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Core Rat
Hardcore Leg Armour
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Submitted by
Bad Radiation
a Cross Country Rider
from Victoria
Date Reviewed: September 13, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | the dump | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$120.00 | | Purchased At: | Online Store | | Strengths: | Light, strong, easy to get in and out of, Foam inner kneepad is removable for easy washing. Splendid knee articulation | | Weaknesses: | Compared to previous products? None. Slightly wider shin foam - even ½" would be good. How long with the velcro last? | | Similar Products Used: | Mace Tectonic knee/shin combo. Raceface/Roach FR knee/shin combo. Bare skin and hair (the least effective) | | Bike Setup: | Wheels gears and something to sit on. | | Bottom Line: | The Core Rat leg armour is the bomb. Separate shin and knee pads stay where you put them. Even with deliberate "too loose" strap settings.
Delivery was delayed and Angie called me to explain this and offer apologies.
I will buy these again. In fact I will probably buy a second set just to make sure I can still get them. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alexis Artwohl
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson AZ
Date Reviewed: April 24, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | alexisartwohl@msn.com | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Corerat website | | Strengths: | lightweight, cool, smaller version for women, adjustable, comfortable, great for trail riding | | Weaknesses: | expensive, unattractive | | Similar Products Used: | Fox | | Bike Setup: | specialized s-works | | Bottom Line: | As a small woman rider it's always hard to get gear that fits. However, these are highly adjustable and come in smaller version for small riders. (Corerat is owned by a woman named Angie). I found the straps to be sturdy and adjustable and they are thoughtfully extra long so they can be cut to size. They are lightweight and relatively cool. After talking with Angie I got the heavier duty Burly Knee Pads and they are not bulky - just right for trail riding. I also got the shin pads which I like because they are covered with hard plastic with no vent holes and no fabric. (Vent holes sound good but are not desireable on trails surrounded by vicious cacti. Ditto any kind of fabric.) It's nice that the knee pads and shin pads are separate so you can ride with the knee pads only if you want. They are a bit expensive but will be worth it if they hold up over time. They are not attractive but as long as the rest of me looks sharp I don't care. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Utah
Date Reviewed: October 4, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$99.00 | | Purchased At: | Direct from Angie | | Strengths: | Comfortable,light weight, cool. | | Weaknesses: | Cheap Velcro straps. Too expensive for the quality. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | GT Idrive | | Bottom Line: | When I first got these I was highly disappointed. They are obviously a home made product. Compared to the professionally made products I have looked at they look sooo cheap.
With all that being said I have to say that these are a pretty good product. They are light weight and comfortable. I ride every ride with them and rarely notice that I have them on and I like that. They have saved my knees and shins a few times. The Velcro straps are too long but a pair of scissors fixes that easy enough. These are a light weight minimal protection product. Which is exactly what I was looking for. I do think that they are over priced for the quality though. I also bought the elbow pads but they don't fit me very well and keep rotating on my arm so I don't use them.
My only complaint really is that they are overpriced. If you are looking for something light weight and comfortable and are not looking for heavy duty protection and don't mind paying a premium price then you should be happy with these. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pete
a Weekend Warrior
from Lynn, MA USA
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | I love these pads. Worth the money. And when you need replacement parts, like grommets and foam inserts, they get back to you the same day. | | Bottom Line: | If you like your knees, buy these! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fred
a Cross Country Rider
from Whistler
Date Reviewed: November 22, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$105.00 | | Purchased At: | www.corerat.com | | Strengths: | these things rock. I purchased the burly version, and they are bomber. big knee cushions, and lots of coverage. the molded knee cup works great and stays in place. problem is you get a little too cocky thinking you are impenetrable... the straps are adjustable, and you can wear just the shin guards or the knee pads, or both. easy to separate the padding and the hard shell when you need to wash them. awesome! | | Weaknesses: | the burly versions look a little warmer due to the extra padding, but that is what you bought them for – to protect your legs. if you are an agressive xc rider only, the lighter versions looked a little less bulky. | | Similar Products Used: | tried some kona pads but they were one piece jobbies and were not really that comfortable or flexible when riding. used some fox pads but those worked better for motocross or heavy duty riding. | | Bike Setup: | giant reign 1 - freeride setup | | Bottom Line: | these are awesome protective gear for your legs. light, well constructed and they stay in place - all while not restricting your motion or being excessively hot. they are competitively priced - not much more to ask for. I liked the fact they were made locally, and the service was exceptional, which is not something you can state too often these days.
thanks to Angie for the quick service, quick responses to my questions, and prompt shipping with a tracking number and an e-mail that my order had been recieved.
5 chilies for these - without a doubt, and hats off to Angie for the great customer care
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lawrence Waters
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonds, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 9, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Shawns, Mt. Galbraith | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$80.00 | | Purchased At: | Core Rat, BC | | Strengths: | Stays in place, mostly (have had the knee portion slide down a bit when I slid belly down along a gravel trail; can remove the top portion for cooler climbing, durable, washable. Looking at the pics of the new ones, it looks like they have solved that problem. They work. | | Weaknesses: | None that I have noticed. | | Similar Products Used: | A couple of different Fox knee/shin protectors. Wouldn't stay in place. | | Bike Setup: | A Blur and a Cannondale Gemini 900. | | Bottom Line: | I will likely get another pair when I wear these out or want to try the newer model. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a
from Wakefield, MA
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Yo mamma. | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | Core rat #888-868-7688 | | Strengths: | Light, strong, comfortable, and they don't make your legs overheat. | | Weaknesses: | Only last 2-3 years. J/k, that's really not a weakness. That's a long time for the abuse they've been given. | | Similar Products Used: | Roach, and Fox | | Bike Setup: | Huffy frame with Chris King components, XTR, etc.. | | Bottom Line: | These shin pads rock. I'm buying my second set today because they do what they should, protect your shins and do it well.
The ony way I'd switch to another shin pad would be if I went full on DH. For XC, trail riding, and light FR -these things are perfect.
I really like having detachable knee armor. For 99% of my riding I only want shin protection, but its good to know I can slap of the calf and knee guards.
Bottom line: You will not be disappointed with this product. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Blair
a Weekend Warrior
from Northwest CT
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$35.00 | | Strengths: | Affordable. Tough. Excellent customer service! | | Weaknesses: | None. | | Similar Products Used: | Veggie wrap. Fox lo-pro | | Bottom Line: | Angie hooked me up with their old style kneepads because I have skinny legs. Other pads were too big for pedaling or had too much extra strap. Several corerat emails later Angie hooked me up an excellent pad that isn't hot and stays put when pedaling. Excellent knee only for xc, all mountain, freeride-lite. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew M
a
from Vancouver, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Vic's-Lower Vic's | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | Corerat.com | | Strengths: | They still work like the day I bought them. | | Similar Products Used: | The usual suspects | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up to my last review back in '03. I figured since I was (finally) posting reviews of some other Corerat gear I'd post this too.
So yeah... my pads are still going strong. The molded plastic bits (which you'll note a lot of other companies are doing now) are pretty scratched and pitted but they don't seem to protest when I strap them on a few times a week all year round.
I switched back to clipless pedals about a year back, so for the most part I have just been running the knee pads since then (one of the best features is being able to choose to use the whole set or just the knee). I haven't found anything out there I like as much.
I think next year I'll probably switch to the new burley knee pad simply for the extra support, but otherwise I'm still 100% satisfied with this product. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steven
a Cross Country Rider
from Tacoma, WA USA
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Core Rat online | | Strengths: | Great protection, well-thought out design, comfortable. | | Weaknesses: | Had to re-sew some of the straps to fit my skinny legs. But once I did...a perfect, "custom" fit. | | Similar Products Used: | Homemade shin gurads, long pants. | | Bike Setup: | Kona hardtail. | | Bottom Line: | I really like these pads. With the shin and knee combo in place, I feel indestructable. Very comfy. Last weekend I hit some forest trails, just loosened up the knee pads a little and I didn't even feel them...even on the uphill parts. I thought that the pads might slip because I was wearing them looser than normal, but after a sliding crash, no pad movement at all. Super cool.
It might take a bit of monkeying to get the pads dialed in, but once you do, oh man, your knees and shins will thank you...but your doctor will probably curse the name Core Rat... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin Johnson
a Downhiller
from langley,BC,North America
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | core rat shop in Squamish | | Strengths: | They are light weight and very durable and is the best for having a moveable knee and after trying on almost every leg pads the instant I put them on I could tell they were the absolute best. Also the knee and shin velcro together fro an easy way to put them in a small pack. | | Weaknesses: | None at all | | Similar Products Used: | I have used the core rat arm pads and love those too. | | Bike Setup: | A GIANT WARP DS1 2003 with many upgrades | | Bottom Line: | Out of all the knee pads I have tried these have been the absolute best and will keep using them because they stay in the same place so no eritating rash and are down right comphy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drea
a
from Ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: June 22, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | all of'm | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Core Rat online | | Strengths: | Knee and shin pads can be worn separately or together, & removable, washable inner pads. | | Weaknesses: | a little chafing, but that can easily be solved by tightening the straps | | Bottom Line: | This is my first pair of leg armor, and am very happy with them so far. One of the main reasons I chose to go with Core Rat (after a lot of reserch), was because of the detachable option. I wanted some armor that could be worn for any type of riding. You can attach and detach the shin guards on the fly. This armor is very comfortable, stays put while pedaling, and never gets in the way. I would highly recomend these guards to someone who wants an option as to what goes on their legs.. from street riding, to agressive XC, and maybe even some FR... as for more agressive FR or DH, I'm not sure, but they can take a hell of a beating!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Yip
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything that goes down | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$130.00 | | Purchased At: | Core Rat | | Strengths: | These Leg Pads are indestructable
Good Mobility
Comfy | | Weaknesses: | With the rear leg protection, None | | Similar Products Used: | Roach | | Bike Setup: | Brodie Devo and Awl | | Bottom Line: | These pads are amazing, you can bash yourself as much as you want and you can't even feel it. Rocks, Pedals and Trees, bring it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Downhiller
from Seattle, WA
Date Reviewed: April 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$120.00 | | Purchased At: | CoreRat Website | | Strengths: | Quality of construction. Pads can be taken out to be washed. Seperate knee and shin pads. | | Weaknesses: | Top support strap falls into the back of the kneecap and can rub. Inner wide support straps of the knee pad also fall into the back of the kneecap and rub (don't need these so I adjust them to keep out of the way). | | Similar Products Used: | Flesh | | Bike Setup: | Giant VT1 | | Bottom Line: | These pads rock. Once I did a little tinkering with them I fell in love with them. Provide lots of protection (my knees and shins thank me after every ride). I'm lucky, they are the perfect size for my knee/leg length so they never fall down a bit while riding (maybe the knee pad a tiny bit but I never have to adjust it).
