It’s shocking that MSR is still in business—not because of any faults with the brand’s products or business practices, but because their stuff is indestructible. Seriously, when’s the last time you wore out a set of MSR gear from normal wear and tear? I have an MSR gear bag I’ve wanted to replace for nearly a decade, but I just can’t bring myself to drop money on a new one when this one has yet to show any signs of weakness. I’m not kind to it either—it gets pitched out of my truck and dragged over dirt, rocks, and asphalt every time I use it. It still has no rips, broken fasteners, or unravelling seams. How is MSR getting any sell-through when nothing they make ever has to be replaced?
The upside of course is that the consumer gets reliability and quality in a sport that seems to demand money every time you blink. A lot of their stuff is super-affordable too. Take the Axxis Gear, a jersey/pants combo that will only set you back $100. Need a set of gloves? Tack on twenty bucks, and the total for pants, jersey, and gloves is less than what a lot of guys pay for just pants, and the youth set costs even less. Parts managers, are you reading this? I smell an in-store holiday special!
Don’t associate the low price point with a lack of features though. The Axxis pants have spandex articulated heavy-duty knee panels, ratchet belt closure, mesh liner, and more. The super-comfy, lightweight, 100 percent spun-poly jersey will have you smiling too, and with its extra-long tail you can be sure it’s not going to come untucked. The only downside is you won’t look like 250SX West Region Champion Jason Anderson.
For more information head over to www.msracing.com.
To view more products in the Actually Fun Gift Guide, click here.
