Stylish and Cool Motorcycle Protectors for Everyday Wear? From How to Choose to Our Recommendations

The Necessity of Motorcycle Protectors

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Motorcycles allow riders to feel at one with nature as they cut through the wind, an experience not found in cars. However, as your body is constantly exposed, it's highly recommended to wear protectors in case of an accident or fall.

In Tokyo in 2022, the leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents was head trauma, followed by chest and abdominal trauma. Therefore, it is essential to wear protectors for these body parts to protect yourself.

Source: Metropolitan Police Department Traffic Fatality Statistics for Motorcycles (2022)
https://www.keishicho.metro.lg.jp/kotsu/jikoboshi/nirinsha/2rin_jiko.html

Many Stylish and Cool Inner Protectors That Aren't Bulky

When you hear "motorcycle protectors," some people might imagine bulky, rugged off-road protectors. However, there are many stylish and cool protectors available.

There are also inner protectors that only guard specific areas. For example, you can choose to wear an inner protector only for your chest, or one that covers both your chest and abdomen, depending on your preferences and the situation.

Inner Protectors with a Casual Clothing Feel

Protective gear with built-in inner protectors that look like everyday wear is also available. By effectively utilizing these, you can enhance safety without compromising your fashion style.

Some gear offers a comfortable fit without feeling unnatural, and some inner protectors are so sleek that they're barely noticeable when worn. This provides a wide range of options for choosing protectors based on your riding environment and fashion preferences.

Key Points for Choosing Motorcycle Protectors

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There are many types and parts of motorcycle protectors, but keeping the following points in mind when choosing will make it easier to find one that suits you.

Here are 5 key points for choosing:

1. Choose based on the body part you want to protect
2. Choose between soft type or hard type
3. Choose between integrated or separate types
4. Choose based on the material used
5. Choose based on CE standards

We will explain each point in order, so please use them as a reference when choosing your protectors.

Point 1. Choose based on the body part you want to protect

When choosing motorcycle protectors, the key is to first clarify which body part you want to guard, and then select a protector for that specific area.

Protectors range from those that cover the entire upper body or whole body, to those that individually guard specific body parts like just the chest or just the spine.

When choosing by body part, the chest and abdomen should be prioritized, followed by the back and waist. However, it's best to first decide which body parts you want to protect.

Point 2. Choose between soft type or hard type

Protectors are broadly divided into soft types and hard types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Soft-type protectors are easy to put on and take off, and have the advantage of being inconspicuous when worn under everyday clothing. However, their disadvantage is that they offer less protection compared to hard-type protectors.

Hard-type protectors offer high safety, which is an advantage. However, their disadvantages include being somewhat bulky, making them difficult to put on, and the feeling of wearing them can be noticeable until you get used to it.

Point 3. Choose between integrated or separate types

If you're looking for a protector that isn't bulky, choosing between an integrated or separate type is important.

Integrated types cover a larger area of the body with a single piece, while separate types guard individual body parts (e.g., chest only, back only).

You should decide whether you want to protect your upper body or entire body, or just specific parts, and then choose between an integrated or separate type accordingly.

Point 4. Choose based on the material used

Motorcycle protector materials include plastics and urethanes, as well as functional materials that are normally soft but harden upon impact.

Plastic is hard, and the protector's presence is noticeable even when wearing clothes over it. Urethane, on the other hand, comes in various types such as soft, hard, and high-absorption.

There are also instantaneous hardening materials that harden upon impact. The recommended choice is instantaneous hardening or high-absorption urethane for its impact absorption and minimal discomfort during wear. However, the more high-tech the material, the higher the price tends to be.

Point 5. Choose based on CE standards

If you prioritize safety, it's a good idea to choose based on CE standards.

CE marking is a certification granted to products that meet the "Conformité Européenne" (European Conformity) standards, indicating the level of safety the product provides.

Since these are European standards, there might be differences compared to the environment in Japan, and products not intended for export to Europe may not have this certification. Therefore, it's a good idea to check it as just one criterion when making your selection.

Inner Protectors Recommended for Those Who Want to Ride a Motorcycle Stylishly in Everyday Clothes

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If you want to ride your motorcycle stylishly in everyday clothes, inner protectors are recommended as they are less likely to disrupt your casual style.

Inner protectors come in various types depending on the body part they guard, and are generally available for specific areas.

• Chest
• Back
• Shoulder
• Elbow
• Knee
• Half body (upper, lower)
• Thigh

Prioritize the Chest and Back (Spine)

The most common cause of death in motorcycle accidents is head trauma, followed by chest trauma.

Therefore, it is recommended to wear inner protectors primarily for the chest, and the next priority should be protection for the spine (back), as severe damage to this area can lead to paralysis.

