Tested: Fox Raceframe Impact CE Chest Guard 1

Little needs to be said about Fox Racing that isn't already known. The brand has been around since 1974 and has always been a leader in protection, design, and innovation. I reached out to Fox to try their Raceframe Impact CE Chest Guard after having it suggested as an option to better protect my ribs after having broken some and later bruising them in a separate incident. 

Fox Raceframe Impact CE Chest Guard

• Articulated design for a exceptional fit
• Removable chest and back plate armor inserts
• Highly vented for maximum comfort
• Low profile allows for versatile use under or over the jersey
• Articulated design hugs the body and is highly vented for maximum comfort
• Removable chest and back plate armor inserts provides race-level impact protection
• Low profile bonded construction allow for versatile use under or over the jersey
• Adjustable shoulder straps and waistband with fast-action concealed buckles for secure and easy fit adjustments
  • Certifications
    • CE EN 1621-2 level 1 certified full back protection
    • CE prEN 1621-3 level 1 certified chest protection
• MSRP $169.95

First Impressions

The first thing I noticed was the Fox Raceframe's weight. It was significantly heavier than the Alpinestars A1 chest pro I've been wearing for years. There is a noticeable difference and I was concerned I'd notice it once I was on the bike and riding. As I inspected the design of the chest protector I focused on the side protection. It has minimal more protection than the A1 and I wondered if it would actually make much of a difference in a crash. If things go well I won't have to test that out. The Raceframe Impact also has a removable chest armor insert and back plate. The upper straps attach and adjust by a velcro closure system. The side straps clip to the front plate and lock securely. The back plate is made up of what looks and feels like a gel-like material called D30. D30 is designed to absorb and dissipate energy from impacts. There is no plastic cover on the back plate with this model, but there is a model with a plastic back plate available. It's designed to be worn under or over the jersey and CE-certified. CE is French for European Conformity which means the product meets standards set by the European Union for the health and safety of the public.

On the Track

When I first put the Raceframe on, the weight I mentioned was noticeable, but it did not bother me once I was riding. Most of the weight comes from the back plate. I could also feel where the inner armor plate is velcroed in place due to how thick that area is. It provided a small amount of pressure on the side of my ribs that concerned me. Other than that, it's a slim-fitting chest pro and wraps around the body well. The only time I was aware I had it on was when I was getting passed by faster riders and got blasted with roost. It protected my entire front side and some of the ribs and took the impact of the dirt nicely. It's been warming up here in Texas and the Raceframe is heavily vented in the front which helped keep me relatively cool. You could remove the inner armor plate and receive a bit more ventilation, but I opted for the added protection. The back plate also has minimal venting. I don't want to be constricted by a chest protector and the Fox Raceframe allows for easy movement and no restrictions because it is designed to articulate your body. The upper and side straps didn't dig in or cause any discomfort and I believe they won't stretch out too much over time.

Durability

Durability is always tough to rate when doing these shorter-term reviews. I would need to use this item for many months and up to a year to give a true assessment of how it will hold up. I've worn it for over a month and rode in it about ten times and I've noticed no issues with the material tearing, wearing, or anything to concern me. Having the ability to remove the inner chest armor plate and back plate to clean and let them dry properly will help with the longevity in my opinion. As stated above, the straps are of a good material and should hold up with lots of usages.

Final Thoughts

For the most part, I like the Fox Raceframe CE Chest Guard. It's comfortable under riding conditions and the slight extra side protection is enough for me to go back to it often. I am a little concerned that if I have a crash and have a front impact the spots on the sides where the front armor plate attaches might actually cause some bruising, but I also want the added protection. The CE protection is also a positive that puts it at the top of the list when I grab a chest pro. It comes in S/M and L/XL and is only available in Dark Shadow Grey. As of now, I do like the Alpinestars A1 a bit more comfort-wise, but due to the slight added side protection of the Raceframe Impact, I will probably continue to use it. I may go back and forth for a while and see if my mind changes. In conclusion, if you're looking for a new, slim-fitting chest pro, the Fox Raceframe Impact is a nice option and I would recommend you look into it.

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