You read that right: 2-piece monosuit
What Is It?
FXR was one of the original companies to offer a monosuit this century. However, that initial trend produced baggy, snowboard-influenced monosuits. Some were so baggy that the crotch caught on the seat as you were hopping over side to side.
Obviously, even the baggy monosuit cuts have tightened up and are much better, but there’s still a distinct baggy feel to some. Mountain riders typically prefer a less-baggy setup, because we tend to move around on the sled a lot more.
That’s where the FXR M Elevation Lite Dri-Link 2-piece Monosuit come into play. The M Elevation Lite Dri-Link 2-piece Monosuit is indeed two pieces, but the unique way in which they connect to each other transforms the pants and jacket into a monosuit. It has a very tailored fit, meaning there’s no excess material catching on the handlebars or making it hard to walk.
What’s It Made From?
The FXR M Elevation Lite Dri-Link 2-piece Monosuit jacket and pants are both non-insulated, and are made from FXR’s ACMT shell, rated at 20,000mm waterproofing. The shell features Omni-Stretch nylon shell with HydrX Pro laminate. There are multiple vents––FXR Dry Vent system––which are designed to flow air while preventing snow ingestion.
The unique FXR Dri-Link system consists of a zipper system that connects the jacket and pants without any gaps or ways for snow to get between the two. When the Dri-Link is detached, the system stows away under the pant waist.
Aside from that, there’s a YKK Aquaguard front zipper and waterproof zippers throughout the suit, adjustable suspenders on the bibs, lycra inner cuff extensions (which are great), nice boot gaiters with hook and loop closures and belt retention straps. The pants also feature a back leg hem length adjuster.
Where Can You Get It?
The FXR M Elevation Lite Dri-Link 2-piece Monosuit is available through your local FXR dealer, or at www.fxrracing.com. The suit retails for $695 and is available in three colorways.
What Do We Think?
Honestly, this is the best FXR setup we’ve tested for technical mountain riding. FXR nailed it on the fit, venting, comfort and pockets. There’s a little more work going into getting suited up to connect the jacket to the pants initially, but you can leave it all attached after the first ride and treat it like a monosuit.
The sleeves are long enough to not expose your wrists at extreme reaches, and the pant legs stay put with the boot gaiters and retention hooks. The hood is removable (we ride without it) so that’s not a deal-breaker if you want or don’t want a hood.
If you’re after a suit with the fit of a jacket and bibs but the benefits of a monosuit, the FXR M Elevation Lite Dri-Link 2-piece Monosuit is it. We love it.