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Men's Freeski Body Armour

Airy enough for the skin track, snug on the descent, and your pack has to sit on top.

Guide

Men's Freeski Body Armour

Off-piste you often wear your protector for hours, uphill too. Weight, ventilation and how it works with your pack matter more than on the piste.

Key points

Check for EN 1621-2: Level 1 is lighter, Level 2 absorbs more.
For touring: a vest with a mesh back, or a pack with a built-in back protector.
Pack straps and hip belt have to sit over the vest without pressing.
Body armour cushions falls; it does nothing against avalanches.

Which protection for which terrain?

Terrain	What matters	Your protector
Lift-served freeride	What mattersRuns over rock and hardpack	Your protectorVest, Level 2
Ski touring	What mattersLong climbs, lots of sweat	Your protectorLight Level 1 vest or a pack with a back protector
Jumps and drops	What mattersLandings on back and hips	Your protectorVest plus padded shorts
With an avalanche airbag	What mattersPack and vest working together	Your protectorTry the harness on over the vest

What to look for

Question	In short	Why
Vest or pack protector?	In shortThe vest sits closer	WhyA vest stays on your body even when the pack comes off. A pack with a back plate saves a layer but only protects while it is cinched tight.
How heavy?	In shortLight for touring	WhyYou carry every gram uphill. Level 1 vests are usually lighter; Level 2 pays off if you mostly ride lifts.
How breathable?	In shortMesh and perforations	WhyPerforated foam and a mesh back let heat escape. Otherwise sweat builds up under the shell and turns cold at the next stop.

Frequently asked questions

Do I keep it on for the climb?

A light vest with a mesh back can stay on. Putting it on at the top means opening every layer in the wind. If you sweat a lot, a pack with a back protector is the easier option.

Is the back plate in an avalanche pack as good?

Only if it is certified to EN 1621-2 and the pack sits tight. If the label doesn't say so, treat it as a back panel rather than a certified protector.

Do I need padded shorts as well?

For jumps and the park, where you often land on your backside, yes. For pure ski touring a back protector is usually enough.

How do I look after it after a tour?

Take it out of the pack and let it dry at room temperature. Wash the cover as the care label says and wipe the pad with a damp cloth.

Last updated: November 2026