Stx helmet sizing. STX Rival Lacrosse Helmet: Expert Review and Sizing Guide

How does the STX Rival Lacrosse Helmet compare to other models. What are the key features of the STX Rival Helmet. How to choose the right size for your STX lacrosse helmet. What makes STX a leading brand in lacrosse equipment.

The STX Rival: A Top-Tier Lacrosse Helmet

The STX Rival has established itself as a premier lacrosse helmet, known for its advanced features and customizable options. This helmet combines cutting-edge technology with player comfort, making it a popular choice among lacrosse enthusiasts of all levels.

Key features of the STX Rival include:

• Sure-Fit™ air system for a close, pump-adjustable fit
• Integrated ventilation for improved breathability
• Added comfort liner for additional interior padding
• Customizable options with over a million combinations

Is the STX Rival worth the investment? For players seeking a high-performance helmet that offers superior protection and comfort, the answer is a resounding yes. The Rival’s innovative design and customizable features set it apart from many competitors in the market.

Understanding STX Helmet Sizing

Proper sizing is crucial for both comfort and safety when it comes to lacrosse helmets. STX offers various sizes to accommodate different head shapes and sizes.

STX Rival Helmet Sizes:

• Small/Medium
• Large/X-Large

How do you determine the right size for your STX helmet? Start by measuring the circumference of your head just above the ears. Compare this measurement to the sizing chart provided by STX:

Remember, a properly fitted helmet should feel snug but not uncomfortable. The Sure-Fit™ air system allows for fine-tuning the fit once you’ve selected the correct size.

STX Rival vs. Other STX Helmet Models

While the Rival is a top-tier option, STX offers other helmet models to suit various needs and budgets. How does the Rival compare to other STX helmets?

STX Stallion 600

The Stallion 600 is an upgrade from the previous Stallion 500 model. It features:

• Updated design and ergonomic fit
• Schutt’s industry-leading protection system
• Hybrid TPU cushion for superior shock absorption
• TPU side pads for additional comfort

While the Stallion 600 offers excellent protection, it lacks some of the advanced customization options found in the Rival model.

STX Stallion 575

The Stallion 575 is a more budget-friendly option in the STX lineup. It provides:

• Solid protection for recreational players
• Comfortable fit for extended wear
• Adequate ventilation

Although it may not have all the bells and whistles of the Rival, the Stallion 575 is a reliable choice for players looking for a quality helmet at a lower price point.

The Technology Behind STX Helmets

STX has been at the forefront of lacrosse equipment innovation for over two decades. With more than 30 patented lacrosse designs, the company consistently pushes the boundaries of protective gear technology.

Sure-Fit™ Air System

One of the standout features of the STX Rival is its Sure-Fit™ air system. How does this technology work? The system uses an built-in pump that allows players to adjust the fit of their helmet during play. This ensures that the helmet remains both safe and comfortable throughout the game, even as conditions change.

Advanced Ventilation

Proper airflow is crucial for player comfort and performance. STX helmets, particularly the Rival model, incorporate integrated ventilation systems. These systems are designed to:

• Improve overall breathability
• Reduce heat buildup during intense play
• Minimize sweat accumulation

By keeping players cool and dry, this advanced ventilation technology can contribute to improved focus and performance on the field.

Customization Options for STX Helmets

One of the unique selling points of STX helmets, especially the Rival model, is the extensive customization options available. Why is customization important in lacrosse?

• Team identity: Customized helmets can help create a unified team look
• Personal expression: Players can showcase their individual style
• Sponsorship opportunities: Custom designs can incorporate sponsor logos or colors

The STX Rival offers over a million possible customization combinations. These options include:

• Various shell colors
• Different finishes (matte, glossy, metallic)
• Custom decals and graphics
• Personalized text or numbers

This level of customization allows teams and individual players to create truly unique helmets that stand out on the field.

Maintaining Your STX Lacrosse Helmet

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your STX helmet continues to provide optimal protection and performance. How should you care for your STX lacrosse helmet?

