Industry News

Introduction:
All-mountain skiers and snowboarders thrive on diversity, seeking out groomers, moguls, powder stashes, trees, and steeps—often all in one run. This versatility demands gear that performs reliably across constantly changing snow conditions and terrain challenges. A core challenge is maintaining safety during aggressive riding at speed, through variable snow, and in tight trees where falls can be sudden and impact points unpredictable. High-speed catches on hardpack, unexpected submarine drops in heavy snow, or collisions with hidden obstacles under powder all pose significant risks to the spine and upper body. Bulky or restrictive protection hinders the dynamic movement essential for all-mountain control. The Ski & Snowboard Back Protection vest (S-SN-006) provides comprehensive CE Level 1 certified core defense designed for the rigors and variability of all-mountain exploration, without sacrificing breathability or mobility.

The Problem of Unpredictable Impacts Across Varied Terrain:
Aggressive all-mountain riding involves managing inherent risks: icy patches can cause high-speed edge catches; deep powder can hide rocks or logs; moguls can trigger awkward rotational falls; tree wells present unique dangers. The force transmitted through the spine in a sudden impact, especially onto a hard subsurface or an obstacle, can be severe. Shoulder and elbow impacts are common when bracing during falls or hitting trees. Riders need protection that covers multiple potential impact zones but remains adaptable. Protection that causes overheating on long traverses or restricts the deep flexion/extension needed for moguls and powder turns becomes a liability, often leading riders to forego safety gear altogether. Comfort over long days is non-negotiable.

Solution: Adaptive Protection for the Demanding All-Mountain Rider:
The Ski & Snowboard Back Protection vest (S-SN-006) is engineered as adaptable core armor for the all-mountain environment. The integrated CE Level 1 SPO pad offers certified defense for the spine, the most critical area vulnerable in high-energy falls common at speed or onto hard surfaces. Critically, its protection extends beyond the spine to the chest, shoulders, and elbows, creating a comprehensive shield for the upper body core against impacts from multiple angles encountered in varied terrain—whether it's a forward pitch onto the chest/shoulders in powder or a sideways slam onto an elbow in the trees.

The slip-on design is ideal for layering systems used in variable all-mountain conditions. It slips easily over a base layer or mid-layer and under a shell, adapting to temperature changes without requiring complex adjustments or removal. The 80% Polyester + 20% Spandex fabric is fundamental to its all-mountain performance. The high breathability prevents excessive heat buildup during strenuous climbs or aggressive descents in warmer conditions. Its moisture-wicking capability efficiently moves sweat away from the skin, keeping the rider dry and comfortable throughout long days, preventing chills when stopping or on lifts. The quick-dry property is essential after face shots in powder or falls in wet spring snow. The significant Spandex content provides the necessary stretch for deep, dynamic movements: powerful carved turns on groomers, quick pivots in moguls, and fluid balance adjustments in deep snow and tight trees.

Key Benefits for All-Mountain Skiers & Snowboarders:

1. Comprehensive Core & Spine Defense: CE Level 1 SPO pad protects the spine, while extended coverage safeguards chest, shoulders, and elbows against diverse impact scenarios.

2. Adaptive Layering: Easy slip-on design integrates seamlessly with changing layers and conditions throughout the day.

3. All-Day Climate Comfort: Breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-dry fabric ensures comfort and thermal regulation from first chair to last run, in sun, wind, or snow.

4. Dynamic Mobility: Stretch fabric allows full freedom for aggressive carving, mogul skiing, powder surfing, and navigating technical terrain without restriction.

5. Lightweight, Unobtrusive Safety: Provides essential protection without bulk or weight, preserving the feel and agility demanded by all-mountain riding.

Conclusion:
True all-mountain freedom comes from the confidence to tackle any condition or line. The Ski & Snowboard Back Protection vest (S-SN-006) provides that confidence through certified core defense (CE Level 1 SPO) covering the spine, chest, shoulders, and elbows. Designed for adaptability, it integrates effortlessly into layering systems and excels in the variable demands of the mountain. Its breathability, moisture management, and unrestricted mobility ensure it enhances, rather than hinders, the all-mountain experience. It's the essential, unobtrusive layer that empowers riders to push their limits safely across the entire mountain, day after day.