Back Protector Buying Guide
A back protector is an important investment that protects your back and can often save you a trip to hospital if the worst happens. It protects your back in falls and collisions, and also against hard knocks from ice, equipment or other skiers. There's a wide range of models on the market today, and quality varies. The right back protector should be comfortable, move with your body and protect you without getting in the way of your skiing.
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A back protector reduces the risk of serious back injuries and vertebral fractures in a fall or collision. It absorbs and spreads the force of an impact, protecting your spine. It's just as important for adults as it is for children, whether you ski on-piste, in the park or off-piste.
Today's back protectors are light, flexible and breathable. You'll barely notice them while you're skiing, but they make a big difference if the worst happens.
Below we've listed a few things that are worth considering when buying a back protector for skiing or snowboarding.
- Perhaps the most important thing is to choose a back protector that's comfortable to wear. A protector that doesn't fit well is less likely to be used and ends up being a wasted purchase. If, on the other hand, yours gives you full freedom of movement and feels comfortable, you're much more likely to wear it. A tip for choosing a comfortable back protector is to look for a soft one, as it's more flexible and moves with you while still protecting you.
- Make sure it's ISO-certified so you can be sure it offers good, reliable protection.
- Look for one with a removable back plate so you can wash your back protector. That way it stays fresher and you can use it for longer without unpleasant odours.
- More expensive protectors often fit better, as they're shaped more closely to the back and the way it moves.
- Follow the brands' size guides to find the right size. It shouldn't cover your entire back. If you tilt your head back, the back of your head shouldn't come close to touching the protector. Nor should it chafe when you twist or bend your back.