1. Regular cleaning: Wipe down the exterior and interior after each use with a damp cloth
2. Deep cleaning: Periodically remove padding (if possible) and clean thoroughly with mild soap and water
3. Inspection: Regularly check for any cracks, dents, or wear in the shell or padding
4. Storage: Keep your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use
5. Replacement: Follow manufacturer guidelines for when to replace your helmet, typically every 2-3 years

By following these maintenance steps, you can extend the life of your STX helmet and ensure it continues to provide the necessary protection.

STX Helmets in Competitive Play

STX helmets, particularly the Rival model, are widely used in competitive lacrosse at various levels. From high school teams to college programs and even professional leagues, STX helmets are a common sight on lacrosse fields across the country.

Several factors contribute to the popularity of STX helmets in competitive play:

• Proven protection: STX helmets meet or exceed safety standards set by governing bodies
• Comfort for extended wear: Important for long practices and intense game situations
• Customization options: Allow teams to create a cohesive, professional look
• Brand reputation: STX’s long history in lacrosse equipment lends credibility to their products

Many top collegiate programs, such as Syracuse University and Ohio State University, have been seen using STX Rival helmets. This adoption at high levels of play speaks to the quality and performance of these helmets.

Investing in an STX Lacrosse Helmet

When considering purchasing an STX lacrosse helmet, it’s important to view it as an investment in your safety and performance. While STX helmets, especially the Rival model, may come with a higher price tag than some alternatives, they offer value in several ways:

• Superior protection: Advanced technology helps reduce the risk of injury
• Comfort: Features like the Sure-Fit™ system and improved ventilation enhance the playing experience
• Durability: Quality construction means the helmet can withstand the rigors of regular play
• Customization: The ability to create a unique look adds value for many players and teams

How much should you expect to pay for an STX lacrosse helmet? Prices can vary depending on the model and any customization options:

• STX Rival: Generally ranges from $200 to $300
• STX Stallion 600: Usually priced between $150 and $200
• STX Stallion 575: Typically available for $100 to $150

Remember, these prices can fluctuate based on retailer, season, and any ongoing promotions. It’s always worth shopping around to find the best deal on your chosen STX helmet model.

Financing Options

For those concerned about the upfront cost of a high-end STX helmet, many retailers offer financing options. These can include:

• Layaway plans
• Interest-free payment plans (often through services like Affirm or Klarna)
• Store credit cards with introductory 0% APR periods

These options can make investing in a quality STX helmet more accessible for players on a budget.

The Future of STX Lacrosse Helmets

As a company known for innovation, STX continues to research and develop new technologies for their lacrosse helmets. What might the future hold for STX helmet design?

Potential Advancements

• Smart helmet technology: Integration of sensors to monitor impacts and player health
• Advanced materials: Exploration of new, lighter materials that offer even better protection
• Improved customization: Possibility of 3D-printed components for perfect fit
• Enhanced ventilation: Further developments in keeping players cool and comfortable
• Sustainability: Focus on eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes

While these advancements are speculative, they align with current trends in sports equipment technology and STX’s history of innovation.

Ongoing Research

STX continues to collaborate with sports science researchers and professional athletes to refine their helmet designs. This ongoing research focuses on:

• Improving impact absorption
• Reducing the risk of concussions
• Enhancing overall player comfort and performance

As new findings emerge from this research, we can expect to see continued evolution in STX lacrosse helmet design.

Choosing the Right STX Helmet for You

With several models available, how do you choose the right STX helmet for your needs? Consider the following factors:

1. Level of play: More competitive players may benefit from the advanced features of the Rival
2. Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to invest in your helmet
3. Fit preferences: Some players may prefer the customizable fit of the Rival’s Sure-Fit™ system
4. Ventilation needs: If you play in hot climates, prioritize models with advanced ventilation
5. Customization desires: If having a unique look is important, the Rival offers the most options

Remember, the best helmet is one that fits properly, provides adequate protection, and meets your specific needs as a player.

