Padded Race Tops

Didn't want to steal NewRacer3's thread so:

 I started racing last year and towards the end started hitting gates.  Once it started to hurt, I used my daughter's soccer shin guard on my forearms and all was well. Slightly uncomfortable but did the job. Since I plan on spending the entire season racing as much as I can (84 starts last season and will easily break 100 this season), it was recommended to get at least a padded top.  I don't believe I'm at a point that a gs suit is required (biggest bang will be in technique) and my daughter said she'd be less willing to go with me if I was in one.  Can't say I blame her.

Anyway, looking at padded tops.  Spyder has a couple I like.  Of course the one I really like "Spyder: Power d3o Stealth Top" is either out of stock or for sale at full price ($100).  The next one down "Spyder: Stealth Top" looks good too but I'm worried that I'll end up wishing I got the other one because it isn't protecting as much.  I've only been able to find the latter on sale in my size (M) according to Spyder's charts.

I've been reasoning it out that there's a reason the d30 is sold out and I should wait for that.  I'm trying to be a little thrifty as this season is going to be more expensive than last (daughter is doing race camp).

Would appreciate any insight on these:

Are padded tops worth it at all?

Is the d30 that much better and worth paying full price?

Is the Stealth good enough and will protect my arms and shoulders.

Thanks,

Ken

I got the d3o. It really works. If you're going to start 100 races, it doesn't seem like $100 is too much to pay. 

L&AirC. You might like to consider the Dainese Hard Shell Slalom Top. Much better protection from Gate Bashing and still fits under your ski jacket. Currently on sale at Race-Werks for a very deep discount($72). If you search the forum you can locate several positive reviews of this Dainese Body Armour.

I have been using the Descent Protector Jacket for NASTAR and Masters Trainging this year and really like it. For NASTAR the jacket will improve your time by a few tenths so buy it big enough so you can put a couple layers of polypro under it. It has forearm as well as shoulder protection. I would also recommend you get a good pair of padded race gloves.  I have found that some of my fastest NASTAR handicaps (7HC -10HC) this year were runs where I didn't hit any gates so if you are hitting them reguarly it may not be necessary. Concentrate on a smooth carved line with good turn transitions. I would also like to get a pair of padded tight fitting pants for NASTAR but no one seems to make them anymore.

JMD,

Is it true for sizing?  My sleeve length is 32, chest is just under 42.  If I keep with my PT schedule, my moombs should be gone by December and I'll be no more than a 41.  I can't find much on the sizing at the dianese site.  According to race werks, as long as I loose the moobs I'll be OK.

rcahilI,

According to descente's sizing, I would have to get an xl if I'm going to put anything under it.  I usually bounce between a M or a L.  How is the sizing on the descente's?

Thanks for taking the time to answer,

Ken

epic,

You're right.  The problem is my life is a SITCOM - Single Income, Three Children, Oppresive Mortgage.  That and I have a wife that views skiing as a not needed expense!  Just trying to see if I can catch a good deal during the off season.

Ken

Quote:

Originally Posted by L&AirC 

How is the sizing on the descente's?

 

Thanks for taking the time to answer,

Ken

I am 6'1" and 200 lbs.  I purchased the Descente Podborski soft shell jacket this past year which is essentially the same as the padded top, just without the pads.  The XL is a tight fitting XL for me, but that is OK because it is for racing. 

I also purchased the stretch training shorts and had to use the 38 rather than the 34/35 that I normally use.  The point I am trying to make is that Descente sizing runs a little smaller than what you are used to.  I purchased a Spyder speed suit and had to buy the XXL.  I find that when it comes to racing gear (including bikes) that the sizes always run a bit smaller than "normal" clothes. 

L&AirC. I purchased the Dainese Large Hard Shell Slalom Top. We share the same measurments. The top is snug but comfortable with one regular  long sleeve shirt under it. The padded sleeves of the top add additional warmth. There is room for a vest and regular Jacket or Hard/soft shell over it. It can also be used as armour under a non padded DH suit if you decide to pick one up later.

I am 165lbs, 5'11" with fairly long arms. I ordered both a M and L (since I'm a M chest and L arms) and ended up keeping the L. It works with two polypro shirts underneath (crewneck + tutrleneck). I wanted it tight fitting for wind resistance but it is still comfortable. You might want an XL. If in doubt order both since it is pretty inexpensibve to send one back (CHECK RETURN POLICIES). there are good prices (~$100) right now if you do a search on Google. I find the forearm pads in the jacket coupled with padded race gloves or mittens provide all the protection I normally need for NASTAR or GS training.

I think I would have been happiest with Descente's padded jacket, but I couldn't bring myself to order an XL.  Just not willing to accept I let myself get that far out of shape yet.

Dainese won even though they have the slowest, least informative site I've been to.  Should be here in a week.

Thanks for all the help folks,

Ken

I just pulled my old Descente padded sweater out of the closet to see if it might be if use to you.  Alas, it is not marked but I think it is a small, possibly medium.  I'm 5'9" and 170 pounds.  I could get it over my head with a struggle and the sleeves are long enough, but it is almost impossible to zip the section of neoprene that used to provide lower back support.  I might be able to get in to it if I cut the other side and add some more fabric.  I'm thinking a large or XL would fit me better too

crgidart,

Racewerks has a great deal on the Dianese Hard Shell.

The Race Place has a great deal on the Descente Protector Jacket.

Both about the same price.

I received the Dianese Hard Shell today in a Large.  Snug it is.  I was surprised how snug the cuffs were too.  Now all I need is a cape

L&AirC. I found the Dainese top would stretch out and mold to my body shape with a couple hours of wearing. It is still snug but much more comfortable with a little more use.

Good.  Otherwise I was going to have to get a moob reduction.  Actually, it's tightest in the forearms.  The material will look like it will stretch though.  I think I'm going to be quite happy with it.  Can't beat it for $72.

The only downside will be getting tempted to closeline out of control teenagers on their way to the terrain park.

Thanks,

Ken