Gear Review: Spidi Back Warrior EVO Back Protector

When it comes to safety there’s normally three main factors that it all boils down too, protection, comfort and value, with the Spidi Back Warrior Evo offering a great combination of the three, alongside the brand’s strong reputation.

Style might come into it for some gear as well, but with the Spidi Back Warrior Evo normally hidden beneath the rest of your gear, it’s not an issue here, while the cool armoured design does look like something you’d see on batman…

The Spidi Back Warrior EVO back protector offers good comfort and fit

As far as safety the brand boasts the Back Warrior Evo is CE Level 2, with the main point to keep in mind here being that Level 2 is better than Level 1. Level 1 is the more standard requirement, however in some cases 2 may be required, and obviously as a rider you’re getting better protection by opting for Level 2 where possible.

I haven’t had the opportunity to put the Spidi Back Warrior Evo protection aspect of things to the test however, and hopefully it’ll remain that way, but I do know I’ve got a great piece of kit looking after me, should that eventuate.

Testing out the Spidi Back Warrior Evo at the Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II launch in South Africa

Where the Spidi Back Warrior Evo stands out, apart from that clunky nomenclature, is just how comfortable and easy to wear it is all day, whether you’re at the track or just out riding sportily on the road. Thin shoulder straps offer good adjustability, while a velco waist belt is wide and offers a huge range of adjustability, not just for your weight, but also at what height you’d prefer the belt.

The Spidi Back Warrior EVO shoulder straps are ideal for comfort and are adjustable with a buckle

On top of that, the belt is removable, and can be slipped down off the back protector, while the rear of the belt includes points of measurement for the velcro, so you have an idea of where it should be for specific heights.

The shoulder straps were the perfect width for me, being neither restrictive or thin enough to cut in, while the belt is as mentioned wide and offers plenty of adjustability, without feeling the need to overtighten it. In really warm weather I would build up a bit of sweat under the belt, but in 40 degree heat that’s pretty much expected.

The Spidi Back Warrior EVO belt also offers great adjustability, breathes reasonably well except in the hottest of weather and is very comfortable

There’s enough airflow through the channels on the protector itself too that wearing it isn’t a chore, and honestly it was easy to forget I was even wearing it, which comes down to being low profile, contoured to fit and only weighing around 500g.

Overall I’m exceptionally happy with the Spidi Back Warrior Evo, at $195.00 RRP it’s a great option that is sure to last a very long time, so it’s worth investing in something that’ll offer the best possible protection. The next step up in their range is the Airbag Vest system, which incorporates the back protector, and is the main reason I gave this product a 9/10 for safety

The Spidi Back Warrior Evo protector is an ideal option for track riders and serious road riders alike

So if you’re keen for a back protector and want great protection and comfort at a good price, don’t look any further. You can check out the full range at the Spidi Australia website – www.spidi.com.au or see your local stockist.

Spidi Back Warrior EVO features

• CE level 2 certification – top shock absorbing performance
• Global weight of only 520 grams
• Limited thickness (under 30mm) in order to preserve jackets’ fitting
• Total ergonomy
• Air ventilation
• Height-adjustable belt, removable
• Easy to store inside bags, under-saddle space, thanks to being foldable