Try Before You Buy

Whenever possible, it’s recommended to try on different STX helmet models before making a purchase. Many lacrosse specialty stores offer this option. When trying on helmets:

• Check for proper fit: The helmet should be snug but not uncomfortable
• Test visibility: Ensure the helmet doesn’t obstruct your field of vision
• Assess comfort: Wear the helmet for several minutes to gauge long-term comfort
• Try movements: Perform some lacrosse-specific movements to ensure the helmet stays in place

By taking the time to find the right STX helmet for you, you’re investing in both your safety and your performance on the lacrosse field.

STX Lacrosse Helmets for sale

Best STX Lacrosse Helmets

Save this searchAdds to Favorites and notifies you of new items

RecommendedNewestLast UpdatedTrendingPrice: High to LowPrice: Low to High

118 Results

Sportsequipment

Stx stallion 650 lacrosse helmet

$45$53

15% PRICE DROP

Lumberjack2212

Used STX Rival Helmet L/XL

$99$110

10% PRICE DROP

Retail price:

$250

Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$130

Retail price:

$200

Grizz3

STX Rival Shred Thread National Team Helmet Small/Medium – New

$160

Retail price:

$278

KCordial

STX Rival Helmet Large/ X- Large 01-17207 Along with Cascade Chin-Guard

$130

Retail price:

$278

cmgoodchild21

STX Rival Helmet

$105

cmgoodchild21

Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$105

Used Ohio State STX Rival Helmet

$210

Retail price:

$300

t_vanpelt

Used Player’s STX Helmet

$200

Retail price:

$350

casonhils07

Used STX Stallion 500 Helmet by Schutt

$48$57

15% PRICE DROP

Retail price:

$100

Sportsequipment

Lacrosse helmet Stx stallion 650 (small)

$50$59

15% PRICE DROP

Sportsequipment

Lacrosse helmet Stx lacrosse helmet

$53$59

10% PRICE DROP

Sportsequipment

Lacrosse helmet Stx stallion

$48$53

10% PRICE DROP

laxgoalie001

Stx stallion lacrosse helmet medium men’s

$40$44

10% PRICE DROP

Bergy03

Used Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$120

Retail price:

$250

STBS15

Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$176$196

15% PRICE DROP

Retail price:

$280

STBS15

Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$174$194

10% PRICE DROP

Retail price:

$280

SteelDeals

Used STX Rival Helmet Small/Medium

$106

Retail price:

$280

rcrompton23

STX Rival Helmet

$200

Retail price:

$350

Aaronyktv

Used STX Rival Helmet

$158

Retail price:

$300

jtlax5

Pink Whales Foundation STX Rival S/M Lacrosse Helmet

$300

Eagle2222

Team Issued New STX Rival Helmet

$140

Retail price:

$250

joey16

STX Rival Helmet

$110

joey16

STX Rival Helmet

$105

Gera142

Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$130

ZackFriend

Team Eighteen Kobe inspired Helmet/Never Worn or Used

$154

Retail price:

$250

DKLax2k15

Cuse Lacrosse STX Rival

$135

xattack

Used STX Rival Helmet

$75

Poollax11

Syracuse Lacrosse game used STX rival helmet

$171

Corbenb123

Used Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$105$150

30% PRICE DROP

Retail price:

$250

Corbenb123

Marquette STX Rival Helmet

$105$150

30% PRICE DROP

Retail price:

$250

STX Rival Helmet

$200

Retail price:

$350

Eagle2222

Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$120

Retail price:

$300

jfoglesong1

Sweetlax FL Rival Helmet

$210

Retail price:

$350

Lildonk222

STX Stallion 575 Helmet

$21

pkapler

Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$65

laxgod18

Committed Combine STX Stallion 650 Helmet

$108

EmpireSports

Used STX Rival Helmet

$225

Retail price:

$250

CornellLax

Cornell Lacrosse STX Rival Helmet (Used)

$160

Jack_dwy3r

STX Rival Helmet

$101

Retail price:

$250

Used Ohio State STX Rival Helmet

$210

Retail price:

$300

Used STX Rival Helmet

$210

Retail price:

$300

Lacrosse1126

STX Stallion 650 Helmet

$50

GilLong12

Used STX Stallion 600 Helmet

$125

Mattwall02

Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$80

Used STX Stallion 100 Youth Helmet

$55

Retail price:

$110

Gangij

New Harvard STX Rival White Helmet

$160

Retail price:

$250

Lacrosseguy5422

Player’s STX Rival Helmet

$136

STX Lacrosse Helmets Frequently Asked Questions

Check out the top selling helmets curated by our team of experts and informed by actual sales data. You can learn more about our product rankings here.

