POC VPD2.0 Elbow and Knee Pads Review

At first glance POC products are going to throw your expectations off from what you would typically see from companies that make protective gear. An obvious reaction would be WTF is POC? You can make up your own definition depending on what you think of them… after you’ve had a chance to give them a go of course. But if you must know, here’s what they have on their website.

“POC is a Swedish company, built on a strong mission; to do everything we can to possibly save lives and to reduce consequences of accidents, for gravity sports athletes, by developing and renewing what personal protection is all about… “

This makes me think of another swedish company that built their reputation around safety — Volvo!

Needless to say, it doesn’t take much to convince me to forgo my bias for what bike gear should look like to give these pads a try and it’s a good thing I did!

POC Joint VPD 2.0 Elbow & Knee Pads

Product Tested: POC Joint VPD2.0 Elbow and Knee Pads
Weight: Elbows 280g, Knees 460g (size Medium)
Recommended Use: AM / FR
Retail Price: Elbows $109.95, Knees $119.95

Description:
– 3D molded VPD 2.0 protection perforated for air flow
– Resistant aramid reinforced stretch fabric sleeve
– The construction and shape are designed to secure position
– Optional elastic strap rests on calf muscle to give extra firm and secure fit

FCP:
There’s 3 important criteria you should have when buying pads 1. Fit   2. Comfort    3. Protection.

Let’s talk about Fit first: This is critical to how effective the pads will satisfy criteria #2 and #3. “Too tight” – it’s going to make your riding uncomfortable (not to mention possibly cutting off circulation) and “Too loose” –  they just slide down your limbs and be useless. So if there’s one thing to get right, get the FIT right and you’ll get comfort and protection covered. POC’s  sizing caters to the euro audience, which means that you’ll want to buy one size up if you’re ordering online, but it’s best to buy pads from your LBS to rule out any doubt. For reference, I am 5’5″ tall and 165 geared up and the mediums fit me snuggly — that’s another dimension of fit to consider is how snug the fit is; since most fabric will stretch to some extent and form to your body shape over time, you’d want to make sure to factor that in.

Comfort: The POC pads go on smoothly and feel plush and silky against your skin. I can’t say that for all the pads I’ve owned, these feel like the extra cost was worth it (when I first pulled them on). It’s funny but I would describe it like wearing a nice watch, you can feel the quality. Both the elbows and knees are designed with a contoured shape with anatomically positioned straps to keep the pads in place with little movement. The other great quality of the pads is their lack of restriction while pedaling. In late summer 2012, I took a trip to the Moab area and did three 12-15 mile rides where there wasn’t a moment where I thought they were uncomfortable to ride with. They required a little adjustment over the course of a long ride, but not to an extent where it was noticeable and fussy. They breathe better than neoprene pads and were much appreciated when temps started to climb.

My surgically repaired elbow

Protection: In the 9 months I’ve owned the pads, I’ve been very conscientious and protective of my surgically repaired elbow; so having the best protection I can find is critical in maintaining my health and longevity. The POC pads have given me the confidence to get back in the saddle after a long rehab period and I continue to ride with them assured that I’ve done all I can to prolong my love for riding mountain bikes. I have had slide outs and run ins with cactus where they have literally saved my hide (and obviously that’s their job) and I’m thankful for having them when they were needed. I admit that I no longer push the limits anymore on big DH bikes so I can’t comment on their efficacy for the gnar but for aggressive trail riding, these have been superb.

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION:
Where most companies would turn to neoprene (wetsuit) materials, POC uses a combination of Kevlar reinforced stretch fabric and a stretchy lycra inner sleeve to provide a form fitting low-profile silhouette for both the elbow and knee pads. They easily fit under your jersey, jacket and short. The elbows inner sleeve is designed to create an upward motion that works against gravity and vibration and helps to secure it in place; and the knees accomplishes this through it’s shape and a strap positioned above the calf muscle (most good pads make use of this design).

