so after sending back (2) new POC helments (sic @ BSNY), i ended up getting (2) Specialized Loma helments from the LBS*

the POCs were too small (medium; size i wore for 5 years) and too big (large). in the interim, i emailed POC asking for help. POC has discontinues the model i had.

the Specialized (a company i loathe btw) helments are lighter and cooler than previous. only required a slight strap adjust to get it sitting squarely in my round head.

glad that's over for another couple of years, anyway.

*also a perfect reminder why i do not go to bike shops.

win/ win