Top 15 Best MTB Body Armour That You Should Own Right Away In 2023

We see that if you scroll into this article, you must be a beginner in the mountain biking field. While it is enjoyable, addictive, and adventurous, it can carry high-risk levels in any mountain biking type, like downhill racing, freeride, etc. That’s why you need the best mtb body armour. 

Body armor is a perfect tool to reduce the injury risk and raise the rider’s confidence level. With the armor, you can’t guarantee 100% safety because of some limited features; however, you still can protect yourself in most cases. 

As you know, choosing to wear body armor is highly personal, depending on the rider’s preferences to wear many or less, the skill level, the type of riding, and how they perceive the body armor’s purpose. 

Therefore, it is relatively giving you a headache. Knowing your concern, we’ve included the top 15 best mtb body armour and a buying guide. We will try to cover as many problems you may face as possible during the buying process, so don’t worry too much!

Best MTB Body Armour Comparison 2023

** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the Best MTB Body Armour, but you can also click these following links to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.

Top 15 Best MTB Body Armour Reviews 2023

Leatt 3DF AirFit Lite Body Protector

Here’s another product we want to show you!

The 3DF AirFit Lite Body Protector covers the chests, shoulders, back, and elbows with a thin, light fit. 

The Lightweight model of the 3DF AirFit BodyGuard is constructed of the exact 3DF AirFit Impact cushion as the 3DF AirFit Body Protector and features a flexible, soft design that shields the body instantly after pressure. 

The many-layer foam has a composite construction that enables movement between the layers for better flexibility and, as a result, greater comfort, allowing the guard to suit the body completely.

Alpinestars Chest Protector

The CE approved Sequence Chest Guard is simple to put on and exceptionally pleasant. It is extraordinarily worn and pressure-proof, and its ergonomically designed shape offers a solid and satisfying optimum fit. 

Softshells are made of a stretchy light thermoplastic material combination while still providing the exact amount of protection as a hard-shell protection suit. Puncture zones and airflow are used in the shells to provide superior ventilation and circulation.

Thermoplastic fabrics utilized in the design are highly wear-resistant and anti-scratch. On the body protector side, a smooth 3D mesh provides additional convenience and breathability.

Here’s another product we want to show you today!

The Pro-X compression garment uses G-breakthrough style’s innovative technology to deliver excellent impact safety without sacrificing mobility or convenience for the wearer. 

When under the pressure of an influence, the RPT innovative technology stiffens, offering a protection level usually with more conventional industrial-strength safeguard. 

However, when not under the tension of implications, the shirt is adaptable, compact, and ventilated to the point where the consumer will likely fail to notice he’s wearing it!

The product is highly durable, allowing it to be excellent for rugged use and multiple wash cycles. Mountain bikers, motorcyclists, and anybody wishing to safeguard their ribs, shoulders, collarbone, and chest will love the Pro-X.

Whybee MTB Body Armor

The top has a many-material simplistic design for better body support and may be worn under a shirt. The basic structure is made of light, flexible mesh fabric with ventilated cushioned inserts.

Pockets are ideally situated to keep the vest well-fitting. The ergonomically designed back protection follows the inherent curve of the spine. A hydration bag can be stored in the back guard compartment.

Hydration backpack line connections on front and back. Kidney chambers on the back for easy access. Simple in and out with a whole length primary frontal zipper.

For improved impact absorbing and relaxation, the smooth chest and side cushioning have been enhanced.

POC Joint Vpd Air Knee Body Armour

No products found.

Here’s another product we want to show you!

Mountain riders that appreciate limited protection and like to wear lightweight, adjustable, and breathable pads will enjoy the compact Joint VPD Air Knee. Inside, the knee cushions have an anti-slip neoprene material.

The elastic band on the knee cushion also keeps the driver from falling. VPD is a light, shock-absorption material.

Some outstanding features are durable, stretchy fabric, an adjustable strap for a comfortable and safe fit, an anti-slip neoprene inside layer that provides a solid grip, and a slim figure.

Bodyprox Protective Padded Shorts

Protection Shorts with ample shock absorption EVA foam padding cleverly positioned to the back, thighs, and tailbone section offered outstanding protection from wounds, bruises, and even a fall during an active outdoor exercise. 

It features Expertly constructed from the highest-class ventilated fabric, combining Nylon and Spandex characteristics, skin-familiar material that perfectly fits your body. Moreover, the fast-dry advancement hinders fabric from sticking to the body while also delivering superior simplicity of use. And a super soft customizable fit waistband that enables superb maneuverability.