The fabric is durable and cleans up nicely in the washing machine. I’ve washed them a half dozen times and leave them out to dry overnight. The fabric has not frayed or become fuzzy and the color is still a true black. The velcro straps are still strong and holding firmly. My one tip if you sweat like me, is to wash them regularly. They will develop a chalky white residue from your dried sweat, but no biggie, just throw them in the washer and they’re as good as new.

Having owned them all this time, I’ve come to rely on them and think of them as my “pads of care”. 👍

GOOD: Superb construction, breathes well, fits snugly and comfortable for long rides with climbing. Stays in place, excellent protection for branches, rocks and flying debris while flying down your favorite trails.

BAD: Not much bad I can say. Just the sizing – Go up one size and you’re good. Cost depending how you look at it.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham

Pro-Tec Cyphon SL Helmet Review

Pro-Tec helmets have been linked to the skateboarding industry as long as anyone can remember, so it might come as a surprise when you come across a mountain bike specific product such as the Cyphon SL helmet.

Pro-Tec Cyphon AM helmet in matte black

Product Tested: Pro-Tec Cyphon SL
Construction: In-mold micro shell with removable, lightweight nylon visor
Weight: 380g
Intended Use: XC and AM.
Retail Price: $119.95

Pro-Tec Cyphon SL Interior

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION
The Cyphon SL helmet’s design is a stark difference from the bowling ball skate helmet of yesteryear and for 2012 it sports 3 color ways – all in a matte finish: Black (shown), Army Acid Green, and White. From the outside you’ll immediately notice the handsomely sculpted shell with 15 enormous vent holes which will keep most hot heads ventilated during rides. I was impressed with the overall form factor and and give it high marks for pure styling.

The construction quality looks to be on par with other popular brands in this category. The exterior shell is molded to the EPS inner core, this makes for a lighter and stronger uni-body construction that smoothly blends the 2 materials together. In fact, I found it difficult to make out any noticeable seam where they meet.

FIT & PERFORMANCE
The interior uses laminated polyester mesh padding in key touch points for a comfortable fit with minimal material usage to keep airflow moving. The straps are standard nylon for durability and are adjustable to get the right comfort and snug fit around the ears and jaw. They snaps together with a standard plastic release buckle.

The bling factor on the Cyphon SL is the BOA fit system. This system works similar to a single lacing system in performance shoes and snowboard boots. An adjustment knob (in the rear) tightens the thin cable which pulls evenly on the rear support cradle, providing a custom tension fit to accommodate varying head shapes. If you need to make an adjustment in case you’re lending the helmet out to a buddy, you simply pull the knob outward; this will release the locking mechanism and your buddy will simply put the helmet on, push the knob back in and turn to the desired comfort fit — and away you go. Super simple.

Cyphon SL front view

Pro-Tec Cyphon BOA Fit System

As you speed along, airflow of the helmet works well with 9 vent holes on the front and top portion and allows air to be pushed in. In the rear, 6 vent holes act as exhaust vents to get the hot air out and keep air flowing from the front to rear as it should. Even though the helmet I tested was black and I was concerned about heat, I found the airflow to work nicely and it didn’t feel especially warm. I thought it worked beautifully as well as being light.

PROTECTION
Protection on the Cyphon is very good all around. With good coverage in front, top and ample coverage in the rear and lower skull areas. It also has enough overhang to keep the ears tucked inside for added protection. It is safety certified with the following: CPSC 1203, AS/NZS 2063:2008 and CE 1078. What all this means is that it’s been tested so your melon will be protected in the event you happen to feel the urge to meet the ground.

For more information on the Cyphon SL or other Pro-Tec products, visit their website. Pro-Tec is a sub brand and operated by Vans, Inc. located in beautiful Cypress, California. Customer Service number is (800) VANS-800.

GOOD: Understated and stealthy looks. Big-A$$ vents to keep air flow going and the BOA fit system to keep things secure and comfortable so you can concentrate on your shred.
BAD: It runs a bit narrow for more oval heads and could be slightly lighter. Higher in the price scale at $119.95 retail.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham

Kali Veda Elbow Pads Review

Kali Protectives Veda Elbow Pads in Gray.

