BODY ARMOUR

Types How to choose the right protection for your riding Ratings

The Holy Grail of modern body armour is lightweight, breathable, effective protection, which is comfortable to ride in all day if necessary, all year round. Most UK trail riders wear knee pads as standard, while some add elbow pads, and downhill riders will often include chest and/or spine protection and a neck brace. Some bike parks have rules on body armour, but generally what riders wear is down to personal preference.

Materials

The protective element of body armour was traditionally made from either moulded foam or a hard-shell plate. However, patented materials such as D3O (a non-Newtonian fluid, which hardens upon impact) and Koroyd (a honeycomb material said to absorb more energy than foam) are now common. These are attached to either a moisture-wicking fabric or a thicker stretch material with vents, and help in place on your body with straps and/or sections of grippy silicone gel. MTB body armour is measured against standards put in place by the motorcycle industry. EN1621 is the umbrella policy, with different requirements for limb protection (-1), back/spine (-2) and chest (-3). Armour is categorised by impact resistance (Level 1 is greater protection, Level 2 lesser) and size (Type A is smaller, Type B larger). For example, you might see a pair of enduro knee pads described as EN1621-1 Level 1, Type B.

Buying

Manufacturers often recommend buying sleevestyle knee and elbow pads in a smaller size than usual, because the fit relies on stretch in the fabric, which can loosen with time. Heavier-duty armour with fixing straps can be adjusted while riding.

Care

When knee and elbow pads begin to resemble Nora Batty’s tights, washing at 30°C can replenish their elasticity and remove any unpleasant smells.