Small adjustments - the knee pad comes with straps for above the knee and below the knee. Each position has an inner wide strap and an outer thin strap. The problem lies in that the straps tend to jam up behind your knee. I don't even use the wide strap (just position or roll them up so they are out of the way, may even cut them off eventually). On the top strap I sewed on (ok, my mom did) a hook and fastner so it attaches to the bottom of my riding shorts. Works sweet, nothing gets in behind the knee, and every thing is nice and cool back there. I love'm now. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard
a Downhiller
from Richmond,Va.
Date Reviewed: January 26, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Pocahontas | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Corerat website | | Strengths: | The outer shell holds up under alot of abuse,pads can be taking out to be washed,you can use in different opitions(keenpads by themself,shin guard by itself. | | Weaknesses: | Top support strap falls into the back of the keencap and can rub. | | Similar Products Used: | Roach pads | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Cove G-spot | | Bottom Line: | Overall its a GREAT product,and is worth the investment of less then a $100.00 | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mat
a Weekend Warrior
from Oregon
Date Reviewed: October 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Windy Ridge/Post Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | from Angie | | Strengths: | Light, snug, no chafing. Tends to move with you, not against you. | | Weaknesses: | None. Although I would recommend ordering the rear plate to protect the back of your calf. | | Similar Products Used: | none. | | Bike Setup: | Titus Loco (Yeti ASX, Marzocchi Super T on the way) | | Bottom Line: | Very well thought out design. I've ridden with guy's who have to pull their pads up every time we stop. I've never touched em once on the trail. I attribute this to the "Burly" knee pad. They're simple, straight forward and they move with your leg and knees, not against them. Face it, you're always going to have to pedal. Another nice feature is the shin separates from the knee. If you're just doing some urban session and don't want all that pad, but also don't want the dog bite, it's a huge plus. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Roseville, CA
Date Reviewed: September 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Salmon Falls (local), The Flume (Lake Tahoe) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Corerat.com | | Strengths: | Lightweight, comfortable, good fit, stays in place. The neoprene straps are great -- no chafing!! I have yet to crash in these yet (cross my fingers), but they fit great and stays in place. | | Weaknesses: | Probably not for serious downhilling, but perfect for cross-country riding. | | Bike Setup: | 2003 Gary Fisher Sugar 3+ (no discs). All stock except for SRAM PC-59 chain, Cane Creeek bar-ends, and Oury ATB grips. | | Bottom Line: | After crashing badly while riding very technical & rocky terrain full of sharp rocks and steep drop-offs, I decided to get these knee pads because I got tired of bruised and scabbed knees after every little weekend jaunt. Maybe I'm just a bad rider or maybe I'm a bit too aggressive for my own good, but these burley knee pads are perfect for the type of riding I like to do which is mainly cross-country. If you like to peddle and want some protection for your knees -- get these. I use clipless pedals so I didn't get the shin pads. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Vance
a
from Los Gatos, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: September 22, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | many | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$110.00 | | Purchased At: | corerat.com | | Strengths: | Simple. Flexible, meaning that I can use just shin guards,
or just the knee pads, or both. They actually work as I have
hit my shin a few times with evil pedal kicks. Not too hot. Easy to get on and off. Easy to carry on the bike or in a pack. Good customer support. | | Weaknesses: | Kind of expensive, or maybe the US dollar is just getting weaker compared to CND. Anyway, with shipping to Calif, it
cost around $110 or a bit more for the standard shin guards plus the burley knee pads. But, two visits to Kaiser ER would pay for them... Maybe the rear straps on the shin guards could be a tad wider, but mine haven't slipped any.
No rear leg protection but you can buy that add-on for a bit more money. | | Similar Products Used: | None, but I have worn the Roach knee/shin pads and they felt big and bulky to me. | | Bike Setup: | some good stuff set up for a mix of FR and getting back up, even if slowly. | | Bottom Line: | I recommend these pads. Angie is nice, cordial, and replies to your queries in person. I am still waiting for a reply from Ellsworth on how well a 24" rear wheel on my Id.... sigh. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don
a Weekend Warrior
from NH
Date Reviewed: August 23, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | Core Rat | | Strengths: | They do what I expect from a knee and shin pad combo. I can peddle in them without slipping, and they offer good protection. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | EVS, Azonic | | Bottom Line: | I just bought the burley knee pads as a replacement to go with the shin pads that I've had for two years. They're comfortable to peddle in and stay put. Haven't crashed with the new ones yet, but the original knee pads did the job just fine so I'm not expecting anything less.
It's hard to imagine there is an easier company out there to deal with. I've ordered products numerous times over the last couple of years and Angie is as easy going and knowledgeable as they come. It's very easy to support a company like Core Rat. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 12, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Saw Blade or Upper Vics | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | Corerat.com | | Strengths: | This is a follow up review of one I did after using the pads for 1 month... I still love them... Absolutely no problems with slippage as long as I keep the backings on and they have been super durable. I love that I can get a Canadian made product, manufactured for the same terrain that I ride, by people who ride that terrain for the same amount of money as 661 junk from some overseas sweat shop... | | Weaknesses: | None what-so-ever... | | Similar Products Used: | I guess the older Made in Canada Roach pads would be the closest... I don't count Fox or 661 as being in the same category | | Bike Setup: | like you care | | Bottom Line: | I've been working in a bike shop for the last 1.5 years or so... so I can get the pads we carry for pretty cheap compared to retail... we stock 661, Mace (Norco's new crap that is even worse then 661), Beast Gear (no backing... made in who-knows-were, Fox, Krusher, and some others... I'd rather pay full price for quality... which goes equally for the Shorts and Vest that I also own... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimi Surf
a Weekend Warrior
from Van
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$75.00 | | Purchased At: | Angie | | Strengths: | Comfortable, Cool, Good impact resistance. | | Weaknesses: | Knee and shin plate can move and not protect when gracefully falling down a trail full of rocks. | | Similar Products Used: | Roach DH | | Bike Setup: | Old Skool - 1997 RM Blizzard | | Bottom Line: | I like Core Rat the best when on the Shore (peddling. I wear the Roach if going to the Park (not peddling). It may be just my imagination, but I think that the Roach DH will protect better buring those sliding falls. No knocking the Core Rat Legs though, they are the best when you have some peddling to do!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimi Surf
a Weekend Warrior
from Van
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$75.00 | | Purchased At: | Angie | | Strengths: | Comfortable, Cool, Good impact resistance. | | Weaknesses: | Knee and shin plate can move and not protect when gracefully falling down a trail full of rocks. | | Similar Products Used: | Roach DH | | Bike Setup: | Old Skool - 1997 RM Blizzard | | Bottom Line: | I like Core Rat the best when on the Shore (peddling. I wear the Roach if going to the Park (not peddling). It may be just my imagination, but I think that the Roach DH will protect better buring those sliding falls. No knocking the Core Rat Legs though, they are the best when you have some peddling to do!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eman
a
from California
Date Reviewed: July 15, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | corerat.com | | Strengths: | Absolute best fit of any knee/shin pads I have tried. Incredibly comfortable and do not slip at all, especially with the Burly knee pad which was recommended by Angie. | | Weaknesses: | I cant imagine any | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Raptor, Fox 911, 661 stuff | | Bike Setup: | Bullit | | Bottom Line: | I highly recommend these to anyone, especially those like me who intend to do some pedalling in them. I can fit the burly knee pads, shin pads, elbow pads in my Camelback MULE. I had a hard time finding something that would meet my needs and am very glad I went with Core Rat. Great company!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Connecticut
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Similar Products Used: | Roach DS legs | | Bike Setup: | Giant AC1 | | Bottom Line: | I wear these for trail riding/light freeriding. They are very comfortable. There is no rubbing around the knee joint and they are relatively cool because of the open back. They are an excellent choice if you do a lot of pedaling. I had Roach DS legs before this (Hard shin/soft knee) and found they chaffed around the knee and were hot because of the nylon back on them.
As far as protection goes they seem great. I've never had any problem with these over the hundreds of small hits I've taken riding. I've also done a couple Superman imitations over the handlebars, including one which involved a long skidding stop on rock-studded downhill on my forearms and knees. The CoreRat legs never moved, and had some huge gouges in the plastic from the rocks. Between them and my Roach DH arms (another excellent product)I walked away without a scratch. The only 'weakness' they might have is the open back - it's good because this helps keep you cool, but bad if you have to worry about getting bitten in the back of the calf by platform pedals. Corerat does make a back of the calf guard you can add on, but I haven't tried it. Bottom line - an excellent choice for trail riding with clipless pedals. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam Sealey
a
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Powerhouse Plunge | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$67.00 | | Purchased At: | Angie | | Strengths: | light, tough and versatile. I don't have to use the knee pads if I don't want to, such as when on a long climb or a fairly mellow ride. But it's nice to cover up the shins any ol time! | | Weaknesses: | none that I know of | | Bottom Line: | The Corerat leg armour is bomber tough, it gives you options of use and you can cram it (or parts of) in your camel back easily for use when you need it!