If you want to protect your entire upper body, choose a jacket-type protector that covers the upper body.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Inner Protectors

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of inner protectors?

First, let's look at the advantages, so if you're considering purchasing a protector, please use this as a reference.

Advantages of Inner Protectors

• Doesn't interfere with outerwear, so you can wear everyday clothes
• Makes your fashion look cool
• Lightweight, so you don't get tired easily
• Offers a snug fit

Depending on the shape and material of the inner protector, many don't interfere with outerwear, allowing you to wear everyday clothes over them and maintain a cool fashion style.

Additionally, they are lightweight and offer a snug fit, making them less tiring even after long hours of wear. These are the advantages of inner protectors.

Disadvantages of Inner Protectors

• Once worn, it's not easy to take off.
• Depending on the protector, it can feel a bit restrictive.
• Some models may disrupt the style of your outerwear.

Conversely, the disadvantages of inner protectors are that once you put them on, they're not easy to take off. Depending on the protector, the tight fit can feel a bit restrictive until you get used to it.

Also, depending on the shape and material of the inner protector, some models may be noticeable even when wearing outerwear, which can disrupt your fashion style. This is a disadvantage.

Stylish and Effective! 12 Recommended Inner Protectors

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Here are 12 recommended inner protectors that also allow for fashion and style. Please use this as a reference when choosing your inner protector.

1. Komine Flex Chest Protector

Source: https://amzn.to/3KZ9nxg

Komine's "SK-816 Flex Chest Protector," from a company headquartered in Arakawa-ku, Tokyo, is recommended for those looking for a protector that is easy to wear inside a jacket.

Its slim design allows you to wear your usual jacket over it, and the elastic belt prevents the protector from shifting, ensuring a stable fit.

• Product Number: SK-816
• Size: Free
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥3,500

2. RS TAICHI HELINX Separate Chest Protector

Source: https://amzn.to/3L0M4mL

The "TRV079 HELINX Separate Chest Protector" from RS TAICHI (Taichi), headquartered in Higashi-Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture, is a chest protector that can be attached to any TAICHI jacket.

While it can get stuffy when worn under a jacket, numerous ventilation holes ensure breathability. It also meets the European CE2 standard Lv.2, boasting safety certified in Europe.

• Product Number: TRV079
• Size: Men’s
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥8,580

3. Dainese PRO-ARMOR SAFETY JACKET 2.0

Source: https://amzn.to/3EhgY6t

The "PRO-ARMOR SAFETY JACKET 2.0" from Dainese, headquartered in Italy, is recommended for those who want a single, highly safe protector that covers the entire upper body.

This soft protector jacket covers the chest, back, shoulders, and elbows with a single garment, and complies with CE standards Lv.2 and Lv.1 (back, shoulders, elbows: CE Lv.2; chest Lv.1).

Made from lightweight "Xelion 2.0," its stretchy properties allow for vertical movement in the chest and back, and the mesh design means it can be worn as a jacket in warmer weather or under a main jacket in colder weather.

• Product Number: 1876208
• Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥49,500

4. Kushitani INNER PROTECTION JACKET

Source: https://www.kushitani.co.jp/products/k1307.html

Kushitani's "1307 INNER PROTECTION JACKET," from a company based in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, known for its motorcycle wear, is ideal for those seeking a simple CE-standard jacket.

It features soft inner protectors built into the shoulders, elbows, and back. By attaching a separately sold breast pad (to cover the chest), the upper body protection can be further strengthened.

The outer sleeves, underarms, and center back are mesh-processed for breathability, designed to prevent stuffiness even in warm weather.

• Product Number: 1307
• Sizes: S, M, L, LL, XL
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥19,800

5. RS TAICHI CE Flex Back Protector

Source: https://amzn.to/3L1ISqT

The RS TAICHI "CE Flex Back Protector" is recommended for those looking for a CE-certified back inner protector.

While designed to comply with race and circuit regulations, it's also built for urban use and meets CE standard Lv.2.

• Product Number: NXV311
• Sizes: M, L, Lady youth
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥21,780

6. Komine Air-Through CE Level 2 Body Armor Fit

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Komine's "Air-Through CE Level 2 Body Armor Fit" is recommended for those seeking a protector that strongly guards the chest and back.

It ensures breathability with numerous ventilation holes while protecting the body through a composite of plastic shell and impact-absorbing foam.

This protector also complies with the European CE standard Lv.2, providing high protection for the upper body.

• Product Number: SK-828
• Size: Free
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥10,800

7. Rough & Road Body Protector Jacket

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Rough & Road's "Body Protector Jacket," from a company headquartered in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, is recommended for those looking for a simple jacket-type protector.

