MTB Protective Gear

[Mike Mac]

Hi Hubbers

 

I am relatively new to MTB and I have found that I am gravitating more towards DH/Enduro than Marathon/XO. Not racing, but rather just "style " of riding I like to do. The problem is I am no longer young and don't bounce well. Recently I had a hard fall on Vasbyt and dislocated a finger and fractured two ribs. So I am thinking I need to look into getting better protective gear, perhaps something like this  

 

https://mtb-threads.com/mountain-bike-body-armour 

 

The question is, does kit like this actually work in reducing injuries?

 

Furthermore, what other kit (that really works) and besides a helmet, should I be looking at to protect myself when I fall.

 

It would be great to hear from guys who are using this type of stuff what really works, particularly stuff that is available in SA.  

 

Regards

M

[Daniel De Vynck]

I never go for a ride without knee pads. You can get the more trail orientated knee pads which slide on like a sleeve and have a dense foam "pad" to protect your knee, i.e Fox Enduro. The other option is more robust. They have straps and a plastic piece to protect your knee, i.e Fox Launch Pro. The latter option is much less comfortable but definitely gives more protection.