Motocross Body Armor

Either works — it is a preference. Over the jersey is faster to put on, shows the armour graphics, and lets it breathe more. Under the jersey looks cleaner, keeps mud off the armour, and is what most pro MX riders do. If you wear it under, size your jersey up by one to accommodate the bulk.

Some titles name the protection level, Level 1 or Level 2. Check the title and the product page for the level of the model you are looking at, and pick the one that matches how and where you ride.

Roost guards (thin chest plates) only protect against debris from other riders — they do little in a real crash. Full body armour with a back protector, shoulder cups and integrated rib coverage is what you want for racing or aggressive trail riding. If you train and ride alone, a roost guard plus a separate back protector is a reasonable middle ground.

The fabric and foam liner usually unsnap from the rigid plates — hand-wash them in cold soapy water and air-dry. Wipe the plastic plates with a damp cloth. Never put body armour in a washing machine or tumble dryer; the heat warps the plastic and breaks down the impact foam.

Strongly recommended. Spinal injuries are among the most serious injuries in a motorcycle crash, so a back protector is worth wearing for off-road riding, including casual trail riding. A thin slip-in back insert in a regular jersey is better than riding without one.