Product Name: Kali Protectives Veda Elbow Pads
Weight: 270g
Recommended Use: Agressive AM / FR / DH

Description:
– A Nitrex foam-lined, flexible ABS shell to protect the elbow
– A Kevlar-weaved synthetic elbow cup cover for extra durability against abrasion
– Two additional Nitrex foam pads above and below the flexible ABS elbow shell
– Six dense foam pads positioned on both sides of the elbow guard cuff to protect your ligaments
– Perforated neoprene cuff for comfort and breath-ability
– Slip-on style elbow guard that will fit under or over your jersey or base layer
– Two large Velcro belts to keep the Veda elbow guard securely in place
– Anti-microbial material that is fully washable

DESIGN & FIT:
The Kali elbow pads offer a comfortable, light and sturdy solution to the alternative hard pads which are more restrictive in movement. I spent a full day in them at a resort and they were great under a jersey. They are low profile and don’t stick out. They slip on with a bit of effort and stay put, I didn’t think about them or have to adjust them at all. Beyond protection and comfort, a pad should “stay put” really well; these pads didn’t disappoint (whereas the popular 661 EVOs moved quite a bit once neoprene has stretched out).

The sizing on these is a head scratcher. They run one full size too small and when using them one size bigger, they are still snug (but not overly tight). This explains why they stay put so well, but it does create a little binding when they are new. I wore them for 6-7 hours one day and by day’s end, the internal rubberized material (that keeps the elbows from slipping down) on the upper arm had started to cut into my skin. Ouch! This is probably extreme, since on occasions where I wear them for 2-3 hours, I haven’t had the same experience occur.

CONSTRUCTION & FUNCTION:
Construction is good and so far with a few rides in, they don’t show signs of stretching and wear that I’ve seen on the 661. They are however, warm to use on pedaly rides or where you need to HAB. Even with the perforation on the neoprene material… it is a wetsuit material afterall, and if you’ve ever had the pleasure of wearing a wetsuit, it’s not something you’d want to wear and go for a run in. That is the one of the tradeoffs you’d need to live with if you are considering these pads. But overall they work pretty well and do their job. Just don’t use them if you’re doing an epic and the temps are going to be warm.

GOOD: Good looking elbow pads, low-profile and great for under the jersey. Quality construction, light at 270g and all around comfortable. Stays put — slip them on and forget about them.

BAD: The sizing is really off with these elbows, you’d want to buy one size up. When worn all day (beyond 6 hours), the no slip rubber ring on the inside did cut into my arm. They are perfect for 2-3 hour jump sessions however. Best used when outside temperatures are  70° F or cooler.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham

2011 Urge Bike Down-O-Matic Helmet Review

Urge Down-O-Matic Helmets. Sizing S/M (54/57cm) and L/XL (58/60cm).

I learned about Urge helmets last summer and was intrigued by their unique styling and good looks; after seeing them in person at the 2010 Interbike show I had to get a hold of one as soon as possible. Since they weren’t in stores and not available in the US till late December 2010, I called South Shore Bicycles out of Colorado and got a Down-O-Matic to test.

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION
My first impression was the graphics was fresh and different. It just didn’t look like anything else out on the market and that a big feature (vent holes) of the helmet was thoughtfully integrated into the overall design aesthetics. Shown above are 5 colorways (L to R) Black Veggie, Palace White, Impact Black, Monaco Orange/Yellow/Black and Frisco Blue. While most companies copy the big dogs, Urge rose above the moto-inspired themes and created its own identity. This type of thinking also lends itself well to being more innovative. Thinking different and offering a product at a good value is what customers want. And Urge Delivers that in a light, well-vented and affordable product.

