CW Evaluation: Forcefield Armour Blade Back Protector

It’s common these days for a race suit, sport-riding jacket, or even general-purpose riding gear to come equipped with a back-pad insert. In many cases, the provided spine armor is a simplistic single layer of foam. How­ever, delicate vertebrae deserve greater protection than elbows and knees, so a separate CE certification has been created for back protectors.

The Blade back protector by Forcefield Armour provides CE Level 2 protection (representing the highest current standard) in a relatively lightweight and compact design offering form-fitting comfort. Made with four layers of Nitrex Evo, a high-tech impact-absorbing memory foam, the flexible Blade fits well under my race leathers and an assortment of jackets. Featuring adjustable shoulder straps and a Velcro waist strap, the Blade remains securely in place even when used under a loose-fitting coat. Adjustable elastic Velcro straps on either side of the waist provide a snug fit that has some give when taking in a deep breath or bending over to buckle your boots. The 1-inch-thick Blade is available in four sizes ranging from XS to L.

I have yet to put the Blade to the crash test. But in decades of personal racing experience, I’ve had my fair share of big get-offs, all while wearing back protection. And I have no doubt that even the crude back protectors I used back then greatly improved my odds of walking away from a crash. The Blade ups the ante by meeting the highest certification, and its better comfort and fit make it attractive for both track and street use.