It combines high sweat absorption and quick-drying properties with a highly stretchy fabric and CE standard protectors, ensuring it doesn't feel restrictive or impede movement.

Additionally, it can be easily connected with a zipper to Rough & Road's all-season jackets (such as RR7107), making it ideal for those who want to coordinate their fashion comprehensively.

• Product Number: RR10098
• Sizes: M, L, LL, XL
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥13,200

8. Kushitani K-4452 NEO RACING BREAST PAD

Source: https://www.kushitani.co.jp/products/k4452.html

Kushitani's "NEO RACING BREAST PAD" is a CE-standard Lv.1 chest inner protector developed for racing use, and is also recommended for touring.

Made of honeycomb (hexagonal) polyurethane foam that balances breathability and strength, it has passed tests in both high and low temperatures, ensuring stable performance throughout the year.

• Product Number: K-4452
• Size: Free
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥9,900

9. RS TAICHI Stealth CE Back Protector

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The RS TAICHI "Stealth CE Back Protector" is recommended for those looking for a thin and lightweight inner protector for the back.

It complies with CE standard Lv.1, and its adjustable belt allows for a snug fit. Its excellent breathability ensures a non-stuffy design.

• Product Number: NXV019
• Sizes: M, L, Woman
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥13,750

10. Rough & Road Full Body Guard

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The Rough & Road "Full Body Guard" is a recommended protector for those seeking an integrated type that provides firm protection for the entire upper body.

It features plastic protectors on the chest, spine, shoulders, and elbows, and an adjustable belt and stretchy mesh ensure a snug fit on the body.

The spine pad and waist belt are removable, allowing for customization based on fashion and usage environment.

• Product Number: RR10060
• Sizes: M, L, LL, XL
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥15,400

11. RS TAICHI TRV080 Stealth CE (LV2) Knee Guard

Source: https://amzn.to/3KZTC9m

The RS TAICHI "TRV080 Stealth CE (LV2) Knee Guard" is recommended for those seeking a protector for the thigh (knee) area.

It incorporates a CE standard Lv.2 protector, boasting high impact absorption, while its thin design allows it to be worn seamlessly under jeans or other clothing.

• Product Number: TRV080
• Sizes: M, L
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥5,940

12. Alpinestars BASE MESH JACKET ASIA

Source: https://amzn.to/3R1J5ya

The "BASE MESH JACKET ASIA" from Alpinestars, headquartered in Italy with its design division in California, USA, is a jacket with CE-certified protectors built into the shoulders and elbows.

The protectors are easily removable, and it offers customization with additional separately sold chest "NUCLEON FLEX PRO Ci" and back "NUCLEON KR-CELLi" protectors.

While imported European and American products often don't fit Japanese body types, this jacket was specifically designed to match the physiques of people in Japan and other Asian countries.

• Product Number: [Not specified in original text]
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥16,280

13. Kushitani INNER PAD PANTS

Source: https://www.kushitani.co.jp/products/k1994.html

Kushitani's "INNER PAD PANTS" are recommended for those seeking inner protectors focused on the waist area.

They cover the hips and tailbone, areas prone to impact in a fall, and the 2-way knit provides excellent elasticity for a comfortable fit. They also offer UV cut and sweat-absorbing, quick-drying functions.

• Product Number: K-1994
• Sizes: S, M, L, LL, XL
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥13,200

14. DAYTONA HBP-019 Stretch Inner Protector

Source: https://bikeman.jp/

DAYTONA's "Stretch Inner Protector," from a major motorcycle accessories retailer headquartered in Shizuoka Prefecture, is recommended for those looking for a stylish upper body protector jacket.

The protectors cover the chest, back, elbows, and shoulders, protecting the upper body. The use of highly stretchable material results in a comfortable jacket.

• Product Number: HBP-019
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL, WF
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥17,490

15. Rough & Road Chest Protector LINEAR ACERBIS

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The Rough & Road "Chest Protector LINEAR ACERBIS" is recommended for those seeking a protector that firmly guards the chest while having minimal impact on fashion.

This lightweight and slim protector guards the chest and back. The shoulder straps are soft to reduce shoulder burden, and the side attachment belts are finely adjustable, which helps reduce fatigue during long hours of wear.

• Product Number: AC-25315
• Size: Height 165-190cm
• Selling Price (incl. tax): ¥8,800

Summary

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We've introduced various motorcycle protectors, focusing on inner protectors that have minimal impact on fashion.

The most common cause of death in motorcycle accidents is head trauma, followed by chest and abdominal trauma, so helmets alone are insufficient.

Make sure to firmly guard your chest and abdomen with protectors, and also consider protecting your back, as impacts there can lead to paralysis. Be prepared for any eventuality.