Powersports Back Protection
Your back is the largest part of your body, so the chances of hitting it and getting a spinal injury when falling of your powersports vehicle are high. Needless to say that spinal injuries are extremely dangerous since you can harm the central nervous system housed within it. To protect it from serious injury, you should use a back protector. It will cover the entire back, serving as a shield for the second most important part of your body. At the same time, it will not restrict your movements, so you can enjoy your ride no matter how long you’re driving.
Shopping for back protection, most likely you’ll have three basic options to choose from, including a back protector itself, armored vest, and armored jacket. All of them provide a good level of protection, however, the first one is the most common type of back armor with optimum spinal support and maximum coverage. It usually comes with waist and shoulder straps which can be adjusted for a proper fit and riding comfort. A back protector is suitable for any activity and can be worn both over your T-shirt and under your riding jacket or suit.
When purchasing a back protector, you should keep in mind several important factors to pick out the finest one for your application. First of all, you need to know what kind of back protection it provides that is usually determined by 2 levels of the CE certification. Level 1 states for basic protection which means a back protector must absorb not less than 15kN of energy. It is enough to safeguard your back from serious injuries in case of a fall in common driving conditions. As for level 2, it is the highest safety standard that says a back protector can absorb at least 30kN of energy.
Another crucial factor you should take into account when choosing a back protector is fit. If it is too bulky and big, it will cause many inconveniences and not be able to properly serve the purpose it’s built for. The right back protector must not deliver any discomfort when riding. To help you get the perfect fit, this type of body armor usually comes with elastic straps that are secured around your shoulders and waist and can be adjusted for a more tight fit. Keep in mind that back protectors specially designed for men should not be used for women and vice versa since they are built considering the difference in anatomy.
Unlike an armored jacket or vest, a back protector provides less body coverage, so it is often considered a preferred type of back protection on hot summer days. Furthermore, many back protectors are made with vents to ensure good ventilation and breathability for a more comfortable driving experience when outdoor temperatures are extremely high. Besides, the soft inner liner of the back protector makes it possible to wear it even on naked body for a long time without sacrificing your driving comfort. A quality back protector will keep you safe, preventing serious injuries, while providing a comfortable ride.