The blend of top-grade materials from Nylon, Spandex, and Ventilated Mesh fabrics keeps the skin from sweat and keeps it fresh, clean, and pure since it is ideally utilized in underpants. 

In general, even with a significant number of padding, it is light and ergonomically built.

WOSAWE Kids Childrens Body Armour

If you want to find body armor for kids, this could be the one for you!

A sturdy vest with PE cover and shock-absorbent cushion, excellent wear durability, and anti-shock provide optimal protection for the child’s chest, spine, shoulders, and other essential vital organs.

It features a sustainable, flexible mesh fabric of the highest quality for optimal comfort and breathability. It is suitable for all seasons, including springs, summers, autumn, and winters.

The customizable shoulder band is simple to adapt to your shoulder length, reducing sizing issues for you. Simultaneously, a large velcro waistband and a tiny button waistband allow you to modify your waist freely.

Generally, it offers excellent protection for driving dirt bikes, mountain bikes, motorcycles, biking, skating, snowboarding, and other activities.

Men’s Body Armours Motorcycle CE Approved

This body armor is suitable for Motorcycle racing, Motorcycles, Motorbikes, Dirt Bikes, mountain biking, Snowboarding, and other sports events where safety is necessary and desired; this armor is ideal. 

It features the latest design CE Certified body armor kid’s protective jacket. 

It offers strong protection authorized in all critical locations, from unique back plated security, shoulder seats, belts security, elbow plates safeguards, forearms safeguards, chest safeguards, and kidney safeguards. Cool, right?

With the arm protector, it is Sturdy and custom-made. Arm safety shell was built based on human joint actions, enabling you to be more relaxed. The shock-absorbent design is unique.

Finally, the ventilated YKK full zip provides adjustability and comfort. 

Troy Lee Polycarbonate Cycling Elbow Guards

If you want to find a breathable elbow guard, this could be the one for you!

The ergonomically designed Troy Lee elbow protectors ensure maximum convenience. Its highly durable polyethylene material is supported by vented foam that provides increased shock absorption and circulation, providing excellent protection.

Some technologies adoption include Polycarbonate hard plastic for ultimate security and ventilated foam padded and stretchy material. Because of these material choices, you can be comfortable in extreme heat.

Other features are an ergonomically designed structure that improves comfort and safety, durable Polyethylene material, foam layer with ventilation, and shock doctor innovative technology. 

Motorbike Full Body Armor

If you want to find lightweight body armor, this could be the one for you!

Additional protection is provided by great-impact PE polycarbonate and EVA covers on the front, spine, shoulders, forearms, and elbows, as well as hard-shell cushioning on sensitive areas.

The draping approach protects vital body regions while remaining comfy and ventilated. The armor for the back and waistline can be removed and is made of excellent quality material. 

Sides pads of the waist protection are thickened to protect the entire abdomen effectively. Light yet sturdy stretchy Lycra/mesh netting fabric and maximum impact injection molded polycarbonate are used to create this product.

The interlining comprises a lighter, flexible, and sturdy mesh fabric that helps the entire body breathe, stay calm, and maintain you on top of your game.

The front has a complete zipper closing—shoulder and armbands that can be adjusted. There is a Velcro-adjustable broad elasticated belt. 

The stretchy around collarbone is the most comfortable to wear and gives the design a nice got-up jawline. The customizable velcro kidney strap protects your organs and belly, and the cuff is stretchy and quick-drying.

Kids Children’s Body Armour

Here’s another product we want to show you today!

Firstly, you need to know that it is a body armor that provides Shoulder and Elbow Guards, Chest Shield, and Kidney CE Certified. It is exclusively built for the UK and European youth motorcycle BMX riders.

Each side has CE-certified armors for additional limb security. The spinal back support is made of great-impact plastic swivels. 

There is a Kidney strap with Velcro closure to protect you from dangerous situations. The customizable straps reaching from shoulder to chest and a flexible mesh material layer will protect you and offer you comfort while participating in sports activities. 

Shock-absorbent construction is effective in dangerous sports activities like skiing, bike riding, motorcycling, BMX, and skateboarding. In general, it is lightweight and convenient.

GES Body Protective Jacket

It features back protection with a slim design that is adjustable. Shock absorption is provided by substantial,  gentle foam cushioning on the torso, shoulders, elbows, forearms, and chests.

