andyf profile

My Fox Enduro Pro pads are slightly less ventilated/well made but very similar and Fox has since switched to what appears to be the same D30 pad vs. the proprietary but identically shaped pad in the older version. My thoughts about the level of protection vs. ventilation are the same. Before each ride, I look at the Fox pads and my 7idp Sam Hill pads and usually go with the far less protective Fox pads.

Back of knee cutouts work for some but not others. I couldn't get along with the 7idp Project Knee pads because the cutout wore my skin raw.

I'd rate the Projects over the Sam Hills for the materials, the upper thigh strap, and the knee cap but the cutout at the back of the knee shifts on me and ends up rubbing my skin raw. I corresponded with Jeremy at 7Protection/Royal about it and he said a few people have that problem with the Projects. He offered me 50% off on the Sam Hills, so I jumped at it.

I forced the "knee pads every ride" habit on myself a couple of years ago. I have a pair of Fox Enduro D30 pads that I can put on and forget but, like the Leatt Airflex, they only offer EN1621 level 1 protection. It may be a futile effort, but i've been hoping to find something with similar comfort/airflow that offers level 2 protection. And maybe even a plastic skidplate over the kneecap? Candidates tested so far include 7idp Sam Hill and Project Knee, and Sweet Protection Knee Guard. The Sam Hills are workable for a long trail ride but definitely warmer and more noticeable than the lighter Fox pads. The back of the knee cutout of the Project Knee didn't work for me but I otherwise like those. The Sweet Protection Guards need to go to someone who rides in much colder weather than I.

For 90+% of my rides, I look at the Sam Hills for a moment, let the thoughts of needing added protection pass, and grab the lightweight, airy Fox pads.

I’ve never ridden in shorts as loud as the Fox Flexair. No need for a bell with these things rubbing against my knee pads.

Have you had a chance to compare with the DBX 3.0 short? Supposedly same cut with a lighter material. 

I've been using the Fox Flexair as my warm weather short. Fit and comfort are good but the sound of that fabric rubbing against my kneepads with every pedal stroke...

I guess there is an upside to riding in poison oak. You clean everything post-ride or pay the consequences.

Yeah, Mountain X.  It replaced my ~15 year old Joe Blow that blew up.

Thanks for the hose/smart head tip! I have no complaints with the stock hose/head so far, though. 

I've had the pump for about a month now and the D2 for about 6 months. Consistent readings on both for me too so I generally don't bother checking with the D2 anymore.

The Bell Super Air also uses MIPS Spherical and comes with a GoPro mount. I haven't tried using it with a light or camera so no comment on it moving around but I did wonder the same thing about goggles. No issues there.

Specialized swat frame storage screws up the switching between bikes thing. I ended up with a second set of on bike tools/gear for my other bikes.