Joe Rocket Speedmaster 2.0 Back Protector

We measured both sizes in our office and came up with the following measurements (all in inches):

These measurements were of just the back protector portion without any of the straps being measured. The straps have quite a bit of adjustability and should work for just about anybody. We’d advise small men, most women, or youth to choose the Medium size and everybody else should choose the Large.

This back protector is for those that want more back protection than you typically get with the standard back protector that came with your jacket or suit. You’d wear a back protector like this under your gear so that it wouldn’t be knocked out of position in case of a fall (contrary to what the factory pictures might suggest). You may or may not have to remove the standard back protector you have now. I like the overall look and feel of this model. Of course we don’t do any formal testing, but anecdotally, just feeling the weight and how the armor material compresses, I think this back protector would do a good job. It conforms easily to the shape of your back and the large waist belt is comfortable. The back side of the BP is an airy synthetic material that would breathe well and dispel perspiration. The only design fail I see is the use of the swivel buckles for the shoulder straps. The factory description hints that the purpose is the swivel action? Like you need a swivel on a soft elastic strap, right? The buckles MAY be uncomfortable if pressed on by your jacket or suit (such as with a bulky speed hump). The buckles/straps are not removable, so if those are a bother, you might wind up snipping them off completely or asking mom/grandma to sew them back in position minus the buckles. Just make the decision to do that only after deciding you aren’t going to return it! Anyway, aside from the Bucklegate issue, this is a very nice and cost effective back protector. :: Paul, 07-29-12