Spidi Warrior Comp 510 Back Protector
4.4
5
5
5
Overall, pleased.
I bought this in addition to my SPIDI HI VIS H20 Out. I also purchased the back protector. This chest protector does as advertised but I wish it had a zipper in the middle instead of snaps on the sides. It is a little more work to dig the snaps from the outer liner and fish them through the insulated liner to get to the chest protector. I always just unsnap the right side and leave the protector hanging by the left.
I commend Spidi for offering some front protection. The older I get, the better and more gear I wear. I feel this is a perfect mix between ease of use vs protection. It is not a full up racing protector but I am a 10 mile commuter and weekend explorer.
May 13, 2013
Light and convenient...
I recently got a Marathon jacket, which is great, but it did not have any back protection so I checked the options and fount this spidi warrior. It is light and easy to install and adjust the height thanks to a velcro strap already on the jacket. I thought it would be larger, but after using it I have found to be big enough. If you want to protect all your spine (specially the lower back) you should get the Spidi Back Warrior EVO Level 2 Back Protector Insert (SKU Z147). it is a little longer and will cover your lower back better.
February 26, 2013
Fits well, stays in place
The back protector is held in place by velcro on the back, and inside the pocket. It took me a couple rides to figure this out. Once I used the velcro the protector stays in place nicely.
August 13, 2012
Won't ride with out it
I have a non vented Spidi jacket with the Warrior back protector, and it love it. I needed to get a back protector for a vented Spidi jacket which started this search and testing. Did a lot of research on the D3o and SaSTec soft armor, which is comfortable, conforms to the body as the body heats it, and does flow air well. But when really looking all level 2 armor to even the test at transfer of blows, and air flow the Spidi Warrior absorbs a bit more shock than the soft options. Air flow for all are about the same, good to very good depending on how hot it was. Weight was great on all three, don't pull the back of the jacket down like the Dainese ones tend to do. You forget they are there with each, unlike some of the bulky thick hard shell types, which is the idea so I went with the Spidi. The test was to hold the protector against the thigh and have a friend swing a bat at it.... sounds worse than it is.
Difference was slight, but after 3 hits with the Spidi, I could have taken a few more with no problem, not even a bruise. The soft options.... after 3 you were starting to feel it a bit, and left you wanting to stop. I think the D3o (I use one of these in a AXO 2 piece suit that has a smaller back pocket and it is great) won out over the SaSTec for venting - Level 2 - make sure to check as there are differences and both are available at similar cost. The level 2 makes a HUGE difference in protection level - the bat test on level 1 would lead to a trip to the doc. office.
One very big plus with the soft armor is it can be cut to fit and not effect the protection level at all. Can't do that with the Spidi, it either fits or does not- no customizing. Which makes either soft style a great option for a replacement of older tech protectors. The SaSTec wins points if you need to cut it, as it's flat/smooth on both sides and easier to shape. The D3o has a smooth side and a 3 dimensional ripple surface on the side closer to you, makes cutting harder - doable but more work.
Yes, an independent back protector is even better protection, but I'm a street rider and need the protection PLUS the convenience provided by being able to take the jacket off and not have to remove or carry a separate piece of gear - cuts down on staring when taking off the jacket at restaurants as well.
April 30, 2012
spidi of course
First quality and perfect fit (naturally) in a spidi jacket. After a time, back armor is like a helmet, you don't feel right without it
March 28, 2011