Product test enduro touring suits

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Product test enduro touring suits
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Station wagons, jackets & pants

Product test enduro touring suits

Product test: Enduro touring suits
Twelve off-road / road station wagons tested

“Multistrada” or “GS” – that’s the name of motorcycles for tours all over the world through botany and asphalt marshes. Twelve off-road / street suits marched out in the south of France to demonstrate their versatility.

Thorsten Dentges

04/14/2011

We all have the same dream. We, the travel enduro riders of this world. Dreaming of reaching every corner of the world on our own two wheels, we don’t want to be restricted by cemented-in routes. No, we have nothing against paved roads, because not all of us hop over hill and dale with light single-cylinder machines, the two-cylinder guys below us bend every crooked curve straight, mainly with wide handlebars and an upright seat. We play with sand and mud, our studded tires throw gravel stones, but on the asphalt we clear everything with 200 items and iron out every pothole. Limitless freedom has only one problem: what is best to wear?

Just looking good – although important too – is not enough. If you are serious about going off-road, we talk about sporting activity. So put on gym equipment: Cross boots, gloves and helmet, plus elastic textile trousers and a stylish, airy shirt, protectors to strap on and a maximum of a thin jacket over them. When touring over alpine passes and the motorway, especially when it rains, this naturally no longer works particularly well. Brrr, cold! So you would actually need two sets. But this is exactly where our dilemma lies, because anyone who goes on a trip with the Enduro wants everything, but does not necessarily have space for everything in their luggage.

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Product test enduro touring suits

Product test: Enduro touring suits
Twelve off-road / road station wagons tested

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In touring mode, a properly working climate membrane à la Gore-Tex or Sympatex is usually sufficient. These allow body moisture to evaporate to the outside, but prevent rainwater from reaching the skin. However, if the physical activity increases, which is the case when riding through the terrain, such suits mutate into uncomfortable sweat bags, and in midsummer temperatures it becomes accordingly unbearable. Simple ventilation slots are of little use if there is a (travel) wind-stopping membrane underneath (as in Dainese pants, Dane, Hein Gericke and Spidi). Usually, the manufacturers now solve this problem by installing a removable membrane, which is usually embedded below the thermal lining. However, due to the design, some weak points (leaky zipper connection, additional seams, etc.) can arise. Mind you, the outer material (usually abrasion-resistant polyamide fabric) should let through as much airflow as possible, the membrane is the actual bulwark against rainwater. The pants from Buse and Held refused to work in the wetness test. Maybe just a snapshot, but such shortcomings can ruin a motorcycle vacation thoroughly. Certainly not in the spirit of the inventor, and tailors of enduro touring suits should have such difficulties under control.

Another problem: Several shifts can move more easily and reduce driving comfort. Sporty suits therefore consist of rather thin, tight-fitting layers, which still offer enough mobility so that we pilots do not restrict us when driving while standing or even when jumping (Difi, Held, IXS). However, none of this should be at the expense of fall protection or sufficient thermal output, because we touring enduro riders have involuntary contact with asphalt when falling on the road, unfortunately mostly from higher speeds than off-road. And the faster, the cooler the wind. In midsummer it is quite pleasant, but clothing that is not sufficiently warm leads to hypothermia more quickly than you might think (consequences: loss of concentration, tremors, cramps). Tip: Always have a light fleece pullover, a windstopper vest or warming functional underwear, e.g. made of merino wool, in your luggage – the so-called midlayers take up little storage space and are great helpers on extensive enduro tours with strong temperature fluctuations (especially in alpine terrain).


Product test enduro touring suits


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On the back: space to stow the membrane or a drink (Revit).

