Hardshell protection is awesome for when your knee strikes that rock, but most of the time it means wearing protection that is hot and relatively uncomfortable. Dainese’s latest kneepad addresses that very issue with yet another design that is inspired by nature. Taking cues from fractals which are how many structures found in nature are created with repeating shapes, the new Armorform kneepads use an interesting design that results in a strong but comfortable shape that is also quite breathable.
In addition to the new Armorforms, Dainese is also introducing the new Altitune clothing line, which is meant to be an adaptive layering system perfect for big mountain adventures…
Representing the next evolution from the Oak Hard knee pad, the Armoform is based around hard plastic knee and shin cups which gain their strength through a repeating pattern of diamonds. Towards the edge of the cup, the reinforcing structures get thinner resulting in a shape that is completely rigid in the center and flexible at the edges. This keeps the kneepad quite comfortable but still offers excellent protection against piercing impacts. Obviously, the number of holes in the center of the cup increase ventilation to keep the rider cool.
At the top of the kneepad, there is a hinged structure that allows for articulation when pedaling and includes an internal tether to keep the knee pad together. Additionally, the pad features ample side protection and adjustable straps for the elastic compression bands with silicone grippers. Priced at $109.99, the Armoform pads will be available in Spring of 2016.
Functionally remaining mostly unchanged, the Propack which was introduced last year gets upgraded fabric with a nylon ripstop material. The change not only makes the pack more durable, but makes it a bit lighter as well. Adding a few new colors to the design, the Propack still offers flexible CE back protection with a zip off backpack portion. The pack also receives new lighter, more breathable shoulder straps and an additional rain cover. The new improved model will be available Spring 2016 for $199.99.
Meant to provide a versatile clothing option for riders who may be venturing through multiple micro climates, the Altitune Collection includes multiple pieces for an adaptive layering system. On the outside you have the Atmo-lite 3L Jacket which is a three layer, seam sealed shell that uses Dainese’s D-dry fabric. A clever feature of the jacket is found on the left sleeve where you’ll see a clear window that is touchscreen compatible for any of the various Smart watches or GPS watches. Pricing for the jacket should be around $280.
Under that, if you need warmth you could layer the Loft-Lite Jacket which is a Primaloft Gold 40g Synthetic fill insulated jacket with a cycling cut and a non-insulated hood. The third piece of the Altitune layering kit is the Driftec Tee which provides wicking and breathability with micro mesh sides.
In addition to new shorts and pants that will be out in the future, Dainese give us a sneak peek at their new under short which uses specially woven sections for comfort and performance and includes a 3-D chamois.
