Fox V4 Helmet Review

The developers at Fox have been working diligently to create a much more evolved version of their V3 Helmet with the new Fox V4 Helmet. The goal behind creating the V4 was making a helmet that didn't just outperform all other premium dirt helmets, but also one that was able to go head to head with some of the best helmets on the market. I have to say they did just that! The V4 offers some great features that provide comfort, protection, and style for any rider.

Check out our Fox V4 Helmet Review:



Designed and developed completely by Fox engineers in California, the V4 has a brand new layout from its predecessor. Some of the most notable features are its removable single mouthguard, the integrated roost guard, and the screened off intake and exhaust ports that allow cool air to enter the helmet, but keep unwanted material such as mud out.

Starting with the shell, one of the biggest changes Fox made from the V3 to the V4 is now the helmet is completely constructed out of carbon fiber where the V3 was a composite made of fiberglass and carbon fiber. This allows the V4 to be significantly lighter, but doesn't sacrifice protection. Carbon fiber helmets are some of the lightest helmets on the market that still meet or exceed the necessary safety standards. What makes carbon fiber helmets so safe is that they are able to better absorb forces of impact than most other helmet material while the fiber weave design makes it less likely for objects to penetrate through the shell. Another highlight of the V4 is the use of dual density EPS liner, which has a dense outside, but soft interior for excellent impact protection. A true triumph for this helmet is how it not only meets, but exceeds the Shell 2012 & DOT standards giving it the prestige it deserves.

One of the other most notable improvements Fox made to the shell of the V4 is that it comes in four different sizes as opposed to only two in the V3. The shell is available in XS/SM, MD, LG, and XL/XXL. The liner and cheek pad thickness is the same for the SM-XL. Liners are specific to EPS sizes and cheek pads are interchangeable throughout all the sizes. All the size changes happen with the EPS and shell grading. With all these options, the designers at Fox really made sure to give the V4 the ability to get a precise fit for every head size.

The V4 has a luxury interior that provides comfort and keeps the rider cool and dry. With a DRY LEX comfort liner installed, the helmet provides a comfortable feel against the skin that also wicks away any moisture or sweat. It has a new cheek pad design that wraps below the jaw line to create a tight and secure fit that molds to the rider's face while still providing comfort. All of the guts are fully removable and washable.

Above all else, the V4 is designed to keep the rider cool under any circumstances from a light ride to competitive racing. It's equipped with 16 intake and 8 exhaust ports that are designed to circulate an impressive amount of airflow throughout the helmet. This is one of the first features that riders will notice right off the bat. Air is able to flow across the rider's face even at low speeds. Also, 4 large brow/goggle intake ports pull air in and over the face keeping the rider cool and the visor from fogging up.  The channeled EPS liner works in unison with the large channels built into the shell. With all these features working together, the venting system on the Fox V4 is one of the most impressive cooling systems that we've seen on a dirt helmet.

Believe me when I say this helmet isn't just for show. Professional riders such as Ryan Dungey, Chad Reed, and Ken Roczen have all worn the V4 along with several others. The V4 comes available in three different and distinct styles: Fox V4 Rockstar, Fox V4 Flight, and Fox V4 Future.

Be sure to check out comparable choices in our Motocross Helmets section.

Keep on riding,
YoungZilla

Related:
Fox V4 Helmet Preview
Fox Instinct Boots Review
Fox V3 Helmet Review

Fox Racing V4 Helmet Preview

New for 2012, the Fox Racing V4 Helmet is gunning for the top spot in the MX and SX helmet realm. Designed from the ground up and currently being worn by Chad Reed and Ryan Dungey in SX for the 2012 season, the Fox V4 is strides ahead of its predecessor, the V3. With much-improved shape, fit, balance, and an extreme amount of venting, there is no reason why this helmet shouldn't compete directly with the top offerings from Shoei, Bell and Arai. Add to that the support from today's top Supercross riders, and there is no doubt the Fox V4 Helmet will make a big splash in the industry.

Check out some of the bullet points below to read about the upgrades, and stay tuned for our detailed video review coming very soon.

