The New Featherweight POC Ventral Lite Helmet: First Look

The new POC Ventral Lite is the brand’s lightest helmet to date, ideal for those who prioritize weight and ventilation above all else. It sheds all extra grams through an EPS liner and lightweight in-mold PC shell, and everything from the adjustment system to the straps has been redesigned to save weight. Even with all these weight savings, the Ventral Lite still provides adequate coverage, is extremely well ventilated, and meets EN 1078, CPSC 12.03, AS/NZ 2063 certifications. The helmet comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large, and weighs 180g, 190, and 210g, respectively—that’s nearly 100 grams lighter than the Ventral Air helmet, but offers significantly larger vents for better ventilation.

The sample helmet POC sent over to us was unfortunately too small for me, so I enlisted my friend Justin (from TAWS Bike Garage in Powell River) to give it a whirl. Although the Ventral Lite is definitely better suited for warm temperatures and long days, a sudden snowstorm had us testing it under different conditions. Find photos from the ride and Justin’s first impressions below.

“We introduced ourselves to the cycling world in 2014 with the Octal. Our objective then was to bring our safety mission and performance together in a lightweight helmet. After a lot of research and testing the Octal made its debut in the pro peloton and quickly established itself. Starting again from our safety mission, we wanted to take the ideas and concepts from the Octal even further. Riders who are focused on climbing or ride in hotter conditions are extremely conscious about weight, ventilation and comfort, which is where the Ventral Lite, our lightest ever helmet will excel.”—Oscar Huss, Head of Product, POC

Justin: POC’s new Ventral Lite is my second helmet from the Ventral series. It shares a similar fit and styling to the rest of POC’s helmets but isn’t equipped with all the features of their other helmets. This is all to save as much weight as possible, but still make a safe helmet with plenty of adjustability.

I really loved the fit of my old Ventral Spin helmet, and the Ventral Lite is no different. It sits low on the head, like a mountain bike helmet. The retention system is very comfortable and didn’t hit any pressure points once it was snugged down. The straps are adjustable around the ears, but they are a bit difficult to adjust. However, once they’re in place, they lay perfectly flat and the fittings don’t slide.

My first ride in this helmet was a snow day, so it’s difficult to discuss the ventilation this helmet offers. Compared to the Ventral Spin, the Lite has tons of vents. So, it should offer more airflow than the already impressive Spin model.

• Weight: 180g (small), 190g (medium), 210g (large)
• Actual Weight: 195g (medium)
• Place of Manufacture: China
• Price: $275 USD
• Manufacturer’s Details: POCSports.com

Although we aren’t sure the Ventral Lite is the right choice as an everyday gravel or road helmet, its minimal weight and ventilation are appealing for long, hot days on the bike. Justin and I will be sure to report back after we get some more mileage under our belts this summer. The POC Ventral Lite has a MSRP of $275 USD and is available online through POCSports.com and selected retailers.

Please keep the conversation civil, constructive, and inclusive, or your comment will be removed.