#7

STX Rival Helmet

From: $100 – $160

82 available

#7 in Helmets

About the STX Rival

The STX Rival is a top-tier lacrosse helmet built for improved breathability and additional interior padding.

With a Sure-Fit™ air system for a close, pump-adjustable fit, integrated ventilation for improved breathability, and an added comfort liner for additional interior padding, the Rival provides top-notch performance and protection.

STX Rival – Key Features

• Sure-Fit™ air system for a close, pump-adjustable fit.
• Integrated ventilation for improved breathability.
• Added comfort liner for additional interior padding.

What are the best STX helmets?

One of the most recognized and esteemed names in lacrosse, STX has continuously manufactured quality products over the past 20 years. STX has patented over 30 lacrosse designs, proving the company’s dedication to producing innovative equipment.

Rival

The STX Rival helmet is a combination of advanced technology and customizable options, making it the ideal choice for any lacrosse player. Sure-fit technology allows the helmet to be easily adjusted during play, with a built-in pump that ensures the helmet always fits not only safely, but comfortably. An advanced ventilation system improves airflow, keeping players cool and sweat-levels to a minimum. With over a million customization combinations available, including color and finish, this helmet can be adapted to suit an individual player’s specific needs.

Stallion

The STX Stallion 600 is an upgrade of the Stallion 500. It features an updated design and ergonomic fit as well as Schutt’s industry-leading protection system. Its Hybrid TPU cushion provides superb shock absorption. The TPU side pads offer additional comfort and help the helmet fit more snugly.

STX Rival Lacrosse Helmet

Last updated date: May 14, 2020

DWYM Score

Why Trust DWYM?

DWYM is your trusted product review source. Along with our in-house experts, our team analyzes thousands of product reviews from the most trusted websites. We then create one easy-to-understand review. Learn more.

Show Contents

Contents

1. Our Take
2. Features
3. Specifications
4. From The Manufacturer
5. Expert Reviews
6. Overall Ranking
7. Our Lacrosse Helmet Buying Guide
8. Our Lacrosse Helmet Tip and Advice

We looked at the top Lacrosse Helmets and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we’ve determined the best Lacrosse Helmet you should buy.

Update as May 14, 2020:
Checkout The Best Lacrosse Helmet for a detailed review of all the top lacrosse helmets.

Overall Take

Air flows freely through this lacrosse helmet’s shell, thanks to the integrated ventilation holes. The helmet is designed for use by those with large and extra-large head circumferences. It features lines that improve a person’s speed and field of vision for more accurate play.

In our analysis of 30 expert reviews, the STX Rival Lacrosse Helmet placed 4th when we looked at the top 4 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

STX sleek new shell and face mask design incorporates crafted lines that accentuate speed, giving you an aggressive, fast look and an improved field of vision. And the all-new Sure-Fit air system features a built-in pump, allowing players to adjust their fit on the fly. No detachable pump needed, just inflate to your desired fit, right on the field. Sure-Fit also includes a built-in release valve for quick deflation and removal of the helmet. Aligned with all of the of the other protective padding within the helmet, the on-board system will ensure the perfect fit. Integrated ventilation throughout the shell allows air to flow through the helmet, keeping you cool even when the game gets hot. The comfort liner adds an additional layer of comfort to the interior padding, reducing pinching and discomfort.

Expert Reviews

Expert Summarized Score

6 expert reviews

User Summarized Score

1 user reviews

What experts liked

As expected, it offers superior ventilation through the whole shell, and it offers the athlete an extra comfort liner which is an additional layer of padding to the interior so your mind is on the game, not on the mild pain in your skull!

