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Ion is expanding its range of protectors with the new Arcon HD Pro breastplate. The upper body protector was developed in close collaboration with freeride legend Nico Vink and is based on his 20 years of experience in the gravity segment. The chest protector protects both the chest and back area and fulfils the Level 2 CE test standard for both zones. According to the manufacturer, it therefore offers a high level of protection for demanding gravity applications such as downhill or freeride. The special feature of the Arcon HD Pro is the REZRO material used, which is said to be completely biodegradable.
Innovative design for optimum protection
The construction of the Ion Arcon HD Pro utilises several elements to combine protection and freedom of movement. So-called Power Slide Caps are used on the front and back. These black plates are made of comparatively hard, non-slip material. They are designed to ensure that the rider slides across the ground in the event of a fall rather than hitting the ground abruptly and with full force. To improve breathability, the structure of the protector is criss-crossed with large ventilation openings. According to Ion, this should ensure optimum cooling, even on warm days in the bike park.
Customisable fit for different body types
Ion offers the Arcon HD Pro in two sizes for an optimum fit. The so-called SyncBody harness system is also used. The straps can be adjusted in width using Velcro fasteners and can therefore be customised both on the shoulders and the stomach. This means that the protector sits comfortably and without wobbling. The chest protector is equipped with a quick-release fastener for quick donning and doffing. The 3D fit should also ensure plenty of freedom of movement so that the protector does not restrict movement when riding.
Back protectors that are worn over the shirt are all the rage in the bike park. They look stylish, are more airy than most conventional armour and reliably protect the chest and back in the event of a fall. We put the pioneer Poc VPD System Torso and the newcomer Evoc Torso Protector to the test.
Sustainable protector material
A special feature of the Ion Arcon HD Pro is the REZRO material used. This is said to be completely biodegradable. According to Ion, special ingredients are added during the manufacturing process that accelerate the biodegradation process in a microbe-rich and low-oxygen environment. In a suitable landfill environment, this process should only take three to five years. In this way, Ion wants to make a contribution to greater sustainability in the protector segment.
Ion Arcon HD - first test
After Evoc and Poc, clothing and protector specialist Ion has now also developed a chest and back armour that can be worn over a shirt - in keeping with the current style. Visually, the bulky armour could also be worn by a special forces unit and I was a little sceptical when I first saw it: the Arcon HD Pro with its martial hard-shell trimmings, the so-called Power Slide Caps and a weight of 1369 grams is heavy in the hand and initially seems quite bulky. But the initial scepticism disappeared after the first descent at the season opening on the Geißkopf.
The Ion waistcoat can be optimally adjusted to the body both at the shoulders and at the sides using solid Velcro fasteners and sits extremely firmly and securely with its wide stretch straps. The recyclable REZRO material offers a comfortable flex so that the protector does not sit too rigidly on the body despite the sturdy slide caps. The interruption of the hard shell on the back means that the protector adapts well to the rider's movements. I found the quick-release fastener particularly practical, making it easy to remove the waistcoat during breaks.
The mercury in the thermometer had not yet risen high enough for a real heat test. However, on first use, the Ion waistcoat with its large ventilation openings certainly made a well-ventilated impression. At 240 euros, it is priced between Evoc and Poc, but unlike its competitors, the Ion fulfils the high protection level 2 on both the back and chest. I also liked the handling of the Arcon HD Pro a little better and it is definitely a successful alternative.
+ protection level 2 on the chest and back
+ Flexible and easy to adjust
+ clever quick-release fastener
- Heavy and expensive
Ion Arcon HD Pro: Price and availability
The Ion Arcon HD Pro MTB chest protector is now available from specialist retailers. The recommended retail price is 239.99 euros. The protector is available in sizes S/M and M/L and comes in the colour black. With its comparatively high price, Ion has positioned the Arcon HD Pro in the upper segment of gravity protectors.
Technical specifications - Ion Arcon HD Pro
- Material80 per cent thermoplastic rubber, 20 per cent thermoplastic polyurethane
- Protection classCE Level 2 (chest and back)
- SizesS/M, M/L
- ColourBlack
- Weight: 1369 gram (M/L)
- Price239,99 Euro >> at Rosebikes or Maciag Offroad
Special features
- Fully biodegradable REZRO material
- Power Slide Caps on the front and back
- SyncBody harness system for customised adjustment
- Large ventilation openings
- Quick release fastener
Stefan Frey
Editor