I'm very happy with em, but not as happy as my shins and knees! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a
from Victoria
Date Reviewed: June 17, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | corerat (by phone) | | Strengths: | This is an update to a 2001 post. I found that the 2001 version of the kneepads did not protect the tops of my knees, above the kneecap. This wasn't an issue with a single crown fork but once I switched to a double crown, I was banging my knees up regularly. Anyway, along came the burly kneepads and I'm happy to say they offer more protection to the top of the knee. There is more padding and it is stiffer so it stays in place. The neoprene straps keep things snug too. I thought that a stiffer pad might not be as comfortable for cross country use but it's not an issue. The pads feel good. | | Similar Products Used: | Core rat original knee pads and core rat 2001 bigger knee pads, both with the shin pads. | | Bottom Line: | Comfortable and effective protection. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chas Spaz
a Weekend Warrior
from Southington, CT
Date Reviewed: April 24, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | MDC | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | www.corerat.com | | Strengths: | They are light and comfortable while still providing protection. Plus they stay in place. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | None...did a lot of research and bought good equipment the first time. | | Bike Setup: | Have an old REDLINE hardtail frame w Zokes Atom Bomb and a mixture of LX, XT and XTR 8 and 9 speed parts. (yes it can be done). Buying a Kona Dawg Delux soon! | | Bottom Line: | Everything made by core rat it tops. I have both the arm and leg armor. I'm 6'1" and the leg armor fits fine. You won't even notice that you’re wearing these. I ride in HOT humid New England and never have a problem with heat (the back of your leg is totally open). I've taken some fast hard falls on rocky trails and these things have saved my a**. The leg armor has 2 parts, shin and knee, that Velcro together. The shin part has a removable outer plastic hard shell and an inner dense foam pad that can be thrown in the wash (or just hosed off). The kneepads are similar in construction to skate pads, but are definitely the right size for riding a bike. The BEST thing about this company is that the owner "Angie" answers your phone calls and email herself. Instant customer satisfaction, and your talking to and supporting a fellow rider. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chance Richie
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Emma Long | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Corerat.com | | Strengths: | Comfortable | | Bottom Line: | These pads work great. They are unbelievably comfortable and never rub or scratch even when riding long distances. The only problem I've had is that one of the velcro straps tore about halfway, but the other half has held up just fine. Due to their great customer service, I'm sure they would replace it if I were concerned about it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Owen
a
from Walla Walla, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | corerat.com | | Strengths: | --best shin protection I've tried yet
--are VERY comfortable with new Burly Knee Pads
--fit better and don't slide like they used to with regular knee pads
--a bit warmer with Burly knees than regular | | Weaknesses: | --a bit warmer with Burly knees than regular
--along with more material (to save your skin) comes a little more chafing and irritation, but that's the price you have to pay | | Similar Products Used: | 661 2x4 (or whatever the model name is) shin/knee guard | | Bike Setup: | Brodie Thumper w/Z5 or Karpiel Disco Volante w/Risse Champ depending on how I'm feeling that day | | Bottom Line: | These things ROCK! And protect you from rocks. As noted above, this review is with the brand-spanking-new "Burly Knee Pad," which has increased coverage above and below the hardshell knee cup, and a double strap system with a wide neoprene strap that goes on first and then a heavy-duty (at least, better than the regular knee pad) elastic strap over that. I love these new ones so much more than the regular ones: they fit better for taller riders (I haven't noticed the slipping problems I used to have at all), the wide neoprene straps make them feel a lot softer and cushier (not a hard, abrasive elastic strap), and they cover a lot more, which instills a lot more confidence. I haven't crashed on the new knee pads yet, but even with the old regular pads, these guards are awesome! I was wearing my little tiny moto knee/shin guards last weekend because I hadn't gotten my new knee guards yet, and I had a little crash that shouldn't really have done anything to me, but I have huge scabs on my left knee where the guard totally let me down, whereas in my Core Rats, the same fall would have done nothing.
Bottom line--these things are amazing, I would recommend them anyday, especially with the new Burly knee pads. Plus, customer service is nothing short of amazing--Angie rules! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bruce allan
a Weekend Warrior
from nanaimo
Date Reviewed: February 10, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | e-mail | | Strengths: | durable and light | | Weaknesses: | none | | Bike Setup: | full suspension | | Bottom Line: | two thumbs up would recomend to friends | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cube
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston, MA
Date Reviewed: November 15, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Bear Brook,Pawtuckaway,Gilbert Hills, FOMBA, Middlesex Fells | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$66.00 | | Purchased At: | Corerat.com | | Strengths: | Protects shins against pedal smacks. Saves shins from loosing skin during crashes. The Knee is protected as well as the shins. This armor Will make you a more confident rider because you will lose anxiety. Friendly courteous customer service. | | Weaknesses: | Pads shield legs from the tanning sun. Hot during summer and you can feel the straps around your legs. White Core Rats decals on the shins that might be mistaken for a Deer’s tail during hunting season. ( these decals peel right off) White Core Rats emblems on the straps (that don’t peel off) Wearing white anything white during Deer season may attract attention of hunters you want to avoid. I Took a black marker to the emblems and now they are black. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Stock 2002 Stinky Dee Lux plus clipless pedals | | Bottom Line: | Bottom Line: This armor works well as designed. I dumped today and would have had big time road rash if I did not have this armor strapped on. I bailed off my bike going down soaking wet slick rock and I just slid till I came to a stop. If I did not have these pads on much of my right legs shin skin would have been left on that rock. My knees were also untouched by the rock face. The shin pad got scraped but better it than me. It was a weird bailout but I just laughed it off thanks to this gear. Leg Armor is smart for anyone who wears shin eating platform pedals. The armor is hot in the summer, no doubt but what do you expect? I have a nasty scar form a mean pedal smack I received while not wearing the armor last summer. I got used to the straps and now I don’t notice them at all I recommend this to all riders taking on the challenge of technical trails.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a Downhiller
from Pa
Date Reviewed: October 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Quarry | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$55.00 | | Purchased At: | SpeedGoat.com | | Strengths: | Saves Skin , Light Weight , Breathable, Saved my knees from getting messed up really bad. When riding in them you hardly know they are on. Saves knees from the beating they take on the top tube while dropping stuff or riding rough terrain. Durable Construction. | | Weaknesses: | Pads may move on skinnier riders if not secured properly , I have no had a problem with this though. May hit top tube when doing manuals and other weight shift manuevers but all pads would do this its just a different feeling to have a pad hit and not your leg | | Similar Products Used: | Fox , 661. | | Bike Setup: | IH G spot boxxer race..... | | Bottom Line: | Crash one time in these hard and they pay for themselves. Today they Saved me from about 8 feet up on a wooden kicker jump gone wrong , the ramp somehow tipped over because of my longer(non bmx) wheelbase. Bailed mid air landed real hard knee first on hard ground then tucked and rolled , saved me from the impact and the following roll on the landing. Price is a little high but anyone that values their body can appreciate great protection. I was also wearing core rat arm armor which worked flawlessly | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Melissa
a
from Monroe, CT
Date Reviewed: September 24, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Trumbull | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$27.00 | | Purchased At: | speedgoat.com | | Strengths: | Light weight, very comfortable. I like the fact that the shin and knee pads separate. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Azonic | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fisher Tassara GS, and it also loves Core Rat! | | Bottom Line: | Core Rat is by far the best. The customer service is outstanding (Angie Rocks!!!) If you are searching for great armour look nowhere else!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick Price
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: September 10, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Noble | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Core Rat | | Strengths: | Light weight, good air flow | | Weaknesses: | Not really heavy duty... | | Similar Products Used: | Fox | | Bike Setup: | Switchblade, Fox Forx | | Bottom Line: | Good leg protection for aggressive riding without being too hot or bulky. Doesn't interfere with pedaling and isn't excessively hot. I wouldn't recommend them for serious DHing, but they are much easier to ride in than more robust DH pads. Basically a good compromise... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dennis
a Cross Country Rider
from PA
Date Reviewed: August 28, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | too many to mention | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Core Rat | | Strengths: | Light and cool. Excellent for XC'ing. They built up my confidence in the sections I knew could clean but was too gunshy to fully commit. The knee protection can attach to the shin protection quickly and easily to make extended climbing easier. I have kept the knees in place during climbing and did not find them too intrusive. | | Weaknesses: | If you never wore pads/armor before I think there will be an adjustment period. I felt that the pads were moving around but were just "settling in" and stayed put.
You'll look like a Star Wars character especially if you wear the arm and the leg armor together.
| | Similar Products Used: | I have the Arm protection as well | | Bike Setup: | SPOT Single Speed and RM Element | | Bottom Line: | I ride my SPOT almost 90% of the time now and I have been tackling harder and harder terrain (aka bigger rock gardens). I purchased these pads for 2 reasons
1. Alittle confidence boost- falling down now isn't catastrophic and they allow me to hang in there for the few seconds that could mean cleaning the section
2. Insurance- I ride after work quite a bit so I'm racing against nightfall and I rarely see many people on the trail
I have fallen with the pads on and I am very pleased with the results. The pads stay put and do what they are supposed to do. They are light and compact enough to throw in a camel bak and quick enough to throw on and off. The arm protection has become the norm for me during almost all of my rides and the leg protection I save for the really sketchy sections.