It protects the rider from sharp flying objects with rigid guards on the chests, forearms, shoulders, and elbows. A rugged protection belt is worn on the shoulder to support the collar bone and shoulders.

Convenience, flexibility, and more excellent breathability are all provided by the cushion mesh fabric material. Flexible straps with a cross design at the forearms keep elbows shields in position.

A constructed kidney belt with a dual-strap mechanism ensures a perfect fit. Finally, it can be used for motorbikes, cycling, snowboarding, skateboarding, and other recreational activities.

Benken Ultra Light Protective Gear Body Armor

Here’s another product we want to show you!
The product is manufactured six EVA cushions that cover and support your fragile spine, shoulder, neck, and elbow joints. Please keep in mind that the ribs and chest only provide basic protection form.

Basf’s 3H Material is used for the cushion, with non-bump and free-of-fall with half-inch thickness, great-density solid foam, excellent elastic power, and resistance to wear.

Ultra protective cushions will cover your entire back. The flexible velcro on the waistband may be changed due to your body size. Mountain protection gear is compact, sturdy, and ventilated.

WILDKEN Motorbike Protective Armour

The Motorcycle Protective Jacket is composed of excellent-quality hard plastic with a maximum-impact PE plastic and an EVA cushioning pad for maximum safety. The front, back, elbows, shoulders, and forearms are all hard in susceptible regions. 

Shell pads are utilized to keep vital body regions safe while also protecting the entire body. This Body Armor is constructed of great-impact injection-molded plastic, moisture-absorbent and ventilated mesh fabric, and light but sturdy stretch Lycra.

Even in extreme heat, the friendly-to-skin and ventilated construction can cool you down. 

The netting shirt has all of the following protective gear connected to it. It can offer many-faceted security throughout your driving or enjoyment to keep you safe from scratches, scrapes, and other bodily injuries caused by crashing.

Flexible nylon wrists cuffs with thumbs holes and completely customizable shoulder straps provide convenient and safe wear.

Men’s Motorbike Motorcycle Full Spine Body Armour & Protective Biker Trouser Suit

Elbow and shoulder protections, chest shielding, and kidney guards are all CE certified. Ventilated Breathable Lycra Body by Airtex Four armor kits on each side provide additional limb security.

Back armor made of great-impact plastic swivels conforms to the mobility of the spine. A kidney strap with two Velcro closures will maintain you to safety. Customizable Adjustable straps are reaching from shoulders to chests and a stretchy mesh core material.

Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best MTB Body Armour

After reading our review, we know that most of you will feel confused and overwhelmed. Why are so many parts that we need to cover during the trip? How can we know which part is the most important so that we need protection? 

These questions keep spinning around your head and make you restless. You may decide to give up on finding the most suitable for you simply because you think there’s nothing for you in the market. 

However, you should know many people struggle like you, including us. We didn’t know anything about body armor, but after hours of learning, we finally can obtain sufficient knowledge, and today, we will talk to you.

Are you excited? We know you are. We consider this part the most crucial one; therefore, please note or remember as much as possible. It will be beneficial to your future. 

Now, let’s see what we’ve got for you!

Firstly, we think that you need to know the definition of body armour, since we know some of you may not understand it correctly

What Is A Body Armour?

For your information, the body armor consists of a ventilated fabric clothing with robust, compact solid polycarbonate (protective shell) or polyurethane (softcover). It cushions in likely-to-be-hit regions, such as the shoulders, spine, elbow, chest, and knee joints. 

Now, you somehow understand the body armour, right? You may see it a lot on the Internet and social media platforms; however, you may never honestly know what it is. 

Since you quite get to know what it is, we think it is the best time to tell you why you need mountain biking body armour.

The Benefits Of The Body Armour

Reduce The Injury Level

Firstly, it is undeniable that it will help to decrease the risks of injury. As you know, mountain biking is a fun, enjoyable experience; at the same time, it is relatively dangerous. 

You will have to deal with rough, unforgiving terrains during the ride and never know when your crash will happen. It may never happen; however, that’s not always the case. 

Sometimes, you will likely get into an accident because of the terrain, or your bike has some braces, wheels, etc. Therefore, wearing body armour is the best way to reduce your injury level. 

The armor can be beneficial, especially in some sensitive areas like knee joints, shoulders, spine, which take substantial time to heal to be back to normal. 

Increase Your Confidence Level

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you want to try extreme sports, but you are afraid that you will get hurt? Well, mountain biking is not an exception. Many people don’t have the guts to try this sport because of fear. 