The finish on the helmet is pristine and reminds me of a new car. The paint job is flawless. Black being a color that shows imperfections the easiest, I found none. Fabrication is superb. Along with the good looks, the helmet is light, the one tested in a S/M size weighed in at 1010g. A noticeable feature of the helmet are the huge vent holes; 4 on the top front, 2 on the top rear and 2 on the face guard. These holes are grilled to keep debris out but their size and shape appear to be modeled after more lighter helmet design (often used in cross country and road helmets). The construction is made from a fiberglass shell with a sturdy foam core like most helmet construction. But unlike other DH full face helmets, the down-o-matic is lined with a double layer of light mesh fabric. This helps cut down on weight as well as prevents sweat from being soaked up — creating a more breathable interior that allows air to vent more efficiently. In fact, I can actually feel a breeze on top of my head when I’m speeding down a run. Something I’ve only felt with XC lids.

For medium to large goggle frame size, you will be limited in your choice. I have tried, Oakley, Smith and Thor goggles but these frames did not clear the opening. This could be a big deal if you prefer to wear larger frames because you either have a large face or perhaps you wear prescription glasses under your goggles. So far, the only goggles I have had success with are the VonZipper Sizzle MX and the Spy Optic Alloy. These work beautifully and there’s no issue.

FIT & COMFORT
One manufacturing innovation I appreciate is the dual sizing. You’re actually getting 2 helmets in one. This is achieved by two sets of padding inserts of different thicknesses. In the S/M helmet, I use the thinner pads intended for a medium sized head, if I ever decide to pass this helmet on to my wife let’s say, it’s as simple as switching out the 3 pads, and I can hand this off to her in a minutes time. Very easy switch. There is also 2 sets of cheek pads at the sides to get a more custom fit depending on your face size. With the 2 different padding size, I was able to mix and match to get the perfect fit since I was closer to a small/medium vs a true medium — not too many other helmets will accommodate for half sizes and this one does it. Bonus!

Testing the Frisco Blue Down-O-Matic. Photo Erich McCoy.

The comfort of the helmet is good and I might even say it’s great, but it isn’t plush. Knowing that this helmet was designed and tested by pro-racers, this is a matter of performance. Think of it as the race car, what goes on or in has to serve a purpose of getting more performance. Comfort can be derived from weight savings, your neck and shoulder muscles aren’t as fatigued. It can also be attained in ventilation, this helmet rides cool and if you hike a bike in some sections like I do, you can keep it on. That being said, after a few rides, the padding has contoured to my melon and feels about as natural as a full face can feel.

PROTECTION
Lucky for you all, I actually played the role of crash test dummy and took a spill right on the crown of my head. It was a relatively good crash, good meaning, I was dazed momentarily. First thought I had was, damn! I just ruined the finish on the helmet but then I thought, holy crap, I’m not hurt. Sore as hell and feeling like I had a hangover but not hurt. I got the helmet off and saw that I cracked the visor on its side, but the rest of the helmet survived with minimal cosmetic scuffs. Granted, I was lucky I landed on a downside of a transition, on soft dirt, that minimized my injury more than anything, but the harsh reality of it is, without helmets, this sport would not exist.

Structurally, I couldn’t find a flaw so the helmet can live to serve another day. I was bummed that the visor broke since it was designed to flex (and perhaps not break) but this is clearly a safety measure. One that reduces the chance of the helmet shifting as a result of the visor striking the ground (or object) first and moving the helmet off the head. I think this is one detail where real racing experience and knowledge is specifically designed in. Its these types of details that new product introductions can distinguish themselves from a me-too product and I love them for it.

NOTEWORTHY
Ever the earth-friendly minded company, (pictured left) the Veggie Linen model is intended to compete in the carbon fiber market. According to Urge: “The natural resources needed to produce this helmet are low because of the low energy needed to produce the fibres compared to traditional composite materials. This also allows a healthier working environment of the people producing the helmet. Most of this helmet is naturally biodegradable, although it is not yet possible to make a totally recyclable helmet, the Down-o-matic veggie starts a new way of thinking about how helmets are produced…”. The Veggie Linen retails for $299.95.

