Every once in a while, a product comes along that doesn’t just refine performance—it reshapes it. That’s the idea behind POC’s latest road helmet, the Cytal. Designed from the ground up to meet the demands of modern racing, it’s a helmet that balances speed, safety, and ventilation in a way that feels effortless. But as always, the details tell the real story.

Aerodynamics,
Built In

You don’t need a wind tunnel to see the Cytal’s aerodynamic intent—it’s written in the lines of the shell itself. The integrated aero wing isn’t a bolt-on feature or a gimmick. It’s a structural part of the helmet, developed using CFD (computational fluid dynamics) and validated in testing with elite riders.

Its job is simple: control airflow, reduce drag, and maintain stability at speed. But what sets it apart is how well it works in tandem with the rest of the helmet. There’s no tradeoff between speed and comfort—just smooth airflow where it counts most.

Ventilation That Works With You

The challenge with most aero helmets? Ventilation. Go too aero, and you overheat. Open it up too much, and you lose efficiency. Cytal doesn’t force that choice.

POC’s engineers reworked the internal channeling to actively pull air through the helmet, using pressure differentials created by the aerodynamic wing. What that means on the road is better cooling—especially during long, hot climbs—without compromising your performance on the flats or descents.

It’s the kind of design detail you feel after three hours in the saddle, when your head stays cool, and your focus stays locked in.

Lightweight Protection, Refined

Protection has always been the heart of POC’s design philosophy, and the Cytal is no different. Under the sleek exterior is a dual-density EPS liner that absorbs impact forces while minimizing weight. The outer PC shell adds structural stability, with clean lines that help it cut through the air.

Like all of POC’s helmets, it follows their Whole Helmet Concept™—meaning every element, from the liner to the fit system, is designed to work together as one protective system.

Mips® Air Node: Integrated, Not Added

Cytal also features Mips® Air Node—the lightest, most breathable version of Mips yet. Unlike traditional Mips liners, which can add bulk and interrupt ventilation, Air Node is seamlessly embedded into the helmet’s interior padding.

It’s barely noticeable in your hand—or on your head—but it’s there when it matters most, helping reduce rotational forces in the event of an angled impact.

Dialed Fit, No Distractions

A fast helmet is useless if it doesn’t fit right. Cytal uses a 360° fit system with micro-adjustment to keep it secure without pressure points. The retention system integrates cleanly with the helmet’s shape, so it disappears once you’re wearing it. No wobble. No slipping. Just confidence, mile after mile.

Final Thoughts

The Cytal isn’t loud. It doesn’t need to be. It’s confident in its purpose, clear in its performance, and comfortable in ways that make you forget you’re wearing a helmet at all. From fast group rides to race day efforts, this is the kind of gear that lets you focus on the ride—not your equipment.

POC didn’t just make a new helmet. They reimagined how a helmet should feel, breathe, and perform. The result is a road helmet that doesn’t force compromise—and delivers performance where it counts.

Shop the poc cytel helmet

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