G-Form Mesa and Terra MTB Protectors with RE ZRO Technology
21.05.24 06:41 8182024-05-21T06:41:00+02:00Text: NoPain (translated by AI)Photos: Erwin HaidenComparative review of slim MTB elbow and knee pads with high wearing comfort and 100% environmentally friendly protectors.21.05.24 06:41 1.0412024-05-21T06:41:00+02:00G-Form Mesa and Terra MTB Protectors with RE ZRO Technology
21.05.24 06:41 1.0412024-05-21T06:41:00+02:00 NoPain (translated by AI) Erwin HaidenComparative review of slim MTB elbow and knee pads with high wearing comfort and 100% environmentally friendly protectors.21.05.24 06:41 1.0412024-05-21T06:41:00+02:00
There are many protectors, but biodegradable ones are not common. Last year, G-Form introduced RE ZRO, the world's first fully recyclable and biodegradable protectors, which have since been incorporated into two MTB protection series by the Americans.
Thus, the innovative RE ZRO technology is available in the elbow and knee protectors of the Mesa Series with Level 2 High Impact protection for full downhill use and the Terra Series with Level 1 protection category for trail bikers. Additionally, there is the MX Spike Chest + Back Shirt with a mix of Level 1 and Level 2 RE ZRO inserts. Four sizes in Mesa (S to XL) and six sizes in Terra (XS to XXL) should ensure an optimal fit.
We have tested and compared the elbow and knee protectors of both series.
G-Form with RE ZRO Technology
The core element of all four presented protectors are the lightweight and slim RE ZRO Pads. In their normal state, regardless of temperature, they are soft and flexible; the open structure provides convincing ventilation. Only upon impact do they harden instantly, thus providing CE-certified protection. After the impact, the material immediately becomes flexible again. The preformed, violet protectors are certified according to CE EN 1621-1:2012 Level 2 (Mesa) or Level 1 (Terra).
Since RE ZRO does not contain microplastics, they are the world's first 100% recyclable and fully biodegradable pads that have been independently tested for their environmental compatibility. Should these good pieces eventually end up in the trash, they should degrade within a few years. Thus, G-Form protects not only the rider but also the environment.
G-Form Mesa vs. Terra
Right from the first glance, it is clear that the sturdier G-Form Mesa knee and elbow pads are designed primarily for downhill riding, while the Terra series is mainly recommended for trail biking. Moreover, the difference in weight is considerable, as a medium set of Mesa weighs almost twice as much as a Terra.
G-Form Mesa vs. Terra
| Mesa Knee Guards | Mesa Ellbow Guards | Terra Knee Guards | Terra Ellbow Guards | |
| Technology | Biodegradable RE ZRO protector | |||
| Certification | CE-certified EN1621-1 Level 1 | CE-certified EN1621-1 Level 2 | ||
| Area | Gravity | Gravity | Trail | Trail |
| Sizes | S-XL | S-XL | XS-2XL | XS-XL |
| Color | Black - Re Zro | |||
| Weight* | 563 Grams | 375 Grams | 260 Grams | 236 Grams |
| Price (RRP) | 129.95 € | 119.95 € | 109.95 € | 89.95 € |
* Review sample in size Medium
G-Form Mesa for Gravity
With the CE-certified EN1621-1 Level 2 protectors, in addition to the RE ZRO protectors, external, abrasion-resistant plastic shells provide protection for knees and elbows and offer improved sliding properties in the event of a fall. Compression nets in the lower inner panel increase support and promote air circulation.
For an optimal fit and easy putting on and taking off without having to remove shoes, the Mesa Knee Guards feature adjustable Velcro straps and a zipper. On the other hand, G-Form relies on a stocking design with wide, silicone-printed grippers for the Mesa Elbow Guards. To ensure riding comfort is not compromised even while pedaling, the Mesa protectors have a two-part construction for smooth freedom of movement.
G-Form Terra for Trail
The Terra Guards have to do without external, abrasion-resistant plastic shells, which reduces weight, increases flexibility and breathability, but decreases the protection factor. Therefore, the Terra knee and elbow pads only meet the CE-certified EN1621-1 Level 1 review standard.
The protectors are essentially the same RE ZRO pads, except that the thin and breathable material is encased in a pocket made of abrasion-resistant material on the front and the open area behind the knee. There are no Velcro fasteners, zippers, or elastic bands; instead, silicone applications on the cuffs ensure that the knee pads stay securely in place. Incorporated mesh provides the necessary ventilation at high temperatures.
The same applies to the elbow pads: They are breathable, thin, light, and comfortable. The two-part construction on the inside of the sleeve allows for smooth, full range of motion.
