POC release its most advanced back protectors for winter sports
POC is proud to release the new VPD Max and VPD Air back protectors, which are its most flexible, ventilated, and lightest models to date.
The new back protectors offer certified levels of protection while also being the thinnest in POC’s back protection collection. They are available this Autumn in a range of men’s, women’s, Youth, and POCito styles.
The new VPD Air and VPD Max vests continue to utilise the same concept introduced by POC and its patented VPD (Visco Elastic Polymer Dough) technology, developed over a decade ago. This technology allows the back protectors to become soft and flexible with body heat but harden directly upon impact for protection.
It’s a technology and approach that has protected many skiers and snowboarders, whether skiing World Cup downhill or starting out on a green slope, which POC wanted to make even better, as explained by Oscar Huss, Chief Product Officer, POC – “When we first introduced VPD to the snow market, most protectors were based on hard plastic. The introduction of VPD brought enhanced flexibility, breathability, and protection, and it completely changed the idea of protection, which is now widely adopted. With our new VPD Air and Max vests, we wanted to challenge the norm once more; to create the most flexible, breathable, protective back protectors that were also the thinnest and the lightest. Thanks to our engineers and designers, we have done just that, and the new VPD Air and Max vests are a major step forward in the evolution of protection.”
Product details
Lightweight
The VPD Max and VPD Air vests both utilise the same viscoelastic compound, constructed with a honeycomb-like structure that draws inspiration from nature to provide strength and protection while keeping weight as low as possible. The result is that both protectors are lighter, with the new VPD Air and VPD Max vests being almost 15% lighter than the previous versions. (now approx. 285g (Air) and 294g (Max) in adult size M).
Breathable
Thanks to the new material and shape, the honeycomb structure creates a vast amount of space for air to flow through the back protectors. Combined with a highly wicking and breathable outer material, the vest and backplate combined are the most ventilated to date.
Flexible
The unique design and viscoelastic compound used let us develop a thinner overall back plate. The new Air Vest back plate is now almost 30% thinner, at only 10mm. The Max Vest back plate is 8% thinner and a mere 13mm. The result is back protectors that are discreet, incredibly flexible, and that will mirror your every move.
Protection
The VPD Max vest is certified as a Level 2 back protector according to the EN 1621-2 standard and has passed additional optional testing at -20 °C. It is the highest certification possible, ideal for skiers and snowboarders whose primary need is the highest level of protection available, whether in the park, on the race slope, or in the backcountry.
VPD Air is certified to Level 1 (EN 1621-2, Level 1 T- (range -20ºC to +25ºC)), which is ideal for skiers and snowboarders who want protection with added flexibility.
Both the VPD Max and VPD Air back plates are tested across various conditions and temperatures, ensuring they remain as flexible and protective, regardless of the conditions.
Fit and form
The low weight in both the VPD Max and VPD Air helps to ensure that the protector stays in the right place against your back without needing to be held in place by a waistband. Both back plates have also been shaped slightly to accommodate the back's natural curvature, which, combined with their thin profile, ensures they will be almost invisible.
It will also be possible to find a precise fit, as the vests come in a variety of sizes and are specifically developed for Men, Women, Youth, and POCito styles.
Care and Recycling
The back plate and vest can be washed in a washing machine. And as it has been developed as a mono-material, once it is time to replace the back protector, it can be separated from the vest and recycled.
Colours
Uranium Black, Granite Grey, Apricot Sunstone, Fluorescent Orange, Fluorescent Pink
Price
VPD Max (Men’s and Women’s):
250 EUR
VPD Air (Men’s, Women’s, Youth and POCito):
Men’s & Womens
180 EUR
POCito Air
120 EUR
Youth Air
140 EUR
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About POC
Born and based in Stockholm, Sweden, POC is a safety and performance pioneer on a global mission: protect lives and reduce the consequences of accidents for athletes and anyone inspired to be one. Creating all types of protection for cycling and snow sports, POC uses research, scientific methods and rigorous testing in its pursuit of innovation.
www.poc.com
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