Troy Lee helmets have for a long time been the leading choice by many of the fastest DHers on the World Cup circuit, from Mike King to Shaun Palmer and our very own Steve Peat. The helmets have changed considerably from the early incarnations, and their groundbreaking paintjobs make them stand out from the crowd: think flames, stars and carbon.

Last year the company launched the D2, the latest revision of its top of the range full facer. The D2 is available in either composite (£219.99) or carbon (£299.99). To ensure the carbon option is a tough nut they add some aramid (aka Kevlar) and fibreglass to the carbon mix, finally adding a layer of cosmetic carbon before the paint and decals get applied. (Visit this webpage for some incredible paint jobs).

Both helmets get the same aerodynamic design, with air channelled under and over the peak and through several ports, with exhaust ports around the back for hot air to escape. Inside, the pads are removable for ease of washing, with a D-ring keeping the helmet in place.

Meanwhile, new for 2007 is the D2 Open Face helmet. It’s essentially the standard D2 with the chin guard section chopped off, handy for other sports like snowboarding, it says here. We can see it being a nice step between a full face and a Xen style helmet. There are four in-and-out ventilation ports, and the same removable padding and D-ring mechanism as the normal D2.

Clothing

The XC Glove, as the title kind of gives away, is the company’s XC glove. The top bit is made from Spandex and Air-Prene material, so your hands stay cool and there’s little restriction. The palm is made from a single layer or Clarino leather, with just a hint of padding. Silicone tabs on the fingers aid braking and there’s a Velcro wrist closure. They’re available in a remarkable array of colours.

The two jerseys here demonstrate the company catering for riders of FR/DH and XC persuasions. Both are made from polyester with sublimated logos, with the XC getting three rear pockets and half zip, while the Moto has a baggier cut, with raglan and cuffless sleeves and a V-neck collar.

Troy Lee Designs gear is imported into the UK by Fisher Outdoor Leisure.