In this article, we are talking about the best chest protection for dirt biking.
Dirt biking is such a fun activity and is one of my favorite things to do in the world. Now, the older I get the wiser I get which means I like to invest in gear that helps keep me safe. It’s important to note that the best way to stay safe is to learn proper riding techniques (See article here).
Table of Contents
Why a Dirt Bike Chest Protectors?
One of the protections you should invest in is chest protection. Mostly the dirt bike chest protectors are going to keep rocks and sticks from whacking your chest. A handlebar to the chest or nasty wreck can be costly and painful. The ground is not soft, so having a chest protector can save you some mula but more importantly, it can help you avoid major injuries.
However, dirt bike chest protectors come in many different forms and safety features which we will go into later in this article.
What does a chest protect you from?
- Rocks
- Sticks
- G-Outs
- Tree branches
- Handlebar
- Impacts
For most of the work, dirt bike chest protectors will be deflecting roost from the person in front of you. It can also protect you from roque tree branches and other stuff.
Also having a hard shell or impact vest surrounding your vital organs is a good idea. If you do have a get off and go flying to the ground I know I would rather have some protection between me and what’s on the ground.
G-OUTS
I can tell you from experience smacking your chest with your handlebars or handlebar mount is really painful. Having a chest protector will help minimize that pain and offer you up some level of protection.
What Types of Dirt Bike Chest Protectors are there?
There really is quite the broad window when it comes to chest protection for dirt bikers. Motocross racers generally are just wanting roost protection and desert racers want full body armor.
So, you have everything from roost deflectors to full body armor. So, there really are 2 different categories when it comes to chest protection.
- Roost Deflectors
- Protective Gear
Chest Roost Deflector
Chest Body Armor
Dirt Bike Chest Roost Deflector Pros and Cons
Below are the pros and cons versus the full body armor.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Not has hot
- Easily worn under Jersey
- Less restriction
Cons:
- Less protection
- Just Roost protection
- Easy to put on
Dirt Bike Chest Armor Pros and Cons
Below are the pros and cons versus chest roost protection.
Pros:
- Full protection
- Impact protection plus roost protection
- Chest, Shoulder, Arm, and back protection
- Some can be worn under a jersey
Cons:
- Hot
- Hard to put on and take off
- Some cannot be worn under a jersey
- restrictive movement
Best Chest Protector or Roost Guard Brands
Alpinestars
With Alpinestars chest protectors, you can ride your motorcycle in complete peace of mind. These absorbent protectors are designed to be light wear and perfect for riding your motorcycle. They are suitable for both off-road and street use with a snug fit. Offered in different sizes, you can find the perfect protector to suit your body size and riding style. Whenever you choose a chest protector, body armor, or jacket, be sure that you will get the highest level of protection with their products.
Answer Racing
Ventilated, lightweight and protective – that’s what you get with Answer Racing’s Apex Chest Protectors. Answer Racing chest protectors are made with breathable materials and designed to be flexible yet rigid, it offers superior protection for your torso in all racing conditions. Its adjustable fit and breathable fabric ensure you stay cool and comfortable during your most strenuous races. So go ahead, power up your performance with Answer Racing’s Apex Chest Protector!
Atlas
Atlas is the perfect option when you’re looking for a high-quality chest protector that won’t break the bank. They offer chest protectors in different sizes and are perfect for any activity. Our chest protectors are made with advanced materials and feature a snug fit to ensure maximum protection. With Atlas, you’re guaranteed safety while enjoying your favorite dirt bike ride.
EVS
It’s time to take your riding to the next level! With EVS, you’ll get the superior chest, shoulder, and back protection while minimizing weight and bulk. Their modular roost deflectors are made with performance and functionality in mind and are ideal for those who want a maximum chest, shoulder, and back protection. Choose the right deflector for your needs, and be sure to enjoy the ride of your life for a very affordable price.
Fly Racing
Fly Racing is a leading innovator in the world of motorsports, and their BioFoam chassis attachment system is exactly what you need to take your racing to new heights. With this system, you can race with confidence knowing that you’re eliminating the risk of injury caused by TPR rubbers. The air channels molded into the BioFoam allow hot air to escape, making it more durable and lightweight. It’s also triple-layered for extra protection.
Fox Racing
Fox Racing is the trusted choice for riders who demand the best. Articulated design hugs the body and is highly vented for maximum comfort. Low-profile bonded construction allows for versatile use under or over the jersey. Adjustable waistband with fast-action concealed buckles for secure and easy fit adjustments. An adjustable shoulder completes the perfect fit.
