For motocross and dirtbike riders, safety needs to be a top priority! There are multiple options for protecting your body on the market. This post is going to be discussing upper body protection, particularly Chest Guards and Roost Protectors.
So, what are the difference and similarities for motocross chest guards & roost protectors, and what are their pros and cons?
Chest Protectors:
(Pictured: EVS Vex Chest Protector)
Chest protectors offer all around protection for more severe crashes and accidents. A common reason that riders may choose a roost guard over a chest protector is the fact that the extra safety measures can make the chest guard more bulky. However, the EVS Chest protector pictured above as well as many other styles take this into account and offer low, profile designs, lightweight construction, ventilated designs, and adjustable panels to allow for increased movability. Many are contoured to suit specific body types.
Roost Guards:
(Pictured: Answer Racing Apex 1 CE Roost Guard)
Roost guards are preferred by a lot of riders, particularly because of the comfortability aspect. Also referred to as "under-jersey protectors", roost guards/deflectors also offer chest protection with a wider range of motion. This is because it sits close to the body. This means it is less likely to come off in a crash, but it also means it offers less crash protection overall and is better used for protection from dirt/debris while riding. They also offer chest and rib protection and oftentimes come with extensive ventilation systems.
In conclusion, both are great options for a rider looking to protect their upper body. It ultimately comes down to what the rider is willing to prioritize in terms of comfort and safety.