RRX Stealth Balaclava – Tactical Moto Under-Helmet Mask

Amour Hoodie.

1. Preparation: Strip the Armor

Before doing anything else, remove all impact protectors.

• Locate the internal pockets at the elbows, shoulders, and back.

• Wipe the armor inserts down with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution if they are sweaty or dusty.

• Never machine wash or dry the armor inserts; the heat and agitation can cause the material (especially D3O or reactive foams) to crack or lose its impact-absorbing properties.

2. Washing the Hoodie

Kevlar (aramid fiber) is incredibly strong but sensitive to certain chemicals and UV light.

• Check the Tag: Always prioritize the manufacturer’s specific label instructions.

• Turn it Inside Out: This protects the outer aesthetic and any embroidery or branding from friction.

• Use the Right Detergent: Use a mild, liquid detergent. Avoid anything with "Oxy" cleaners, bleach, or fabric softeners. Softeners coat the fibers and can reduce the breathability and effectiveness of the protective layer.

• Temperature: Use cold or lukewarm water (30°C max). High heat can shrink the cotton outer or damage the aramid lining.

• Cycle: Use a "Delicate" or "Hand Wash" cycle to prevent excessive stretching of the heavy fabric.

3. Drying (Crucial Step)

Heat is the enemy of technical riding gear.

• Air Dry Only: Lay the hoodie flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Aramid fibers (Kevlar) are UV-sensitive and can degrade over time if left in direct sun for extended periods. Dry it indoors or in the shade.

• Do Not Tumble Dry: The high heat of a dryer can damage the Kevlar lining and shrink the outer shell, making it difficult to re-insert the armor.

• No Hanging While Wet: Because Kevlar hoodies are heavy (especially when wet), hanging them on a standard wire hanger can stretch the shoulders out of shape.

4. Re-Assembly and Storage

• Check Orientation: When re-inserting the armor, ensure the "cup" side is facing your body and the "CE Level 2" markings are facing outward (away from you).

• Storage: Store your hoodie in a cool, dry place. If you aren't wearing it for a long period, avoid hanging it on thin hangers; use a wide-shouldered "suit" hanger to support the weight of the armor and fabric.

Gloves.

• Wipe Down: After a ride (especially in the Sydney humidity), use a soft, damp microfiber cloth to wipe away road grime, salt from sweat, and dead bugs.
• The "No-Go" List: Never use household dish soap, bleach, or solvent-based cleaners. These strip the natural oils from the leather, causing it to become brittle.

2. Deep Clean:

• Specialized Soap: Use a dedicated Leather Cleaner or a very mild pH-neutral soap (like baby shampoo).
• Method: Dampen a cloth with the solution and gently rub the surface. Do not submerge the gloves in water—this can cause the leather to shrink or lose its shape.
• The Inside: If the inside smells, use a light mist of a 50/50 water and white vinegar mix. It kills bacteria without damaging the lining.

3. Drying (very important)

• Natural Air Only: Never put leather gloves on a heater, in the sun, or near a hair dryer. Extreme heat will "cook" the leather, making it stiff and prone to cracking.
• Shape Retention: Lay them flat or hang them in a cool, well-ventilated area. While they are still slightly damp, put them on for 30 seconds to "re-mold" them to your hand shape.

4. Conditioning, every 3-6 months.

• Hydration: Once dry, apply a high-quality Leather Conditioner or "Leather Balm." Rub a small amount into the leather using circular motions.
• Benefit: This keeps the leather supple, ensures the CE-certified tear resistance remains high, and adds a layer of water resistance.

5. Storage Tips

• Avoid the Helmet: Many riders stuff their gloves inside their helmet. Don't do this—the sweat and salt from your helmet lining can degrade the glove leather over time.
• Breathability: Store them in a cool, dry place. If you're putting them away for a while, don't use a plastic bag; use a breathable cotton bag.

Balaclava.

1. The Washing Process

Technical headwear is often made from moisture-wicking synthetics or blends that can be sensitive to high heat.

• Hand Wash (Recommended): This is the gentlest method. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Submerge the balaclava, agitate gently with your hands, and soak for 10–15 minutes.

• Machine Wash: If you must use a machine, place the balaclava in a mesh laundry bag to prevent the fabric from stretching or snagging on other items. Use a cold, gentle cycle.

• Avoid Fabric Softeners: Never use softeners or bleach. These can clog the fibers of technical fabrics, stripping away their moisture-wicking and breathable properties.

2. Drying Techniques

Heat is the enemy of elastic fibers like Spandex or Elastane.

• Air Dry Only: Lay the balaclava flat on a clean towel or hang it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Direct UV rays can fade the deep blacks and indigo tones of the fabric over time.

• No Tumble Dry: The high heat of a dryer can shrink the garment and cause "pilling" (small lint balls) on the surface.