To extend the lifespan of the removable RE ZRO pads, they should only be hand washed. Without the pads, machine washing is fine for both the knee and elbow protectors.
In practice
I have always had an ambivalent relationship with knee and elbow pads while mountain biking. On one hand, I don't move at such high speeds or in extremely technical terrain to be particularly prone to falling, but on the other hand, I still fall now and then and should - after various elbow and kneecap fractures - not take excessive risks.
Until now, however, I have found all the products I tested either too harsh and struggled either with them slipping down or with restricted freedom of movement. In short: All previous pads were simply rubbish for my build and pain threshold. That's why I actually had no desire to deal with them anymore - until a set of G-Form Terra was on my desk.
Terra
Both the Terra elbow and knee pads utilize a minimalist sock design, akin to orthopedic bandages with minimal compression. There are also no Velcro or zippers. Although one must remove their shoes to slip them on, the guards fit like a second skin and, thanks to the two-part construction, avoid uncomfortable wrinkling at the elbow and behind the knee. The materials ensure a light and airy wearing experience, the silicone grippers keep the protectors perfectly in place and cause no skin irritation even during long rides.
According to their Level-1 protection class, one should not expect miracles, however, it can be read on the internet that the lightweight RE ZRO protectors impressed with excellent results at the SAS-TEC company's test stand: "With an average residual force of only 18.06 kN, they rank in the upper middle field compared to the protectors already reviewed. The force curve also provides no reason for complaint and shows a gentle reduction in force."
In size Medium, the Terra Guards fit perfectly - not too tight and not too loose. Even during the 8-hour Mr. EIT Ride, I didn't have to constantly adjust the knee pads; I even forgot I was wearing them at times.
As things heated up, I naturally started to sweat more than usual and after going up the Großenberg twice at 27 degrees, I was soaked in my own sweat. Surprisingly, however, the protectors were almost dry again after the next descent - almost like what happens with a mesh undershirt.
In short - I was thrilled and then used the Terra set on my solo rides. It doesn't hurt, it doesn't harm. But then I got greedy - why not go for maximum protection? So, I ordered a set of Mesa for a comparison review.
For riders who value flexibility and lightness, the G-Form Terra are the perfect choice for any ride.
Mesa
For others it might be different, but for me, switching to the Mesa Guards was more of a step back. Of course, you can never be too protected on the trail, but that feeling of confinement and overheating returned. While I had no real issue with the elbow pads, aside from the slightly higher weight and limited flexibility and breathability, I just couldn't get comfortable with the knee pads. So: warm, yes, but they just didn't feel comfortable.
Putting them on was somewhat complicated, although it wasn't necessary to take off the shoes. I had the impression that the Medium size was almost too small - at least the Velcro straps were a bit short and too tightly stretched. Still, wrinkles formed at the back of the knee, which started to irritate me after a short time while pedaling. Of course, the fit is individual; perhaps with thinner legs, I wouldn't have had these sensations. Possibly, the Large size protectors would have been a better choice - I don't know. Therefore, I recommend trying on the Mesa knee protectors, if possible, before buying.
Since the more martial Mesa knee pads are more complexly constructed, it is advisable to try them on before purchasing.
Conclusion
| G-Form Mesa/Terra with RE ZRO | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 2024 |
| Review Duration: | 1 Month |
| + | Slim and light |
| + | Flexible and airy |
| + | High environmental compatibility |
| + | Good protection at the test bench |
| + | Two-piece construction |
| + | Wide application in other sports |
| - | Complex design of the Mesa knee pads |
| BB Verdict: | From RE ZRO to Hero. |
The G-Form Mesa Guards and Terra Guards, although using the same RE ZRO protector technology, have different advantages and disadvantages that should be considered depending on the needs and preferences of the rider.
The Mesa Guards (motto: "more is more") are more robust and offer higher protection, especially for more aggressive riding styles and challenging terrain. However, due to their more complex construction and additional plastic shells, they are also heavier and can somewhat restrict the wearing experience. For riders who prefer extreme conditions and harder trails, the Mesa Guards are still the better choice.
On the other hand, the Terra Guards (motto: "less is more") provide a lighter and more flexible option for riders who are less aggressive or ride smoother trails. They are comfortable and breathable, yet still offer sufficient protection for the average mountain biker.
Overall, the final decision depends on individual preferences, riding style, and preferred trails. Trying them on before purchasing can help make the right decision and ensure that the protectors fit well and provide the desired protection.
From Zero to Hero.
Copyright by NoPain
| G-Form with RE ZRO Technology |
| G-Form Mesa vs. Terra |
| G-Form Mesa vs. Terra |
| G-Form Mesa for Gravity |
| G-Form Terra for Trail |
| In practice |
| Terra |
| Mesa |
| Conclusion |
| Links |