I can't and won't speak to their ability to serve the freeride and downhill rider types but for the harder side of XC you'll be hard pressed to find a better protection.
Angie was very cool to deal with as well.
I'm initially giving 5 chilies because these really surpassed my expectations, and I will post more feedback as time goes on- more falls, etc...
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy M
a Downhiller
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | anything | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Modular. Can remove knee from shin guard. That's it. | | Weaknesses: | Hot. No ventilation at all (like Dianese). When I got them I thought it was a joke. They look and feel like toys. They barely stay on. There is a terrible system of straps to keep it on your leg. Takes a while to put on. Knee pad rides way off the surface of knee unless your knee is bent. Straps are a joke and will stretch. Material is a joke. Pathetic really. | | Bike Setup: | fun | | Bottom Line: | Garbage. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonny
a Cross Country Rider
from Victoria, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Who can pick just one? | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | www.corerat.com | | Strengths: | Comfort, comfort, comfort. The ability to slip the knee guard over the shin guard (or remove it entirely) makes hikiing the bike uphill WAY easier. The stiff exoskeleton offers best combination of protection and flexibility, and the removable padding can be washed so you can keep your gear from smelling like rot. | | Weaknesses: | None in my opinion. | | Similar Products Used: | SixSixOne
Roach | | Bike Setup: | Does it really matter? | | Bottom Line: | If you want great protection coupled with extreme comfort, then buy this armour. The prices on the web site were cheaper than any store I looked in, and the customer service via phone was excellent too. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steven
a Cross Country Rider
from chappaqua ny
Date Reviewed: August 5, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Deer"s Ear in Ninham | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | cor. rat.com | | Strengths: | looks great, The shin guards seperate from the knee pads. The opitional shin protector is a neat add on for the winter months. By taking them off for the summer they are a lot cooler. | | Weaknesses: | the strap that keeps the pads in place rubs behind my knee | | Bike Setup: | gary fisher sugar 1 | | Bottom Line: | I would buy them again | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SuperCraig
a Weekend Warrior
from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Jack's Lake | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Marty's Mountain Cycle | | Strengths: | Shin Guard Section is ok. | | Weaknesses: | This stuff is crap. I've had two big crashes with Core Rat now, and both times my knees have been on the loosing end. My riding is over for the summer now. With both knees torn up and a massive piece out of my right knee. Thanks for the quality Angie Ho. | | Bike Setup: | 2001 Noroc Torrent with Z1 MCR and Doublewides. | | Bottom Line: | If your going to buy armour spend you money on something that works. Core Rat slips constantly, the straps are too long and the knee cup provides minimal protection. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bert
a
from North Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | corerat.com | | Strengths: | -excellent protection & quality
-comfortable & cool
-customer service is outstanding | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | 661
kona
roach | | Bike Setup: | kona chute | | Bottom Line: | These pads do the job and do it well. Had them for two
years plus and still going strong.
I've had some fairly ugly wipeouts over the past few years and come up injury free and smiling thanks to corerat.
High speed on loose rock , over the bars onto solid rock
and dirtjumping, I've crashed doing it all and this set of armour has come through big time! Plus one of the best things about corerat armour is that you can pedal with them in comfort. You forget your wearing anything at all.
Top marks for corerat. I would highly recommend these for any who wants full protection with comfort.
Beware of the imitators! There's alot of crap out there.
Angie has been riding and making top notch stuff long before everybody else jumped onto the freeride bandwagon.
She's also got some awesome clothing too. Just picked up some new shorts.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 22, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Direct from CORERAT.COM | | Strengths: | -Great Air Flow
-Excellent Protection
-Stay on/ Stay put even though I have chicken legs
-Calf add on was free
-Delviered in less than 72 hours (I ordered them at like 9pm on a monday and had them on wedneday morning) | | Weaknesses: | -Maybe they should have two widths for the shin guard... even when it is tight it rubs my pedal every once in a while... and I don't think it is because of my height (5'9")
| | Similar Products Used: | I have owned a set of 661's and a set of Fox Knee/Shin pads... the Foxs play slip and slide and I spent more time repairing my 661's then riding with them... the strap tear every time you rub a tree or bail a bit... and the CoreRat's breath almost as well as the Fox pads... which had no backing at all and a lot less padding
P.S.: 661's are only good for smelly lenders if someone you don't like is coming riding with you on a hot day... | | Bike Setup: | Schiwnn 4-banger (w/Fox Vanilla R rear shock), Fox Forx Vanilla RLC front (5"), Hayes hydro's (8"/6"), Profile Mtn. Cranks, 321 on Profile hub (rear), 521 on Hayes/Hugi hub (front) | | Bottom Line: | I have not owned or tried a better fitting, breathing, or constructed piece of body armor... from such a promt company... Angie's gear totally rocks... and she's a real rider, riding real trails, and can most likely out drop/roll/jump/and balance myself and most the people on hear... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from Victoria
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Hartland | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Strengths: | Open design in cool in hot weather | | Weaknesses: | Does not stay in place | | Similar Products Used: | Roach D-H Legs | | Bike Setup: | Rocky Altitude T.O. | | Bottom Line: | Hey they look good but, when I crash I want protection and these just don't deliver. The knee pad slips out of the way and exposes your knee to all sorts of nasties. The shin guard seems to work but I feel it too will rotate around in a crash, unless you hit it straight on. They work well if you bang you legs on your pedals or knee on stem but crash protection is very low.
My Roach pads are far superior but much hotter in the summer. When it cools off I'm back to the Roaches for sure. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakland, CA USA
Date Reviewed: July 17, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | corerat.com | | Strengths: | Great fit, won't slip or creep, comfortable, strong! | | Weaknesses: | None. | | Bottom Line: | This past weekend I used the leg armour at Mammoth Mtn and really put it to the test. I got into a major crash at high speed jamming my knee into solid rock -- no problem! Get up, collect the bike, and continue! I was riding with a fellow who had Azonic armour, and he was constantly fiddling with the shin guards as they kept slipping. Not so with my trusty Core Rat leg armour! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tonto
a Downhiller
from Yellowknife, NT, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | www.corerat.com | | Strengths: | Lightweight, strong, fully adjustable fit, removable pads to throw in the wash, CUSTOMER SERVICE! (I ordered mine on a Friday and had it on Tuesday BC-->Yellowknife NWT!) YOU ROCK ANGIE! Will keep my legs entacted and protected from my pedals! | | Weaknesses: | None so far! | | Similar Products Used: | my skin.....doesn't seem to hold up like it used to! | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Norco VPS 4x4 Supercross...ya baby! | | Bottom Line: | Durable, lightweight, quality product that provides everything that I want in knee and shin protection! Perfect for urban riding and jumping.....will pay for themselves 10x over with the money I will save in bad-aids alone!!! Excellent buy....bottom line - GET SOME! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tulpas
a Cross Country Rider
from Squamish, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$67.00 | | Purchased At: | Direct from manufacturer | | Strengths: | Simple, solid, effective protection | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Rocky Mountain Element, IRC Tires, Purple Hayes 6" Discs | | Bottom Line: | I love my Corerat pads. They allow me to explore my limits without fear. Bottome line - my riding has improved.
Crash tested. Rider Approved.
Get some. There GREAT! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Rhode Island
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | arcadia | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$66.00 | | Purchased At: | corerat.com | | Strengths: | This leg guard is sweet it good cause it looks bulky but when you ride it it feels like its not even there Sometimes i had to look down to see if it was still on me | | Weaknesses: | The velcro wasn't long enough for my skinny arms (im only 15 years old) | | Similar Products Used: | tryed the hammer bmx pads | | Bike Setup: | K2 evo 4.0 2000 model, Cannondale moto Fr fork, Sun ringle shimano lx front rim, Mavic rear, | | Bottom Line: | Sweet good all around knee and shin guards good for anyone that wants a shin and knee gruard so they can rip the trails and still not get tired or chaffed. Basically A good guard to huck off rocks crash and still get back up don'ty have to turn around to pick up all the gear that flew off and keep going.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
daddyrat
a Weekend Warrior
from blackheath nsw australia
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | blackheath | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | net | | Strengths: | light, stays in place, very comfortable and for all these reasons very reassuring | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Similar Products Used: | dainese | | Bike Setup: | ac2 wth z3qr20
| | Bottom Line: | we ride about twice a week on local tracks with a mix of fast rocky descents and quit technical stuff incl.2 to 10 foot drops. after some hassles with the web site everything went very smoothly and i had my pads after only one week. considering the quality of pads and there prices here in australia this is one heck of a bargain. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Haro Impulse
a Weekend Warrior
from Florida
Date Reviewed: June 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Carolina Mtns. pits and downhills | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$40.00 | | Purchased At: | direct | | Strengths: | Great for hot weather, free riding, urban or cross country. Lightweight, highly adjustable, easily cleaned, COOL | | Weaknesses: | none (unless you want protection on the back of your leg) or you are a full face helmet wearing downhiller. | | Similar Products Used: | fox pads, macho pads .. others | | Bike Setup: | free riders dream, 6"travel (does it matter) | | Bottom Line: | First of all, the Canadian company get thumbs up for excellent and curtious customer service. They even did follow up calls to see if I liked the product.
TWO YEARS - I've used these pads for over two years! (yeah they last longer than my bike parts). By no means are my pads still shiny like the photo. They are well scuffed and scratched. I've ripped into many rocks doing endos, falls, hops, crashes, bounces off trees - and they always save my ass (and knees).
I live in Florida where its damn hot and often muddy or sandy. The rocks here tend to be limestone or phosphate which makes for painful crashes. Wearing these pads make the cojones hang just a bit lower so you dare challange yourself.
These pads won't dehydrate you (like fox), they won't trap dirt and sweat, they don't STINK and you don't look like and extreme stripper wearing mad-max lingerie (like fox's thigh-high look).
