Chimneys and collars for cross

Mantels and collars are protective and comfort parts for MX/off-road riders, built to work with your jersey, body armor, and neck brace setup. They help seal out roost, dust, and cold air around the neck and upper chest, reduce chafing from armor edges, and keep your gear sitting correctly when you’re moving on the bike. If you run a neck brace, the right collar profile also prevents pressure points and helps you keep a neutral head position on long enduro days. When choosing, start with fit and compatibility: check whether the collar is designed to sit under or over your jersey and whether it clears your specific neck brace and chest protector. Material matters—look for breathable stretch fabrics for warm weather, wind-blocking or insulated options for cold rides, and soft binding seams to avoid rubbing under a goggle strap or hydration pack. Match it to conditions: dry, dusty tracks benefit from tighter sealing; wet and muddy rides call for quick-drying fabrics. For maintenance, pick collars that can handle frequent washing without losing elasticity or turning stiff with sweat and dirt. Common mistakes are sizing too tight (restricted breathing and hot spots) or too loose (it bunches up and lets roost in). Replace it when the elastic is blown out, seams start to split, or the fabric stays rough after washing—those are early signs it will start irritating your skin and shifting your armor. Tip: Test the collar with your full kit on (helmet, brace, chest protector) and do a few head turns—if it pulls or folds, swap size or profile before your next race.