Urge Bike helmets is a French company located near Saint Tropez on the Mediterranean, much of the R&D has been done by Fabien Barel, a former World Downhill Champion. Along with the Mondraker Team riders, Fabien has created some of the most attractive helmet designs across 4 different models (Down-O-Matic, Endur-O-Matic (review to come), Archi Enduro and Dirt-O-Matic). Urge helmets are available in select shops or at Huck-n-roll.com. They are distributed in the US by South Shore Bicycles out of Colorado. More information on Urge helmets can be found at urgebike.com.

GOOD: Racer design. Awesome finish and visceral appeal. Light-weight. Cool venting. High-quality protective bag. Overall a great value at $179.95 retail.

BAD: After 3 months of use, the interchangeable padding shows some wear. The visor hardware is soft and will strip if over-tightened. Limited goggle support.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham

URGE Helmets

Protec Helmets

POC Helmets

Dainese 3x knee/shin and elbow guard review

Eddie Lawson

I rode a crotch rocket when I was in college and was a big fan of sport bike racing. I remember Eddie Lawson tearing up the track with that distinctive red and white striped Marlboro bike… you couldn’t miss it. Although, I never had the money to buy a real riding suit, I knew if I could, it would have been a Dainese. In all his championships, Lawson wore the Dainese suits with the devil emblem strategically placed on the knees. Just sharp.

About 9 months ago I was looking to replace my worn out pads (Troy Lee Brian Lopes model); I knew Dainese made nice motorcycle stuff but didn’t know much about their mtn bike protective gear. I’ve always noticed them on display at a LBS and thought this was a good a time as any to give them a shot. Upon a closer look, what I noticed is how well they’re made. Knowing they make gear that can hold up to 150 mile an hour crashes, it’s natural to think that they’d apply their production standards across all their products. No doubt, these are quality pads.

Dainese 3x Elbow Guards

DESIGN & FUNCTION
The 3X design is a blend of minimalism and purposefulness. What you see is there for a reason. Visually, they look like most other pads in this class, but take a closer look and you’ll find it’s a look unique to only Dainese. I must admit, I’m a fan of European styling, and the understated look of these pads were both beautiful and functional. You’ll see it in the details from the hinged joints meant for easy bending to the minimal amount of straps used to reduce binding sensation that straps have, as well as weight savings.

The pads are low-profile so they can be worn under clothing, when seen on a rider, there’s not a lot of bulk; they don’t protrude out which reduces the chance of them getting snagged or hitting something on narrow trails. Riding with them, you’d hardly notice they’re on as they’re relatively light and stay in place with minimal shifting. For the amount of coverage, they breathed incredibly well, this is due to using material where it’s needed which keeps the pads light and airy.

Dainese 3x knee/shin guards

FIT & COMFORT
The 3X pads come only in Medium and Large sizes. This is where perhaps the euro design thing is a bit odd as the mediums actually fit like a small in most other brands. These pads appear to have been designed in 2 lengths where they use average thigh, calf and ankle measurements to give you enough strap length to fit on a small or a medium rider. I’m 5’5″ and 155 lbs and the mediums fit just fine. So if you’re a true small, the mediums would be fine. If you’re a medium on the slender side, the mediums would be fine. The large my guess would accomodate, obviously large riders but could accept an XL slimmer type bodied rider. Your best bet is that if you’re interested in these pads, go try them on at a shop. You’ll be gambling buying these online to turn out they don’t fit.

Riding with the Dainese 3x Pads.

I’ve been riding with my set now for 9 months, needless to say, riding with these pads as previously mentioned, you’d hardly notice them once you hit the trails. Overtime, the padding will naturally break in and take on the shape of your arms or legs and they will stay put with little shifting. When brand new, you will experience some movement but that would be expected with any pads in this style. What I like especially with these pads is the articulation of the elbow and knees. Each pad has 2 parts and work independently, so when you bend your arms or knees the top and bottom move separately.

PERFORMANCE & DURABILITY
These pads have saved me on several occasions. I’ve had a few minor get offs where I know the best way to protect my hide is just to slide on the pads similar to how skateboarders slide when crashing in half pipes. Obviously, dirt and rocks have more friction than a smooth half pipe but I’ve relied on this technique with both knee/shin and elbow guards to help minimize injuries. While the pads do offer a modest amount of protection, there are other safety measures you might consider when riding more aggressive terrain. It’s pretty easy really, the more coverage you have on your body the better off you’ll be.