– Sport Consumer

| Full review

STX has included a built in pump allowing you to adjust your helmet on the fly. Talk about the ultimate in customizable fit!

– Going Bar Down

| Full review

A pump has been implemented that allows you to get the precise fit that you’re looking for. We were also impressed with how there is a fantastic ventilation system available.

– What All The Pros Use

| Full review

The helmet’s air pump system for getting a snug fit is great for dialing in the perfect amount of tightness.

– Sports Glory

| Full review

Comfort Liner is added an additional layer which sits above the head, Really comfortable while wearing.

– Go Blue Lacrosse

| Full review

The helmet has increased the ventilation up to 70% from the pervious model.

– Uniswag

| Full review

What experts didn’t like

The price may give you sticker shock (unless you’re a billionaire!).

– Sport Consumer

| Full review

Lacks some top end impact dissipation that rivals have.

– Going Bar Down

| Full review

Nearly a full half-pound heavier than the Cascade S which can be a deal-breaker for many.

– Sports Glory

| Full review

Fitting could be better! Vent Holes could be improved further like Cascade S.

– Go Blue Lacrosse

| Full review

1. CASCADE CPV-R Boys Lacrosse Helmet With Black Face Mask

Overall Score: 9.7

2. Hummingbird Sports Girls Lacrosse Helmet

Overall Score: 9.2

3. CASCADE LX Women’s Lacrosse Helmet

Overall Score: 9.1

4. STX Rival Lacrosse Helmet

Overall Score: 9.0

Whether you enjoy competitive play or you’re simply looking for a sport that will help you meet your daily exercise requirements, lacrosse is an excellent choice. Before you join a team or gather some friends together for a game, you’ll want to make sure you have the proper protective equipment.

A lacrosse helmet is designed to protect a player’s head from serious injury, including brain damage. That means you’ll want to take great care when selecting a helmet.

Start off measuring the circumference of the head of the intended player, whether that is you or your child. Lacrosse helmets are sold in a variety of sizes and you need to get a good fit for the best protection. For example, the CASCADE CPV-R Boys Lacrosse Helmet comes in extra-small (21 to 22.5 inches), small/medium (21 to 23 inches) and medium/large (22 to 23.5 inches).

Once you have the correct size, look to see how adjustable the rest of the helmet is. The CASCADE LX Women’s Lacrosse Helmet includes interchangeable cheek pads, multiple hair slots and even a rear adjustable strap for a customizable fit.

Next, you’ll need to review the construction of the lacrosse helmet to make sure it offers maximum protection in the event of a collision with another player or piece of equipment. The Hummingbird Sports Girls Lacrosse Helmet provides 360-degree protection and is designed to absorb and disperse energy from an accident.

Comfort is also important, as you won’t play your best if a piece of equipment is causing you to feel achy or sore. The STX Rival Lacrosse Helmet has a comfort liner, which is a layer of interior padding that reduces pinching. There are also numerous vents throughout the shell that increase airflow to keep you nice and cool while you play.

• Reviewers report that some lacrosse helmets require assembly when they arrive.
• Not all lacrosse helmets are made for individuals who wear glasses. If you can’t substitute your glasses for a pair of contacts during play, you’ll want to make sure the helmet of your choice can accommodate your glasses.
• Take the time to clean your lacrosse helmet on a regular basis. Grab a rag and dip it into a solution of water and mild dish soap. Wipe the helmet down, being careful not to saturate the helmet with water. Set the helmet aside to air dry.
• Never store your lacrosse helmet in the car or any other place that has a tendency to get hot. Room temperature is always best. You’ll also want to keep the helmet away from direct sunlight.
• Always check your lacrosse helmet for damage before you put it on your head. The CDC warns to never wear a helmet that is broken, bent or missing padding. They also point out that an expert is the only one who should attempt to recondition any helmet that is in need of repair.
• Lacrosse helmets are sold in a variety of price ranges. Everything from age to construction materials to extra features plays a role in the total cost of the helmet. The Hummingbird Sports Girls Lacrosse Helmet 120 is one of the most affordable helmets on the market. Both the CASCADE CPV-R Boys Lacrosse Helmet 140 and the CASCADE LX Women’s Lacrosse Helmet 150 are moderately priced. Since the STX Rival Lacrosse Helmet 260 is larger in size and made using a special design to increase speed, it commands the highest price tag.