However, you should be less worried about the body armor because there is a suit to protect you. Although it may not offer 100% protection due to some restrictive characteristics, it is still helpful to be outside your comfort zone. 

Moreover, it is excellent for people to be scared to hurt their bodies’ weak parts but still enjoy the excitement. 

It is specifically significant for people who don’t want to fall again since they’ve already been in an accident; the armor will be their companions as they gain back confidence. 

At this moment, as you know the definition and its advantages, you may consider buying these. Therefore, we will change to the most vital: Factors you need to consider while purchasing mtb body armour.

Factors To Consider When Buying MTB Body Armour

Body Armour Type

As we’ve mentioned previously, there are two body armor types: hardshell and softshell. Different riders will choose different styles. 

Our research shows that professionals, advanced downhill riders or even amateur ones, will choose the hard-shell amours. 

You ask us why? It’s simply because this riding type associates with the highest risk level; therefore, the riders will require the highest protection levels if the most tragic accident happens. And the high-speed occurrence may more worsen the situation. 

And with this rider type, they may opt for all-body armor to protect their entire bodies. 

In contrast, the regular trail riders may not be massive fans of whole-body armor if their rides include some pedaling uphill. In this case, they may only need some additional protection to knee joints, elbows using soft-shell sets. 

This choice allows them to protect their sensitive body areas from impacting severely and maintains their comfort to paddle and handle the bike. If you wear unfit body armor, it may cause more danger to you. 

Generally, the more advanced, the quicker, the more dangerous your ride becomes, the more protection you need. That’s our key point in choosing the armour. 

Material

As we’ve talked about in the definition, there are two material types for the armor. And they are polycarbonate and polyurethane, making the hard shell and soft shell, respectively. 

Because of the material choice, the hard shell will be more restrictive and less ventilated. You may find yourself sweat a lot. However, the softcover will be more breathable and lightweight, offering you comfort. 

Because of the innovative technology, there are many new material kinds. And we cannot miss the memory foam, which seems like a soft pad but can handle destructive incidents. 

Moreover, some materials can switch from soft to hard and opposite, aiming to give you the most robust and compact armor you’ve ever seen. 

Riding Type

For your information, there are six types of mountain biking that we want to discuss today. They are cross country, trail riding, enduro racing, all-mountain, gravity, and downhill. 

Different types of riding will require various protections. Therefore, we want to divide the body armour used in specific situations so you can easily imagine. 

Cross Country And Trail Riding

With these types, you may need an elbows and knees pad. Some people still choose the whole-body armor since it will not cause any discomfort to you, even when you are going uphill. However, the pads are still popular choices. 

Generally, you should choose something lightweight. Both knees and elbows pads should be light so that you are not restrictive in pedaling, but it still offers sufficient protection. 

Moreover, you should get the right size. If the knee pad is too small, it may fall out of when your crash happens. And with the elbow pad, too-small size may result in improper blood circulation. 

Enduro And All-Mountain Biking

With these two riding types, you will have to experience more in steep terrains. The riding seems more challenging, more technical, requiring the riders more advanced and more protection. 

Moreover, these riding types put more highlights in the going downhill. Plus, the rough terrains with sharp rocks, debris, and roots increase the injury level; therefore, a hardshell armor will be a better solution for you. 

In case of falling or facing an accident, at least you will not be badly injured. 

Our research shows that most riders use hard-shell knee pads with elbow pads to protect themselves from rocks and crashes. However, it should remain lightweight, ventilated so you can maneuver your bike easily. 

One last thing to remember, it should still function as an excellent impact protection level, and it should be on a suitable size to avoid slipping out of place. 

Downhill And Gravity Biking

This riding type is by far the most dangerous one. Only professionals or people who are fond of extreme sports will participate in this type. Since it is the most dangerous type, it also requires the highest protection level in exchange. 

This type includes steep mountain tracks. And it covers many challenging features, such as rocks, jumps, chutes, and so much more. 

You may ask us what kind of protection we should use in this situation. We have two options for you. 

Firstly, you should use knee-and-elbow pads, along with upper-body protection, specifically the backplate. These will not interrupt your biking experience but protect your body area, especially the spine if something terrible happens. 

Secondly, instead of buying parts, you can purchase whole-body armour. Now, at the same time, you can protect your shoulders, backs, elbows, forearms, and chests. Moreover, it will place more securely into your body when moving than the separate parts. 

