Mountain bike body armor protects against crashes that inevitably happen on technical terrain. Understanding protection options helps match gear to riding style and risk tolerance.
Knee Pads
The most common protection after helmets. Knees hit the ground first in many crashes. Pads range from lightweight sleeves to hard-shell protection. Trail riders often prefer flexible options; downhill riders want maximum coverage.
Elbow Guards
Elbows take impacts when hands slip or bikes wash out. Protection follows similar patterns to knee pads – lightweight for trail, heavier for aggressive riding. Many riders pair elbow and knee protection together.
Chest and Back Protectors
Critical for downhill and bike park riding. Impacts with trees, rocks, and handlebars can cause serious internal injuries. Full torso protection adds weight but guards vital areas.
Spine Protectors
Standalone back protection fits under jerseys. Less comprehensive than full chest protectors but more comfortable for climbing. Consider your crash exposure when choosing.
Full-Face Helmets
Downhill and enduro riding warrant chin protection. Modern full-face helmets are lighter and better ventilated than ever. Convertible designs remove chin bars for climbing.
Gloves
Hands contact the ground frequently in crashes. Padded gloves absorb impact and prevent scrapes. Full-finger gloves protect better than fingerless options.
Fit and Comfort
Armor you won’t wear provides no protection. Find gear that fits well enough to wear consistently. Try before buying when possible. Comfort matters for regular use.
Match to Riding
Cross-country riders need minimal protection. Downhill racers need maximum coverage. Match your investment to your actual risk exposure. Over-protection is heavy; under-protection is dangerous.