Checkout Our Other Buying Guides

Child size 8 in Kaluga: 631-product: free shipping, 90% discount [click here]

Partner program 0003

Clothing and footwear

Building materials

Building materials

Textiles and leather

Textiles and leather

Children’s goods

Children’s goods

Health and beauty

Health and beauty

Food and drink

Food and drink

Electrical engineering

Electrical engineering

Home and garden

Home and garden

Furniture and interior

Furniture and interior

90 011 Industry

Industry

Trade and warehouse

Trade and warehouse

All categories

LoginFavorites

-55%

-56%

-40%

4 035

6750

9 0002 Arena children’s play team. Size 1.5*1, 8 m. Type: Arena, Size : Length 110.000 Width 22.000

IN STORE

-55%

-56 %

2,375

5343

Large size 11036 cm musical piano mat for children with 8 hand feet, touch playing tone, children musical mat, educational toys

DETAILS

340 800

Children’s inflatable trampoline-slide “Dragons”, size 12*6* 8 m, B-14500 Composition of the complex: trampoline, slide,

DETAILS

19 218

Wetsuit child Mares Rover 5 mm size -3 for children from 8 to 10 years old Type: wetsuit,

DETAILS

Novatex suit for children 128-136 (7- 8 years)) Type: suit, Gender:

DETAILS

PHELPS swimsuit for children Lumy, black/silver, size : 8 Type: swimsuit, Colour: silver,

DETAILS

900 02 Neck brace for children trives Т.51.01, size 8 . 1, height 8 cm, color beige Type: bandage, Size : 8 ,

DETAILS

11 700

Varnished coffin ” Children’s FD-4S” light. Size 0, 8 -1.6 Type: baby

DETAILS

Thermos baby , TAKE IT EASY feeding bottle, pink, volume 250 ml, keeps warm 90 070 8 h, size 6×23 cm

MORE DETAILS

Neck bandage for children trives T.51.01, size 8 .1, height 8 cm, color beige Type: bandage, Size : 8 ,

DETAILS

Arena for children play set. Size 1.2*1, 8 m. Type: arena, Features: fabric/mesh walls,

DETAILS

Suit for children (hoodie, trousers) KAFTAN “Basic line”, size 900 71 34 (122-128), color black Type: costume,

DETAILS

554 300

Children’s inflatable trampoline-slide “Dragons”, size 14*7* 8 m, B-14499 Location: B indoors, outdoors,

DETAILS

Vest for children for swimming ND Play / L. O.L. Surprise! / Inflatable life jacket for swimming in the pool and learning to swim in the water for girls / size M / 40×38 cm / for children from 3 to 10 years old, package 22x16x3, 8 cm

DETAILS

417 600 9 0003

Child inflatable trampoline “Dragons”, size 12*6* 8 m, B-14500 Location: Indoor, Outdoor,

READ MORE

11 648

Monosuit child SIXS K STX, size 8 black

READ MORE 90 003

624 100

Children’s inflatable trampoline-slide “Dragons”, size 14* 8 * 8 m, B-93018 Location: Indoor, Outdoor,

DETAILS

Monosuit child SIXS K STX, size 8 , black

DETAILS

446 900

Children’s inflatable trampoline-slide “Dragons”, size 14*7* 8 m, B-14499 Composition of the complex: trampoline, slide,

900 11 DETAILS

Weighted blanket for children Bio -Textiles with buckwheat husk, size : 90×120, weight: 2, 8 kg Type: blanket,

DETAILS

Child Counting material “Mushrooms”, wooden set of 10 piece, with colored caps, size 1 pc: 4. 2×2. 8 cm

DETAILS

Children’s educational mat with music and light “Farm” – Tiny Love – with toys, teether, bell and mirror. Size : 96 x 73, 8 x 58.1 cm. Age: from 0 months.