Riding with the Dainese 3x Pads.

With all the spills I’ve taken, these pads have held up remarkably well. The plastic is scuffed up and there’s a few pedal gouges, but overall they still look good and the materials have held up. I’ve washed them several times in the washer. The fabric is still the original color with no apparent fading and the stitching is still holding strong. One important thing that’s often overlooked is the durability of the straps. Velcro straps tend to wear out over time but Dainese uses some super duper velcro that has essentially gone unchanged in the time I’ve had them. In terms of mileage these have plenty on them and I’m impressed with how long they’ve lasted.

Dainese pads are harder to find because not a lot of shops carry them (they’re on the high end pricing range). The Knee/Shin Guards retail for around $90 and the elbow pads retail for around $70. You can find them usually online at hucknroll.com (look for the banner ads on this site). You can also visit the manufacturer website at their summer sport section http://www.dainese.com/us_en/multisport-summer to get more details or check out their other product offerings.

GOOD: Dainese oozes high style and high quality. These pads are the Ferrari of pads. Well designed, form fitting and performs well. Their durability and construction is top notch.

BAD: Rear calf protection on the knee/shin guards would be nice. The non-standard sizing is a little tricky and they are a bit high on pricing.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham

Evolution Carbon Nouveau Review

For 2010 the Evolution carbon helmet goes Fast Times at Ridgemont High (80s retro movie for you youngsters). Think checkered Vans, OP shorts and lightning bolt polos. Hey dude, let’s party!

The new paint scheme is a sharp departure from the 09 model where it was more like tribal organic lines meets hotrod pin striping. This paint scheme is a throwback to the 80s graphic style done in a new and improved fresh look. I dig it.

DESIGN
The design of the helmet from 09 to 10 has not changed. Still easy on the eyes with it’s elegant curves and edges at the back of the helmet. Vent holes are all in the same places and provide adequate ventilation. It’s offered in 2 paint schemes, black/grey/cyan and if you’re bold enough, go for the black/purple/pink version – just make sure you have matching pink gloves and shoes to complete the look.

The padding can be removed for washing like most helmets these days. A good tip I’ve come across to avoid washing is to wear a skull cap. Essentially, this is a sock for your head.

FIT & COMFORT
It goes without saying that fit is important and for two very good reasons. 1. You don’t want it to move on you while riding because it’ll effect how you can see out of the helmet. 2. Safety. If it doesn’t fit, it won’t protect you. Depending on the shape of your head, helmets fit differently so it’s always smart to try them on at a local bike shop if you decide to buy one online (that’s where the best deals are).

I have tried on 5 brands. Giro, Troy Lee, Bell, THE and 661. All good quality helmets. I really wanted the TLD but my head would not fit in one of those. My head is round and wide, out of the five brands, the Bell, THE and 661 offered the best fit. If you have a long oval-shaped head (meaning long and narrow), any of the brands would work. But if you have a round and wide head like mine, you’ll be limited.

When you think about comfort in a helmet, most of them use really nice materials inside. This helmet has soft and supple lining. I almost dreaded the fact that I was going to sweat in it. What I like about this helmet is that it has an all around good fit without any weird pressure points. Even with my wide face, I didn’t feel like my cheeks were being pushed in. Just like a shoe, you want to make sure you get the right width or you’ll feel like there’s a vice on your head.

Riding with 661 Evolution Carbon Nouveau.

FUNCTION & DURABILITY
The main thing with a full face is how quickly can you put it on and take it off without thinking about it. It should be like putting on a t-shirt; this is what I like about this helmet. Even with gloves on, I can easily toss it on, put the chin strap through the double metal loops and secure the loose end to a snap button. As mundane as this action is, I’ve had other helmets that required a little more effort to don. The visor is easy to tilt up and down by loosening the center bolt under the visor. I suggest once you find a good position, tighten it down good and use a quarter to tighten the outer screws on each side of the visor to prevent it from moving.

