In terms of performance and fit, we found it supremely comfortable and low profile, and it’s a direct rival to the IXS Flow Vest which is heavier, but also offers more protection. Weight makes a big difference to how the body armour feels, with heavier items feeling more restrictive to your natural riding position and causing added fatigue.

Alpinestars Paragon Plus Protection vest 7. Alpinestars Paragon Plus Protection Vest An excellent protection vest from the motorcycle clothing giant

Our top choice

Very comfortable for long workouts, minimalist design & breathable, easily adjustable waist and shoulder straps Enduro armour remains comfortable for riding, but features increased padding, while downhill armour has the biggest focus on protection.

It has an off-set full-length zipper plus an elastic waistband which we found was effective in preventing the vest from riding up. The fit is comfortably snug, despite being described as a ‘compressive’ fit, so you don’t feel squeezed while wearing it. Alpinestars’s vest is well cut with a close fit and no awkward zip placement or sharp edges, but I felt the material is slightly ‘shinier’ and harder, and doesn’t feel quite as soft against skin as POC’s cushy fabric. Padding is constructed from D30 impact-hardening polymer along the spine panel and shoulder pads, which feels supple and flexible when riding but hardens to provide protection upon impact. It’s lightweight and comfortable, but be aware that it doesn’t offer the higher Level 2 protection that other body armour items here do. Ion Scrub Amp Protection Vest 6. Ion Scrub Amp Protection Vest Best for breathability and low weight for low-level protection

Body armour is less relevant if you are riding cross-country because you’re less likely to have the same high-impact crashes you see in enduro racing and downhill riding. Reasons to buy: High protection rating, very comfortable, low profile look and fit, good breathability Most body armour is designed to sit below a mountain bike jersey, so the tighter it is the less obvious it will appear. Protection Leatt’s Body Tee AirFlex Stealth slimline top is light and comfy enough to wear all day, and the open mesh fabric means it doesn’t feel too hot on long climbs.

Overall in our opinion this is the most comfortable protection vest we’ve tested, especially at this high impact protection rating. Trail armour is usually the easiest to wear, with less padding and therefore more breathability for longer days in the saddle.Not all body armour offers the same protection, with brands creating discipline-specific body armour to cope with varying demands. Despite providing a serious amount of cover all around the body, the 100% Tarka vest doesn’t feel restrictive when riding, nor bulky. It’s comfortable, and comes in at a great price for the finish quality and protection offered. The best body armour will feel secure when you’re riding without sacrificing comfort. Certification