DETAILS

10 623

Kyrie 8 Infinity SE TD ‘Tie-Dye’ ( Kids Size Chart) Brand: NIKE

DETAILS 9 0003

-13%

12 300

14200

Lacquered coffin “ Children’s FDA-6S” with an Angel light. Size 0, 8 -1.6 Gender: for girls, for

DETAILS

Sundress for children satin (Colour: Blue Size : 8 years ) merchantCountBpg2: 0, cashback: 1, LT_cluster1 : 1

DETAILS

Page 2 of 11

Child Size 8

SHIMANO STX Group Storm of the 90s

January 27
2021

2 comments

Today we are well aware of all Shimano equipment groups, their names and purposes, from the simplest ones for teen bikes and amateur riding to the group for professional sports and participation in world championships.

But did you know that at the beginning of this complex hierarchy of mountain bike equipment, company Shimano had another very promising and interesting series called STX.
We will tell you what kind of group it is, what place it occupied, when it was released, and why today it is only history.

So, in the 90s the world was already completely captured by the fever of mountain biking and the main actors of this theater were, of course, producers bicycles and manufacturers of equipment for the same bicycles, including including a company from Japan – Shimano.

In 1994, already had such MTB equipment groups as: Tourney , Altus , Alivio , Deore LX, Deore XT and XTR . And it was this year that the Japanese company presented to the world another group of equipment in two variations at once: STX MC30/31 and STX SE (special edition).

The MC30/31-CH series received a 3×7 transmission and cantilever brakes. The group included: a set of bushings, a cassette, pedals, a set of brakes, monoblocks, connecting rods, a front and rear derailleur, as well as a chain and bottom bracket.
The SE differed from the standard set in a shiny smoky gray paint job, with surface treatment and black accents, while the STX was mostly silver. In fact, except for the front panel, these were the same components, only with different colors. However, upon closer examination of the posters and catalogs of that time, we noticed that the SE series also featured another component that is not included in the groups even now – this is the steering column.

In 1995, the STX SE was replaced by the updated STX RC MC33 series with minor upgrades.
The standard STX has also been updated with new technologies and improvements.

Here it is important to add that despite the fact that now our cycling industry is developing by leaps and bounds and every year we receive thousands of new products on the bicycle market, nevertheless, basically, these are the same technologies, somewhat modernized and in some places simply repackaged into a new wrapper by marketers.
But in the 80s and 90s, people really only discovered what it means to “ride a bike fast and cool” and many things and technologies familiar to us today did not yet exist.
Then this industry received new discoveries every year. It’s hard to imagine, but there was a time when engineers first invented the V-brake, and then, after a while, the 8 and 9 cassette, later Hyperglide technology and Hollowtech cranks.

So at 9The 5th STX received “Cromica Bronze” surface treatment on the coins, brakes, clippers and outer chainring, as well as several technologies that improved the performance of the equipment, namely the M-System anti-vibration brake system and cable routing to the IG Drivetrain rear derailleur.
The STX RC was silver and received additional improvements to the optical display on monoblocks, as well as Parallax Hubs technology, that is, wheel mounting using aluminum eccentrics. The RC had more “better quality” variations than the regular STX, meaning they no longer had the same components in different colors.

In 1996, , the STX group again underwent minor, almost imperceptible changes.
The main improvements were received by the connecting rod systems, as well as the Silent Clutch Freehub drum clutch system, which was introduced by Shimano just the day before.
The STX series once again updated the index with the MC34, while the STX RC introduced the MC36.

In 1997, the STX received separate high-speed shifters, i.e. slates and separate brake levers, the company also abandoned the “Cromica Bronze” coating and returned the series to the already corporate silver color. 9The 0003

STX RC also received a few significant changes:

• hub for 8 speed MC38 cassettes;
• new 8-speed MC38 rear derailleur, with 7-speed variants also available in parallel;
• also included individual slates with the possibility of combining with V-brake and Canti handles;
• Well, traditionally for this subgroup, an additional element is the steering column.

