Skip to main content

Forcefield EX-K elbow pads


FORCEFIELD’S EX-K PADS are CE level 2 certified, making them some of the toughest arm defenders you can buy. They’re pre-curved, have two robust retaining straps and a mesh sock over the lower arm to hold them in place. Protection is provided by Forcefield’s heat-activated Evo Nitrex armour (think a stiffer version of D3O) and the foam backing is perforated for improved breathability.

In theory the pads sound great, but in practice, things aren’t so clear cut. The EX-Ks look pretty dated and they’re so big that we struggled to get them under our jersey sleeves. While the armour itself provides decent protection, glancing blows made the pads move around our arms, despite the substantial straps and slightly baggy mesh sock. They’re also so rigid that they’re not that comfortable to wear, and they’re expensive too.

Price 105$


Popular posts from this blog

ENVE M50 29" Wheels

Utah based company ENVE have been making drool-worthy carbon components for some years now. Despite the fact that carbon rims are becoming more and more common on mountain bikes these days, you can guarantee that ENVE wheels will be a talking point when someone is eyeing off a steed. Instantly, the big bold logos on each rim scream "fast", "light" and to some extent, "expensive" The kids call this 'bling'.

DRC X-Monitor SP1 lap timer

While smartphone apps such as Strava can be a useful way to keep tabs on your mountain bike rides, sometimes you just can’t beat the simplicity and instant feedback that a good old-fashioned stopwatch style lap timer provides.

Scott Stego MIPS helmet

Scott’s top-end aggressive trail helmet is only available with MIPS, as the Swiss brand were early adopters of the system. The EPS extends low at the rear without clashing with the retention system and the strap attachment points are external to the liner, maximising the amount of material around the temples. This is the closest-fitting helmet on test, with very little clearance inside the liner. Despite this, and although the Stego has fewer vents than some other lids here, we never felt too hot-headed. Scott spent time developing the ventilation system using a wind tunnel and it seems to have paid off. The thin pads don’t offer quite as much comfort as some competitors’, and while the short peak is removable, it doesn’t offer any height adjustment. Weight 340g Sizing S, M, L Price $180

SANTA CRUZ NOMAD

Santa Cruz’s new enduro focused dream bike While the Santa Cruz Bronson has been causing a commotion on the enduro scene as one of the lighter and more capable bikes, the Californian company have been working on something better suited to the more gravity orientated courses.

Fulcrum Red Power XL wheels

THESE WHEELS CERTAINLY don't look like some of the cheapest on test, and the adjustable-preload bearings are some of the smoothest and longest lived at any price.