Husqvarna
Husqvarna’s professional-grade protector is made from high-quality materials and features a breathable mesh panel for superior airflow, flip its construction for a perfect fit, and a three-dimensional shape for exceptional comfort. Plus, it’s exclusively designed for Husqvarna motorcycles by Leatt, so you know it’s going to fit perfectly and provide superior protection.
KTM
KTM chest protector is exclusively crafted for KTM by Alpinestars and has a three-dimensional shape that fits your body like a glove. Additionally, it’s designed to be combined with the KTM lightest body protector ever made, the Sugarmatic. So you can be sure of maximum protection while riding your bike on your next adventure!
Leatt
With AirFlex Body Protectors from Leatt, you can be sure that your body is fully protected during your dirt bike adventures. Compression technology ensures a snug fit and maximizes protection against impact. It has a full-body CE Certified protector that also ensures complete coverage, keeping you safe from injury in all directions. And in the chest protectors have added adjustable shoulder guards to make them more comfortable to wear. Its slim, lightweight construction and CE-certified impact protection for the chest and back make it perfect for hard shell racers.
MSR
MSR brings you the perfect solution with their ultra-light and adjustable shoulder straps. The 20 beveled air-flow vents help keep you cool, while the flexible and adjustable straps ensure a comfortable fit. The thermos-formed biofoam padding is comfortable and washable, while the quick snap-on/off waist straps make it easy to get on and off. With a backplate for personalization, this is the perfect accessory for making your dirt bike adventures more refreshing!
O’neal Racing
Another popular brand among the riders. O’Neal Racing’s lightweight chest protectors are perfect for those who want to stay safe and comfortable on the road. Their chest protectors feature an articulated back protector that increases mobility, neoprene shoulder padding for comfort, and a waist closure system that integrates with the neoprene shoulder padding for a snug fit. Additionally, the lightweight chest protector features injected plastic parts that provide an added level of durability, while the Bio-foam padding ensures your comfort during long rides.
Seven
Seven chest protector is designed to be worn under the jersey. It’s made of breathable mesh fabric and is designed to keep you cool and dry during strenuous activity. With a snug, compression fit that holds muscles tight to reduce unnecessary muscle movement or shaking, you can rest assured that your energy will be conserved during intense riding. Anyway, many people have complained that it’s hard to put on and off. So, maybe that is the one negative side.
Thor
Thor is a leading designer and manufacturer of protective gear for sports and outdoor activities. Their roost deflectors are designed to provide maximum comfort and protection for riders during their activities. The roost deflectors have a revolutionary press-fit molded comfort liner system to our adjustable waist buckle closure system. Thor was developed with one goal in mind – to provide the most effective air cooling solution for riders. They have a unique ventilation system that strategically places parts throughout the jacket to cool you down quickly and efficiently. The refined fit and fully integrated adjustable strap system ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Plus the biofoam shoulder pads provide maximum deflector coverage and added comfort.
Troy Lee Designs
With Troy Lee Designs, you’re guaranteed protection from the elements. Their Rockfight CE chest protector is built with a hard-wearing, EPP-coated base that helps to protect your chest from low-speed impacts. And no matter what kind of terrain you are driving, they also include a removable hood to keep you comfortable and protected no matter the situation. Troy Lee Designs’ flexible D3O back insert was designed to improve safety standards while keeping a slim, breathable, lightweight profile. Flexible and light, the insert absorbs shock and helps protect your spine from hard impacts. It also lets you move freely, giving you the freedom to perform at your best.
Zac Speed
Zac Speed is dedicated to protecting you whilst you’re out and about. Their Exotec chest protector is made from hard-shell polycarbonate, providing optimum airflow and full roost protection. The chest plate is ergonomically attached to any CONFIGR8 backpack pack by the use of a ventilated Soft Shell shoulder guard, further enhancing comfort.
Which chest protector is right for you?
The best chest protector for you is the one you WILL WEAR!
I have both a roost deflector and also a full chest body armor and honestly, I wear the roost deflector more as the body armor I have is not easy to put on and runs too hot.
However, my body armor is probably at the lower end when comes to features and ease of use.
The other thing is to buy the best dirt bike gear you can afford. Quality gear will hold up longer and provide you with better protection hopefully minimizing damage and trips to the doctor.
In Conclusion:
Just because I prefer the standard roost deflector does not mean that you should get one. Fit is really important and I ride with guys who in the summer just wear body armor and no Jersey. Allowing for great airflow and is not nearly as hot as wearing a jersey and dirt bike chest protector at the same time. It might not look as cool but cool doesn’t protect you from anything.
See you out on the trails!
