Chest & Spine Protection for Women
Below, riders Beka, Meg, and Kelly, breakdown a few of the chest protectors that they’ve worn while riding bike parks, steeps, and tech. Be sure to also watch our chat with all 3 ladies below, or on our Youtube page.
Products Tested
1- POC VPD- Test by Kelly and Meg
2- Leatt Women’s Airflex. Tested by Beka and Britt
3- Leatt Jacki 4.5 Women. Tested by Kelly
4- Troy Lee. Tested by Beka
Key Features Considered
1- Spine/Chest length and protection
2- Rib coverage
3- Use: Downhill, vs Trail, vs Enduro
4- Climbing/Pedaling
POC VPD
Kelly and Meg's takeaways
– Unisex, Rib protection
– Light, airy, comfortable, climbs well
– Molds to the body, narrow
– Low profile, can wear during warm weather
– Might not fit larger women with bigger chest
– Does not go low on the spine
– Cannot wear under jersey
POC VPD System Torso: $240
Sizes: XS, S, M, L
Product description:
Comprising a chest plate and a back plate, the VPD System Torso is constructed without a jacket or vest, giving a heightened level of comfort and freedom. However you wear it, the VPD System Torso gives lightweight, certified protection and versatility. Constructed using a 3D molding process, VPD System delivers exceptional impact absorbency certified to EN1621 standards whilst also providing outstanding ventilation. VPD material softens with body heat, providing exceptional freedom of movement for the wearer. However, in an impact, the material hardens, giving outstanding protection.
Get it on POC’s website.
Leatt Women's Airflex
Beka's takeaways
– Full spine & Rib & Chest coverage
– Form fitting for women’s physique
– Proper mold for woman’s figure
– Comfortable
– Good for all weather
– Space to add neck brace
– Can wear under or over jersey
Leatt Women’s Airflex – $179.99- Currently on sale for $134.99
Sizes: XXS/XS, S/M, L
Product description:
Leatt AirFlex Women’s Chest Protector, a lightweight, CE certified impact protector with padded flank protection specifically made for women. We combine the use of Airflex soft impact gel for the extended back protector, and I-Mesh in the chest, this offers great protection, comfort and ventilation with additional coverage and straps for the female form giving you the confidence to take on new challenges. Can be used with and without a Leatt Neck Brace.
Get it on Leatt’s website.
Leatt Jacki 4.5 Women
Kelly's Takeaways
– Rib protection
– Doesn’t go far down the spine
– Feels more substantial in the front
– Bigger chest plate
– Get’s hot while climbing/pedaling
– Cannot wear over jersey
Leatt Jacki 4.5 Women – $179.99
Sizes: one size
Product description:
Premium Hard Shell Chest Protector Designed To Fit Women. The 4.5 Jacki Chest Protector was designed specifically with the female body shape in mind, and its 3DF AirFit impact foam offers chest, back and flank protection. CE tested and certified, and it scores a total of 12 points in the Leatt protection rating system. 3D multi-layer, multi-plate articulating design that proves to be comfortable as well as ventilated. Compatible with and without a neck brace, and passes the new 2018 FIM regulations.
Get it on Leatt’s website.
Troy Lee Rockfight
Beka's Takeaways
– Affordable
– Not comfortable, pops up to the shoulder while in use.
– Doesn’t stay in place.
– Some rib protection
– Cannot wear over jersey
Troy Lee : $105
Sizes: XS/S, M/L, XL/XXL
Product description:
The lightest, most comfortable chest and back protector we’ve ever created. This feature packed piece of core protection incorporates strategically placed EPP on the chest and spine areas for impact protection while allowing unrestricted airflow and complete fit customization. Say hello to the last chest protector you’ll ever need. CE EN14021 Stone Shield certification of front plate for proven protection from roost and other lofted debris. Form fit side flex plates, fully adjustable fore/ aft shoulder straps.
Get it on Troy Lee website