[nickaziz]

I'm in need of some upper body armor. I want the most protection possible for hucks and dh. I've been considering the Hoots and Rock Garden offerings. Does anyone have experience with these items? Any other armor suggestions?

 

[MikeD]

My 2003 Rockgardn jacket is awesome. Lots better than the cheesy 2004 661 stuff, and seems more durable, if not nicer per se, than the Dianese. Good value, too. Hoots is pretty much identical, based on my seeing Rabie's shortsleeve Hoots armor. Comes out of the same factory, I think, so I wouldn't sweat the choice. Get whichever one is easier to find/cheaper for you.

 

[nickaziz]

The hoots back and chest is covered with some sort of material, so it's hard to tell if there is hard plastic or not. Does anyone know?

 

[Scurry]

I really like my rock gardn,

 

[DLo]

I got my rockgardn for about $160. I LOVE it! I did a little research before buying, but never really looked into hoots. The ones I compared was the RG, Azonic, 661, and Dianese.. I hear the Azonic falls apart or something? The 661 and the RG supposedly offered the most protection, and the Dianese breathed the best. That's what I gathered, at least. Only had a chance to try on the 661 and a friend's RG, but I liked the flak jacket better. My .02

 

[bizutch]

http://www.vsportgroup.com/gear/armor_pressuresuit.html ...this is the '05 pressure suit. They got rid of that overly hard bulky bicep pad.

As for breathability, the SixSixOne is VERY breathable...almost too cool for fall/winter.

 

[Guess?Who]

I purchased my Daniese in 01' before these other companies came out. If I were to purchase one now I would pick the RG. You can always get a Kidney Vest to go over your armor for more protection.