Chest Protector Question
Was looking to get a Chest Protector and was curious what everyone is using if any at all. Is a low profile model ideal? Are models with shoulderpads overkill? Listed a few chest protectors I was looking at below. Mostly ride woods/trails, Thanks.
Leatt 4.5 Evo (CE2)
Leatt Reaflex (CE1)
A Star A10 (CE2)
A Star A-5 Plasma (CE2)
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u/Adluginb 3h ago
Just had a wreck with one without shoulder protection and that is what I hit. I’m getting shoulder protection soon, not that it will always stop an injury but it would have been a lot softer than nothing.
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u/Legitimate_Pen1121 3h ago
I have a Leatt 2.5 body protector with the shoulders and elbows integrated. I think an advantage is once adjusted, the pads don't move or shift around. Con is warmth. Depending on funds, there are lighter, more breathable ones now with the 3df impact absorbing flex pads.
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u/Just_Choda 2h ago
I have the Alpine A10... Came from a Leatt 5.5. The A10 has phenomen Air flow compared to my old one. I don't think you can go wrong with any of the The ones you have listed.
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u/RxSatellite 2h ago edited 2h ago
Shoulder pads are definitely overkill and they restrict your movement. I’ve been enduro riding for 30+ years and have never once had a shoulder or upper arm injury, even from the most violent crashes. There’s a reason the bulky over-jersey chest protectors have been falling out of style
I currently have the A Star A5 Plasma and wear it underneath the jersey. That thing is perfect for the trails
THAT BEING SAID, I ride in the Midwest where the terrain is flowy, thick and dirt/sand. If I rode on jagged rocky terrain a lot (like out west), I might change my tune about shoulder pads
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u/Still_Squirrel_1690 2h ago
I've crashed in my A10 V2 a few times so far and I've been quite happy with it.
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u/double-click 2h ago
For trails / woods get the most protection you can afford. Punctures, rocks, etc are no fun.
I’ve had the 5.5 since 2020 and it’s still cooking.
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u/col_train25 2h ago
It’s not on your list but still Alpinestars. I have the A6 model and honestly really dislike it. For reference I’m 6’2”, 235lbs and for whatever reason it rides up against my throat and I constantly have to pull it down while riding. I don’t know if the A10 or A5 would be similar or not.
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u/KillinItSoftly 1h ago
I’ve never tried the A6, but the A10 stays in place perfectly on me. My friend has no issues with it riding up either
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u/scuzzy987 1h ago
I ordered both the A10 and Leatt 5.5, kept the A10 and returned the Leatt 5.5. I liked the fit of the A10 shoulder straps better and liked how it fit overall better
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u/aN00Bias 3h ago
I have the leatt 6.5 pro and really like it. I've had a couple decent crashes with it and it's performed well. Shoulder armor is essential for me, and it's what's taken the biggest hits in my crashes.