New Brand – Seven IDP

Seven is the magic number as the guys behind Royal Racing bring us a whole new brand – Seven Intelligent Design Protection.

Seven guys with seven very different opinions, but united by one clear vision – to take MTB protection to the next level.

It’s a bold opening statement to the plush 7iDP catalogue, but the guys behind Royal Racing believe it and from looking at their products they haven’t skrimped and cut corners to produce some innovative and high quality protection.

The fabrics used are not off the shelf, instead they have been designed from the threads up to suit the exact needs of the designers. Tav, one of the designers, was keen to stress that this was something that isn’t often seen, and caused all sorts of hassle in the factories. They have been tested initially by Tav Capewell and Nick Bayliss, and in turn by such names as Steve Peat, Kurt Sorge, Mark Weir, Garett Buehler, Neil Donoghue, Chris Akrigg and the Trek World Racing Team. It’s fair to say then, that they have had some serious testing at the highest levels of mountain biking.

Tactic Series

The high end of their range, the Tactic Series is feature, and protection packed. A solid knee/ knee and shin plastic composite CURV cover is left exposed to allow the body to slide rather than catching on the ground during an impact. Combined with the superb Boa system that gives infinite adjustability, securing these is no bother at all. Once on they feature a floating knee socket within them, allowing the kneecap to move naturally during pedaling, while ventilation is taken care of by (another!) custom neoprene. “I could feel the wind pouring through them” adds designer Tav. The pads will open fully at the back allowing them to be put on or taken off without removing your shoes.

Knee/Shin – £179.99

Knee – £149.99

Elbow – £119.99

Control Series

Next in the line up is the Control Series. Again these feature a CURV cap on the knee or elbow, and the same custom neoprene. Wide velcro straps keep the pads in place and give a firm fit without being overly constricting. There is an articulated section at the top of each pad that allows natural movement, and again the perfect fit.

Knee – £99.99

Elbow – £79.99

Ankle – £99.99

Covert Series

Aimed at riders who ride up and along as well as down, the Covert series is noticeably lighter, and has a much smaller pack size, making them ideal for popping in a pack. The double layer foam padding and plastic cap inside are fully removable for washing, but also to allow you to tune exactly how much protection or weight you are after.

Knee – £69.99

Elbow – £59.99

Transition Series 

The Transition Series base suits feature the same great tuneable padding as the Covert Series pads, allowing riders to choose their level of protection, as well as stripping the suits down for washing. The Curv flexible spine protector is also removable to allow washing. The padding in the chest and back is also removable, and they have been working with the guys from Atlas to ensure that the gear is compatible with their neckbraces as well as many others on the market.

Long Sleeved – £139.99

Short Sleeved – £109.99

(A control suit is also available – £159.99)

 

The team behind 7iDP are clearly proud and dedicated to producing some exceptional and innovative products, unconstrained by what they can grab off the shelf in a far Eastern factory. Combine that with an epic team of riders testing their products to their limit, and providing honest, frank feedback over a number of years and we are looking at a brand that is set to up the ante in the protection game. We’ll be sure to get our sticky paws on the gear when it lands later this year, and bring you some in-depth reviews.

http://www.7protection.com/

 

Disclaimer – prices are to be finalised by Decade in the UK shortly

7IDP body armour Elbow Pad Knee Pad protection Seven IDP