POC Unveils the Sonal: A Dual-Width Time Trial Helmet Engineered for Full-Body Aerodynamics

POC has officially introduced its latest time trial helmet, the Sonal, which sets itself apart through an elongated profile and an unusual approach: it’s offered in two distinct widths. The design philosophy behind it treats the rider’s entire body as part of the aerodynamic equation, rather than concentrating solely on the head.

Back in 2012, POC made waves as the first manufacturer to release an oversized time trial helmet, the Tempor, which reshaped how the industry viewed these specialized pieces of equipment. In the years since, plenty of other brands have rolled out their own supersized helmets. However, POC didn’t start developing a new model until EF Pro Cycling requested one for the 2026 Tour de France. Now, the Swedish brand has formally brought the helmet to market.

According to POC, the Sonal represents a fresh perspective on rider aerodynamics. Instead of examining the head in isolation, it considers the rider’s whole body. What makes it particularly unusual is that it comes in two sizes determined by shoulder width rather than head circumference. The helmet’s extended front section is built to redirect airflow away from the high-pressure area that normally builds up at the front of a helmet and generates drag. Instead, it channels air smoothly around the helmet and across the rider’s body.

**A Tale of Two Widths**

The Sonal is manufactured in two shell widths, with the goal of treating the head and body as one unified aerodynamic system. Mangus Gustavsson, POC’s director of hard goods, explained the reasoning: “Our objective with the Sonal was to create the fastest, most aerodynamic helmet possible – and to make it work for more riders, because we know a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in time trial. That’s what led us to develop two distinct helmet sizes based on body and shoulder width, since airflow over the whole body – not just the head – is what ultimately creates the right aerodynamic profile.”

For riders whose shoulders measure narrower than 37cm in a time trial position, POC recommends the narrow version of the Sonal. Those with shoulders wider than 37cm should choose the regular size. Both shells share the same internal dimensions, accommodating head sizes from 51cm to 59cm, which spans most small and medium helmet sizes. As POC puts it, this allows riders to select a shell that matches their shoulder width without having to separately worry about head fit.

**Measured Speed Gains**

POC acknowledges that aerodynamic performance varies from rider to rider. Even so, the company claims its testing revealed a notable aerodynamic improvement across both widths. “Tested against the already very fast POC TT helmets and at speeds we typically see in modern TT and track events, 60 km/h, the Sonal delivers average savings of 15 to 20 watts,” POC states.

**Visibility and Comfort**

Another key consideration during the Sonal’s development was vision. The helmet is engineered to provide a complete range of both forward and peripheral sight. POC explains that this was accomplished by shaping the helmet’s forehead angle to align with the rider’s natural line of sight, eliminating the need to move the head. A clear lens comes standard, along with a tinted lens for varying light and weather conditions. Both attach magnetically, allowing riders to swap them quickly and securely within seconds.

Despite its substantial size, the Sonal is reportedly comfortable enough for long rides. Contributing factors include its weight – 440g for the small width and 490g for the regular – along with minimal padding, a Boa adjustment system, and balanced weight distribution when the rider is in a time trial posture.

The Sonal will be sold through POC’s website starting in October, with broader availability expected next spring. Pricing is set at £550 / $660 / €600 / AU$1,000.

If you’re researching aero helmets, you might also be interested in BikeRadar’s roundup of nine of the best aero helmets currently on the market, or their argument that adding a second aero helmet will boost your speed more affordably than buying new wheels.