No back protector pocket in your jacket? Here are your options
Short answer: if your jacket has no back protector pocket, you have three options. Buy a motorcycle jacket that has one, wear a strap-on back protector on your body, or use a protector that attaches to the jacket or backpack you already own.
Why most everyday jackets can't take a back protector
Back protector inserts are made for the dedicated pocket inside motorcycle jackets. An everyday jacket, like a parka, a bomber or a raincoat, doesn't have that pocket, so the insert has nowhere to go.
Your three options
1. A motorcycle jacket with a protector pocket
It works well if you are happy to ride in a motorcycle jacket every day. Many jackets are sold with the pocket but without the back protector, so check what is included before you buy. If you already own a jacket with a pocket, a certified insert made for that pocket is the simplest choice.
2. A strap-on back protector
You wear it on your body, with shoulder straps and a waist belt. It gives good coverage and doesn't depend on your jacket. The downside in the city is that it is one more piece of gear to put on, take off and carry when you arrive.
3. A protector that attaches to what you already wear
This is what we built Nutsh Kit for. It hangs from the loop inside the collar, which most jackets have, or it straps to the backpack you already carry. Adjustable straps hold it against your back while you ride. If your jacket has no hanging loop, you use it with your backpack instead.
What to look for, whichever option you choose
- The standard. EN 1621-2 is the European standard for motorcycle back protectors. It has two levels, and Level 2 is the higher one.
- Coverage. A full back protector covers more of your back than a central back one.
- Size. Back protectors are sized by the length of your back, not by your clothing size.
- Comfort. Slim, flexible and breathable matters, because a protector only helps on the days you actually wear it.
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.
It comes in three sizes, matched to back length: S for 35-40 cm, M for 40-45 cm and L for 45-50 cm. It is coming soon on Kickstarter.