Used: Knox Fast back gilet back protector review

WHEN I was much younger, I never used to wear my seatbelt in the car. It's really strange, I knew it would save me, and I knew I was being stupid, but I found it uncomfortable and would always take my chances.

I think about back protectors in the same way. You would be mad to say they're a waste of time and yet those two extra minutes of fiddling for me breaks the deal.

Most back protectors fit on like a rucksack, two shoulder straps and an adjustable waist strap, but the ones i've tried never stayed in place and would always ride up. 

The Fast Back is a different concept though, it's a gilet with a built-in back protector.

It's comfortable and Level 2 certified, the highest a back protector can have.

I occasionally ride to work in street wear or a winter textile jacket, that's where the Fast Back excels. It takes a matter of seconds to slip on and once the thick waist adjusters have been set, they'll stay in position for as long as you need them to.

The whole jacket is made from polyester mesh which is said to make the gilet more breathable. The whole thing weighs 870g, it's never made me sweat and I usually forget it's on whilst riding. Another good point for me is that it's not long, the gilet doesn't hang around your hips, it's short and out of the way.

One of the downsides of the Fast Back is the width of the armour at the top. It spans across most of the shoulder area which is good, but means you won't be able to wear it in a tight one-piece leather suit. Saying that, Knox have a range of back protectors which would be more suitable for racing purposes, but it's worth a mention.

The 2014 Fast Back costs £89.99 and is available in sizes S-XXL.

Contact: Knox or call 01900 825 825