Most of the textile combinations tested deserve great praise just as they are, because they not only manage a balancing act, but several of them in different directions. Even if the weighting between tour and sport (see detailed individual reviews) is different – almost all suits are all-rounders and are therefore not only recommended to us enduro riders, but to every touring rider who likes to be airy in summer. Although not a single protector failed on the test bench, and the average shock absorption values ​​are pleasantly good compared to tests in previous years, the positioning of the protectors is problematic. The compartments sewn in by the manufacturers are often in the wrong place, so that only part of the joint is covered in the driving position (for example with Difi, Modeka). Or the protectors can slip too easily (Dane, Macna, Modeka), which is generally tricky with comfortable, but also limp textiles compared to rigid leather. Adjustable restraint straps provide a simple remedy, but only a few manufacturers offer solutions that are effective without squeezing or pinching (as with IXS). And as buyers, we ask ourselves why the compartments for CE protectors on the hips and back are often empty or are only filled with soft, completely unsuitable foam governors (except for Spidi: CE protectors at least on the hips). You can retrofit individually, reply the sellers. This is a less than satisfactory answer for prices up to almost 1000 euros. In general: When it comes to security, all twelve test candidates should like to go one step further. We find.

But that’s enough grumbling and finally positive again: The variety of sizes and colors in the test field is predominantly exemplary. Long sizes for slag, short sizes for squats, women will find what they are looking for, just like Beyond-XL men. And in contrast to conservative touring riders who like to combine black with black, touring enduro riders are obviously much more daring to add a few color accents. Don’t worry: even very light-colored suits are not as susceptible to dirt as many fear, especially since they can safely be put in the washing machine with special outdoor detergents available in every drugstore. And you should definitely do this after sweaty excursions in order to maintain the optimal membrane function – “Black Bearer” neglect them out of convenience “Bathing days” happy times. But regardless of whether black or colorful, dirty (terrain) or clean (street), from the selection of twelve tested “G / S”-Suits should make it easy to find something that is not only fashionable to wear. Let’s go, see you in the farthest corner of the world!


Product test enduro touring suits


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Buse Open Road.

Providers: Buse, Tel. 02471/12690, www.buese.com; Prices: jacket 259.95 euros, pants 179.95 euros;
Sizes: 48 to 64 (jacket), trousers additionally 98 to 110 (long sizes) and 26 to 32 (short sizes);
To dye: Black, gray-black (jacket only);
Weight: 4.16 kilograms (size 56)

Comfort
Appropriate proportions, body-hugging cut, but still very comfortable. The freedom of movement is fully retained even with a very sporty pace and off-road insoles. class.
security
Ordinary standard protectors on shoulders, elbows and knees with good shock absorption (on the knees even very good) and a good fit. Only moderately abrasion-resistant material in crash zones.
Weather protection / air conditioning
The pants full – at least in the wetness test after just three minutes. Apparently, the water entering through the airy outer material creeps purposefully over the climate membrane, which is cut too short at the front of the waistband.
Processing / equipment
Not a renowned membrane, but the moisture protection is removable and the suit is really breathable. Workmanship and materials are average. Large patch pockets with great storage space.

Conclusion
The facilities are right with this suit. Unfortunately, the pants did not withstand the strict wetness test, so a full one “Good” was foiled. The wearing comfort was particularly impressive, as was the very fair price.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory


Product test enduro touring suits


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Dainese D system.

Providers: Dainese, Tel. 089/35396766, www.dainese.com;
Prices: Jacket 399 euros, trousers 219 euros;
Men’s sizes: 44 to 60;
Women sizes: 36 to 48;
To dye: Jacket green, black, black-gray, black-red, trousers black;
Weight: 4.22 kilograms (size 56)

Comfort
Slim fit, but surprisingly comfortable on the move. Collar can only be closed very fiddly.
security
The Italians only use the protectors developed in their own laboratory (shoulders, elbows, knees) – and are betting on the wrong horse, because even if the damping values ​​are okay, there are clear weaknesses in the force-time curve.
Weather protection / air conditioning
You won’t find a thermal lining, clear summer orientation. The jacket can be quickly converted into a vest thanks to the sleeves coupled with zippers. So even enduro insoles do not stand in the way of heat. Great!
Processing / equipment
High-quality materials, in-house membrane (only removable from jacket), which is tight, and excellent workmanship are convincing.
 
