Fox Women’s Defend Kevlar Review

by Amanda Wishart October 14, 2021 0

This review was part of the Singletrack World Issue 139 Kit Essentials Feature

Tested by: Amanda
Price: £145.00
From: Foxracing.co.uk

These trousers are designed for extreme mountain biking, enduro and downhill riding. They feature Kevlar® reinforced knees for extra tear and scuff resistance where you’re likely to need it most, the fabric is water resistant with all-direction stretch for comfort when riding, and the cut is slim and form fitting with tapered lower legs so you don’t catch them on your bike or when you snake through the trees.

The fit is so snug that I struggle to get bulkier kneepads on underneath these, and on occasions when I’m feeling a bit restricted I’ve chosen not to wear pads. The Kevlar® knees will protect from grazing but not impact, so anyone with chunky legs might not enjoy the fit.

The ratchet closure is great, and allows for one-handed adjustment mid-ride if you find yourself in discomfort. The trousers also feature zipped hand pockets, which are great for smaller items but again, thanks to the form-fitting design, they aren’t great with anything bigger. I can’t even store my phone in there without feeling like the trousers are then too tight around the middle.

The ideal conditions for these, in my opinion, is where the ground is wet and muddy but the rain has stopped. They aren’t water resistant enough to battle rainfall, but for having an easy clean-up after a sloppy ride they’re great. They’re also good for overgrown trails full of nettles and scratchy plants.

I’ve had these for two winters and I’ve worn them on uplift days, photo shoots, trail rides and camping trips. They have a ‘well-used fade’, but in terms of actual wear and tear they’re fine. The fabric is durable and can take some serious hits (though, I’d prefer not to test that too hard…).

Review Info

Brand:	Fox
Product:	Women's Defend Kevlar
From:	Foxracing.co.uk
Price:	£145
Tested:	by Amanda for

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Amanda Wishart

Art Director

Amanda is our resident pedaller, who loves the climbs as much as the descents. No genre of biking is turned down, though she is happiest when at the top of a mountain with a wild descent ahead of her. If you ever want a chat about concussion recovery, dealing with a Womb of Doom or how best to fuel an endurance XC race, she's the one to email.