• The Squeeze Method: If it’s soaking wet, roll it inside a dry towel and press down to remove excess moisture. Do not wring or twist the fabric, as this can permanently distort the fit.

3. Storage & Maintenance

How you store your gear between rides is just as important as how you wash it.

• Avoid "Helmet Storage": Don't leave a damp balaclava stuffed inside your motorcycle helmet. This traps bacteria and can lead to odors or even mold in both the balaclava and the helmet liner.

• Full Dry Before Storage: Ensure it is 100% dry before folding it away to prevent that "stale" smell.

• Anti-Odor Tip: If the balaclava isn't visibly dirty but smells like a long day on the bike, a quick spritz of a specialised gear deodoriser or a mixture of water and white vinegar can refresh it between deep washes.

1. Is the armor included, or do I have to buy it separately?

Our hoodies come fully loaded with removable CE Level 2 impact protectors for the elbows, shoulders, and back. You’re ready to ride the moment it arrives.

2. What is the difference between CE Level 1 and Level 2 armor?

Level 2 armor provides superior impact protection. It is tested to transmit significantly less force to the body than Level 1, making it the preferred choice for riders seeking maximum safety in high-risk zones.

3. Is the entire hoodie "Kevlar" or just the impact zones?

• Yes: The hoodie features a full-body aramid fibre lining for maximum abrasion resistance across the entire garment.

Gloves.

• Impact Protection: The gloves feature a prominent carbon fiber knuckle guard designed to absorb and disperse energy during a high-velocity impact.

• Finger Shielding: Individual carbon fiber inserts are integrated into the finger joints, providing localized protection against abrasions and crushing forces.

• Scaphoid & Wrist Support: The extended gauntlet design includes reinforced padding on the outer wrist to protect the ulnar bone and provide a sliding surface during a fall.

• High-Contrast Visibility: The sharp white and black leather construction aligns with your high-contrast "modern moto-industrial" aesthetic while improving hand signal visibility to other motorists.

Technical Benefits

• Premium Material Integration: The gloves use a combination of leather for superior abrasion resistance and carbon fiber for lightweight structural reinforcement.

• Ergonomic Articulation: Accordion stretch panels at the base of the fingers and wrist allow for a natural grip on the handlebars and easier reach for the clutch and brake levers.

• Secure Fitment: Dual-closure systems, featuring elasticated wrists and wide adjustable gauntlet straps, ensure the gloves stay securely in place during a slide.

• Ventilation: Integrated air intakes within the finger protectors facilitate airflow, which is critical for maintaining grip and comfort during longer rides.

1. Should I size up to fit the armor?

Our hoodies are tailored with a "Moto-Industrial" cut that accounts for the bulk of the armor. We recommend ordering your standard hoodie size for a snug, protective fit. If you prefer a baggy streetwear look, we suggest sizing up.

2. Can I wear this as a regular hoodie off the bike?

Absolutely. The armor is slim-profile and completely removable. Once the inserts are out, it looks and feels like a premium, heavy-duty streetwear hoodie.

3. Does it have a "hood loop" for high speeds?

Yes. To prevent the hood from flapping or catching wind while you're riding, we’ve integrated a discreet snap-down loop to keep it secured to the back.

Gloves.

Functional Control & Grip

• Pre-Curved Finger Construction: The fingers are naturally curved to reduce muscle fatigue when gripping the handlebars over long periods.

• Tactile Feedback: The use of high-quality leather provides a "second skin" feel, ensuring the rider maintains precise throttle control and lever feel.

• Touchscreen Compatibility: These modern designs often incorporate conductive materials on the index finger or thumb to allow for GPS or smartphone use without removing the gear.

Fit & Ergonomics

• Accordion Expansion Panels: Located at the knuckles and finger joints, these panels allow the glove to expand and contract with the hand's movement, preventing the leather from bunching up.

• Adjustable Gauntlet Closure: The wide wrist strap allows the glove to be worn either over or under a jacket sleeve, providing a customizable seal against wind and debris.

• Elasticated Wrist: An internal elastic band at the base of the palm ensures the glove remains centered on the hand, preventing shifting during aggressive riding.

Comfort Features

• Breathability: Perforations in the leather and the air intakes on the finger protectors help regulate temperature during Sydney's warmer riding months.

• Soft Inner Lining: A moisture-wicking internal liner helps pull sweat away from the skin, making the gloves easier to pull on and off.

Sometimes the gear doesn't sit right. As long as your items are unworn and in original condition, you have 7 days from the date of delivery to request an exchange.

The Fine Print:

• Customers are responsible for return shipping costs.

• Once our team reviews the return, exchanges are issued based on what we have in stock.

• Pre-sale items: Due to limited quantities, return windows for pre-orders may be shorter.

Questions? Ready to swap? Hit us up at: