Designed for trail and enduro riding, this iXS Flow vest is arguably the most comfortable and invisible piece of protection that we’ve tested that comes with the higher protection rating. It’s unarguably some of the best body armour we’ve tested. 

Constructed from thin, lightweight fabric with an internal pocket accommodating a slide-in back panel, it’s close in concept to the EVOC Protector Vest and Ion Scrub Amp Protection Vest products here but slightly more expensive than either.

The Flow’s padding covers a broad portion of the back and uses the brand’s own impact hardening material called ‘X-Matter’, which is both flexible and very effective at moulding to the spine’s shape by becoming almost squidgy once heated up by the body. 

The iXS back panel is also articulated with bendy ridges (a bit like armadillo armour) to effectively trace body movements and twisting, and it’s apparently as tough as one too, being EU Level 2 rated, which means it can handle the kind of crashes you might suffer at motorbike, rather than push bike, speeds. The foam padding feels really thick and robust, but the excellent fit meant that it didn’t hang loose, so the whole package sat close to the body and remained slimline and unobtrusive underneath our riding kit.

The spine pad itself is also a practical shape that’s long enough to cover all vertebrae, with more width across the upper portion to protect shoulder blades and ribs, and a skinnier tail where riders’ bodies twist more lower down the back.

In a nod to practicality, there are twin stash pockets on either side of the back panel with room for riding essentials like gels, snacks or small tools, without impacting on comfort or function. We wouldn’t necessarily recommend carrying anything hard or sharp as it could dig into your kidneys in a crash, but if you’re after low-profile sleeveless back protection with the highest impact rating, this is a great option.

If you want body armour with maximum protection, check out the Leatt 3DF AirFit Body Vest. We also highly rate the slightly cheaper but still highly protective 100% Tarka Protection Vest.