The breastplate or breastplate vest is part of the motocross rider´s standard equipment. As a piece of protective equipment, it is no less essential than a helmet or motorcycle boots and should never be forgotten under any circumstances. The reason: The breastplate protects the rider´s entire upper body, preventing injury from stones or solid lumps of earth. It also serves as impact protection in the event of a fall and can therefore be described as a kind of airbag for motocross riders.

How well the breastplate performs depends on various factors. Firstly, it should be comfortable to wear, not limit the MX rider´s freedom of movement and be readily adjustable. Secondly, the rider should be able to quickly and easily put it on and off, and it should combine perfectly with the neck brace. The breastplate also needs to have an efficient ventilation system to prevent overheating and be made of a particularly impact-resistant plastic.

Two-time ADAC MX Masters champion Dennis Ullrich (22) has used a breastplate for many years to help ensure his well-being out on track: "I always wear a breastplate when I´m riding and am never actually aware that I´ve got it on. However, I would soon know if I were not wearing it, because I would then feel kind of naked and uneasy." Fellow Masters rider Manuel Bermanschläger (25) sees things in a similar light. "The breastplate is simply part of every motocross rider´s normal equipment, because it´s only the breastplate that stops the handlebars going into the rider´s tummy in an accident, for example."

ADAC MX Masters rider Kevin Fors (24) is also totally convinced of the benefits of wearing a breastplate. Racing without this item of protective gear would be completely out of the question under any circumstances for the Belgian. "The risk of accident without the breastplate would simply be too great," said the 24-year-old. Patrick Bender (27) is certainly appreciative of all the various protective gear that´s available in motocross sport. The ADAC MX Masters rider is an amateur competitor in the race series and usually returns to his job as a heating engineer on Mondays after race weekends. "Falling can happen quicker than you think sometimes, and then we as motocross riders can all be pleased that there are such things as breastplates," he told us.

There are many different types of breastplate. Some incorporate shoulder protection, for example, while other versions include a kidney belt. Most breastplates are now ergonomically shaped and fit the body perfectly. In any case, what´s important is that the breastplate gives the best possible protection and is comfortable to wear.