New protective gear from Leatt
Leatt Airflex Knee Pads
Leatt is taking lightweight slim fitting knee protection to a whole new level with the Airflex Pro. The low profile knee pad is sleek enough to wear under jeans and comfortable enough to ride in all day. The AirFlex offers side and upper knee impact protection in addition to the 6mm CE certified knee pads. The MoistureCool and AirMesh fabrics are vented and should wick well and have an antimicrobial coating to help resist odor.
One of the most interesting aspects of the AirFlex though, is how it fits like a knee warmer. Its silicone printed non-slip cuffs extend high enough on the thigh that you can anchor them to a chamois.
The Leatt AirFlex Knee Pads will run you $79.00. Check them out at Leatt.com
Leatt windblock gloves with knuckle protection
Leatt DBX 4.0 Windblock Glove
The Leatt DBX glove features 3D molded Armourgel impact protection for knuckles as well as the 3rd and 4th finger, which is inexpensive insurance for your hands, especially considering how wide our bars are all getting. The NanoGrip palm is thin for maximum bike feel, and the upper is constructed with wind resistant fabric, making it a great choice for the cooler months.
I’ve already accidentally tested the Armourgel by punching a car mirror as I rode by in the bike lane, (thanks cars, for not giving me any space) and I rode away with my knuckles intact. The DBX glove sells for $55. Check it out at Leatt.com.
Zoic Prophet Shoes
Zoic Prophet Shoes
Zoic’s first entry into the shoe market is the result of a team up with Osiris, a company known for their skate and BMX shoes. The upper is constructed from synthetic leather, and the toe and heel are reinforced for durability. Riders running platform pedals that like to move their feet around on the pedals (useful for manuals, cornering etc) suitable for practicing skills take note. The understated skate shoe styling means you can wear them in day to day life.
The Prophet sells for $85, and are currently available for pre-order. Check it at Zoic.com
Petzl’s UltraRush headlamp combines durability with reliability and massive light output
Petzl UltraRush Headlamp
Headlamps are invaluable items to take along on any overnight adventure. The uber-durable, waterproof UltraRush headlamp blows away the old camping standby with 4 brightness settings and a light output of up to 760 lumens. It features 6 LEDs that can project light up to 170 meters on the high setting. What makes this light special though is not having to charge it every time its used. The rechargeable lithium ion battery pack provides 2 hours of use on high and a 38 hours of use on low, and recharges in just 3 hours. The rotating selector knob is easy to use with gloves, and most importantly, won’t get turned on accidentally in your gear pack. Though it can be mounted on a helmet or bar, it will require mounts, available separately.
The Petzl UltraRush lists for $430. Check it out at Petzl.com or buy it now at Amazon.com.
