hours upon hours on end, day after day, and it wouldn't get uncomfortable. That being said, every head is different. Before you commit, it'd be a good idea to visit us in store in Christchurch at 1 Garlands Road, Woolston to try one on, or get in touch with one of our team members, no matter where you are in Aotearoa.

Verdict - Is the POC Kortal Race MIPS Worth It?

If you want a safe, comfortable helmet that you can rely on, then yes. The POC Kortal Race MIPS is genuinely my favourite helmet I've ever had. If you strip away all of the specs, technology, etc. - something about it just works for me. And chances are, it'll work for you too.

Shop the POC Kortal Race MIPS.

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Still weighing it up? Get in touch with us and we'll help you land on the perfect lid.