While a growing number of snowmobilers recognize the benefits of wearing upper body protection, most snowmobilers don’t wear any. The reason? Comfort and freedom of movement are some of the typical answers. This is about to change with the latest and greatest upper body protection we’ve ever tested. TekRider offers two new TekVests that incorporate vented panels made from UHMW, that same miracle plastic used to make so many plastic skis. UHMW is a flexible plastic that offers extraordinary protection but at a level of comfort previously unavailable. We’re not kidding here. We’ve been wearing other TekVests for a number of years, including a UHMW snow vest, but the new “Off-Road RallySport” and “Off-Road Sport-UHMW” are so superior to everything else, we had to tell you about it. Not only is the vest nearly invisible when you wear it, it is far cooler than any previous vest we’ve used due to thevented panels and adjustability. Both of these new models are designed to be used for ATV, dirt bike and snowmobile use. Ski-Doo has even added the Off-Road Sport version to their OEM accessory catalog as the “Ski-Doo Mountain Light Vest” with slightly different coloration and a slick little X-Team graphic.
Both vests offer the convenience of a full frontal zipper for easy on & off. The RallySport has a few more features, including an integrated rear cargo pouch that accommodates most any 50-70 ounce hydration packs and some 100-ounce systems! A drink hose carrier sleeve in built into the left shoulder, and the cargo net can also be used to carry small items (jersey, gloves, etc.). Shoulder pads are standard on this version, where they are an accessory add-on to the Sport and Ski-Doo versions (which make them ISR legal for racing).
Our testing of the RallySport has demonstrated the comfort, excellent ventilation, and greater coverage and protectionafforded by the well thought-out design and construction. A full hydration pack all but disappears, as the weight of the pack is distributed across your entire back and shoulders instead of being obvious with two little straps. If you have ever considered upper body protection but found it to be bulky or too warm, this is what you’ve been waiting for. For those who ride dirt bikes and ATVs, there simplyis no equal in terms of comfortable protection. Some riders think the hard plastic typical of roost protectors provides chest protection, but that type of armor provides very little in terms of energy absorption. About all they do is provide (as their name implies) protection from mud and rocks, or roost from the guy in front of you. Hit the ground with one of those on and you’ll find out what they don’t provide! The RallySport retails for $299-$329, depending on the sizing, with the Sport-UHMW going for $199-$229. Both are simply the best upper body protection we’ve ever come across. If you wear a helmet and goggles, then you need one of these for the exact same reasons. Visit your local Ski-Doo dealer or contact TekRider at 705-488-2929 (www.tekrider.com)
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