Dainese had a sneak preview of their upcoming protective gear on hand at Crankworx Whistler, so we stopped by to see what the Italian company has in store for 2017.Trail Skins 2 Knee GuardThe original Trail Skins were some of Dainese's most popular knee guards, thanks to their light weight and unobtrusive design. Version 2.0 was designed with the same goals in mind, to create a pad that was comfortable enough to wear all day while still maintaining a EN 1621.1 Level 1 certification.
The updated model now uses Dainese's Pro-Armor to help dissipate the force of an impact to the knee, a rubber pad that's molded into a latticework shape that's thickest in the center, and thinner towards the edges to help it conform to a rider's body. Additional protection is provided by foam padding located on each side of the knee. The height of the elastic band at the top of the pads has been increased to help prevent them from slipping down during a ride. MSRP: $84.99 USD (knee) $74.99 (elbow).
Rhyolite 2 Safety Jacket
The days of bulky armor that wouldn't look out of place on the football field are fast becoming a distant memory, and Dainese's new Rhyolite 2 Jacket is a prime example of what's possible with modern impact absorbing materials.
The zip-up jacket's EN 1621.2 Level 2 certified back protector is constructed from two layers of foam that use a hexagonal pattern to help it stay in place against a rider's body. Impact absorbing foam is also sewn in around the collarbone area and rib cage. Dainese's Pro-Armor is used for the shoulders and arms, while the zip-off sleeves allow the level of protection to be customized. MSRP: $299.99 USD
Trailknit Pro-Armor TeeFor riders looking for back and shoulder protection that's barely noticeable under a jersey, the new Trailknit Pro-Armor Tee might fit the bill. The wicking base layer has a pouch on each shoulder to hold Dainese's Pro-Armor pads, while Crash Absorb foam is used for the EN 1621.2 Level 1 certified removable back protector. MSRP: $189.99 USD
Tactic GloveWide bars are great, but they can also put that outer knuckle precariously close to trees and other immovable trailside obstacles. Dainese's Tactic gloves have a piece of Pro-Armor affixed to that exact location, in a shape that was designed after studying where most impacts occur. The slip-on gloves have a thin, one piece palm, with a silicone print on the palm and fingers for extra grip. MSRP: $44.99 USD
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*these get released*
"We want a less breathable pad because these will collect mud.... and bees apparently!"
A) mud collection. They will weigh twice as much when muddy
B) slidding? Surely they will snag the ground and pull down? They need a smooth cover.
Same goes for the gloves. Its not just impact its sharp vegitation like gorse and briar. No protection.
I am sure some will disagree. But I am right
Of course, not everyone rides in mud and not everyone has to contend with gorse and briar.