Back protectors.

Spiritedly

Spiritedly

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Hi,

I've just had back surgery and I'm wary of falling and undoing all the work that's been done so, whilst I don't want a full body protector...I already have a BP and an air jacket...I was looking at back protectors both for protection and some support.

I've narrowed it down to the Champion Sculpt or Airowear Shadow but can't make a decision so I'm hoping ladies on here can help with their experiences. Especially as to the fit in the bust department. My girls are a 36E and object to being turned into pancakes! But I'm a size 12 around the waist so would really like something that doesn't make me look like a brick 🙈😂
 
Why dont you want a full bp? They are more likely to remain in place in a fall than a pad down ones back. And if one rolls as one falls or as one hits the ground, then all round protection is better. I post this as someone who has never hacked without a bp. I fell regularly while learning to ride, but have never been injured.
 
I use motorcycle gear regularly when i ride due to spinal issues. Knox do a very high level one now although its over £300 so you may want to stick with level 2 . I find them easier to ride in than my BP ( but as a keen biker i am used to wearing the stuff).
 
I got a sculpt but honestly I find it too ‘loose’ if that makes sense. I wear it and don’t feel it would do anything at all to protect me. I got the smallest size but it still feels too baggy on me. The back of it doesn’t actually sit against my back.
 
CarlungM said:
I use motorcycle gear regularly when i ride due to spinal issues. Knox do a very high level one now although its over £300 so you may want to stick with level 2 . I find them easier to ride in than my BP ( but as a keen biker i am used to wearing the stuff).
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Just started a thread re wireless motorcycle airvests (which consensus is probably wouldn't work for equestrians), but on my travels researching this I have to say, motorcycle safety gear looks much more sophisticated and comfortable. I also need a body protector - if you have recommendations from the motorcycle world that work for equestrians, I'd be very grateful.
 
I've got the sculpt. I'm fuller figured and it's roomy. Probably size down. It's comfortable and light weight. I wish the front gillet section was longer though. It's quite short and rides up a bit when I ride - still functional but not flattering 😆
 
dougpeg said:
I've got the sculpt. I'm fuller figured and it's roomy. Probably size down. It's comfortable and light weight. I wish the front gillet section was longer though. It's quite short and rides up a bit when I ride - still functional but not flattering 😆
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Ah, this is helpful to know, thank you! I was thinking about fuller figure fit issues - if you've got a lot of frontage, your over shoulder to waist measurement and chest measurement may well be in the range for a bigger size whilst the waist is in the range for a smaller, so I think you're right, size down might be the way to go!

*Edit for typos!
 
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Rose24 said:
Ah, this is helpful to know, thank you! I was thinking about fuller figure fit issues - if you've got a lot of frontage, your over shoulder to waist measurement and chest measurement may well be in the range for a bigger size whilst the waist is in the range for a smaller, so I think you're right, size down might be the way to go!

*Edit for typos!
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I went for the Sculpt in the end and could definitely have a gone down a size and my girls are larger than most 🙈
It's very comfortable though and I forget I have it on and it's also not as hot to ride in as my other BP's
 
Spiritedly said:
I went for the Sculpt in the end and could definitely have a gone down a size and my girls are larger than most 🙈
It's very comfortable though and I forget I have it on and it's also not as hot to ride in as my other BP's
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Kind of imagining zipping it up and ending up with a regency corset style situation around the top, with everything hoinked skywards. 😂😂
 
I've got the Champion Ti22 which fits well, though my boobs aren't big. It feels like armour when you first put it on but after it warms up it moulds a bit to the body. Front zip but there are laces on each side to make it more bespoke. Beta 3 rated.
 
Rose24 said:
Just started a thread re wireless motorcycle airvests (which consensus is probably wouldn't work for equestrians), but on my travels researching this I have to say, motorcycle safety gear looks much more sophisticated and comfortable. I also need a body protector - if you have recommendations from the motorcycle world that work for equestrians, I'd be very grateful.
Click to expand...
I will dig out the ones I tried and bought and let you know. I do like Knox gear , but there are others
 
IMO you absolutely have to go and try body protectors on and see what works. I didnt end up with the size my measurements indicated.

Though I have a few years later lost weight and borderline need a smaller one.

My bodyprotector doubles as a sports bra too, and I only wear a standard bra when using it. Versus a decent sports bra when not using it.
 
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