The knee and shin pads seperate so you can use either /or both. After a ride - the foam padding comes right away from the hard plastic shell for easy cleaning with a hose or toss them in the washing machine. Fasteners are velcro - they come on/off fast and hold tight.
HOWEVER - I would not suggest these for those who do serious downhilling. If you seriously need a full face helmet, you need heavier thicker pads. These pads are good for free riding but downhillers need a bit more.
These are the easiest pads I've seen on the market to wear and care for. (low price too)
VERY VERY GOOD QUALITY PRODUCT - I will buy them again. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Long Island NY
Date Reviewed: June 9, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$66.00 | | Purchased At: | corerat.com | | Strengths: | excellent design, breatheability, and they look awesome. These pads are feel so good your confidence in trying new things is really boosted. Angie was mad cool and hooked me up with some stickers as well. Wish they were bigger stickers! | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | fox | | Bike Setup: | 99 hoffman ep | | Bottom Line: | after a fractured knee accident i had unrelated to biking, i would never try anything again without protection. Core rats protection is first rate. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from New Britain, CT
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$67.00 | | Purchased At: | corerat.com | | Strengths: | FREE CORDURA CALF PROTECTORS PROMOTION!
Removable knee pad, comfortable, cooler than most (see weakness), don't slide down my leg, removable shin pads, light compared to others. | | Weaknesses: | Warm with the cordura calf protectors in. A bit expensive for me. | | Similar Products Used: | Floppy Fox's | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Gary Fisher Sugar 3+ disc. | | Bottom Line: | FREE CORDURA CALF PROTECTORS PROMOTION!
Swett pads so far. Got the calf protectors free which was cool, and they just velcro in behind the shin pads. They give me more confidence when I ride. I can just wear the shin pads, or just the knee pads when I don't need full protection. They seem strong and durable, but I haven't crashed yet with them. I'll post another review after I crash a few times. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SGT. ROCK
a Racer
from Edmonton, AB
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$66.00 | | Purchased At: | Core Rat | | Strengths: | Canadian made
Tough
Modular - knee detachable from shin, removable padding
Good strap system | | Weaknesses: | Not ventilated
A bit expensive | | Bottom Line: | I like these better than any other pads because they cover your shin completely, not like those stupid MX style pads that are 3 inches shorter to work with boots. Who the hell wears boots on a mountain bike?
Was willing to pay a little extra for a quality hand-made Canadian product, versus the mass produced offshore stuff. Keep it comin', Angie. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ralph Lindsay
a Weekend Warrior
from Ft. Lauderdale FL
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Markham | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Core Rat | | Strengths: | Strong, durable and comfortable. Not nearly as hot as some others I have tried. Saves the wear and tear on knees and ankles. | | Weaknesses: | None that I have noticed | | Similar Products Used: | Roach | | Bike Setup: | Titus Locomoto, full XTR | | Bottom Line: | Great armor from a great source. Make sure to get an autographed photo of Angie if you order direct. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Angus Lemon
a
from Anaheim, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: April 21, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | www.corerat.com | | Strengths: | Lightweight, comfortable, cooler than other pads, good protection. Adds confidence to your riding! | | Weaknesses: | Fewer cool scars. I had a older style knee pad move down once during a high speed slide, but the newer style knee pads are more secure. | | Similar Products Used: | Hammer | | Bike Setup: | SantaCruz bullit | | Bottom Line: | Get them, they have saved me from serious injury on several occations. I have worn my pads for a couple of years and they show the scars of hard riding. They have kept me on the bike and out of the emergency room. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clift Norris
a
from Houston, TX, USA
Date Reviewed: April 20, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | CoreRat world headquarters | | Strengths: | Easy to put on, stay put while riding, offer good protection, very unobtrusive (you forget you're wearing them). Very effective against "pedal bites" on your shins! | | Weaknesses: | None so far | | Similar Products Used: | Misc pads from local sporting goods store (ouch!) | | Bike Setup: | Echo stock trials bike | | Bottom Line: | This product consists of separate shin and knee sections. The shin section is connected to the knee section with velcro, and this allows enough movement so that the pads are not restrictive while pedaling. Both sections have a hard outer plastic shell and a soft washable inner pad. Straps wrap around the back of your legs, with velcro holding the system in place.
I've used the pads about 3 times per week in the hot Houston weather for several months, and they work well in this environment. The pads seem to be well built and the customer service is fine. I would highly recommend this product!
It's amazing how much better you can ride when you don't have to worry about getting your legs damaged. I really like my CoreRat stuff! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ty Lloyd
a Downhiller
from Regina
Date Reviewed: April 10, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | ones riden with friends | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$90.00 | | Purchased At: | corerat | | Strengths: | light weight, fit, good breathability, not too hot, and they look killer | | Weaknesses: | Can not get them at any local shops....have to order from B.C....us poor Saskatchewan riders. | | Bike Setup: | Norco Drop standard..... | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is I can not wait for the snow to melt and the corerats to arrive at my front door. Angie is wicked and her service was reason enough to buy the product, not to mention the killer feel and the sweet looks of both the arm and leg armour. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle Ritchie
a Downhiller
from squmaish
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | all trails that flow | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$66.00 | | Purchased At: | Corerat | | Strengths: | Well made, Stylish, Comfortable, Great fit, great price, not to hot. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | roach they are way to hot | | Bike Setup: | KONA STAB | | Bottom Line: | THE ARE THE BEST PADS ON THE MARKET Well made, Stylish, Comfortable, Great fit GREAT PRICE I RECOMMEND them to all riders | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean
a Weekend Warrior
from RI
Date Reviewed: December 15, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Vietnam | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | core rat | | Strengths: | Strong, stay in place, look cool and most of all Angie. | | Weaknesses: | That angie doesn't send an autographed pic with each set. :) | | Similar Products Used: | Kona, 661, soccershinguard/rollerbladekneeguard, CCM shin guards for DH'ing | | Bike Setup: | 2000 Kona Roast frame, Zokes Z3 100 fork, Rhyno lite rims, Truvativ stylo team and isis BB, Ringle ZUZU pedals, Precision Billet brake levers, and V-brakes, Precision Billet rear der., SRAM 9.0 front der., SRAM shorty grip shifts, SRAM 9.0 SL rear hub, SRAM 7.0 rear cogs, Avid flak jacket cables, SACHS chain, Specialized Big Hit 2.5 front tire, Panaracer Fire 2.1 rear, Specialized Stout front hub, KONA seat post, Bontrager saddle, Specialized shorty stem, RESOL DH clear lexan front fender, RESOL clear lexan frame armor, Profile carbon riser bars, Ritchey TGV grips, RESOL black delrin grip caps. | | Bottom Line: | The pads are sweet, stay in place and you forget about them. Sorry for the delay in doing a write up Angie but I've been waiting for a crash so I can report on how they held up and protected me, but since I've started wearing them I haven't crashed. One of the cool things that Core Rat does is they send a lot of stickers, Core rat is now an advertiser on the boards on my dome hockey. Also listen to Angie when she suggests getting the calf protection for a few dollars more. I wish I had bought them, my zuzu pedals have been tearing me up, Angie if you read this please forgive me for doubting you, I'm not worthy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from IL
Date Reviewed: December 7, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Speedgoat | | Strengths: | Lighter weight and cooler than most. Reasonably priced. Prevents loss of skin and blood. Pads are removeable for cleaning. | | Weaknesses: | Back of leg exposed but add on is available for full coverage. | | Similar Products Used: | 1st body armour | | Bike Setup: | Intense Tracer with Psylo SL and Vanilla Coil rear. | | Bottom Line: | Excellent product and customer serivce. I wanted something relatively light weight, cool for Illinois hot humid summer days, unobtrusive yet protective. Core Rat has performed as I hoped. My legs used to be cut, scraped and bloody now they are whole again.
Excellent customer service as well. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim & Sue
a Cross Country Rider
from Haleiwa, Hawaii
Date Reviewed: November 30, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | They are lightweight so can be carried easily in a pack when pedaling long uphills. The removable knee pad is handy, too. Another strength is that Angie will replace worn elastics for a nominal fee. | | Weaknesses: | They slip down on some body types and I buy some medium elastic elbow braces (elastic tubes) at a drug store and slip these on my legs before my socks, then tuck the shin pads into the top of the tube and use the sock to cover the bottom of the tube. This keeps the leg pads from sliding down and extends the lifespan of the shin guard elastics. Here in Hawaii we sweat a lot, which shortens the life span of any elastic. If we rinse the elastic with cold water after each ride, it lasts a lot longer. We have tried other pads and find elastic dying is always a problem, so this is not unique to Angie's Corerat Armor.
| | Bike Setup: | Santa Cruz Bullit & Santa Cruz Super Light | | Bottom Line: |
I have used many of the other brands and find Angie's to be far and away the most useful and durable.
These are great for cross country and freeride because they protect your skin & bones, while still allowing easy pedaling over all terrain. You forget you have them on.