PREMIUM FIT:

• Cheek pad design wraps around the riders jaw line to create a secure fit.
• Comfort liner provides a balanced, custom feel.

SHELL SIZING:

• 4 Shell & EPS Sizes for a precise fit (XS-S, M, L, XL-XXL).
• Dual Density EPS Liner: Anatomically correct, impact absorbing foam reacts positively to impact & widens the energy dispersal area (Firmer outside / Softer inner).

ADVANCED MATERIALS:

• Carbon fiber composite shell construction. Astonishing high tensile strength of carbon-fiber is a distinct advantage.
• Exceeds Snell 2010 & DOT Standards.

LUXURY INTERIOR:

• DRY LEX™ comfort liner wicks moisture & provides a comfortable feel.
• Cheek pads feature a cupped lower edge design to mold to the riders face.

VENTING:

• 16 Intake & 8 Exhaust Ports are designed to circulate serious airflow throughout the helmet.
• 4 large brow/goggle intake ports pull air in & over the face.

DESIGNED & ENGINEERED IN CA:

• Designed & developed exclusively by Fox engineers in California to exceed the needs of the world’s most demanding sport: Motocross.
• Removable single mouthguard.
• Integrated roostguard.
•  Aluminum visor screws.
• Screened off Intake & Exhaust ports let cool air in & keep the mud out.

The V4 will available in the following versions: Fox V4 Flight Helmet, Fox V4 Future Helmet, and Fox V4 Rockstar Helmet.

-RetroZilla

Fox Racing Instinct Boots

Brand new for spring 2012, the Fox Racing Instinct Boots are the new top of the heap for MX boots from Fox. Fox utilized the able assistance of the GOAT of MX, Ricky Carmichael, the new Fox Instinct Boots are utilizing some new technologies previously unseen in Fox boots. Their new hinge system provides excellent lateral support and requires almost no break in time. There is a rubber hinge cover and a rubber burn guard that provide excellent grip against the bike. These boots are also using a new buckle design that features a lever system and a friction enclosure, eliminating pins which are more commonly used. This provides greater durability and is designed to last for the life of the boot. Another big improvement is the lightweight nature of these boots and the sizing has also been made better.

Stay tuned for our detailed video breakdown coming soon.


Update: check out our Fox Racing Instinct Boots Review:

-RetroZilla

Related:
Fox V4 Helmet Preview

Fox Racing 360 Vortex Jersey Review

Fox Racing 360 Vortex Jersey

If you think Fox Racing 360 Jerseys and Fox Racing 360 Pants just look good with their incredibly eye popping graphics then you have a lot to learn. The 360 Jersey and Pant combo is designed and put together for the hardcore Motocross racer; it is second-highest on the food chain at Fox Racing behind only the Fox Racing Platinum Jersey and Fox Racing Platinum Pants. This jersey and pant combo is head and shoulders over the past generation of 360 gear. Fox really listened to their feedback coming from both the older 360 design and the Fox Racing 180 Race Pants to make the Fox Racing 360 as outstanding as it is. Fox's new 360 jersey and pant are a great combo for when you're standing on the podium.

Check out our Fox Racing 360 Jersey and Pant Review:

Fox Racing 360 Houston LE Jersey

To start, Fox's new generation of 360 Jersey is lighter polyester with essentially a mesh panel on the back. This improves ventilation of the new 360 Jersey which is going to be a huge improvement for the motos that are going to be raced in 90 degree July heat or on the final lap when your body is simply oozing sweat. The new material is much more comfortable than the previous generations. They also put a moisture wicking rib collar to prevent that neck moisture from dripping down the rest of your body.

The fit of this jersey is very accommodating for wearing armor underneath or a chest protector over top. The elbows have light padding and extra thick material to prevent rips and tears in those areas of common impact and ripping. The back of the jersey is an incredibly 

Fox Racing 360 Riot Jersey

lightweight mesh and is simply going to breathe a ton of air. The polyester mesh feels almost like there's nothing there since it breathes so well.

