MXA TEAM TESTED: SHIFT MX FACTION GEAR

 

 

WHAT IS IT? Faction gear is Shift’s top-tier line. Shift’s edgy taste in gear and riders, such as Josh Hansen and Jeremy Stenberg, puts Shift in a league of its own.

WHAT’S IT COST? $54.95 (jersey), $169.95 (pant).

CONTACT? www.shiftmx.com or your local dealer.

WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Shift Faction gear.

(1) Jersey. The Faction jersey uses moisture-wicking polyester, along with mesh fabric throughout. The multi-panel construction is articulated for a good fit. The entire back panel is mesh for ventilation. The cuffs and collar have a rigid fit, meaning that if you have a big head or arms, there is limited elasticity to allow them to get through. One other minor MXA beef with the jersey is that it doesn’t come with sewn-in elbow padding.

(2) Pant. Shift didn’t skimp on the quality of its leather heat guards, which is one reason the Faction pant is so durable. The leather knee guards extend into the rider’s boots, so the risk of the nylon being melted by a four-stroke pipe is reduced. Gussets have been strategically placed in areas where the pant needs to flex, such as the knees, buttocks and inner thighs. The ratchet waist closure is simple and easy to use. There’s also a sewn-in, half-length mesh liner that’s necessary to prevent skin abrasions and post-ride discomfort. Shift also minimized the use of rubber logos to reduce weight.

(3) Fit. Shift MX gear is tailored to riders built like racers. For muscle-bound bigger riders, the Faction gear will be a tight fit. The waist runs slightly small. Riders who normally wear size-32 pants could still fit, but they were on the edge of having to go up a size.

(4) Performance. The Shift Faction gear does a good job and passes the test of time. The jersey was a bit short and rigid for some of our taller, broader or wider riders. For the most part, test riders had no complaints about the pants other than that the mesh netting inside started to show wear. It is no secret that Shift and Fox are under one roof. This allows Shift to benefit from Fox’s R&D.

(5) Options. If you are looking to stand out from the crowd, wearing Shift Faction designs will do that for you. The Shift Faction line is offered in three colors. The jersey is offered in sizes small to extra-extra large, and the pant comes in sizes 28 to 38.

WHAT’S THE SQUAWK? If you are big in the waist, bulked up or just plain gargantuan, you will find the pants to be snug in the waistband—and this will require you to go up a size, maybe two. This gear is intended for riders with narrow hips and slim legs. On top of that, the jersey was a little odd.