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The Vital MTB Crew
Can't even check shipping without making a whole account. I'm assuming it aint gonna be cheap to ship over the pond? If they even offer it.
edit: yep, 60 dollar shipping. (not including any extra fees/taxes.) would rather take my chances in the states.
FYI, if anyone else has 1 or more pair of worn out / destroyed Rapha knee pads with their excellent Rheon L2 inserts, I discovered that you can cram them into Fox Enduro Pro (the newer version) in place of the worthless Koroyd inserts those come with. The Fox sleeve feels a little bit more durable, but the Koroyd insert is a joke - no way I'd count on them doing anything for more than light trail riding (definitely not enduro-worthy). I've tried putting the Rapha inserts in Fox Launch Elite sleeves also, and that didn't work as well because of interference between the extra foam side pads and the insert.
I’ve been in the same hunt for a good chest protector, and after trying a few, I can share what’s worked for me. The Ion Arcon HD Pro is solid—flexible, breathable, and doesn’t feel like a full-on jacket, so it’s easier to wear around SoCal trails. I also tried the IXS Hex, which is comfortable and protective, though it’s a bit less ventilated.
For knee pads, I ended up going with Leatt Hybrid. The hard cap design is awesome, doesn’t pull your pants down, and still feels light. The IXS Carves felt great too, just sizing was a pain.
One thing I always check before buying gear is reviews. I even looked at American Income Life reviews for confidence in buying from lesser-known vendors, and it helped me pick reliable sources without getting stuck with something uncomfortable or low-quality.
Oh ya I guess I should update. I got the Arcon since it finally came in stock. I can't imagine anything better. No substitute for MTB.
And I did try some random hard shall 100% options we found on sale but... I'm coming to realize if they are properly hard shell I can't use them on my right elbow which has hardware. Sadly. I wouldn't be surprised if Leatt is better (as I have their awesome hybrid knees)... But it's possible I have to stick with soft shell elbows for now. I even tried wearing hard shell left side and soft shell right side which was... Fine. Worked. But it did feel stupid, and I'd rather just have both soft or better hard shells. Dunno yet.
The one thing I want to get now, is the Leatt shoulder only tee but it seems discontinued. Only available in small. But I want that moddability. I want to be able to run 3 separate pieces, chest elbow shoulder, at like the bike park... And run only chest elbow or only elbow on calmer trails or whatever when I'm pedaling. Don't want full body pieces during pedaling, especially in summer.
Fly barricade is what the kids and I wear for downhill and bmx.
Kinda want something with better armor up front, my son lacerated his liver in August and wonder if netter chest armor would have prevented it.
I've got the TLD rockfight (not CE rated at all), and I find that it's reasonably protective in crashes (much better than wearing no armor). It is one of the lightest roost guards out there, and I don't even notice I'm wearing it when I ride DH.
For my 2c, I know that I won't end up wearing armor if it's heavy. The most effective body armor is the one you are actually willing to wear every time you ride.
Is that typically an internal injury? Or would it be caused by impact? I know body armor doesn't really do anything against collarbones and punctured lungs and what not. But it can at least help and make you less sore all around while you are recovering from a different injury.
I remember when I broke my back, the back wasn't the cause of my pain during recovery... It was mostly the severely bruised ribs lol.
No idea , nobody witnessed it. Rear tire went over the berm while following his friend and said it was instant ground and pain. Blue flow trail, pretty fast pace and also cracked a femur and tore his ACL. No bruising on his chest, just bruises on hip, shoulder and both thighs.
almost wish he had his GoPro filming , also glad he didn’t
anyone tracking the tech air MX system? recently released, sounds like not approved for MTB yet but may be some SW/algo updates in the future to support it. https://www.alpinestars.com/products/tech-air-mx-system?srsltid=AfmBOor…
recently broke ribs/collarbone so looking for some body armor
ha. yep. me. I have been following this project and wanting it since the protos were floating around. Was stoked to see it come out recently and have already talked to a user about it. I am definitely going to get one hopefully soon. For moto this winter and to wear daily for DH in the summer.
I was considering linking it in here but forgot. The person who used it also mentioned that he confirmed with Alpinestar that there is an MTB mode for it. You just have to chat with them for them to upload it into the system for you since the presets are already used up and it is marketed to moto.
So... I am stoked. This is released and does have an MTB Algo.
Edit*- sorry about injury! Hope you heal up ASAP!
