Hinders

Advantages: Grip, durability and looks
Disadvantages: Costly

...The Panaracer Fire XC Pro has proven itself to be one of the wisest, if costly, upgrades to my Cannondale Jekyll. In our murky winter (and summer) months you need a tyre that will cope in the claggy conditions, providing grip and shedding mud quickly and efficiently, but not so aggressive in tread pattern that it hinders progress on fire-roads and tarmac ? The Panarcaer achieves this and is one of the most striking designs available, with its white writing emblazoned on the sidewall. It has performed admirably in the mulched leaves of the Dorking Redlands Trails; it kept my fatigued body moving on the punishing mud, roots, rock gardens, hairpins and drop-offs of the Afan Skyline Trail and has dug me out of the sticky Cotswold clay. A true all-round performer that is perfectly suited to our changeable climate. There are a great... Read review

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Advantages: easily adjustable and robust
Disadvantages: possible weakness with the zip

.... The sections are joined by three layers of Velcro, which allows the protector to be adjusted to fit correctly, and also each section can be detached for easy cleaning. On the inside of the protector is a mesh lining to allow the suit to breath and help keep the rider cool. The back section also includes a tail section, which is adjustable to ensure that the lower spin is protected without hindering the rider. In addition to the Velcro there is a front strap with an easy release clip to prevent the protector slipping and a front zip for easy fitting and removal. My one concern about this garment is the zip which does not seem to be very strong, the rest of the garment is extremely robust however from my experience with diving suits the zip is one of the most important parts and often the one most likely to perish, time will tell whether my fears are... Read review

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Advantages: comfortable, flexible and light
Disadvantages: twists easily

...I have used the Corax for years now. it was my first harness and there has never been a need to replace it. a testament to its durability. in terms of comfort the corax is well designed. cushioned on the inside of the waist and leg loops to allow the climber to sit back in the harness for longer periods of time than cheaper harness that lack the padding. this is a great advantage when climbing longer routes, after a few hours on the rock you can easily forget that you're wearing it. further more, the padding is very flexible so it does not hinder movement on the rock. if it couldn't get more comfortable, the padding is designed to be breathable, stop those sweat patches building up on those summer days on the crags! even better, despite the extra padding the weight is still low (510g). the harness is completely adjustable... Read review

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