A body protector only does its job if it fits properly. Too loose and it can move during a fall, leaving parts of your body exposed. Too tight and it restricts your breathing and movement, which makes it tempting to leave at home. A good fit is comfortable enough that you forget about it once you're riding, and secure enough that it stays where it should.
Our team fits body protectors in the shop every week, and the same few checks come up every time. Here's what to look for.
Loosen the side adjusters fully before putting a body protector on. It's much easier to get into, and you can then tighten it to suit your shape rather than squeezing into however it was set up in the factory.
Once it's zipped, pull in the side adjusters a little at a time, working on both sides so the protector stays central. You want it close to the body, almost like a second skin. That might sound uncomfortable, but a protector that fits closely moves with you, while a loose one shifts about and rubs.
The bottom edge at the front should sit below your lowest rib. Feel along the bottom of your ribcage with your fingers. If you can feel ribs below the edge of the protector, it's too short.
Across the shoulders, the protector should lie flat without gaping. Lift and rotate your arms. You should have full movement without the protector riding up or pressing into your neck. Under the arms you'll be aware of it, but it shouldn't dig in or chafe.
Standing in front of a mirror only tells you half the story. Your body changes shape when you sit in riding position, so sit in a saddle before deciding on a size. It should still feel comfortable around the waist and under the arms, with nothing pinching or pushing up.
While you're sitting, look at the gap between the saddle and the bottom of the protector at the back. As a guide, it should be about four fingers' width. A much bigger gap may mean a longer size would give you better cover. No gap at all and the protector may catch on the saddle or push up into your back.
A well fitted body protector feels snug but not tight, and flush rather than baggy. You know it's there, but it doesn't get in the way. If you'd be happy wearing it for the rest of the day, you've probably found the right one.
Sizing varies from brand to brand, so the surest way to find the right fit is to try a few on. Browse our body protectors and air vests online, or come and see us at our shop at Hatch Beauchamp near Taunton, where our team can fit you in person. It's a good time to check that your riding hat still fits too.