The pants are constructed of a 900D cordura, This is a very strong material, highly tear and rip resistant. It also is thick enough to give the rider a decent amount of protection from the elements. It's simply designed to take a ton of abuse from the rider without failing. The 360 pants also incorporate the quad yoke design to give the rider excellent mobility on and off the bike and to improve the overall comfort of the lower half of your body. It follows the rider very well without getting snagged or ripped and getting pulled around by the rider. The knees have plenty of room for a knee protector or brace and are also reinforced with stretch material 

to add strength and protection.

Fox Racing 360 Vortex Pants

Just like the jersey, the pants were designed to flow much more air than the past year's model and the HC 180. There's more perforation in key areas of the pant and vent panels on the thighs, knees, and calves. At the back of the pant from the calves to the thighs, there are two large stretch panels that will aid in mobility, comfort, and also breathe a ton of air. Just like the HC-180 and the Platnium Fox race gear, the 360 uses Fox's RAP (Race Attack Position) design. This gives the rider an ergonomic fit when in that aggressive race stance. The design gives the rider a good fitting jersey and pants when on the bike in the race position.

To see other our other choices, visit our Motocross Jerseys and Motocross Pants sections at RevZilla.com.

Fox Racing 360 Houston LE Pants

-Fassst Freddie

Related:

Fox Racing Comp 5 Boots Review

Fox Racing V1 Helmet Review

Fox Racing F3R Boots Review

Fox Racing V3 Helmet Review

Fox Racing Comp 5 Boots Review

Finding a comfortable, durable, and protective set of full length Off-Road boots for an entry model price can be a daunting task. Either you're overpaying for technical features you may not need or want, or you're stuck with a boot that just leaves you asking for more. In steps the mid-range Fox Racing Comp 5 Boot, designed for the rider who needs the high quality of a Fox Racing boot for the entry model price. It's designed to meet the needs of the weekend warrior who doesn't need all the crazy technical features found on the Fox F3R Racing Boot but still need a great amount of foot, ankle, and shin protection and comfort that the Fox Boots provide.

Check out our Fox Racing Comp 5 Boots Review:

Fox Racing Comp 5 Women's Boots

The difference between the Comp 5 can be felt as soon as you slip your foot in. The sole of the Comp 5 is much more comfortable for walking around in and feels much more stable when not on the bike. This is from the Comp 5's bonded out sole which is much less aggressive then your standard MX racing boot like Fox's F3R Racing Boot. Each boot size also has its own heal size to accompany it and aid in fit, comfort, and protection for the sole of the rider; This also gives the boot a really cool modernized look for a mid-range boot.

The Comp 5 has a full slip leather construction as well as in the instep, which means your getting a very high level protection, comfortable, and durability with this boot that 

Fox Racing Comp 5 Shorty Boots

will last you more then just one riding season. The boot has the Fox Aluminum Soft-Touch Pivot Locking system. This Pivot locking system has a few key benefits and helps make this boot one of the best bang for the buck values on the market. This locking system is very smooth and easy to operate with or without gloves. It's very light weight adding to the comfort of the boot and it's much more durable then the standard plastic locking clips.

Adding to the high level of protection this boot provides is the reinforced toe box with grip shift panel. This provides the boot with easy and confident shifting when working through the gearbox and excellent amount of protection during the event of a get off. The toe box is double stitched 

Fox Racing Comp 5 Offroad Boots

for strength and is molded directly to the construction of the boot which adds to the longevity and lifespan of the boot no matter what riding conditions you put your boots through. Ankle protection is excellent for a boot in this price range thanks to Fox's Medial Hard Plastic Protection Construction wrapping from the front of the toe to the beginning of the shin.

An ever important feature on any full length off-road boot is the heat shield going up the inside of the boot. One of the things you'll notice on these boots out of the box is the size and amount of grip on the heat shield. This thick piece of black suede does an outstanding job protecting the inside leg and calf of the rider and the non-abrasive 

Fox Racing Comp 5 Vortex Boots

material gives added grip to the inside of your MX machine. Moving around to the front of the boot, the Comp 5 has a very strong and thick thermal TPU plastic shin pad protecting the very vulnerable shin area of your leg from hard impacts. Fox also did a great job molding their logo on to this plastic shin piece for style. On the inside of the boot you will find a water resistant gaiter to help keep your feet dry and comfortable during those wetter, muddier moto's. The inside liner of the boot is a woven moisture wicking material which will help remove sweet and moisture away from your feet adding to the amount of comfort these boots provide.