Keep up the great work! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Eccleston
a Cross Country Rider
from Connecticut
Date Reviewed: November 24, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$45.00 | | Purchased At: | Core-Rat.Com | | Strengths: | The first thing you have to know is that I am a disaster on the bike. I crash a lot. I LOVE THESE PADS. Right from the start they fit great. They are very comfortable and stay securely in place all ride long. They are cooler than I dared hope for. They offer excellent range of motion without pinching or restricted movement. They work very, very well when whacked against trees, rocks, and the cold hard ground. I actually spoke with Angie when I called Core-Rat to order. She patiently answered all my dumb questions. She advised me to wear them next to my skin, never over clothing. I think these pads are fantastic. Everybody else is always fixing their pads because they slide down. These stay put and offer reliable and substantial protection while becoming invisible to the wearer. I cannot say enough good things about them... | | Weaknesses: | The straps have begun stretching out. Oh well, I've worn them three times a week for over a year. This can be fixed by doubling the strap over itself and then sewing it to itself to bring in the slack. | | Similar Products Used: | Dainese pro air knee-shin pads. I was told these were the best, so I ordered them the same day I ordered Angie's pads. While the Dainese do have more foam and thicker plastic in the knee cap area, they slide down all the time. The foam scrapes my knees which is very irritating. Also, Core-Rat offers a longer shin pad and a better over all system of securing the pad to the leg. I was very disappointed because I wanted to like the Dainese better, but I don't. Angie's pads kick ass over the expensive Dainese. | | Bike Setup: | Year 2001 Jekyll model 2000. Lefty, Hayes, etc...
Lean mean ridin' machine that has taken these pads down hilling in Vermont as well as all the local stuff that I can manage to ride. | | Bottom Line: | These pads cost less, fit better, are more breathable, and feel more comfortable than Dainese. The lashing system is more secure and versatile. You will forget you are wearing these pads until you crash and they save your sorry skin and bones. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dylan Wallinger
a
from Black Creek, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Cutthroat | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | These things are pretty comfy, and you dont sweat too bad in them. | | Weaknesses: | The knee cups are stiff and crack easy | | Similar Products Used: | Azonic pro knee cups | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Norco Trials Unicycle, Viscount seat, Welgo freefall pedals, Monty Mod Trials Tire and Rim. | | Bottom Line: | These pads aren't bad, but they can crack real easy, mine broke in like a week. If you do lots of extreme riding i suggest Roach Dh leg armour, or some SIXSIXONES. But, if you ride just like X Country, then these will do. Also if you ride unicycle, you kick ass!!
www.extremeunicycling-bcmat.cityslide.com | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter mccann
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston, TX
Date Reviewed: October 10, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Excellent coverage and protection. Lightwieght. Not to hot, comfortable and stay in place. | | Weaknesses: | Tan lines on back of leg make people wonder when they see you in shorts (still preferable to scabs, stitches and casts). | | Similar Products Used: | AXO | | Bike Setup: | Ellsworth Isis SL, King, RF, Thomson, XTR... | | Bottom Line: | This armour is wearing a lot of scars that were intended for me. I'm not even aware that I'm wearing them while riding. This is a well thought out design that offers maximum protection while remaining unrestrictive. No body armour can protect against everything, but after 20 years of riding, there's no question that pads are worth wearing. The ABS "exoskeleton" is light, yet still rigid enough to mean the difference in having a bone break or not. I've hit the ground HARD in these and gotten up with a **** eating grin on my face as I realized that there wasn't going to be a "pain wave". Great customer service (Angie still handles most calls personally). Great job Angie! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg Lawrence
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland
Date Reviewed: October 4, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything on the North Shore | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | Direct | | Strengths: | Solid practical design that keep your legs scar free.
If your a skinny XC freak or headbanging nutter, the chances are you'd find the pads very comfortable to use, and they work....many deep marks in the shin gaurds(and not in me) prove that point! | | Weaknesses: | The rider you put in them! | | Bottom Line: | I submitted a positive review when I got the original pads, since then Angie has upgraded the design of the knees. If you have old style knee pads, call her and get an upgrade, it's worth it.
The Stumptown crew have visited the shore 'many' times to shoot film (check out www.stumptownproductions.com) and we all wear Core Rat because we like the stuff Angie makes.
If you want to keep your skin, get Angie wear. If you ride flats, get the calf protectors as well! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron Cochran
a Weekend Warrior
from Malden, MA, US
Date Reviewed: July 21, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Lynn Woods | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | www.corerat.com | | Strengths: | lightweight, pads are detachable for washing, after a while they feel like they aren't even on, shin and knee pads are a component system and can be seperated. | | Weaknesses: | not many at all. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | front suspension. | | Bottom Line: | I give it a 4 on value becuase i guess i'm kinda stingy. I don't feel like I should have to pay U.S. $50 for two plastic pieces and some velcro. Nevertheless, these pads feel excellent and were put to the test right away when I fell on a ridge climb and slid down 17 feet of rock with my bike on my leg and I got up and laughed it off. These are the real deal. They look like they are bulky and will bother you but you harldy know their on. I bought these purely on the advise of other reviews on this sight and was very pleased. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Kerr
a Weekend Warrior
from Bay Area
Date Reviewed: July 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | To many. | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$115.00 | | Purchased At: | From Angie in Canada | | Strengths: | Great Idea with the removable pads for washing
and hard plastic for impacts. | | Weaknesses: | Go back to sewing 101. It's a hot glue
stich on all the velcro straps. There is
no proper stiching period. Making them
tear apart in no time. When I got mine the
bottom strap for the shin guard was already
ripped halfway. I called and told Angie the
problem. Oh no problem,just send them back she
said. I said,how about you send me a new one so
I can ride, and when I get it I'll send the broken
one back to you? Oh no she said. Then It would be
used and I could not resell it. Resell it? You sent
me a brand new defective product and want me to send
it back to you so you can resell it on my dime? Please,
you are in Canada and I am in CA. I had the Pants and
ripped the ass out in less than 9 night rides. Then
I told her give me the shorts since it's now summertime.
They ripped at the pockets,holes just starting popping out
on the mesh,garbarge IMHO.The leg armor does not stay in place,knee or shin. The elbow armor is too small for a large man. Again,the velcro is garbarge.
Dont bother with any of this line except for the
bike armor,no Joke. | | Similar Products Used: | Azonic and Fox | | Bottom Line: | Stay away from Core Rat. Hard core gear for
hardcore riders,Please. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kyle
a Weekend Warrior
from Kitchener, Ont, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Technical Extacy | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$115.00 | | Purchased At: | From Angie Herself | | Strengths: | Stays in place, looks cool as hell, offers supurb protection | | Weaknesses: | When you get sweaty, the knee part tends to move down slightly. Still offers protection like this, but can be a bit distracting. Also, take a long time to put these on with the calf add on because of the many straps. A bit pricey too. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Kona hahanna with some dh components | | Bottom Line: | If you want to keep from getting burned, scraped, impaled, bruised etc, buy these! they look amazing, feel great, and your legs will still be aired out. Worth the price i paid! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darius
a Weekend Warrior
from Manila, Philippines
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Ridge 2, Jungle Luge | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Vancouver, BC | | Strengths: | Not too hot for use in the tropics, hard shell protects even from jagged rock hits | | Weaknesses: | Protective area limited, knee pad doesn't stay in place | | Similar Products Used: | O'Neal knee and elbow pads | | Bike Setup: | Aeon, Z1, Stratos, North Shore XS, XTR | | Bottom Line: | I bought these pads because they did not have full neoprene leggings which would be too hot in the tropics. Big mistake. On one small jump I came back to earth with my weight shifted too far back, and the rear tire took out a big chunck of flesh from the back of my right knee. Then last Saturday I did a digger and as I was sliding across the gravel the right shin pad rotated around my leg even though I had the thing cinched tight, leaving the shin exposed - total hamburger wound. Yesterday on a downhill run I did an endo and roll with my leg tangled up in the frame, and the chainrig took a big hunk out of my right knee, just beside the pad.
The knee pad straps, no matter how tight, tend to move toward the center of your knee joint (creep down your lower thigh), and that makes the pad move around easily plus it sucks for pedaling. The shin pads have saved me plenty of times but when you are crashing down the trail they can get pushed out of place leaving you f*cked in the dirt.
If you ride aggressively, these pads won't protect you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darrel
a Downhiller
from Rossland
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | Sacred Ride | | Strengths: | light, washable | | Weaknesses: | coverage | | Similar Products Used: | six six one, roach | | Bike Setup: | built | | Bottom Line: | I used these pads for one year. They do not cover your calf area, which is a problem, so you can buy an add on for another $24 bucks. The knee protector slides down and leaves your knee exposed. After crashing and getting stitches in the top of my kneecap even though I was wearing my pads I have went out and spent more money on another company's leg armor. Bottom line I am missing a week of riding and I believe that the product did not do its job. With some improvements the pad will be great but I would not buy them until Core Rat addresses the coverage problems. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
luca gervasoni
a Weekend Warrior
from brescia, italy
Date Reviewed: May 2, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | core rat | | Strengths: | quite light but resistant at the same time. They stay were you put them. Really adjustable to every size because of long straps that you can shorten. | | Weaknesses: | maybe they let the sides of your knee a bit uncovered.
| | Similar Products Used: | fox 911 | | Bike Setup: | specialized fxr xc comp | | Bottom Line: | They are quite easy and light, so you can even pedal for long rides wearing them. Good overall quality. Great buy !!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Owen
a
from Edmonton AB.
Date Reviewed: April 4, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | anything with drops! | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Tricycle Works | | Strengths: | Absolutely everything. Not only are these things super beefy for any big falls, but they are lightweight and look sick!
No worries for gettin overheated in the summer cuz they're cool! | | Weaknesses: | um, what?? | | Similar Products Used: | Roach, six six one's | | Bike Setup: | Cove Stiffie Fr w. Z1 bomber drop off's, core rat bash guard and core rat pads :) | | Bottom Line: | What can I say that already hasnt been said. Angie at Core Rat makes the sickest stuff. I would never even imagine riding without my battle shorts, arm armor and leg armor on. Lets you get on with riding & feelin invincable! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ky
a Downhiller
from Pullman, WA
Date Reviewed: April 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | WSU Urban | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | From Angie herself | | Strengths: | Light, comfortable, and really does protect my shins and knees. Ohh and it fits around my calves | | Weaknesses: | didn't come with enough stickers to hand out to my friends | | Similar Products Used: | you name it i have tried it | | Bottom Line: | Angie at core rat is awesome...when i asked her if her pads would fit my legs, she said that if they didn't just send em back and she'd hook me up with custom straps. These pads feel great and the knee part can be detatched if you want to. pads have survived several crashes with only scratches. Pity that i can only give 5 flaming turdsfor this product | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a
from Victoria, BC.
