Back protectors do not protect against the dreaded hyperextensions and compressions, but they can cushion the impact on stones by 95 per cent. Or if you are thrown backwards against a tree. This happens quite rarely, but when it does, you'll be glad of every layer of foam on your back. The Ortema foam achieves the best cushioning values on the market - we have tested this with the TÜV - great! The Ortho-Max Light only consists of a protector pad, hip belt and shoulder straps. This makes it lighter than normal waistcoats, but the wearing comfort suffers somewhat from the narrow shoulder straps. Good: The pad is hardly noticeable.
Weight655 grammes. Price: 99 €. ortema-shop.com
STRENGTHS High cushioning, light and airy, comfortable to wear
WEAKNESSES The narrow shoulder straps stretch against the skin
CONCLUSIONBack protector with top damping values. Not quite as comfortable to wear as a waistcoat, but lighter and well ventilated.

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