Update: This article is written as though the Seamless range replaces the Armour Lineup we tested last year. This is not the case. Those hydration pack compatible back protection vests are still available from Bluegrass.
Bluegrass have left you with fewer excuses than ever to leave your back protector at home with their all-new seamless range of D3O back protection vests. While their predecessors used a jacket-like design with a full-length zipper up the front, the seamless range puts D3O impact protection into a light, breathable and so-called invisible pull-over vest design.
Bluegrass D3O Back Protectors: The Seamless Ones
The two new Seamless D3O back protection vests from Bluegrass are designed to feel like a second skin, placing a massive focus on comfort and breathability. These are some of the most minimal back protection vests we’ve seen yet, offering ample ventilation for hot bike park laps at the height of summer.
The previous iterations of the Bluegrass D3O Lite and B&S (back and shoulder) back protectors were far from being uncomfortable (we reviewed them here). The new Seamless offerings take wearability up several gears.
The fit is said to be unisex, accommodating all body shapes. It is the elasticated fabric allows for this versatile fit. The vests are made from 90% Dryarn microfiber, meant to help regulate the rider’s body temperature, continually driving perspiration away from the skin. It does this without retaining the moisture, making this a quick-drying item.
Both garments feature the new D3O-BP4 back protector. It is immeasurably more well-ventilated than its predecessor and it is said to be more flexible too.
The new Seamless line of back protectors are much longer than their predecessors, designed to be tucked into your riding shorts or pants for a more secure and comfortable fit.
While the earlier back protection vests from Bluegrass were water bladder compatible, these new ones aren’t, prioritizing a lightweight design over storage capacity. They do however retain two elasticated rear pockets where you can stuff a couple snacks or spares for your ride.
Pricing & Availability
Both back protection vests get two sizing options; S/M and L/XL, for torso lengths of 38-48cm, and 48-58cm, respectively.
The Bluegrass Seamless Lite D3O retails at 190€, £170, 225 US$, 300 CAD, and 300 AUD. Meanwhile, the Seamless B&S D3O is a little pricier, in line with the extra protection you get at the shoulders. It will set you back 250€, £230, 300 US$, 350 CAD, 400 AUD.
