/// Nb. Following report was produced on the 18th of October, 2011 ///
Urban Kreation recently sent over a set of jeans to be tested by a member of Valleyside Distro – I decided that I personally was going to take the opportunity to test the jeans.
Background…
Urban Kreation are a brand with definitive selling points, which lead to their products individuality within the market arena. But what makes their brand so different? In essence, Urban Kreation are making jeans (alongside other garments) using progressive technologies that result in extremely strong products for BMX (Mtb, skateboarding, etc) use. However, these aren’t your typical protective trousers – The jeans are stealthy and forward-thinking through design – Nobody would guess the technologies within.
Technologies: –
As far as science is concerned, Urban Kreation use two special ingredients to ensure their jeans defend against skin and tissue damage: –
- “Kevlar® brand fiber is an innovative technology from DuPont that combines high strength with light weight to help dramatically improve the performance of a variety of consumer and industrial products.” (DuPont)
- “Vectran® a gossamer thin liquid polymer fabric, developed by the American space agency NASA for use on its Mars landing capsule” (Urban Kreation)
Kevlar’s a sensible choice – It’s been tested successfully in safety products for decades – For example, It’s used as a component (part of a composite mix) material within the safety restraints (composite panels) of Military Combat Vehicles – And the Military ain’t messing! But remember, if the bombs big enough, even Combat Vehicles get blown apart – This is why some of the UK Pro team often wear knee and shin pads to assist the trousers in their job.
Vectran’s another wise choice of materials – It ensures exceptional protection, hence reducing the likelihood of scratching/scarring, bruising and heat burns.
Personal experience: –
I first got flowed my Jeans back in July – I started with a physical survey of the product:
Weight/
I was impressed by the comparative low-weight of the jeans – And in an era where BMX product designers are (usually) concerned with keeping weight minimal, it makes sense that Urban Kreation have done the same with their Jeans. I was interested in the amount of weight saved, so I conducted a short test – I weighed one set of general-everyday (un-branded) jeans, then the Urban Kreation jeans.
Results –
- General Jeans 800g
- Urban Kreation 700g
Note – These figures are to be taken as ‘rough’.
Considering the level of protection in the Urban Kreation jeans, this is one light pair of jeans.
I went on to study the build quality –
External/
The outside pockets and much of the fabrics are double-stitched, for strength. The cuffs and waist areas, are the only sections which aren’t double stitched – All stitching is discreet to the eye, keeping the product simple/stylish.
The belt-loops are set at an angle – Style.
The outer shell is made of cotton and Lycra – Smooth feel & strong.
Logos are stylish, yet subtle – A good balance.
Internal/
The internal skin-defense system is heavily stitched for strength. The pant area of the Jean is also heavily stitched – I think this is vital for such a jean; In the past I’ve often ripped this region, usually with the seat.
Next/The ‘PUB’ (Going Out!) test –
Yes, a simple test to make sure the jean succeeded in terms of fashion – Results, good – I felt that I was wearing a stylish jean, which allowed movement, felt comfortable, and again, looked good.
Next/ The Riding Test –
I went out on numerous occasions without pads – Just chilling. I felt agile in the jeans, this was helped by the stretchy fabrics. I also felt comfy and in keeping with the urban scene – Ideal.
On other occasions I wore the jeans with knee protectors – Despite being ‘slim’ fit, the jean easily accommodated my pads, whilst maintaining movement (stretchiness).
To be fair, I’ve been fairly lucky whilst wearing them – But on one session I spotted a wall-ride line next to a bench – I had to try the line several times to nail it – On one attempt, I went pair shaped and smashed my leg (hard!) on the bench – I was left with some swelling. But I’m confident, had it not have been for my Urban Kreation jeans, I would have been left with a more severe injury, including scarring.
Availability: –
The Urban Kreation Jean range consists of 3 styles; Skinny – Stretchy, Slim – Stretchy and Regular. Colour Availability; Grey, Blue and Black. And remember, they do further protective garments to compliment.
Conclusion: –
The Urban Kreation Jeans are the best Jean I’ve used for riding – They do what they say – Go to any web-shop (or retailer/distributor), buy a set, they’re a worthy investment.
Links: –