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Strengths: | Tough, comfy, made in Canada, easy to wash, customer service is excellent. The knee pads have been updated for 2001 - they are much larger and provide more protection at the sides and top of the knee. The plastic cap is also bigger. I find they fit my knees better than the old version. | | Bottom Line: | If you're worried about how these would feel, get over it! After one ride you get used to them and after a few more you feel naked without them. You won't regret buying them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john
a Downhiller
from portland
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | work like they should | | Bottom Line: | i bought the arm and leg pads along time ago, they are muddy,stinky and everything else but still work great! the leg pads seem to want to slide down your leg a little under pedaling, exposing the knee, but thats minor. overall they feel good and work great. ive hit my knees and shins really hard and didnt even notice until i saw the dinks in the plastic caps! one gripe is they are the most expensive pads ive seen but i guess they do pay for themselves quick. and ive had them for 2 years+ so i shouldnt b*tch too much | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Bakofsky
a Cross Country Rider
from El Paso, Texas
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | UTEP | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$66.00 | | Purchased At: | Core Rat | | Strengths: | Light weight.
Great fit.
Terrific value. | | Weaknesses: | None yet | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Cove Stiffee
Marzocchi
Race Face
Hayes Hydraulic
Chris King | | Bottom Line: | Angie at Core Rat is the greatest. Always buy from a fellow biker if you can. Her gear is a lot cheaper than a trip to the ER.!
Leg armor is so good I just ordered a set of arm armor.
If you ride technical trails or trials or use platform pedals, you gotta get Core Rat Body Armour.
Add another Flamin' Chili!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kate
a Weekend Warrior
from vancouver bc canada
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | ned's, pipeline | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | gift | | Strengths: | wow, i love these things! they stay put, easy and quick to put on. they've saved my knee caps and shins repeatedly, and i've smacked them hard many times. worth their weight (which is minimal) in gold! | | Weaknesses: | after 2 years of regular use some of the stitching around the velcro is coming undone. otherwise, no weaknesses | | Bike Setup: | rocky instinct | | Bottom Line: | these pads have saved my legs so many times i can't even count them. they make me less chicken on drops, bridges, ladders, etc. they're awesome. have allowed me to continue wearing shorts in summer in public without people looking at me as if i was being beaten. love them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
peter
a Downhiller
from squamish
Date Reviewed: January 2, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Cat lake area | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | core rat @ squamish | | Strengths: | A must if you do any type of downhill riding. Money well spent. The armour is indestructible after numerous test fall. | | Weaknesses: | There is none. | | Similar Products Used: | Knee and arm armour | | Bike Setup: | Full suspension set to super push | | Bottom Line: | If you ride hard, you often fall hard. And if your not falling your not having fun. Body armour is the only way to go unless you don't want to go to work the next day. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Bonner
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: January 2, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Ravenshoe | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$65.00 | | Purchased At: | Core rat web site | | Strengths: | The modular construction is great...run knees only, shins only or in combination. Construction is first rate. Customer service is the best around...Angie takes care of her customers. This is a great product from a great company. | | Weaknesses: | None...except that now I no longer have an excuse for walking a stunt!!! | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Litespeed Ocoee with an AMP F4 fork and Thudbuster seatpost. | | Bottom Line: | I did alot of research before I bought this armour and I decided that Core Rat was the best out there. This stuff gives you confidence and it is built to last a long time (longer than me!) Buy it and enjoy! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Maryland, USA
Date Reviewed: December 24, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | Speedgoat | | Strengths: | Lightweight and customizable. Once you set them up, you don't even notice they're there. You can make any combination of knees and/or shins and position them to fit your legs and particular riding style. It was instantly obvious that they are made by people who don't want to waste time or materials. These things are all business. | | Weaknesses: | People who haven't used them yet think they make you look like you're on a SWAT team (is that a weakness?) | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | C-dale, hardtale, many upgrades | | Bottom Line: | I started using them to ride the more technical stuff and practice trials skills, but decided to use tham all of the time (like a helmet). Other riding buddy's have finally caught on because at the end of the rides, they were limping and bleeding and my legs weren't even dirty. Then, 2 weeks ago, I took a little detour from the preferred line. After putting my bike back together and catching up to my buddy, he noticed that my knee piece had cracked about half way down. Some may call this a failure of the product, I think it was a complete success. My knee wasn't even bruised. That thing would have been my knee cap. Then I contacted Chris at Speedgoat who quickly hooked me up with Angie at Core Rat. For about 7 bucks (American) I was able to get a replacement piece. I am very pleased. She was also interested in how she could improve the product and any other product recommendations. Buy them and save your legs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Boston, MA
Date Reviewed: November 26, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Lynn Woods | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$55.00 | | Purchased At: | Airbomb.com | | Strengths: | Tough, hard plastic shell, comfortable fit-they stay put during hardcore XC riding, you can separate the lining for washing. Great customer service! My kneepad cracked during a routine 'down', and I emailed customer service. The next day I had a reply from Angie at Core Rat. She offered to replace the offending part for only $10 +S&H. Not bad for a product that does what it's supposed to. | | Weaknesses: | They did their job-I cracked a kneepad, but with only a slight impact. I don't like the cordura/nylon calf cover add-ons either. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox, K2 Rollerblading Pads | | Bike Setup: | 2000 Intense Tracer, Hayes Disc, XT/XTR | | Bottom Line: | I ordered these the night I nearly cracked both knee and elbow during an ender at Lynn Woods. Now I won't ride without them. I used them riding some epic trails out west-Downieville, Flume Trail, as well as weekly rides in eastern MA. Confidence inspiring on technical night rides. Moderate accidents that used to be a ride ender now simply add character & a few scratches to my Core Rat leg armour. They're lightweight and feel great; just snug enough to stay put but won't interfere with pedaling like DH pants can.
I just ordered a set of the arm armour for those havoc-wreaking winter rides. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joanne
a Weekend Warrior
from burnaby, bc, canada
Date Reviewed: October 14, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | neds | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | direct | | Strengths: | Knee/shin pads slide down for the climb up so I don't need to sit at the top of the trail and take off my shoes to put the pads on. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Basic bottom o the line bike | | Bottom Line: | These pads are extremely comfortable and very durable, my riding skills are limited and if anyone has put them to the test it is me. I have had no problems with any of core rat products. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scottie
a Weekend Warrior
from burnaby, bc, canada
Date Reviewed: October 11, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | direct | | Strengths: | product is tough!! no other armour has so much functionality as core rat. no foofy gear here, only the straight up hardcore goods that will protect you from body carnage! | | Weaknesses: | none so far! | | Similar Products Used: | hockey/soccer stuff | | Bike Setup: | north shore hardtail | | Bottom Line: | the bottom line is that for the dollar you won't find a better setup than core rat! this stuff is well made, and they stand behind their product, all the parts are replaceable, and interchangeable, as well as washable! armour that is doing it's job doesn't last forever, after all you're crashing on it constantly. mine has been crashed on for two years now and still going strong! i'd also rather support grassroots company's like core rat, who's ideas and inovations come from being real life hardcore mountain bikers! not to mention that thier testing/play grounds are some of bc and the worlds most technically extreme. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
George
a Cross Country Rider
from Merrimack, NH, USA
Date Reviewed: October 11, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | FOMBA, Grater, Bear Brook, etc. NH | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Direct mail order | | Strengths: | Light weight. Protect. When used without padding and used without knee pads they are extremely light and small and I forgot they were there through a very nasty technical ride. | | Weaknesses: | Straps seemed short for a big guy when pads are used but manufacturer offered longer straps and will customize anything upon request, which is cool. I rode just with the hard plastic chin guards, without pads and also without the knee pads because seemed bulky and I didn't feel like bothering, but I'll try em another time. | | Bike Setup: | Sugar 1, XC bike. | | Bottom Line: | I used the hard plastic chin guards without the pads but with the extra calf protectors. The chin guards even without the padding were so light and stayed put. I didn't know they were there at any time, which is excellent! Last time I did this trail I had several cuts and dings in my legs. This time, no injuries. The fact that they didn't feel like they were on and I got not even a scratch says to me that they work. If you come out of your pedals on rough terrain you are going to hurt your chins and it does bother you and slow you a bit. These things prevented the pain and I forgot they were there, so they are worth it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
fred
a Cross Country Rider
from maine
Date Reviewed: October 7, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Speedgoat | | Strengths: | Light weight, good price, comfortable | | Weaknesses: | Stitching comes apart way to easy. | | Bike Setup: | Stock Trek 7000 | | Bottom Line: | Nice product, but CoreRat doesn't stand behind their product. The stitching holding the velcro on started to come apart after three rides and they weren't even any falls to attribute to this. Notified CoreRat and there were two options: 1) Mail back ourselves(we pay shipping) 2) Sew ourselves. Unacceptable! They should have offered to replace them at their cost with them paying shipping. Speedgoat, which I like should also have done more. I won't buy CoreRat anymore and when I buy from Speedgoat I'll make sure they'll do more if things go wrong. Live and learn. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brendan
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: October 2, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Randy's | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | none | | Bike Setup: | VPS-2 | | Bottom Line: | The name for these leg pads should have been core crap. Cuz thats what they are CRAP.
