The POC Obex utilizes a dual-material hybrid shell that balances lightweight construction with long-term durability while offering a 360-degree fit adjustment system for precise head circumference and height cinching. CNET found the Harman Kardon speakers deliver impressive sound quality, and Michaelahlen noted reliable mesh intercom range up to 300 meters before dropouts occur. However, Bettertrail reported that the sticky adjustment dial makes it difficult to loosen the fit once tightened, a drawback that persists despite the helmet's advanced adjustability. The interior padding is firm, prioritizing protection over plush comfort found in resort-focused helmets, which may alienate users seeking high-end cushioning. This product fits backcountry skiers and performance-oriented riders who value structural integrity and audio integration, while those preferring soft luxury should look elsewhere.
Full review
Hybrid shell construction balances weight and protection
The POC Obex utilizes a dual-material hybrid shell that combines an in-mold design with high-quality polycarbonate to achieve a lightweight yet durable structure. Bettertrail found the helmet weighs 15.9 ounces, which is lighter than average for this type of construction. The exterior features a glossy finish that resists scratches, while a patch of ultra-tough ABS material at the top adds extra resilience against impacts.
This construction method allows the Obex to maintain a slim profile that sits snugly against the head without feeling bulky during downhill runs. Competitors like the Smith Level and Vantage weigh slightly more and have bulkier profiles, but they offer softer comfort. The Obex prioritizes structural integrity over plush cushioning, resulting in a helmet that feels dependable on gravity-fueled resort days while remaining easy to carry for backcountry skin tracks.
360-degree fit system cinches fully around the head
A standout feature of the Obex is its 360-degree fit adjustment system, which allows users to tighten the helmet completely around their head circumference rather than just at the back. This comprehensive coverage helps achieve a precise level of snugness that many standard helmets cannot match. The system also includes height adjustments to accommodate different head shapes and ensure stability during movement.
Despite the advanced adjustability, Bettertrail noted that the dial mechanism can feel sticky, making it difficult to loosen the fit once tightened. This mechanical friction requires effort when removing the helmet after a day on the slopes. Users who frequently need to adjust their gear or remove the helmet quickly may find this resistance annoying compared to smoother-dial competitors.
Minimalist padding prioritizes protection over plush comfort
The interior of the Obex features minimalist padding that wraps around the forehead and includes strips along the crown to isolate the head from the shell. Bettertrail rated comfort at 4 out of 5, noting that while it is not as soft as comfort-first helmets like the Smith Level MIPS, it provides sufficient cushioning for most users. The ear pads sit snugly against the head with large cutouts in the foam to minimize pressure on the ears.
Some wearers may experience mild pressure near the temples from the thick padding along the ear flaps, though this sensation tends to fade over time. The helmet prioritizes performance and protection over high-end plushness, which might alienate resort-goers who prefer a softer, more luxurious feel inside their gear. However, the firm construction ensures that the helmet maintains its shape and protective qualities over long-term use.
Ventilation design balances warmth with airflow control
The Obex features 11 vents in total, including three adjustable openings on top and four nonadjustable vents at the front and back. Bettertrail found that closing the three adjustable top vents provides moderate levels of warmth, making it suitable for temperatures in the upper teens to low 20s Fahrenheit. The thick ear pads help seal in heat effectively, blocking wind gusts without feeling drafty.
For warmer conditions or high-output activities, fully opening the top vents releases a healthy amount of hot air through long, thin openings controlled by glove-friendly sliders. The design includes a middle zone that opens the vents halfway for mild temperatures. Two frontmost nonadjustable vents work with openings under the brim to create a chimney-like airflow effect that helps prevent ski goggles from fogging.
Harman Kardon audio delivers impressive sound quality
CNET reported that the Obex Connect headset, developed in partnership with Harman Kardon, delivers impressive sound quality that surpasses typical ski helmet speakers. The system replaces the standard ear pads entirely, integrating Bluetooth speakers directly into the padding. This design ensures that the audio components do not add bulk or pressure to the ears, maintaining a comfortable fit even with the hardware installed.
The controls for music playback and calls are integrated into the ear pads themselves, featuring a large mute button on the right side that is easy to operate with thick gloves. Users can skip tracks by double-clicking the button, providing intuitive control without needing to remove gloves or access a phone. The audio quality is described as genuinely impressive, earning its premium badge through clear sound reproduction.
Mesh intercom enables hands-free group communication
The Obex Connect system includes mesh technology that allows users to create a private group network with up to eight people without requiring cell service. Michaelahlen found that the range is reliable up to 300 meters before experiencing dropouts, though obstacles like trees can impact connectivity. The software handles disconnections gracefully by announcing when the mesh disconnects and reconnects automatically when back in range.
Communication is initiated by tapping a button on the left ear pad, providing crystal clear audio for split-second calls while skiing or snowboarding. While wind noise can occur at high speeds, users can quickly mute their microphones to maintain privacy or reduce background interference. The system eliminates the need for frantic texting or shouting over walkie-talkies, allowing groups to stay coordinated effortlessly.
Removable ear pads increase versatility and audio integration
The Obex features removable ear pads that allow users to swap standard padding for the Connect headset or remove them entirely for maximum ventilation. 100company.co noted that installing the Connect headset was easy and intuitive, with the new pads feeling just as soft and well-cushioned as the originals. The design leaves ample space for ears, preventing pressure even for users who wear earrings.
This modularity makes the helmet suitable for various conditions and activities. Removing the ear pads can help prevent overheating during intense backcountry tours or warm spring days. For those who prefer audio features, the headset integrates seamlessly without altering the helmet's fit profile, offering a versatile solution that adapts to both social resort skiing and technical wildlife tracking.
Strengths
- +Dual-material hybrid shell balances lightweight construction with long-term durability.
- +360-degree fit adjustment system cinches fully around head circumference and by height.
- +Removable ear pads increase versatility for warmth control and audio integration.
- +Harman Kardon speakers deliver impressive sound quality compared to typical ski helmet audio.
Watch-outs
- −Sticky adjustment dial makes it difficult to loosen the fit once tightened.
- −Interior padding is firm, prioritizing protection over plush comfort found in resort-focused helmets.
How it compares
The POC Obex features Harman Kardon speakers for audio integration, a feature absent in the Odoland Ski Helmet which instead includes physical goggles. Its hybrid shell construction offers different durability characteristics compared to the ABS + EPS build of the Odoland model.
Rating sources
Counts as 4.21/5 in our score — this publisher's 36 scores on the site average 4.38, so its scores are adjusted down to compare fairly with other publishers.
Archived — this review is no longer available at the publisher. The score above is the one they published.
Our 4.2 score is the average of the 1 scored review above, each adjusted for how strictly its publisher scores; 4 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. More about methodology.
