7iDP Flex Knee pads and M2 Helmet – First Look

The latest gear from Seven iDP has just landed, including the Flex Kneepads and the M2 helmet.

7iDP have been growing year on year, and the opening page of their 2016 catalogue makes it blatantly clear that this is just the beginning. Riding with one of the designers last year, it was clear how much passion there was for creating awesome products for every day riders right up to world class racers.

The Flex kneepad sits bang in the middle of the range, offering full coverage and side protection while remaining light and flexible enough to pedal in. A thin neoprene sleeve with a large knee cutout makes up the main part of the pad, with tough Amarid covering over the padding.

Inside the pad are layers of multi-density slow-rebound foam, some of which are super-tough while others are really flexible. The sides of the knee also have small pads for added protection. Both the large strap above the knee and the smaller strap on the calf come from the centre of the back of the pad round either side to make sure you can get them just right.

The Flex is also available as a wraparound so you don’t have to remove your shoes, and with an extra shin section to attach. The first couple of rides in them have been good, a bit warmer than the Covert pads I tested last year, but for burlier trail and DH duties they feel like they will be great.

RRP£59.99

The M2 helmet has been in the lineup for a couple of years, growing in the number of colours each time, 6 at the last count including some rowdy offerings!

The cut is offers good coverage down the back, with a simple dial to adjust the fit. The design is well vented, and the peak is attached with sturdy hardware. Inside the foam are dual density cones that offer protection from the little hits as well as the bigger ones. A really nice touch is the reflective material on the dial, making those last kms back to the car a fraction safer at dusk perhaps.

The M2 has been a great seller for 7iDp, and at a penny under 60 quid it’s apparent why, so far the comfort and fit have been at least as good as helmets with far bigger price tags.

Spring has been knocking on the door, this gear is going to get the usual ragging and I’ll let you know where we’re up to.

7iDP are distributed by Decade Europe.

Photos Skinny Dave Morris