FOX Adventure Suits: Motorcycle Textile Suit Test

The stylish parts from Fox have been my loyal companions on my trips to MX and enduro tracks for almost 25 years now. However, in recent years, my focus on two-wheelers has increasingly shifted towards big enduros. So, how fortunate is it that Fox now also has the right solution for this segment of off-road enjoyment in their portfolio - and it's not just the black with high-visibility yellow style.

The Fox Adventure series consists of three different lines, each designed to meet various demands. The "Ranger ADV" represents the "entry-level suit" in the Fox universe, though this needs to be put into perspective. The Ranger cannot be compared in quality to the classic €800 Luis suit - they are worlds apart. Hence the price of around €1100 for the Fox Ranger ADV.

The mid-range is represented by the "Defend ADV," which features more ventilation options and pockets. The top model is called Recon and is designed to meet the highest standards. All three lines are available in two colors and in sizes S to 3XL, or 28 to 44. Pants and jackets can be mixed and matched.

The Fox Ranger ADV suit uses high-quality GORE-TEX-2L material, which is fully seam-sealed to be both waterproof and breathable. Its close-fitting design offers high comfort and freedom of movement, while the D30® protectors on the shoulders, elbows, and knees provide the necessary protection. Particularly noteworthy are the ventilation options, which ensure optimal temperature during more intense rides. The Ranger ADV is ideal for day or weekend trips where both riding comfort and protection are required.

The Defend ADV suit also uses high-quality GORE-TEX 2L material, as well as 3L laminate on the pants that is fully seam-sealed. It is the most robust model in the collection and was developed for demanding off-road riding. It offers reinforced abrasion-resistant materials and additional ventilation zones for long, strenuous rides in the terrain. This suit is also equipped with GORE-TEX, making it both waterproof and breathable. Protection is enhanced by D30® protectors and the durable materials, ensuring it can withstand the toughest conditions.

The Recon ADV is primarily made with GORE-TEX-3L material, yet it remains extremely lightweight and flexible. This suit focuses on lightweight construction while still providing solid protection with D30® protectors. The emphasis here is on a compact pack size and the ability to adapt the jacket and pants flexibly to weather conditions.

As mentioned earlier, I find myself increasingly drawn to the big ladies as I age, especially when things get dirty with them. When I reach into the wardrobe, it's usually the old MX gear instead of the highly complex 2-layer adventure suits. This, of course, proves to be a catastrophic choice when the weather turns or the journey to the off-road part takes more than 30 minutes.

For me, there are two good reasons for this: first, the freedom of movement. Adventure suits, especially with inner and outer parts, feel like spacesuits, making me feel sluggish and uncomfortable on the bike. Second, it's the heat buildup that massively affects me, turning every ride into an ordeal. To wick moisture away from my body, I usually wear breathable underwear. I almost always zip out the inner layer of the suit. Nevertheless, the outer parts are usually so thick that I get hot flashes even at a fresh 8 degrees.

The Fox Recon ADV addressed these two points perfectly. Compared to what I've worn before, the suit is incredibly light and not bulky at all. Almost like my Gore ski suit. With my measurements of 1.80m and 97kg, I no longer pass as a standard model (if only just). Still, the 34 pants and the large jacket fit me very well. The individual parts can then be adjusted with Velcro size adjusters. Our tour started relatively early, and the sun had noticeably lost its strength in September. The display showed 8 degrees, but even on the faster road sections, I never felt uncomfortably cold. As the temperatures rose towards noon, the ventilation slots on the pants and jacket were gradually opened. The real test was the photo stops at 28°C, but even here, the Recon showed its best side. Particularly pleasant: although you don't feel the airflow with fully opened zips, the suit always feels fresh and has a very comfortable climate. While riding, the Recon is hardly noticeable; due to its light weight, you barely feel it and can focus on what really matters - the road ahead of you!

The numerous pockets on the Fox suit are also very practical. The Recon had a total of 4 pockets in the pants and 6 in the jacket, as well as a dedicated compartment for the Camelbak.

In mid-December, matching the suit, their own adventure boots are also set to hit the market. Their features in brief: high wearing comfort and top protection. There will be two versions - the Ranger and the Defend. Similar to the suits, the Ranger is the more affordable entry-level variant, and the Defend is the model with more features such as the BOA quick-release system. In our test, we got to try the Defend. It feels like a sturdier winter boot, so very comfortable. It can be put on and taken off quickly and easily, and thanks to Gore-Tex, it is, of course, waterproof.

With the Ranger, Defend, and Recon ADV, Fox Racing offers a well-thought-out collection that is suitable for both everyday adventures and tough off-road use.

When it comes to the price of the Fox Recon ADV, you need to take a deep breath first, but for me, this suit is the long-awaited holy grail. It's what I've always been looking for but hadn't found until now. A suit that protects me from wind, weather, and in case of a fall, with protectors, yet still allows me freedom of movement and is comfortable to wear. In other words, I have the wearing comfort of an MX suit with the features of a touring rider suit. And on top of that, it looks great in its distinctive design and clearly stands out from the touring rider crowd.

During my research, I was actively supported by two veterans in apparel sales. Lars from Motorradland Bodensee and Fred from Auner Wr. Neustadt. Both were able to provide information on the quality of workmanship and any issues with the suits. Since the beginning of this season, the Fox Adventure suits have been flying off the shelves, but neither advisor could recall a single defect such as a broken zipper or a seam coming undone. A good omen regarding the durability of the gear.