I have always prioritized protection, especially in the chest region. Wear an RXR at the moment which to my knowledge has always been near the top for best chest protection. This Air Tech stoked me out because it cranks things up another notch in protection. I think it'll be a great option
@storm.racing good to know re: the alpine stars, I called a* a few weeks ago and was told it's not suitable for MTB at all...
Checked out the RXR but it seems like it doesn't ventilate that well?
Right now I have in hand a leatt 4.5 evo pro, a* A6, and Ion arcon that I'm deciding between. I really like the Leatt for its comfort but can't help to think it's actually not all that protective - the actual impact area with Red insert for chest and back is quite small. Most of the rib protection is only a plastic guard and I'm not sure how much that will truly help against rocks. In addition, the back coverage ends pretty high up on my torso.
The A* is a quiet contender because it has longer back protection, looks like it has large airflow holes, and the actual CE-rated protection seems to extend further down and to the sides of chest/back.
Ion arcon is interesting, to my surprise it actually has the most protection of these choices, the material is "full" coverage and actually wraps around all of my ribs the most vs. the other 2. However, it is also the heaviest, and seems like it might run pretty hot on the trails.. the plastic protection material seems like it will trap heat with its density way more than the other two. I'm also really annoyed that Ion would only put 1 buckle on the protector, so getting into it is more awkward and I can't unclip both sides on the climbs to let the protector dangle and get that sweet airflow across my chest on the climb. Why would they only put in 1 clip, was it for $$ savings or is there something I'm missing?
So now I'm back googling if there are some other options I've missed...
https://us.leatt.com/products/chest-protector-4-5-pro-evo?variant=44600761352239&country=US¤cy=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23002707030&gbraid=0AAAAA9lbP5DxJV7wYAgACvPGsIcWYuOkB&gclid=CjwKCAiAu67KBhAkEiwAY0jAlVfrG4u5mqnAzjWY2kbTYP8e7u4Lepmq3SE7pHByie2erwODjyQOKRoCvMkQAvD_BwE
https://www.alpinestars.com/products/a-6-chest-protector?variant=403893…
I just ordered the new Leatt 3df Evo lite chest/back. As far as I could find, this is the lightest armor available with level 1 CE rating for front and back. I can post pics and the weight when I get that if anyone is interested.
Wait what?! Dang, that’s so weird and such a bummer to hear! What did they have to say and what was their reasoning for it not being suitable at all?
So strange after hearing from someone in the industry that worked directly with them that they have a MTB algorithm. I also don’t see how it would not be suitable. Every bit of it makes sense to me that it would actually work very well in DH application.
In regards to RXR.. can’t say I notice. I’m sure it doesn’t breathe the best but I’ve never noticed or thought about it. It’s very comfortable to me and I’m a massive fan of the protection level so I happily wear it
Does anyone know anything about this? A buddy sent it along but doesn't have any info beyond what's below:
https://rockintor.com/
https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/rockintor-protection-vest-deliver…
I have the Ion. I only use it in the bike park, but it’s really good. It has great coverage and moves really well. It doesn’t feel especially hot IMO, although I don’t climb in it. Less buckles are less parts to break.
I’ve never liked the fit of Alpinestars stuff. I had their last gen A-10 chest protector and hated it.
The ion ain't too pad to pedal in, much better than a poc chest protector anyway.
They also fit perfectly in the Bluegrass Aura sleeve.
I’ve been running the Fox race frame for the last few years. Have taken a few spills with direct impacts to the chest plate & it’s held up well. I find it comfy even for long enduro days with plenty of pedalling… yes you’ll sweat but nothing too intense. Has removable padding on the inside of the front plate which helps with stank management.
For park days & racing DH, I’ll have elbow pads too. Had a pair of the Nukeproof sleeves which were very comfy & offered good impact protection but I left them somewhere. Since then I’ve had a pair of fox elbow sleeves. Not as comfy or good at taking a whack compared to the Nukeproof ones.
For the knees, again another vote for the Sam Hills. Really comfy, great protection and I don’t even realise I’m wearing them after a few minutes. Again, bought a pair of Fox knees pads, same time as the elbow pads purchase and like the elbow pads, haven’t been all that impressed so I’ll be picking up another pair of Sam hills in the not too distant future.
This my first post as a member.
I haven't riden a bike much in the last 30 years. My experience comes from a fair amount of motorcycle street and track and motocross.
Im building what I believe is a badass hardtail and my preference is downhillish single track and some smaller features and no stones.
That being said....I cant afford to get hurt and I hope people dont laugh at me or think Im over reacting when most of the time I will be wearing an Alpinestars Bionic Action V2, more in line with motocross but this thing ticks off a lot of boxes and fits nicely underneath shirts. Its mesh and breathable. Has a spine protector (can be removed) and a kidney protector. It weighs 4 lbs.