Conclusion
From the outside, the Dainese suit appears to be a somewhat conservative touring enthusiast. Wild off-road games are hardly his profession. The jacket can mutate into a summer vest – well thought out, fits well, pleases. The pants: neat.

MOTORRAD verdict: good


Product test enduro touring suits


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Dane Korsor / Nyborg 3.

Providers: Motoport, Tel. 04451/915200, www.motoport.de;
Prices: Jacket 459 euros, trousers 279 euros;
Men’s sizes: 48 to 64, 98 to 114 (long sizes), 25 to 30 (short sizes);
Women sizes: Jacket 36 to 46, pants 36 to 48 and 20 to 24 (short sizes);
To dye: Black-gray, black-yellow;
Weight: 4.15 kilograms (size 56)

Comfort
Excellent collar fit, magnetic closures very practical. Good freedom of movement, but overall cut a bit too wide.
security
Protector equipment (shoulders, elbows and knees) is poor, the material cushions just enough within the normal range. The solid textile fabric, on the other hand, makes a good impression.
Weather protection / air conditioning
If it’s cool outside, the suit insulates well; If, on the other hand, it is warm in summer or if you want to go off-road, the ventilation looks rather bad because the membrane cannot be removed. In rainy weather, however, the dense Dane trumps.
Processing / equipment
Gore-Tex membrane, careful workmanship, robust fabrics: the Dane-Kombi is not stingy with its qualities. Great equipment details (e.g. efficient width adjustments), but not enough waterproof storage space, pockets that are too small.

Conclusion
The enduro theme is less that of the Dane suit (too poor ventilation). On the other hand, he would feel very comfortable on the asphalt route to the North Cape. Solid and high quality, but not exactly cheap. Recommendation for pure touring riders.

MOTORRAD verdict: good


Product test enduro touring suits


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Difi Sierra Nevada.

Providers: Motoport, Tel. 04451/915200, www.motoport.de;
Prices: Jacket € 239.95, trousers € 179.95;
Sizes: XS to 3XL;
To dye: Light gray-black-orange, gray-black;
Weight: 4.18 kilograms (size XXL)

Comfort
Firm fit, but still great freedom of movement, good overlap of jacket and pants. Cut a little too tight in the neck area.
security
Wrong-sized protectors (type A) installed on the shoulders, but everything is correct on the elbows and knees, and the shock absorption values ​​are okay too. The thin textile fabric without a fall zone trim conveys little confidence.
Weather protection / air conditioning
The airy suit with a removable membrane withstood the MOTORRAD wetness test, but after ten minutes of simulated rain, the outer fabric absorbed a comparatively large amount of water. Thermal underwear is recommended for trips below 15 degrees Celsius.
Processing / equipment
The workmanship and quality of the materials are not of the highest quality, but they are perfectly fine for this price range. The practical benefits of the equipment with many easy-to-use outer pockets and a large back compartment are high.

Conclusion
Incredibly consistently trimmed for variable use in terrain and on the road. Above all, the top ventilation leaves nothing to be desired by the tunnel knight. Bravo, really good. And at a more than good price. Buy!

MOTORRAD verdict: good


Product test enduro touring suits


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Hein Gericke Desert TRG.

Providers: Hein Gericke, Tel. 0211/98989, www.heingericke.de;
Prices: Jacket 199.95 euros, pants 149.95 euros; Sizes: XS to XXL;
To dye: Black-beige;
Weight: 4.30 kilograms (size XXL)

Comfort
Overall, the cut is a bit small, and trousers that are too short, in particular, tend to slide up while driving. Comfortable fit on the waistband.
security
The shock absorption on the shoulders and elbows is not bad, and even really great on the knees. But why type A protectors were only used for very small clothing sizes is a mystery.
Weather protection / air conditioning
Without a removable (but absolutely tight) climate membrane, the air inlets are actually waste – cooling is hardly possible. The TRG is stronger in the cold, because the thermal lining warms well.
Processing / equipment
Trousers with spacious outside pockets, easily accessible pockets on the jacket too – someone has thought about that. The workmanship is good, the fabrics and in-house Sheltex membrane make a decent impression.