From all this, we can conclude that the update of the STX RC group in 1997 was the most significant, and the range of spare parts is quite wide.

The market always asks for more. Peak of popularity.

After such a major group renewal, it was important for the engineers to surpass their past successes and needed an annual group renewal? As we know, in the modern history of Shimano, groups are updated every 4 years, perhaps due to the exhaustion of new technologies, and at that time, something new and more significant was expected from engineers every year.
And already in 1998, the STX group was updated again.
The group retains the 7-speed transmission kits, however, they are phased out the following year.
The STX RC subgroup received a new set of chains and there were only 8-speed transmission options. Also both sets of groups received the new V40 and MC40 brake systems and the cantilever brake systems were completely dropped into the lower groups.

Despite a fairly successful sales trend and the popularity of equipment among cyclists, in the same year, management, together with the company’s marketing department, decided to discontinue the production of the STX and STX RC groups.
At the end of 1999, the production of the STX and STX RC groups was finally discontinued, and at the end of 2001, the last spare parts of this series left the company’s assembly line.

The end of the SHIMANO STX series. What’s next?

It would seem a sad story with a sad ending, however, if you look at the situation through the prism of time and what we have today in the world of MTB components, then everything is not so sad. After all, today we have no problems with the choice of transmissions or the lack of technology. The transmission and brakes of a modern mountain bike for professionals are a high-tech device, and any ordinary bike for walking in the forest is a combination of technologies that 20-30 years ago not everyone could believe – let alone wish for.

Where did she fit in the Shimano MTB group hierarchy.

Shimano engineers and marketers positioned the STX as the first step with really high-quality equipment for serious tasks. You could go to training or the mountains with the STX and fully satisfy your bike needs because it was equipped with the reliable STX.
The RC was a limited and improved STX series and a good marketing ploy. Even when you wanted a really cool bike and went to the shop for a bike with STX equipment, the consultant politely offered to pay a little extra and get the STX RC equipment. This is the standard modern sales model.
In general, Shimano have always been able to sell, however, it is impossible to blame them for this, because they also knew how to do the really right things.
In the modern system of equipment levels, the STX group would legitimately take its place somewhere between the Alivio group and the SLX, in the place of the modern Deore. In the end, it was the Deore LX and Alivio that at one time were distributed among themselves and replaced this group, and then the LX was replaced by the modern Shimano Deore group already familiar to all of us.

About the reasons why exactly STX was discontinued, in my opinion there were several of them and they are all justified

Firstly. High competition within the brand. At the time of the introduction of the series, Shimano already had the Altus, Deore LX series. And even the little-known MJ series, which, however, disappeared in 1994. Then Acera appeared, the Deore XT line was actively expanded. That is, in the mid-range component segment, Shimano already had a “full house” and it was already quite difficult to endow each line with some unique features from year to year, especially when the industry revolves around standard transmissions with 21 speeds and rims for a long time. brakes.

Second. Marketing – as mentioned earlier, Shimano always knew how to sell and had a pretty good sense of the market. Maintaining the same group is difficult in the same competitive series. That is why the withdrawal from the sale of the series and replacing it with the more popular Deore LX series at that time was the right decision in the first place, economically, because the series did not become unprofitable and actually ceased to exist at the peak of popularity, thereby warming up the public’s attention to what was new the manufacturer will offer them.

And the last is technology. New production technologies, new materials and design methods began to massively enter the bicycle industry. Every year the performance improvements became more significant and skillful remarketing and rebranding helped the company win new customers. Yes, what was considered innovative in the early 90s, in the early 2000s, could easily be perceived as a synonym for “obsolete technologies”.
Timely change of image, change of names, design and marketing strategies helped the Japanese company always look modern and relevant. So, for example, STX looked like a novelty, and after a few years Deore LX supplanted the series as a more innovative product, and even later Deore LX was eliminated as obsolete.

I hope you liked our material

Share your impressions in the comments under this article, supplement with interesting facts that we may not have mentioned in this article, and also distribute links to the article and in social networks, it will be additional for us incentive to create new similar articles.