Fox Racing Comp 5 Youth Boots

It's hard to go wrong with the Fox Comp 5 Racing Boot. These provides a great boot full of benefits to the casual rider and racing who isn't looking to break the bank. The Comp 5 gives you Fox's great quality, durability, and level of protection found on many higher end boots but without the price tag. The Comp 5s are a great fit in the Fox Boot line-up. If the racing model doesn't suit your needs, Fox Racing offers a Shorty, an Offroad, and even a women's model ergonomically fitted for the female leg and foot.

Check out our complete selection by visiting the Motocross Boots section at RevZilla.com.

- Fast Freddie

Related:

Fox Racing V1 Helmet Review

Fox Racing F3R Boots Review

Fox Racing V3 Helmet Review

Troy Lee Air Helmet Review

Fox Racing V1 Helmet Review

Fox Racing V1 Empire Helmet

For the entry-level MX rider, the weekend dirtbike warrior and basically anyone who is enthusiastic about the sport of motocross but doesn't need all the over-the-top features of a pro lid, the Fox Racing V1 Helmet is a great choice. Loaded with many of the signature features that have been native to the Fox Racing line of helmets for years, the V1 excels in performance, safety and airflow properties. As with all dirt lids, you'll see new graphics of this helmet with every season and they'll always be made in conjunction with new jerseys and pants. The best match for the V1 Helmet is the Fox HC Jersey, Fox 180 Pants and Fox Racing Comp 5 Boots.

Check out our Fox Racing V1 Helmet Review:

Fox Racing V1 Matte Helmet

The Fox V1 is an injection molded polycarbonate shell with a multi-density EPS liner for resistance to impact and significant shock absorption. It meets both Snell and DOT certifications, so you know it meets the most stringent safety standards out there. You'll see some signature Fox features right out of the gate, with their unique roost guard and chin vent construction in addition to the shell shape. The sides of the helmet are flatter than most dirt lids which effectively contours this helmet with the natural shape of the chin, offering a more streamlined look and eliminating that cue ball effect. What you've got is an aerodynamic helmet that will perform exceptionally on weekend dirt rides.

Fox Racing V1 Rockstar Helmet

There are multiple intake vents at the front of this helmet including at the chin area and at the brow, with two additional chimney intake vents. These rush air through the dual venting channels that are chiseled into the EPS liner and are sucked out by passive venturi exhaust vents at the rear of the helmet. The visor on the V1 is completely adjustable via an aluminum screw that sits underneath and is easily operable with gloves on. The comfort liner and cheek pads are completely removable and washable, so when they get funky, they're easy to restore back to new condition. At the sub-$200 price point, bottom line, it's going to be tough to find another dirt lid that matches the features and functionality of the Fox Racing V1 Helmet.

Check out more choices by visiting our Motocross Helmets segment at RevZilla.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Fox Racing V3 Helmet Review
Troy Lee Air Helmet Review
Troy Lee SE3 Helmet Review
Shoei VFX-W Helmet Review

Fox Racing F3R Boots Review

The pro-level Fox Racing F3R Boots are a huge upgrade over their predecessors, the F3 boots. There were a few major complaints regarding the F3s and Fox Racing addressed them in spades when they came out with their newest race-level boot. Huge issues were addressed, such as high levels of discomfort and extra-long break in time, in addition to problems stemming from the size of the toe box. Fox took all of these things into consideration in the R+D of the F3R and the results are noticeable from the first time you put the boot on.

Check out our Fox Racing F3R Boots Review:

The major upgrade here is the brand new 3D Biomorphic Chassis used in the Fox F3R. Using a CAD machine, Fox engineered a one-piece three-dimensional chassis designed to match the contours of the human foot. It is a multiple-density plastic material that varies in thickness depending on the region of the foot and how much protection it requires. This allows the boot to be extremely protective and flexible at the same time with minimal break-in required. The entire exterior of the boot is full grain cowhide leather for the highest degree of abrasion resistance. TPU hard part armor can be found in the heel cup, at the medial and lateral malleolus, the shin, and at the back of the calf. A high level
of protection from impact to say the least.