Conclusion
Despite a few point deductions in terms of comfort and safety, the TRG-Kombi just managed to achieve a good result. As the cheapest station wagon in the test, this is more than just respectable. If you can handle the fit, you should grab it.

MOTORRAD verdict: good


Product test enduro touring suits


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Hero Carese / Torno.

Providers: Held, Tel. 09321/66460, www.held.de;
Prices: Jacket EUR 499, trousers EUR 399;
Sizes: S to 5XL, trousers also L-S to L-XXL (long sizes) and K-M to K-2XL (short sizes);
To dye: Black-gray, gray-red;
Weight: 4.86 kilograms (size XXL)

Comfort

Off to the ground: Enduro gymnastics exercises are no problem thanks to excellent freedom of movement. Nothing pinches or pinches here, and the cut is ideally close to the body. Even at high speeds on asphalt, nothing flutters.
security
In the test field, the combination with the best protectors (top shock absorption, good fit). Hip and back protectors would be perfect in the scope of delivery instead of at an additional cost, but overall the Held offers good fall protection.
Weather protection / air conditioning
The wetness test is only a snapshot, but that does not change the fact that the test pants did not hold tight. Annoying, because the points lost here cost the overall victory. When it comes to air conditioning, the suit with its well thought-out ventilation is of the highest quality.
Processing / equipment
Great. Lots of easy-to-use storage compartments, easy-to-use ventilation with magnetic closures, Gore-Tex membrane and removable lining, high-quality textiles.

Conclusion
One of the highest quality, safest candidates with a first-class range of sizes, many useful details, great features and very good off-road suitability fails in the wetness test and thus gambled away a very good result.

MOTORRAD verdict: good


Product test enduro touring suits


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IXS Montevideo / Caracas.

Providers: IXS, Tel. 07631/18040, www.ixs.de;
Prices: Jacket EUR 349.90, trousers EUR 269.90;
Sizes: S to 5XL (men), trousers also LL to L2XL (long sizes) and KL to K2XL (short sizes);
To dye: Jacket gray-blue, gray-red, gray-black, black-gray, pants gray-black, black-gray;
Weight: 4.78 kilograms (size 52)

Comfort
For a textile suit it is almost as close as possible, a perfect width adjustment contributes to the rest of the sporty fit. However, comfort is not neglected – great. Excellent collar fit.
security
The rather bulky protectors (only on the shoulders, elbows, and knees) made of cheap foam absorb a lot, but the power reduction could be better. But they sit tight and cover the joints well. Fall protection is okay.
Weather protection / air conditioning
Moisture protection without blame, heat output fully sufficient. Extremely large, variable ventilation on the front and back makes it ideal for summer touring as well as extensive enduro hikes.
Processing / equipment
A solid mix of good, albeit less well-known, materials that are perfectly processed. Very practical equipment for terrain and street.

Conclusion
The first-class combination makes itself a friend as soon as it is tried on. On the first exit, especially off the asphalt, you finally fall in love with the tightly fitting, pleasantly airy IXS. Great value for the money.

MOTORRAD verdict: very good


Product test enduro touring suits


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Macna Oasis / Nomad.

Providers: Dieter Braun, Tel. 07322/22509, www.dieterbraun.de;
Prices: Jacket 229 euros, trousers 169 euros;
Sizes: S to 3XL, trousers additionally LM to LXXL (long sizes) and KL to K3XL (short sizes);
To dye: Jacket gray-orange, light gray-blue, light gray-brown, light gray-red, black, pants gray, light gray, black, black-yellow;
Weight: 4.36 kilograms (size XXL)

Comfort
The proportions are not right, the jacket and trousers are too tight or the next size is slouching on the body. The arm width adjustment helps, but pinches when properly fixed. Moderate wearing comfort.
security
The protectors on the shoulders (too small for the size tested), elbows and knees have decent shock absorption values, but slip too easily in the suit. Clearly in need of improvement.
Weather protection / air conditioning
Once the gloves are stowed under the sleeves (annoying fiddling), the suit holds tight. It’s good. Air conditioning with a membrane is less good – sweaty, uncomfortable. However, if the removable membrane is removed, the suit is also good for the summer.
Processing / equipment
For this price league at a satisfactory standard level. Only short connection zipper.