Some people may even use the neck brace to add more protection to their neck area, preventing fractures or other serious injuries. 

There will also be hard and soft shell armor protection for you to choose from in the market. However, the soft cover will not be as safe as the hard one, so we advise you to buy the hard-shell armor. 

If you want comfort more, you can still choose the soft-shell one; however, it may not contain a high protection level. Therefore, make decisions wisely!

Price

Most of us will have a limited budget; only a few don’t need to care about money when buying something. Therefore, we may face some difficulties with many available choices in the market. 

Our advice is that you should determine whether you will buy separate parts or the whole suit. This buying decision will primarily affect your budget. After deciding which money range you’re willing to pay, you should carefully follow the budget and purchase. 

There are some points we want you to remember. Firstly, you should set a price range you can afford, not just one price. Because you will never know the cost of your ideal product, it is best to select a degree that you are comfortable paying. 

Secondly, you should not go for too-cheap body armor; otherwise, you may end up wasting money in rebuying other suits in the future. Don’t exchange your effort in the future for some little money-saved in the present. 

FAQs: Questions About Body Armour And Mountain Biking Experience

We see that many of you may still have some questions about the body armour. Therefore, we want to answer some frequently asked questions we’ve received to let you understand more clearly

Does Body Armour Offer All Protection?

The answer is no. Body armour does not guarantee 100% protection. When hearing this, many of you will like: “Why do we waste money on something that can’t protect us?”

There is one point we need to note, so we are on the same page. The body armor’s purpose is to reduce the impact of your crash and accident. If you get hit or fall out of your bike, you still get hurt, but with a lower level and shorter recovery time. 

Therefore, you should not expect that the body armour will magically prevent you from being injured. If you still have that thought, you shouldn’t buy the armor.

What Protection Gear Do I Need For Mountain Biking?

Firstly, a helmet is a must. You should not go riding if you don’t have a helmet. It’s way too dangerous. One thing you need to consider is that you want your helmet to be full-face or not. 

Like what we said in our buying guide, you should buy a knee-pad and an elbow-pad. These two body areas are fragile and require a lengthy recovery period; therefore, it is best to protect them. 

Moreover, we think that you should have whole-finger gloves in your biking tool kit as they will also offer you protection. And a sense of holding tight. 

With other gears, we think it is up to you. The critical point here is that you choose the most suitable equipment for you. We mean that “suitable gear” should offer you comfort and flexibility, and it should be on your size; otherwise, it will slip when the accident happens. 

What Bike Handling Skills That I Need To Master?

We think it is a great question, giving us a new perception. Instead of going crazy about where and which gears we should buy, why don’t we think about mastering mountain bike skills? 

You should be familiar with some vital skills, such as brake, manual, corner, bunny hop. These are fundamental skills that you need to be an expert in before deciding to go mountain biking. Moreover, learning how to stop your bike from falling is also necessary. 

Furthermore, you should practice balance skills so you can balance yourself while sitting on the bike. Strong legs are also a must because you will use them to ride your bike. Generally, keep your body in shape is an excellent way to help you be safe during the trip.

Is It Fine If My Body Armor Is More/Less Than Other People?

It is okay. The body armour choice is highly personal. No one truly knows the protection level you need. Only you know that, and you shouldn’t listen to other people telling you that you should reduce the protection level just because you look stupid. 

If that stupidity gives you the safety you need, you should ignore other people’s opinions and enjoy your biking rides. Only you know what you need!

If you are a first-time buyer, this video could be a great help to you:

Conclusions: Top 5 Best MTB Body Armour In 2023

After reading our reviews and buying guide, have you found for yourself the most suitable body armor? We know that the article is relatively long, and you may get tired from reading all these new pieces of information; however, do not give up!

If the answer is yes, we congratulate you on finding your ideal body armour. Although the process is relatively tricky, you don’t give up even one bit, and now, you can enjoy the results. We are happy that we contribute a part to your buying process. 

If the answer is no, it is okay. After all, you’re going to find the one you need; it just takes a little more time with you, with more research and reading. The crucial thing here is that you shouldn’t give up; the right product will soon appear in front of you!

In the meanwhile, if you are in a hurry, here are our top 5 best mtb body armour:

Sadly, we’ve reached the final of the article. We want to say thank you for staying with us through the entire one. Keep visiting our website to read more reviews about other products in your daily life. 

Goodbye and see you in our next article!

Good luck with your research!