1. The knee pad is way to small and gets pushed off easily.
2. Takes to much time to put on.
3. You have to buy an extra part to cover your calf.
I realy didn't like these because they were way to small and fell off way to easily. As well there are to many straps and things to do up.
I bought these because they were the only things left in the store. Gee I wounder why! Man did I get taken.
For the $110 cdn I spent to buy these things I expected them to preform well. Your better off spending 20 buck on soccer shin pads.
CRAP!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
L W
a
from Portland, OR
Date Reviewed: September 29, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | I'm building it | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Direct Order | | Strengths: | Great design. light, easy on/off, covers where you need it, won't be as hot as those wrap around alternatives, keeps your flesh intact. Washable padding means less stink after repeated use. Hand made by the designer. | | Weaknesses: | None I've noticed. | | Similar Products Used: | Tried on other brands with full wrap designs, they're just way too hot for summer riding. Also cloth covers tend to stick where Angie's hardshells slide easily and reduce twisting. | | Bike Setup: | Cove Hummer, full face, Core Rat arms, legs, battle shorts w/ hip pads. | | Bottom Line: | I don't ride BC trails w/o them. They've survived 5 trips to BC this season and definitely saved my kneecap a few months ago on Bogeyman, a big scar in my plastic shell would have meant a trip to the hospital and weeks of no riding. Ride with confidence on the big stuff cause you know you'll walk away from most crashes.
Angie's gear accelerates your learning curve because you spend more time riding than recovering. I went from fumbling on River Runs Through It last fall to cleaning the Semi Retarded on Ladies and several elevated teeters at the Woodlot last weekend. Ride harder, ride smarter!
I met Angie after buying her armor and she's a great technical rider. Her backyard is Squamish and is home to some of the sickest trails around. Her gear is tested constantly on the most challenging trails you can imagine. I believe that innovation keeps mountain biking fun and challenging. If you're serious about upgrading your technical riding I encourage you to support this talented designer/rider/business owner, then go out and learn fast by falling without hesitation. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg Lawrence
a Cross Country Rider
from Tigard, OR, USA
Date Reviewed: September 27, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | There all my favourites | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Direct From Core Rate | | Strengths: | A good solid feel around the legs, the shin pads stay in place well. The knee pads are removable(great for the bits when you have to climb) and velcro to the shin pads. | | Weaknesses: | None that I've found | | Bike Setup: | Used to be XC, but the suspension got longer and the tyres fatter....not quite freeride but getting there | | Bottom Line: | Hah! They save my legs! What else can I say. When your learning to ride trickier stuff and fall alot...you need protection. I've tried the shore rides, without the pads I'd have some pretty interesting scars....buy them, you won't be dissapointed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from Hermitage, PA
Date Reviewed: August 17, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Moraine State Park. MTB Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | It works | | Weaknesses: | They ride the North Shore with this gear, give me a break | | Bike Setup: | Hardtail | | Bottom Line: | I’m 47 and been using Angies gear for two years. The battle shorts w/pads are awesome. After numerous OTB’s per ride, I’m still riding injury free, though black and blue. The Armor is awesome. This gear has saved not only skin, but serious broken bones. Last, but the coolest, Angie is one Sweet Biker. She makes the gear and rides the gear. Buy/Ride CoreRat Gear and Live to Tell about IT. Any Questions??? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steve
a Downhiller
from seoul, korea
Date Reviewed: July 18, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Spankinator (Seoul) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Lightweight, not too hot, long shin section, removable knee pad. | | Weaknesses: | very small knee pad | | Similar Products Used: | Fox, various sk8 pads, soccer shin pads, Hammer | | Bike Setup: | FSR/MRP 6" + MX6, Steel hardtail + Z-1. | | Bottom Line: | I just got them and used them on one ride (with two crashes on granite), so can't comment on durability.
The shin section is just right -- covers long legs like mine, is very light and not too sweaty. Sorta feel like soccer shin pads. The knee section is removable in a second, and is also light and very comfortable (unlike all others I've tried), but it's not wide enough for my knees. I had no problems with pad migration (as I've had with Fox and others), and I like the easily removable padding for washing. The knee width gives it a 4 instead of 5. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed
a Downhiller
from NJ
Date Reviewed: June 25, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | dirt | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | shin guard part is sweet | | Weaknesses: | knee pad bunches up and moves around | | Similar Products Used: | 911's | | Bottom Line: | shin guards are nice but knee section sux, | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TMR
a Downhiller
from Vermont
Date Reviewed: May 15, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Durability, Ability to detach and lower the knee portion for climbing. badass look.ANGIE RULES!!! | | Weaknesses: | Needs more velcro on shin straps. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox knee/shins
Roach downhill | | Bottom Line: | These pads rule, they saved my kneecap the first week I rode with them. They are the best for climbing, as you can lower the knee pads down onto the shins then pull them up for the hairy descents. When you place your order you talk to the person who makes the product! Core Rat/Angie get my vote for the best in protective bike gear. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Downhiller
from Richmond
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | They are light and i find the strap placement is very comfortable. They stay attached well to my legs when im landing huge drops. I felt the armour to be tough enough to to withstand nasty blows, yet they are not bulky. | | Weaknesses: | I felt the decal design was kinda weak. I put my own decals on there and now im stylin'. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | '99 Rocky Mountain Element Race. 4 in. link plate setup - Race Face bar, stem, cranks & rings, Black Spire Ring God | | Bottom Line: | I would say that these pads definatly kick ass on any other knee / shin pads i've seen. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Graham
a Downhiller
from Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: January 20, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Freefall | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Everything!!! The hard shell outer keeps everything totally painless, and the foam liner is great for shock absorption. The straps are placed in the right spots for great comfort. They are also great because unlike the Roaches, the back is open and keeps you cool! Angie does a great job on constructing these, the quality is spot on. They even mold their own plastic!!! Overall, this knee/shin armour looks great, and backs it up with the quality and protection. | | Weaknesses: | None!!! I love mine!!! | | Similar Products Used: | Rollerblade knee pads, Mitre shin pads. Worked like crap!!! | | Bike Setup: | '98 GT Arrowhead with '97 Z1, Rhyno Lite/Mammoth wheels built by Cove Bike, XT crankset, STX-RC components, Wellgo BMX flat pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This armour is great. It fits well, and the comfort factor is high. They don't move around while pedaling. They look cool and make you look like a hardcore mountain biker ( i am though!!! ) So call up Angie at Core Rat and order yourself a pair!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
CB
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: December 11, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Anything on the Shore | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Hard shell. | | Weaknesses: |
Potential slippage if not tight enough | | Similar Products Used: |
Roach pads | | Bottom Line: | Get them. I love mine. Whether it's urban stuff or hard riding on the local mountains these pads will keep you going after the crash (though last time I had to carry out the bike... point is _I_ walked out) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a Weekend Warrior
from N.Y
Date Reviewed: December 8, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Forest Park | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Comfortable, Good coverage, Roman/Spartan looking armor, looks manly yet sensitive. | | Weaknesses: |
very rarely the velcro straps dont hold too well & the armor slides a bit. | | Similar Products Used: |
Qranc armor
Fox armor | | Bike Setup: |
Yellow 96'Trek 8000
hooked up to the max. | | Bottom Line: | This knee and shin combo has protected me from many a fall that would have left me incapacitated otherwise. They look great and you hardly feel them on you. My friends got some Fox knee/shin guards that look like stripper thigh highs. If your not interested in putting on armor that feels and looks like something from Victoria's Secret, these are the way to go. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Beandog
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: June 30, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Ned's Atomic Dustbin | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Bottom Line: | After losing much flesh and blood due to bails during technical descents, I decided to shell out for pads. Gouges after the first ride proved their worth. Core Rat pads are a sweet choice. They breathe well, they're very light and their hard plastic shells allow you to slide down a trail rather than hit and stick. Roaches seem to be the big seller around here (Vancouver) and although I've never used 'em, they look hot and sweaty. Core Rats can also be easily disassembled and the liner pads washed to avoid unneccary stink. Aside from a little pinching from the elastic straps, no complaints! A fine product. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BobC
a Weekend Warrior
from RI
Date Reviewed: June 17, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Light. | | Weaknesses: |
Fatal weakness on edge. If you spin, you may not like it. 75+ degree weather may be uncomfortable. | | Similar Products Used: |
Inline skate pads | | Bike Setup: |
N/A | | Bottom Line: | This is a further detailed review than my arm armor review. This product has great potential. You can't tell from the pictures but its basically a plastic shell ( like the gallon milk carton stuff ) that's about 2 mm thick velcroed to padding ( some type of dense padding like throw away computer packing ) with a cloth cover on it. Cut into the plastic are the slots on the outer edge where the straps have been hand sewn. Good stitching.
While armor is good, it may otherwise get you in trouble that your normal survival instincts would have had you avoid. It happened to me on the first ride out with it. I'm glad I had armor but a smarter rider I should have been.
The leg armor is two parts - one covers the knees with wide elastic bands to secure it. The lower shin part has thinner bands around your calf.
Good coverage. First ride out.. I landed and skidded on gravel. I don't know how others have had the armor for 2+ years or whatever timeline, but I managed to fall and skid down gravel along the edge.
Here lies the weakness of both the arm and leg armor. The slots are along the outer edge. I cracked the outer slot in one spot on my first ride.
This is an informative review. 5 stars if it had survived the first crash. IT may be 5 stars since I walked away with no injury. For now, three stars until I see what happens thru the summer.
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Submitted by
Scott Bigg
a Cross-Country Rider
from Burnaby, B.C.
Date Reviewed: June 8, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Tough, durable and most important easy to get on/off. | | Bottom Line: | these pads help improve your confidence when riding the gnarly stuff. No more jumping around and wailing every time you schwack your shins or knee on you bike or Mother Nature!! | | Overall Rating: |
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