PRODUCT EVALUATION: FLY RACING PATROL GEAR & FORMULA CP RUSH HELMET

By the staff of Dirt Wheels

When you spend days at a time in riding gear as we do, comfort and protection go hand in hand. Whether we’re testing sport quads or 4×4 ATVs, we’re constantly on and off the machines, so our gear must remain cool and be easy to move around in. Easy-access pockets for phones, extra memory cards and camera batteries are a bonus. Fly Racing’s new Patrol over-boot race wear delivers on all fronts.

PATROL OVER-BOOT PANTS

The pants have six zippered vents, which can be opened on warm days to increase airflow through a mesh liner around the knees and hips. Sixteen-inch zippers are also integrated into the lower legs, allowing easy access to boot buckles and the ability to adjust knee protection without removing the pants. Two large pockets, whether standing or sitting, are easy to access and spacious enough for a phone, a large wallet or just a dry pair of gloves. A small pocket inside the waistband is also perfect for a truck key. Stretch rib panels inside the thighs and above the knees resist binding. The pants don’t appear overly baggy, but they don’t hang up on the hard edges of boots, either. The waistband has a Velcro strap adjustment and ratcheting enclosure for perfect comfort adjustment. Available in U.S. sizes 30 to 42, the pants can be worn in blue and black or caramel and black colors. MSRP is $159.95.

PATROL JERSEY

Color-matched jerseys have meshed paneling to allow ventilation. The stretch cuffs are relaxed above the wrist, but snug enough not to wander up the forearm. The Lycra collar is tag-less and made to stretch over the head without hanging sloppily around the neck. Multiple-panel construction gives this jersey a fit that isn’t baggy, but not slim and uncomfortable on larger torsos. It’s an excellent choice for the average “dad bod,” with sizing from small to 3XL. The jersey receives a reflective print like the pants for better night-ride visibility. MSRP is $39.95.

PATROL XC LITE GLOVES

Lightweight feel, excellent style, and sewn-in padding across the fingers and knuckles make these one of our favorite gloves for cross-country riding. The fit is snug but never binding, and the material in the palms doesn’t bunch up against the handlebar grips. The wrist closures are adjustable with a Velcro fastener, and the thumbs have a reinforced layer that resists skin blistering from thumb-throttle levers. The index and middle fingertips have a strip of silicone for added grip. Available in black or grey, U.S. sizing runs from 7 to 12. MSRP is $29.95.

FORMULA CP RUSH HELMET

Constructed with an alloy polycarbonate shell, the first thing we noticed about this helmet is that it is very light. It weighs just over 3 pounds, but is built to be highly protective. Fly Racing claims its Adaptive Impact System (AIS) is designed to absorb low- and higher-speed impacts and places more suspension between your head and the ground. This helmet does meet ECE and DOT ratings. Custom-molded rubber trim includes an integrated nose guard for added roost protection. When in motion, air is forced through multiple air intake vents, passes through aligned vent channels, and exits multiple rear exhaust vents. It does remain cool and comfortable even on the warmest days. The Quick-Dry comfort liner and cheek pads are removable and washable, constructed with moisture-wicking, anti-microbial material. The helmet favors an oval-shaped head with sizes from XS to 2XL. Color combination choices include black/red/white, black/stone/dark teal, grey/black/white, or the pictured blue/black/white scheme. It’s also available in solid black. MSRP is $259.95.