My biggest fear with using a carbon helmet is it shattering or splintering during a fall that would render it useless. This may be true to some extent but the upside is weight savings and a killer look. If you’re wondering if carbon fiber is a tough material, look no further than armor jackets that cops wear or airplanes you fly on — that’s right, they use carbon fiber. You don’t need to lose any sleep wondering if it’ll hold up. In fact, I’ve had two crashes with this helmet, other than a few cosmetic scuffs, the integrity of the helmet has not been compromised.

WARRANTY
When you buy a full face helmet, it’s understood that one day, you’re going to go down and you’ll be one happy buckaroo knowing you were wearing one – and feeling pretty smart you got one to begin with. That’s where I think sixsixone is such a great buy, because they have one of the best crash replacement programs. You can get a new one and will be back out on the trail in no time. Take it from me, I’m a happy benefactor of it. You can find them on the web at sixsixone.com or call toll free 888.520.4888.

GOOD: Sleek, elegant design. Quality materials throughout. Comfortable and tough. Crash replacement program is incredible.

BAD: Crashing and ruining the shiny finish. Area of improvement would be to reduce the overall outer diameter size, it’s bigger like a moto helmet so the swing weight could be less.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham

The Six Six One Evo pads are probably the most well known pads on the market. With World Cup racing and Red Bull Rampage appearances; it’s hard not to notice what many of these riders are wearing. It’s pretty simple. They’re streamlined, look good on about any rider and pretty high-tech.

The thing with pads or body armor is they need to fit and stay put or else they won’t do their job — which is to keep you riding instead of being layed up on the couch watching Oprah. I’ve been wearing them now for about 3-6 weeks and have worn them out on my usual rides which include trail and freeriding. When considering protective gear there are 4 things I look for:

1. Sizing and fit
2. Comfort / Materials
3. Function & Performance
4. Warranty

SIZING & FIT
This is really an important thing that all the other criteria is dependent upon. Duh right? You would think? The thing is, if you get this right, all the other criteria stuff should fall in line for you.

I found  the EVOs to run larger than expected. I typically wear a medium for most of my gear but these nearly fell off me when I tried them on. In the Small, at first they felt snug and firm but not uncomfortable – there’s a reason for that, they break in after your first ride and will fit just right. So its better that they start off snug. Since the neoprene and Velcro straps will stretch and break in.

Suggestion: Buy one size smaller

COMFORT / MATERIALS
With a good fit, you should improve your chances of having comfort. But comfort can be measured on a couple basic levels. How’s it feel wearing them and are the materials used in construction play a role in that?

Both the elbow and knee pads use neoprene wetsuit material, elastic mesh, what feels like a soft internal liner along with the famous D30 foam that serves as the space-age shock absorbing material. When you marry these things together, the feel is plush (think nice golf bag) and it allows the pads to be ultra flexible. The protection comes from the D30 Foam, under impact it hardens up and provides an almost impenetrable shield. The easiest way to think of it is like water; it’s pliable and penetrable when diving into it. But from a higher height and moving at a high rate of speed, hitting water is comparable to hitting concrete. It’s that tough! You can cover your hand with it, then have one of your buddies take a rubber mallet and smack it hard, your hand will be protected (I didn’t try it myself, but saw a demonstration of it at a bike event LOL). To cap it all off, vented kevlar is used on the front panel to protect from abrasion (so it doesn’t snag on shrubs).

While I’m impressed with the design and form factor, the grey elastic mesh on the rear doesn’t hold up as well as I’d like. When putting them on or taking them off, the velcro straps tend to grab onto the elastic meshing and eventually will turn it from a smooth surface to one that looks a little fuzzy. The other thing that happens is the material will appear to be stretched and distressed with use. After my 3^rd ride I began to notice it.

Sidebar: These pads are like a high-end wetsuit. They offer all the creature comforts you’d want but start to show wear and tear at the end of winter. Like a set of tires, they wear out. If I can get through 6 months with them, I think I’ll be happy.

