Zero 7 IDX1 Upper Body Protector

Our favorite kind of upper body protector? Well, it's often the one that we completely forget while we're wearing…at least until we're the victim of a sudden gust of gravity, and heading for the ground while doing a quick mental checklist about the safety gear we're wearing. We recently got a chance to try out a Zero7 upper body protector, and were impressed on a couple fronts.

The first thing that really sets it apart from some of the other units we've work was its convertible shoulder strap design. Flipping up a hinged plastic tab on each of the four corners releases the straps, so you to either easily adjust its length, or to swap them out completely. There are two different styles of straps, and the stock set has shoulder cups on each side (with a cool spring setup that keeps them aligned at the right angle), or if you prefer to run a little more streamlined setup, you can swap them out for a set of cupless "enduro" straps that are included with the protector.

Releasing these clips allow you to adjust the strap length, or replace the straps.

The stock setup uses this strap and cup arrangement, and you can see the "enduro" straps in the top photo. Both styles are included.

We also like the carbon fiber stiffener that runs the entire length of the rear panel for some added protection.

How about some carbon protection for the back panel?

But maybe what we liked best about the Zero7 was that the area around the neck was much more open than some of the other protectors we've worn, and right out of the box it worked really well with the Leatt Brace we've been running…all with no modification required.

The rest is pretty basic, like the clear plastic upper panels for the front and rear, and a pivot in the center of the front on the Italian-made unit that keeps things comfortable. The lower end of the front and rear panels are molded from a more flexible plastic that more easily (and comfortably) molds around your body, The panels are backed with nylon-covered foam, and there's enough ventilation to keep you plenty cool.

The upper front panel is a bit narrower than some of the full-coverage protectors we've tried, and it offers plenty of room for guys who don't like when their arms hit the front panels. But you'll have to decide if the level of roost protection is adequate for you. The upper arm protectors? They were a bit skinny, and we pulled them off and tossed them…though again, if you're riding in rocky territory, you may want to keep them around.

Overall, this is one upper body protector that really works well with the current crop of neck protection, and is light enough that you barely notice that you have it on.

Current color combos include a clear/black or transparent red/black, and there are a couple other colors on the way in the future. Suggested retail? $139.00.

For more info, call (866) 950-6652.