Review by Matt Swenson // Photos by Matt Swenson and Seth Beckton (Action) The Italian brand, Alpinestars , has been immersed in motor sports, like motorcycle racing, motocross, auto racing since 1963. As they expand their presence in mountain biking and develop more bike-specific product, we received their Paragon Vest. The lightweight vest is built for comfort and features a three-piece, customizable back pad, room for a water bladder as well as additional storage on the side and lower back. We put the Paragon vest to the test for a couple months to see if it's a true performer. Alpinestars...
Review by Amanda Wentz // Photos by Amanda Wentz and Mimi Wentz In the past few years there has been some debate over neck braces. Do they just break your collarbone? Do they restrict your movement? Are they effective in a mountain bike fall? These are the questions I have heard posed many times. I have even participated in some of these discussions despite the fact that I had yet to ride in a neck brace. So given the chance to test out the Alpinestars Bionic Neck Support (BNS) Tech Carbon I jumped on it so that I could see for myself what all the debate is about. Bionic Neck Support Tech...
Review by AJ Barlas // Product Photos by AJ Barlas, Riding Photos by Lear Miller Knee pads in the bike industry have come some way since the early Dainese or Qrank knee/shin, robo-legs of the early days. Softer materials and the use of 'tech foams' are the most obvious changes and have resulted in what often resembles more of a big neoprene knee warmer than leg armour. Despite their soft appearance, there are a number that still meet the stringent CE standards put forth in Europe and the Alpinestars Alps 2 is one of them. Aimed at the more aggressive rider, the Alps 2 was designed to be a...