POC has announced the launch of its new Cytal Lite helmet that tips the scales at sub-200 grams, a 30% decrease in weight over the standard Cytal, while ventilation has also been been increased dramatically thanks to no fewer than 12 forward vents, 5 top vents and 6 rear exhaust vents.
“The Cytal Lite is for when every gram counts and heat management is critical,” says POC’s Magnus Gustafsson. “We’ve refined the helmet’s structure to reduce weight and significantly improve airflow, as ventilation, heat control, and low weight are essential performance criteria — especially for riders focused on climbing or competing in warmer environments,” he adds.
The Cytal Lite’s airflow system is optimized for speeds between 20–30 km/h, which are more typical during mountain climbs. However, its cooling performance remains effective at lower and higher speeds, thanks to aerodynamic innovations drawn from POC’s air capture and linear airflow approach used in previous models Cytal and Ventral models.
“After a decade of working very closely with EF Pro Cycling riders, we understand the critical importance of weight — particularly in mountain stages,” continues Gustafsson. “With the Cytal Lite, we’ve achieved extreme lightness while maximizing ventilation and cooling, as heat management is now known to be a much more critical factor in race performance.”
While the Cytal Lite draws inspiration from the aerodynamically focused Cytal Carbon and the Cytal, which currently ranks as the number one road helmet in Virginia Tech’s safety rating system, every detail has been adapted to its unique use. From the adjustment system to the straps, dividers, and outer shell, each component has been optimized for weight and comfort.
“We know the importance of ventilation and cooling and the difference it makes in human performance,” says Peter Schep, Head of Performance, EF Pro Cycling. “The focus for many years has been aerodynamics, and now, alongside it, comes heat management. Having a helmet that excels in weight savings and cooling is an obvious advantage. We spent a lot of time working with POC’s engineers to fine-tune the details, and we — and the riders — are really positive with the results.”
The new Cytal Lite helmet sells for $400, which is offered in three sizes (S,M,L) in matte Hydrogen White, or matte Uranium Black colorways.
POC
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