FUNCTION & PERFORMANCE
The elbow and knee pads both use a double elastic velcro strap, one on top and one on the bottom. There’s a belt loop design for the straps to keep them from flailing around; which makes it easy to get them on and off.

Riding with 661 EVO pads. Photo Jason Cardillo.

The elbows are easy enough to figure out. They are labeled with a L and R so you know which side to put them on. They slide on and you’ll feel it when they are in place and it’s a matter of synching down the strap to where you like them (same with the knees).

The knees oddly enough aren’t labeled with a L and R. But they do have a left and a right knee specific pad. You just want to make sure that the end of the straps come up from the inside of your legs and wrap around to the outside. One minor inconvenience is that you can’t slip them on while wearing your shoes but it’s a small tradeoff considering that they provide good all the way around protection and additional support for your knees.

So, how do these things work? I was very pleased with how easy it is to move with them on. No binding sensation from the straps. The notched opening where your elbows and knees bend doesn’t have any material bunching, so movement is not impeded. Once you throw your leg over the bike and go, you literally forget they are on.  Pedaling with them is a breeze and they stay in place. After a while, you might need to adjust them a little – no pad will stay in the same position throughout the day. Although there’s ample amount of venting holes, you do sweat in these but that is to be expected with any pads you wear.

The Elbows on the other hand, I have mixed feelings about. They do slide down your arms more so than the knees – and this is really more about your body shape. With the knee, the lower straps wrest firmly in place just above your calf muscle and so the bulge in your calves will help keep the pads up.  But on your arms, unless you’re blessed with Popeye forearms, you don’t have that dramatic bulge in the forearm muscle to keep the straps from moving down. Obviously, depending on your arm shape, you might have better luck than I did. That all said though, I can live with it because they fit snugly and I like the support.

How do they protect during a crash? I was unlucky enough to have a couple opportunities to experience them for myself. My first crash, I went over the bars and landed forearm first, doing a full forward roll and landing on my stomach. I ended up with a bruised AC joint (shoulder). I didn’t slide much, it was more of an impact crash. My knees were perfectly fine. Elbows, not a scratch. The pads stayed in place and did their job.

They were there when I needed them

On my second crash, I hucked a decent hip and went up about 7 -8 ft in the air, over-cranked a whip and was coming down fast on a fade away landing. The landing couldn’t accommodate that altitude and I wasn’t able to fully straighten out the bike. When I landed, I fully compressed and slammed (felt like hitting a wall). As a result, I bounced off the bike to the bottom of the landing. I landed on my back and left side, the momentum rolled me forward and then I came to a stop. Luckily I had my trusty helmet on to save me from a big headache. As I stood up to do a injury check, the pads were still in place, albeit dirty, but not a scratch on me. I got lucky, it could have been a bad fall.

Do I trust them? After two good falls (I’m still recuperating from the soreness of the second one), I think my confidence is more shaken than my fear that the pads will not work. Performance wise, they work as advertised and they’re one of the most comfortable pads I’ve worn (compared to Troy Lee, Fox, Roach and Dainese). Sometimes, I worry about getting a pedal to the shin and would prefer to wear a knee/shin guard but “knock on wood” I haven’t slipped a pedal since I’ve converted to the Five Ten shoes a little more than a year ago.

WARRANTY
This could be debated whether it’s something you’d even follow through on because pretty much it’s guaranteed that you’re going to abuse the product. That said, 661 has an awesome warranty reputation and is tops in the industry. They have an incredible crash replacement program for their helmets. Depending on the nature of the product failure, you pretty much can get anything replaced. Find them on the web at sixsixone.com or call toll free 888.520.4888.

GOOD: Quality construction and comfort. Flexible, no biding and pedals great. Offers additional support to elbows and knees. Overall form factor and design looks great.

BAD: The elbows need more fudging and if you have wimpy arms, you may need to do more of it. They could be warm for summer time riding as they are made from wetsuit material. As like a good wetsuit, if you use them a lot, they won’t last more than a season.

Reviewed by Qwan Pham