Back protector for your backpack: what are the options?

Short answer: a normal backpack is not back protection. If you ride with a backpack, you have three options: a motorcycle backpack with a built-in protector, a strap-on protector worn under the backpack, or a protector that attaches to the backpack you already carry.

Why a backpack alone is not enough

A backpack is made to carry things, not to absorb an impact. What is inside it, a laptop, a lock, a bottle, sits between you and the ground. A back protector is a different thing: a tested layer that sits flat against your back.

Your three options

1. A motorcycle backpack with a built-in protector

Some backpacks made for riders include a back protector or a pocket for one. It works well if you are happy to change the backpack you use every day. Check which protector is included and what standard it is certified to.

2. A strap-on back protector under the backpack

You wear the protector on your body and the backpack on top. It works with any bag. The downside is one more piece of gear to put on and to carry when you arrive.

3. A protector that attaches to your own backpack

This is one of the two ways to use Nutsh Kit. It fastens to the backpack you already carry with hook-and-loop straps and clips, and sits between the backpack and your back. Adjustable straps keep it against you while you ride.

What to look for

  • The standard. EN 1621-2 is the European standard for motorcycle back protectors. It has two levels, and Level 2 is the higher one.
  • That it stays in place. The protector has to sit against your back, held by its own straps, not hang loose from the bag.
  • The right size. Back protectors are sized by the length of your back.
  • Comfort. Slim, flexible and breathable, so that wearing it every day is easy.

Where Nutsh Kit stands

Nutsh Kit uses a SAS-TEC viscoelastic foam insert, made in Germany, that is CE Level 2 certified to EN 1621-2. The complete Nutsh Kit is built to EN 1621-2. The same Kit also goes inside most jackets, so you can switch between jacket and backpack. It is coming soon on Kickstarter.
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