ABOUT THE DHARCO GRAVITY VEST
DHaRCO aimed to hit the sweet spot of protection and comfort with their new RHEON-equipped protection line, and they nailed that balance with the Gravity Vest. This torso protection can be worn as a race-style baselayer or over the jersey for a moto-inspired roost guard look.
The CE Level 1 protection for chest and spine is delivered in a highly flexible package thanks to RHEON’s energy absorbing super polymer. This sits within a molded EVA body fabric to keep it durable enough to withstand the abuse. Lazer perforations are added to help with airflow, ensuring their Gravity Vest is breathable for hotter days. Against the skin is a soft polyester mesh to keep it comfortable against the skin and help to wick sweat. The RHEON pad is inbuilt into the mesh and EVA, meaning it is recommended only to wipe clean.
To accompany the choice of two sizes – S/M or L/XL – there is fit adjustability on the velcro shoulder straps and elastic side straps. Sizing is therefore based on torso length rather than chest size. One of the neatest features on the Gravity Vest is the magnetic buckle on these side straps, which allow for quick and easy fitting and removal with or without gloves on.
Retailing for $230 / £137 / €189.99, the DHaRCO Gravity Vest is a premium protection offering.
THE DIRT
Since the DHaRCO Gravity Vest landed with me in the Spring, it’s become a natural item to grab on the gnarlier ride days that form a large proportion of my riding. I found myself calling the Gravity Vest into action more than any body protector I’ve owned thanks to its comfort and breathability, enjoying the reassuringly protected feeling it provided without being uncomfortable to wear on climbs or for long days in the bikepark. Protection is the most useful when you’re inclined to wear it, and I found myself even donning this comfortable protector for the occasional half shell helmet ride. It was that wearable.
Once fitted and adjusted, the DHaRCO Gravity Vest blended into the background better than any chest and back protector I’ve worn. The magnetic buckles allowed the quick release of the protector to further boost breathability and remove any pressure when climbing. Once at the summit, the straps snapped back closed with one hand to quickly get ready to drop in.
I rode some of the roughest and rowdiest trails of my life in the DHaRCO Gravity Vest, and not once did it shift position. Remaining solidly in place and offering no restriction to movement, this body protector faded into the background in the best way possible. It continued to do so from the spring into the fall, somehow avoiding any odour and showing no signs of wear and tear. I mixed it up between under and over the jersey, with my preference for the Roost Guard style aesthetic to try and do my best Nico Vink impression.
Drew highlighted that he’d love to see deeper coverage at the base of the back with the protector. I was happy with the balance of coverage provided, personally. My only wishes would be to see a Level 2 protection in key areas of the spine, as well as the ability to remove the RHEON material for easier washing. But given that I’ve worn the DHaRCO Gravity Vest around 50 rides without a stench forming, perhaps a quick wipe down is all that’s required after all.
The Wolf’s Last Word
I’m a huge fan of the DHaRCO Gravity Vest. The RHEON protection material combined with DHaRCO’s clever design delivers an exceptionally comfortable, wearable protector that encourages its use on more rides. And the best protection is the protection you’re most inclined to wear. 
Price: $230 / £137 / €189.99
Website: Dharco.com
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ABOUT THE WOLF
Robert’s habitat is the Tweed Valley, Scotland, which is renowned for its root-littered enduro mountain bike trails. Robert has been developing his bike handling skills for the last 16 years. Since he was a pup, he’s been riding everything from BMX through to enduro and downhill bikes. Combining a playful style with occasional speed-focused aggression, he favors supportive bikes, and does his best to push them hard.
Rank: European Tech Editor
Size: 6’2” / 189cm | 220lbs / 100kg
Social: @robert_johnston
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