I also have a serious Bell full face deal and Alpinestar goggles.
Im looking at knee protection and on easy days will wear just elbow and knee pads and not the Armour jacket.
Like I said. Im old, new to the scene, hope folks dont laugh. Ill just say I may look silly now but not as silly as Ill look drinking through a straw for 2 months, or breaking 5 ribs.
I have no business doing this at my age. I am strength training and taking it serious covering bases protecting myself and others.
But I got the buzz man. You remember the buzz? Hell. I havent even ridden my new hot rod and bik 2 is being planned.
Sup fellas. Dave here.
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For those who are still seeking level 2 torso armor but looking to stay below 200, Leatt just answered the call: https://us.leatt.com/collections/mtb-protection/products/chest-protector-3df-airfit-evo
I think even if this were released before I'd have still gone for the ION, more than pleased with it, but it's nice to see the price point of a dual level 2 chest pro drop more and more.
A “PSA” for anyone considering an under-jersey chest/back protector. (Since I went through this exact thing)
They tend to get really sweaty and also tend to be a royal pain to wash.
The over-jersey protectors tend to be less fabric which means less washing is required. Also they help protect your gear from getting torn up if you crash.
Having owned both there’s no way I’d choose an under jersey protector again.
Also feel like a hard shell over armor could slide along terrain better and not grip the ground and throw you around as much. Avoid all the snagging fabric.
I’ve tried a few chest protectors and I have two favorites. I can’t stand heavy body armor btw. Anything over 2 lbs makes me feel like it’s throwing off my balance. Iirc both of these options are around 800g.
I wear the Troy Lee rockfight flex for DH days, and the Troy Lee stage ghost vest for more enduro type of trails.
They are the lightest options available for CE level 1 back protection. The rockfight has decent rib protection although it’s not CE rated. I’d much prefer to crash with that on in a rock garden or against a tree even though it’s technically only “roost guard” rated. The stage vest really only has sternum protection. The chest protector is quite small and you could crack ribs while wearing it.
I wear medium/large t shirts and medium is great for the stage vest. M/L for the rockfight
Unless you're 90, yes that outfit will be pretty ridiculous on a hardtail, and make for an unpleasant riding experience.
How old are you ?
Take it easy and focus on drilling basic skills. Motocross experience doesn't really cross over for me personally, other than reading terrain.
66 in May. Most of my riding is going to be downhill on groomed single track bike park stuff with limited focus on features, and even a ski lift situation or two this year on an extreme custom top shelf hard tail get down I'm building.
What could go wrong?
🤣
Besides everything? I'll wear the ridiculous safety gear, thanks. Some elbow guards and knee pads for green/blue trail easier days, but when Im gonna push, Ill be geared up.
One thing I've learned at my age is....when you think you got this figured out? You don't.
Perhaps I'm being misconstrued here, but what I am trying to say is that no amount of body armour is going to keep you safe, if one's skill set is not appropriate for the task. Also, taking a hardtail to the bike park on any level of trail is not going to facilitate a pleasant experience, particularly while wearing a bunch of heavy, hot, gear. Jump park yes, bike park no.
I'm simply attempting to point out that you are setting yourself up for a bad time. I'm all for wearing the protection, when viewed in a vacuum. The combination of bike park, hardtail, heavy gear, and beginner skillset at advanced age could turn you off on the whole thing. Your mileage may vary, but I know that at 50, there's no way I'd be into that combination. Hardtails are for light trail work and tech climbing. Pressure suits are for double black on the downhill bike. Full suspension in the bike park, unless you enjoy not being able to see straight for the entire run.
On topic, I like the fox launch knee pads the most, after having tried dozens of others over the last ten years.
I appreciate the advice. Im not going full tilt right away or probably ever and will ride my share of green and blue flow trails with much lighter weight gear.
I know my limitations, and what to expect and the weight or uncomfortable nature of a lot of gear doesn't bother me.
I'm just tryin to get a few good rides in and enjoy the buzz before It's too late and not injuring myself more than necessary in the process.
I just bought this, and their impact shorts. Broke my pelvis at my local DH race on Sunday, but this chest protector looks to be exactly what I've been looking for for a couple months. I had a heart transplant in 2021, so finding level 2 chest protection that I can wear under jersey to protect my sternum has been difficult.
Post a reply to: Alright, body armor. What is the best chest protector? (Also taking knee pad recommendations.)