Conclusion
Although only the golden pineapple wins in comparison, it is not a real loser. However, there is room for improvement in terms of fit and safety. Overall, a balanced mix with good weather protection at a fair price.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory


Product test enduro touring suits


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Modeka Extremadura / Sporting.

Providers: Modeka Bike Wear, Tel. 02521/850322, www.modeka.de;
Prices: Jacket € 239.90, trousers € 139.90;
Sizes: XS to 4XL, trousers additionally LM to LXXL (long sizes);
Colour: Black;
Weight: 4.28 kilograms (size XXL)

Comfort
The sizes are rather small. Good, body-hugging cut, but a bit stiff and immobile (significantly better when driving than when trying it on for the first time). Sleeves cut too wide.
security
Despite being fixed twice, the elbow protectors can slip, and the protectors are anything but optimal on the knees. Everything is okay on the shoulders, just like with the shock absorption. Sufficient fall protection, but not more.
Weather protection / air conditioning
Slight weaknesses in the wetness test (some water creeps into the ends of the sleeves and pant legs). Thermal output is okay, air conditioning and ventilation are good for tours in summer, but the suit is only of limited use for enduro trips with a sporty touch.
Processing / equipment
Leather trim on the knee, handsome materials, removable Humax membrane – no, the Modeka is by no means a cheap home. And the workmanship is passable.

Conclusion
With a better protector fit, i.e. more cleverly placed compartments, and more generous ventilation (for off-road use), the Modeka would be further ahead. Nonetheless, a super likeable (summer touring) suit with a great price-performance ratio.

MOTORRAD verdict: good


Product test enduro touring suits


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Revit Defender.

Providers: Revit, Tel. 0031-4126967-40, www.revit.eu;
Prices: Jacket 549.99 euros, trousers 399.99 euros;
Sizes: S to XYL, M to XXL (long sizes), M to XYL (short sizes);
To dye: Jacket gray-brown, gray-red, gray-black, black, pants gray-black, black;
Weight: 4.86 kilograms (size XXL)

Comfort
Comparatively heavy and thick (bulky thermal lining). Otherwise, however, very comfortable thanks to the ideally fitting proportions and great collar fit. Good freedom of movement.
security
Asymmetrically arranged protectors with a formidable fit and excellent shock absorption, robust materials with good fall protection. Hip and back protectors are not standard (to be expected at the price), otherwise this would be a sovereign test winner.
Weather protection / air conditioning
Nice and cozy at temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius, and pleasant body climate even when it’s warmer, despite the membrane. In midsummer and off-road driving, the removable thermal lining and membrane should be stowed away.
Processing / equipment
First-class equipped with Gore-Tex membrane, high-quality fabrics, fasteners and zippers, the whole thing perfectly processed. Great praise!

Conclusion
Specifications fully met, the Revit is an extremely broadband enduro touring suit for all weather and routes, but almost 1000 euros expensive – really not a special offer. A complete set of protectors would be desirable.

MOTORRAD verdict: very good


Product test enduro touring suits


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Spidi Voyager 2 / VTM.

Providers: Shark Helmets, Tel. 04108/458000, www.spidi.com;
Prices: Jacket EUR 314.90, trousers EUR 249.90;
Sizes: Jacket M to 4XL, trousers S to 3XL;
To dye: Jacket gray-blue, gray-black, black, pants gray-black, black-gray;
Weight: 4.21 kilograms (size XXL)

Comfort
Overall good fit, perhaps a bit too tight-fitting for some tastes, with good overlapping of jacket and pants. Very comfortable for slim people.
security
A sloppy crotch strap instead of solid connection zippers for coupling jacket and trousers hails a better result, because the Spidi-Kombi shines with excellent protection equipment (excellent fit, knee protectors with top shock absorption, only back protector not standard).
Weather protection / air conditioning
Wet test passed with confidence, thermal output great – no worries in bad weather! The ventilation (no removable membrane!) Is only moderate.
Processing / equipment
Braces and in-house H2Out membrane do a good job, all materials and workmanship make a great impression, but they are not top-class.

