During the 2023-2024 winter season, I had the chance to put my CKX outfit to the test, consisting of the CKX ELEVATION ZERO one-piece suit and the CKX TITAN AIR FLOW helmet. I’ve been wearing this combo for a few years now, and I’m still enjoying these products from the Quebec manufacturer. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights of this high-performance cold-weather gear.
CKX ELEVATION ZERO
First of all, when buying a snowmobile outfit, it’s crucial to define its use. For trails, good insulation is necessary because of moderate to low effort. For off-trail use, on the other hand, a kit with little or no insulation, such as the CKX ELEVATION ZERO, is ideal.
Despite its lack of insulation, the CKX ELEVATION ZERO’s materials offer excellent protection against Quebec winter conditions. It combines lightness, waterproofing and supple fabrics with good moisture wicking properties. Thanks to technological advances, CKX has succeeded in integrating all these qualities into this high-performance package.
Here are the key technical features:
- Wind and water resistance (membrane): 20,000 mm
- Breathability (membrane): 15,000 g/m²/day
- 100% Polyester P8-Tex fabric
- Strong Cordura reinforcements on knees and legs
- Reinforced Reetex zone for the buttocks
- Sealed seams for waterproofing, of course
Put to the test in all conditions
To judge the effectiveness of a clothing item, you need to test it in a variety of weather conditions. We tested it in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +5°C. Fine weather, rain, extreme cold and even storms. All in all, exemplary comfort surrounds us. The package has been tested over several days, both on trails and off-piste. The ZERO version is more suited to off-trail use, as it has no insulation. So a high level of activity is required to stay comfortable and generate heat. With insulating underlays, it can also be very comfortable on the trails.
The garment offers an optimal fit thanks to a number of strategic adjustments: adjustable and removable inner shoulder straps and Velcro adjustments at the wrists, legs and waist. The stretch back panel at the waist follows movements without creating tension.
Off-piste, even at -25°C, the CKX ELEVATION ZERO remains supple and moisture-wicking. After long days in the snow, I stayed dry and comfortable. On the trails, when it’s really cold, -30°C and below, you need an insulating underlayer. Or even better, a heated jacket to generate plenty of heat. At all times, the CKX ensemble effectively retains heat and, above all, blocks the wind 100% with its hyper-efficient membrane.
Important aside: If you’re one of those people who doesn’t like the look of a jumpsuit , CKX also offers a complete line of coats and pants. For all types of snowmobilers, whether trail or off-trail, and even for the very cold!
CKX TITAN AIR FLOW helmet
I’ve been wearing the CKX TITAN helmet since its very first year on the market. The first generation had certain shortcomings. Mainly for off-road enthusiasts. That’s now a thing of the past with the CKX TITAN AIR FLOW, which provides abundant ventilation. That’s what’s needed to efficiently evacuate the heat and moisture released by a body undergoing sustained physical effort.
A very interesting aspect considered by CKX is the possibility of configuring its helmet according to the external conditions to be faced and our preferences. Thus, there are two distinct helmet models: the original for the trail or the Air Flow. The big difference lies in ventilation. Then you have to configure it to fit your face. Finally, you have to decide whether or not to put on plugs to limit air penetration if you’re doing more trails. Or to remove them for maximum ventilation in off-trail situations.
The helmet’s overall comfort is excellent, and the removable muzzle is great. All you have to do is remove the goggles and attach them to the top. And you can breathe freely, drink and eat without having to remove the whole helmet. Wow!!! Once you’ve adopted it, you won’t want to do without it.
The 210° goggles provide very wide panoramic vision, which is ideal for mountain riding. What’s more, the goggles come in different configurations. Ventilated or non-ventilated, and there’s also the option of electric goggles with a plug-in cord. Personally, I don’t see the point of heated goggles when the helmet is well adjusted to our facial physiognomy. What’s more, I prefer to carry aback-uppair of goggles in my bag for use after dinner. That’s when temperatures and humidity fluctuate the most. Then, if we’re not careful, we can start to fog up. So I simply alternate them and always have optimum vision.
Conclusion
The CKX ELEVATION ZERO one-piece suit served me well again this season. As did the CKX TITAN AIR FLOW helmet. This combo is ideal for mountain snowmobiling, but also for trail riding. Of course, it’s important to assess your insulation needs and choose the right equipment. There are no bad temperatures in winter. Just bad clothes that make you feel cold. It’s also essential to have an effective underlayment to help wick away moisture.
The Passion Motoneige team would like to thank Kimpex for making this test possible. For more information on CKX clothing and equipment, we invite you to visit their website.
Photo credits : Steve Maillet
