FAQ

Both achieve 5-star FIS certification—the highest available. The difference is wire type:

• Cut Pro: Tungsten wire reinforcement. Slightly firmer feel, maximum protection density.
• Comfort Pro: Steel wire reinforcement. Enhanced flexibility, softer feel while maintaining 5-star rating.

Choose Cut Pro for maximum protection in speed events. Choose Comfort Pro if comfort is your priority.

VIX uses UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene)—the same material in bulletproof vests—combined with metal wire reinforcement. Cut Pro uses approximately 31% tungsten wire + 35% UHMWPE. Comfort Pro uses steel wire + UHMWPE. The remaining percentage is performance fabrics for moisture-wicking and stretch.

Full leg coverage from hip bone to ski boot cuff—inner and outer thighs, knees, and calves. The inner thigh coverage is critical since that's where the femoral artery is most vulnerable.

Cut-resistant, not cut-proof. No fabric guarantees 100% protection. VIX significantly reduces the risk and severity of lacerations. Our 5-star FIS rating represents the highest level of tested cut resistance available.

VIX protects against lacerations from sharp edges. It's not designed for impact protection—that's what padding and body armor are for. Many racers wear VIX under a padded race suit for comprehensive protection.

VIX was the first 5-star FIS certified cut-resistant base layer—and among major competitors, we're still the only one there. 72% of World Cup athletes and national teams like U.S. Ski Team and Ski Austria choose VIX.

No. VIX is worn as a base layer under your race suit. The fabric stretches 207% for full mobility. 72% of World Cup athletes wear VIX, including podium finishers at the highest level.

VIX is 35% more insulating than regular base layers. Athletes report it's comfortable in a wide range of conditions. In warm weather, the breathable fabric helps regulate temperature.

VIX was designed for ski racing, but some athletes use it for ice hockey, snowboarding, and other sports where sharp edges are a hazard.

Yes. We regularly hear from athletes who've crashed and found slash marks on their VIX—but no cuts on their skin. The protection is real and proven at the highest level of the sport.

Yes. Both Cut Pro and Comfort Pro are certified at 5 FIS stars—the highest level—exceeding the minimum 3-star requirement. Legal for all FIS-sanctioned races including World Cup, Olympics, and World Championships.

Products purchased after October 1, 2023 are eligible for FIS labels. You can purchase a $10 FIS label to make your existing VIX race-legal. Contact info@vixprotection.com if you're unsure about eligibility.

FIS requirements apply to FIS-sanctioned events. Check with your national federation and race series for specific requirements. Many youth programs are adopting cut protection proactively for safety.

Check the sizing chart on any product page. Measure your waist and hips, then cross-reference. We offer Men's, Women's, and Youth sizes. VIX should fit snug but not restrictive—like athletic compression wear.

Size up. The fabric stretches 207%, so the larger size will still fit well and be more comfortable.

Yes. VIX is designed to accommodate knee braces without needing to size up. The 207% stretch fits comfortably over braces.

Wear directly against your skin as a base layer, under your race suit. Some athletes prefer a thin base layer underneath during the break-in period.

Yes. Email info@vixprotection.com and we'll ship your new size immediately with a prepaid return label for the original.

• Cold water only (<80°F / <30°C)
• Mild detergent
• No fabric softeners (damages protective fibers)
• Air dry—never use dryer

Yes for new cut-resistant fibers. It softens after 2-3 washes. For immediate comfort, wash before first wear or wear a thin base layer underneath.

No. Heat damages the cut-resistant fibers. Always air dry away from direct sunlight.

Fabric softener coats the UHMWPE fibers and compromises their cut-resistant properties. Use only mild detergent.

Multiple seasons with proper care. All products include a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Replace if you see wire poking through, the fit feels loose, or after a crash with visible gear damage.

Orders ship within 1-2 business days. Delivery: 1-4 business days (US/Canada) or 2-5 business days (Europe/International).

Yes, worldwide. Customs and duties are covered—no surprise fees at delivery.

Reserve product before stock arrives. Full payment at checkout, cancellable anytime before ship date for a full refund. Ship dates are listed on the product page.

Check your email for tracking. If it shows "pre-order," it hasn't shipped yet—see the product page for expected ship date. Questions? Email info@vixprotection.com with your order number.

Yes. UPS 2-Day Air, UPS Next Day Air, and Priority Mail Express available at checkout.

90-day, no-questions-asked returns for full refund. Email info@vixprotection.com to start—we'll send a prepaid label. Original shipping is non-refundable unless the return is due to our error.

Email info@vixprotection.com immediately. We'll ship a replacement right away with a prepaid return label. Return at your convenience.

1-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Does not cover normal wear or damage from improper care.

Limited sponsorships available for competitive ski racers. Apply through our sponsorship page.