Bluegrass Venture Vest is New Fav Protector, Plus Arto Protection Baselayers, Too: Review

Bluegrass, the mountain bike protection brand under MET, has introduced three new lightweight chest and back protectors designed to offer high-level safety without compromising comfort or mobility. Among these, the all-new Venture Vest stands out as a versatile choice for all-mountain, enduro, and casual bikepark riding. Alongside the Venture Vest, Bluegrass has also released two updated Arto protector baselayers: the Arto Armour with 3/4 sleeves providing extended coverage including shoulders and elbows, and the simpler Arto Vest focusing on chest and back protection. All three protectors incorporate flexible, viscoelastic SAS-TEC inserts that harden upon impact, combined with breathable fabrics and ergonomic padding to ensure unrestricted movement. They meet Level 2 Type B standards for back protection and Level 1 Type B for chest protection. The Arto Armour and Arto Vest are designed as close-fitting baselayers to be worn under a jersey, featuring off-centre zips, adjustable chest straps, and small rear pockets for essentials. The Arto Vest, priced at €230, is ideal for longer rides such as trail or eMTB sessions, while the €300 Arto Armour, with added shoulder and elbow protection, suits more aggressive disciplines like downhill racing or bikepark shuttle runs. The Venture Vest, retailing at €250, is a novel concept that merges high-level protection with practical ride storage and hydration capabilities. Unlike the baselayers, it is intended to be worn over a jersey or shell and features adjustable elastic sides to fit various body shapes and clothing layers. The vest includes multiple mesh pockets for snacks and valuables, a large pass-through pocket for extra gear, and a dedicated compartment with routing for a hydration bladder, combining the functions of a protective vest and a hydration pack in one streamlined design. In use, the Venture Vest has impressed for its secure fit, comfort, and adaptability across different ride types. Its design allows for airflow around the back protector, preventing overheating and keeping hydration cool—a significant advantage over traditional Camelbak-style packs that trap heat against the rider’s back. This feature, along with the vest’s storage capacity and protective performance, has made it a preferred choice for riders seeking a practical and effective solution for protection and hydration on the trail. Overall, Bluegrass’s latest offerings provide a range of options tailored to different riding styles and protection needs, from lightweight baselayers to a multifunctional vest. The Venture Vest, in particular, represents a thoughtful innovation that addresses common rider frustrations with hydration packs and back protectors, potentially setting a new standard for integrated mountain bike protection and storage. All three products are currently available in multiple sizes through MET/Bluegrass retailers.