Another big issue with the F3 was the height of the toe box as riders complained it was too big and therefore made it difficult to get true shifter lever feel. That is no longer an issue as the toe box has been lowered a full 12 millimeters. At the bottom, the Duratrak Outsole provides improved durability and then etched design allows for easy interfacing with the foot pegs no matter the position of the foot. The white colored midsole that you can see is a vibration dampening material designed for comfort and protection. The entire sole can be replaced as well which is a pretty huge deal since soles wear out over time while the chassis of the boot may still be in good shape. A cobbler can remove the metal toe cap and replace the sole for you.
A longevity extender, no doubt.

The closure system is a cam-lock inspired aluminum Pivot Lock buckle system that is extremely strong and secure for optimized support. The entire medial lower part of the boot, including a panel that wraps up to the toe box, is a grooved design that is extremely high grip. At the upper medial boot, there is a large suede heat shield to protect from the pipes. The nicest part here being the fact that this panel wraps over top and into the boot, so there is no weak seam along the entry that could easily come apart. Also at the boot entry is a rubberized panel that securely grips onto MX pants. As always, the details are what really shine through in any technical piece of apparel and the F3R boots are glutted with nuanced creature comforts.

Check out the competition by visiting our Motocross Boots section at RevZilla.com.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Fox Racing V3 Helmet Review
Troy Lee Air Helmet Review
Troy Lee SE3 Helmet Review
Shoei VFX-W Helmet Review

Fox Racing V3 Helmet Review

Fox Racing V3 Victory Helmet

Worn and developed by the pros, the Fox Racing V3 Helmet is easily one of the finest on the market. Built with a heavy amount of input from Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart (when he was still with Fox Racing), the V3 represents some of the finest innovation in the motocross world by being extraordinarily lightweight, ventilating and ergonomic. The Fox Racing V-3 Helmet is replete with signature features native only to the Fox Head line and should have a great deal of appeal to any pro racer or serious dirt riding enthusiast.

Check out our Fox Racing V3 Helmet Review:

Fox Racing V3 RC Monster Helmet

First off, let's talk about construction on this helmet. The Fox Racing V3 Carbon Helmet and the two V3 pro replicas is made up of a Carbon Fiber, Kevlar and fiberglass blend, coming in right around 2.9lbs, translating to a lightweight lid that is extremely strong and resilient. The regular version of this helmet uses a similar construction, scales back slightly on the Carbon Fiber for money savings, but still hits the scale at an absurdly light 3.2lbs. This weave is extremely protective and combines with a multi-density EPS liner that has excellent shock absorbing properties to keep you safe in the event of a get-off in the dirt. The Fox V3 Helmet is both Snell & DOT certified.

Fox Racing V3 Vortex Helmet

Another huge factor for Ricky and Bubba was obviously ventilation since MX riding is so physically demanding and generally the riding is in warmer climates. Fox responded with a lid that packs 14 total vents that flow air into the triple-channel EPS liner. 10mm holes are drilled through the EPS and grooved channels encourage air to flow across the top of the head via the 10 intakes, sucking in cool air and exhausting the hot humid air and moisture out of the 4 exhaust vents at the back of the helmet. The design of the roost guard and chin vent is the classic Fox shape and the air flow that rushes through this region filters out all dirt and roost via the removable washable foam filter.

Fox Racing V3 Riot Helmet

Ricky and Bubba were also critical factors in the streamlined nature of this helmet. So many helps on the market feature that bubble effect towards the bottom where it bows out and looks like a cue ball. If you look at the V3 straight on, you'll see that the sides are streamlined and flush with the curve of the jaw; it functions better and honestly it looks cooler too. Inside, the multi-density foam cheek pads and comfort liner is CoolMax lined which means it is antimicrobial and moisture-wicking, pulling all the sweat away from the face and not allowing any bacteria to build in the fabric. All of the guts are completely and easily removable, making washing and keeping the guts clean a cinch.