Conclusion
The chic Italian is a recommendable touring suit. However, off-road trips overwhelm him due to only moderate ventilation. Exemplary: The only station wagon in the test with hip protectors – and the price is also reasonable.

MOTORRAD verdict: good


Product test enduro touring suits


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Vanucci Okovango.

Providers: Detlev Louis, Tel. 040/73419360, www.louis.de;
Prices: Jacket EUR 349.95, trousers EUR 299.95;
Sizes: 48 to 58;
To dye: Jacket beige-black-orange, gray-black, black, trousers beige-black-orange, black;
Weight: 4.58 kilograms (size 56)

Comfort
Only modest comfort on the collar, sleeves also cut very tight. But that’s it for criticism, overall quite comfortable.
security
Leather trim on fall zones, great! And the protectors (shoulders, elbows, knees) with good shock absorption and correct fit also provide plus points. But why only a short connection zipper (jacket), which is disadvantageous in the event of a fall?
Weather protection / air conditioning
The membrane easily withstands the simulated rain, and the thermal lining provides reliable warmth even at temperatures below 15 degrees. The air inlets, on the other hand, are a bit poor – hardly sufficient for sporty use on loose ground.
Processing / equipment
High quality, robust textiles and a removable Sympatex membrane. The processing is impressive. Practical pockets (marked waterproof). Recovered!

Conclusion
The reliable, weatherproof suit from Louis’ premium line is no bargain price. But it is weatherproof, really tasty (e.g. with leather trimmings) and many good details such as easy-to-use pockets. Impeccable offer.

MOTORRAD verdict: good


Product test enduro touring suits


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* 100 to 85 points = very good; 84 to 70 points = good; 69 to 55 points = satisfactory; 54 to 40 points = sufficient; 39 to 0 points = unsatisfactory.

Conclusion
Really good! Almost all candidates pass through as jack-of-all-trades without any really serious quirks. Even the two “loser” (Buse because of weakness in the wet, Macna with moderate safety and comfort) are still recommendable with fair prices. Amazing: The high-tech suits, which are supposed to do the difficult balancing act between off-road adventures in midsummer and shady alpine pass trips, are only a few points apart in the result, although there are big differences in the prices. The good news: Enduro riders can get very convincing tour guides for as little as 400 euros. Revit and Held are very expensive, but also very well equipped. Test winner IXS offers the best value for money. Top!


Product test enduro touring suits


dentges

Really a dream job? Wet test at eight degrees Celsius.

Driving tests: On a defined test lap in the French Provence with varied routes (winding country roads, speed sections, pass drives, gravel sections), optimal differences in fit, comfort and air conditioning could be determined. After extensive inspection of each individual suit, the testers assessed and recorded the tops and flops in terms of workmanship and equipment (suitability for practical use). During the wetness test, a test person was exposed to a simulated thunderstorm rain for ten minutes in a driving position. Leakages could be detected on the underwear (one set of dry laundry per test run) and by means of inserted blotting paper (in pockets designated as waterproof), which led to corresponding point deductions for weather protection. In addition, it was rated how strongly the outer material was soaked or how well it let water roll off. The testers assessed the safety according to the quality of the outer material in fall zones, the fit of the protectors (determined during driving tests) and a shock absorption test: Based on the CE standard, MOTORRAD checked the shock absorption values ​​of the protectors at the Sas-Tec company in Markgroningen (measured residual force should not exceed 35 kilonewtons on average, single impact not more than 50 kilonewtons). Points were deducted if the measured force-time behavior of a protector was unfavorable or if the recommended protector size was not used depending on the size of the suit.

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