Fornix: A journey in design
First launched in 2012, the Fornix quickly took its position as a trusted all-mountain helmet. Since then, it has gone through different versions and updates to become the helmet it is today: the helmet that keeps up no matter where the mountain takes you.
Article by Keren McGill
Refining a classic
The Fornix was designed as a fresh take on ski-helmet design, integrating the clean, iconic silhouette of the classic skate helmet into a lighter, comfortable in-mould construction. The key focus from the beginning was finding a new way to integrate adjustable ventilation into a streamlined, lightweight one-piece build – something traditionally only possible in heavier hard-shell helmets. Integration of this feature made Fornix stand out and we’ve held true to this silhouette today. Over the years, we’ve continued to refine the Fornix, updating it through multiple generations of rotational-impact protection systems, while its distinct skate-inspired shape has remained a defining feature.
The third generation of Fornix
Each generation of Fornix has built on the last, incorporating new materials, improved ventilation, enhanced safety features, and feedback from athletes and everyday riders alike. The result is the third generation of Fornix helmets, blending tried and tested protection with modern performance – a reflection of POC’s ongoing commitment to progress and rider safety.
The third generation of Fornix
Each generation of Fornix has built on the last, incorporating new materials, improved ventilation, enhanced safety features, and feedback from athletes and everyday riders alike. The result is the third generation of Fornix helmets, blending tried and tested protection with modern performance – a reflection of POC’s ongoing commitment to progress and rider safety.
Flexible ear pads
Across its evolution, the Fornix ear pads have shifted from multi-layered, stiff fabric constructions to a cleaner, more precise and comfortable solution. For the third generation, we introduced soft, injected-TPU ear pads inspired by goggle materials, giving them flexibility, cold-weather stability, and a more streamlined shape. A new, softer skin-contact fabric and an improved attachment system enhance comfort, eliminate pressure points, and make the pads easier to remove.
Images left to right: CAD drawing highlighting third generation ear pads; first and second generation ear pads; 3D-printed prototypes; third generation ear pads
Updated goggle clip
The third generation of the Fornix goggle clip has been refined into a sleeker, more flexible and responsive design. We have re-engineered the shape and utilised flexible silicone in place of TPU, improving durability, maintaining its form over many uses, and making it easier to use in all conditions.
Images left to right: In-house prototypes and bolts; first generation TPU goggle clip; third generation updated goggle clip system; CAD drawing highlighting third generation goggle clip
Refined functionality
The latest Fornix updates focus on a cleaner, more precise fit experience. For the third generation, the fit system now functions without a fabric neck roll, allowing the dial to function more clearly with more defined adjustment steps. The strap dividers have been adapted from our bike helmets to guide the straps more naturally around the ear for improved comfort and stability, especially when skiing without ear pads. An updated crown pad adds further coverage and softness, enhancing overall fit and all-day comfort.
Images left to right: First generation crown pad; CAD drawing highlighting third generation fit system; third generation strap dividers; third generation crown pad
Trusted by athletes
For over a decade, Fornix has been the go-to helmet for leading park skiers and riders. Year after year, our skiers and riders choose the Fornix for its comfort, protection, ventilation, and classic style. And as those riders push their own performance, their insights help drive every update we make, ensuring the Fornix continues to grow and improve alongside the people who rely on it most.
Riding in confidence with Sarah Höfflin
Sarah Höfflin has trusted the POC Fornix helmet since first choosing it ahead of the 2018 Winter Olympics, drawn to its performance and the research behind its protection. After taking the Slopestyle Gold in PyeongChang while riding in it, she hasn’t used a different helmet since.
“I bought the Fornix helmet before the Olympics, for the competition, because I wanted to have the best equipment possible, and I knew how much research goes into all the protective equipment at POC. I was really drawn to that.”
Riding peaks with Jeremy Jones
Pioneer of foot-powered snowboarding and setting ascent lines all over the world, Jeremy Jones has been riding in the Fornix since the beginning and has contributed feedback that is reflected in the product today. For over a decade, it has been his helmet of choice when he goes deep into the backcountry and up and down the highest peaks.
Developed with Jeremy Jones and in support of his climate advocacy organisation, Protect Our Winters, the Fornix Mips Pow JJ helmet works to protect both you and the mountains you ride.
THE FORNIX SERIES
Whether you’re skiing on-piste or exploring deep into the backcountry, there is a helmet in the Fornix series to fit your goals. Explore the different helmets in the series to find the one that’s right for you.
Shaped by what’s been, ready for what’s next
Over the years, the Fornix series has evolved through thoughtful design updates shaped by real feedback from the riders who depend on it. And as those athletes continue to progress, the Fornix will keep progressing with them, advancing in a way that stays true to its origins while meeting the demands of the future.