Fox Racing V3 F Head X Race Helmet

The Fox V3 comes with a custom deluxe helmet bag and also includes a spare color-matched visor; odds are you'll break a visor at some point if you're an aggressive dirt rider. The visor is held in place by aluminum screws on either side and the aluminum center screw allows for easy visor adjustment with gloves on. There's a reason why the world's top MX and SX riders wear Fox Racing helmets: extensive research and design, the newest technological innovations, and some of the slickest designs on the market. Check out the Fox Racing V3 Ryan Dungey Rockstar Replica Helmet to see what last year's champ is wearing.

Fox Racing V3 Steel Faith Helmet

To see competitors of the Fox V3, visit our Motocross Helmets section.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Troy Lee Air Helmet Review
Troy Lee SE3 Helmet Review
Shoei VFX-W Helmet Review
Bell Moto-9 Helmet

Fox Racing 360 Houston Victory Jersey Now Shipping!

A brand new graphic style for an extremely popular jersey and pant combo from Fox Racing has just been released. An extremely limited edition piece from Fox dropping just in time for the Houston Supercross this weekend, the Fox Racing 360 Houston Victory Jersey and Fox Racing 360 Houston Victory Pants are the same chassis as the gear worn by SX champion Ryan Dungey, with a special edition graphical design.  The jersey is a polyester main construction with mesh paneling for high degrees of airflow. The elbows are padded and articulated for ergonomics and added protection, while the long tail in the back ensures that the jersey stays tucked into the matching pants. The V-neck band is perforated for comfort and the graphics are
dye-sublimated meaning that they won't fade from washing.

Lets check out the Fox Racing 360 Victory Jersey & Pants Review:

The pants are a polyester construction featuring strategic laser perforation for high levels of comfort in active MX riding scenarios. They feature a pre-curved RAP construction for ideal ergonomics in the riding position, and the quad-stretch panel in the crotch allows uninhibited movement on the dirtbike. The knees feature articulated stretch panels that allow for movement over top of protectors, while the double layer fabric in the knees feature an abrasion resistant interior material with abrasion and heat resistant leather on the outside. TPR logos at the knees and thighs are also vented for added airflow. If you want what the pros wear, the Fox Racing 360 Houston Victory set up is right up your alley.

Go RD!

-RetroZilla

New Motorcycle Gear for August 2010

Ladies and gentlemen, it's that time of year again. The time when every motorcycle gear manufacturer starts unveiling a litany of new product. So consider this the first round of goodies with products from REV'IT!, Arai, Icon, Pirelli, in addition to new lines we're stocking: Gerbing's Heated Motorcycle Gear, Shift Racing, Fox Racing, Piaa Lights, and BMC Filters. Check out the video that goes through all of the new products.

We're stoked about this first wave of new product. The brand new REV'IT! GORE-TEX gear is going to be an absolute home run for every serious ADV and Sport Touring rider out there. We think that the REV'IT! Defender GTX Jacket & Defender GTX Pants will be the cornerstone of this lineup. Beyond that, we're thrilled that Arai dropped hi-vis versions of two of their most popular helmets, the Arai RX-Q and the Arai XD-3, for the safety-conscious motorcyclist. Icon comes in with the brand new line of Alliance helmets, with the Icon Alliance Speedmetal and Icon Alliance Hi-Viz being our first glimpse of their new lineup at RevZilla.com.

Gerbing's Heated Motorcycle Gear, a manufacturer for the military, will be getting the full RevZilla video treatment in the very near future so consider this a sneak preview but you can expect much more from us on this game-changing line of heated motorcycle apparel. We have a full stock of Pirelli Angel tires, Shift Racing & Fox Racing sportbike and motocross gear, best-in-class Piaa Lights, and the top of the line BMC Air Filters.

We're always excited for this time of year when all the new product gets rolled out. And we're thrilled to share it with you! Check out all of the new August Motorcycle Gear at RevZilla.com

-RetroZilla

Related Posts:

REV'IT! GTX GORE-TEX Gear Guide

Arai RX-Q Helmet Review

New 2010 Icon Motorcycle Helmets