IXS FLOW PROTECTION VEST
£149.99
SPECIFICATION Weight: 675g • Sizes: XS - XXL • Colours: Grey • Women’s version: No • Contact: hotlines-uk.com
Designed for trail and enduro riding, this IXS Flow vest is arguably the most comfortable and invisible piece of protection on test that comes with the higher protection rating. Constructed from thin, lightweight fabric with an internal pocket accommodating a slide-in back panel, it’s close in concept to the EVOC and Ion products here but slightly more expensive than both.
The Flow’s padding covers a broad portion of the back and uses the brand’s own impact hardening material called ‘X-matter’, which is both flexible and very effective at moulding to the spine’s shape by becoming almost squidgy once heated up by the body.
The IXS back panel is also articulated with bendy ridges to effectively trace body movements and twisting, and it’s apparently as tough as one too, being CE Level 2 rated.
The yellow padding feels really thick and robust, but the excellent fit meant that it didn’t hang loose, so the whole package sat close to the body and remained slimline and unobtrusive.
The spine pad itself is also a practical shape that’s long enough to cover all vertebrae, with more width across the upper portion to protect shoulder blades and ribs, and a skinnier tail where riders’ bodies twist more lower down the back.
This Flow vest isn’t as light as some, but never feels bulky, heavy or inhibiting while pedalling, presumably aided by how well it stays close to the spine. Combine this with a body-hugging fit and soft fabrics with sorted cooling and moisture management, and it’s very easy to forget you’re wearing it most of the time. A further boost to this comfort is a finer mesh fabric panel above the backboard that does a good job dumping extra body heat out of the top.
In a nod to practicality, there are twin stash pockets on either side of the back panel with room for riding essentials like gels, snacks or small tools, without impacting on comfort or function. We wouldn’t necessarily recommend carrying anything hard or sharp as it could dig into your kidneys in a crash, but if you’re after low-profile sleeveless back protection with the highest impact rating, this is a great option.