How to use a back protector for skateboarding
Skateboarding is a sport and pastime enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. It’s perfect for getting some fresh air and exercise in urban environments and is a great way for kids and adults alike to socialize.
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But, like most things that involve moving at speed on wheels, skateboarding accidents can cause injuries. A fall from a skateboard can be particularly damaging to your back. The more complex the tricks you’re performing, the greater the likelihood that a fall from your board can result in serious spinal damage.
Spine protectors for skateboarding are designed to protect the back and minimize the risk of serious injury if you fall.
What is a spine protector for skateboarding?
A spine protector is a piece of protective equipment worn under or over clothing that is designed to protect the back. It’s usually worn around the torso, depending on the area of the back you’re protecting.
Some spine protectors are made to cover a particular area of the spine, such as the upper back, lower back, neck or tailbone. Others are longer and made to protect the back in its entirety.
Spine protectors are not just for skateboarding. They can be used for any activity where collisions or falls have the potential to cause a spinal injury. That includes sports like snowboarding and skiing or activities like mountain biking or motorcycling.
Although back protectors are an important piece of safety equipment while skateboarding, it’s important to make sure other areas of the body are protected as well. You should always wear a helmet while skateboarding and consider adding knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards.
Who should use a spine protector for skateboarding?
Anyone involved in skateboarding should consider adding a back protector to their safety gear. Even if you only skateboard on the street, you’re at risk of being involved in a collision with a car, which can cause catastrophic spine injuries.
If you’re an expert skater and regularly perform tricks, it’s tempting to leave out a back protector in case it restricts your movement and flexibility. But there are lots of options available that are built to mold to the body so they don’t hamper movement in any way.
How does a spine protector work?
Spine protectors come in many forms, including:
Strap-on protectors to wear under clothing
Full vests to wear under or over clothing
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Backpacks with built-in spine protector
You can also choose between a hard shell or soft-shell protector. Hard-shell protectors can be slightly more restrictive. They are made with hard plastic “ribs” encased in soft foam and feature padding in between the ribs and the spine.
Soft-shell protectors are usually made purely from foam that molds to the contours of your body as your body temperature warms it.
Both types of spine protector work by absorbing shock during a fall and distributing it through the foam so it can’t do as much damage to your spine. They can significantly reduce the severity of an injury as a result of a fall or collision.
Pros and cons of using a spine protector for skateboarding
Road safety
Kids and teenagers who skateboard around their neighborhood generally don’t need a spine protector. However, some kids like to take it to extremes and skate down hills or at very high speeds. In that case, a back protector might be a good idea as a fall during high-speed skating can cause serious injuries.
Injury protection
Anyone engaged in extreme tricks on ramps or rails should consider using a spine protector. They’re particularly important if you’re trying to advance your abilities and are learning complex and dangerous new tricks.
Less flexibility
Some skaters will say that a spine protector reduces your ability to turn or that it restricts rotation. There’s no doubt that flexibility is important for advanced skating and the ability to keep your balance. But back protectors, especially the soft-shell kind, have evolved to become extremely lightweight and flexible, molding to the shape of your body when fitted correctly.
How to use a back protector while skateboarding
Step 1: Choose your spine protector
Firstly, you need to decide which style of spine protector best suits your needs. You might prefer one made for the lower back or a full-spine protector. You also need to decide whether you want a spine-protector vest or one that you can strap on over a T-shirt.
Step 2: Make sure the fit is right
Once you’ve chosen a spine protector, make sure the fit is right. Spine protectors are most effective when they are correctly aligned to the spine. Misalignment can happen if a spine protector is too big or small.
Most back protectors allow for extensive adjustment so you can make sure it fits properly against the dimensions and contours of your torso. Take some time to adjust straps and buckles to align the protector correctly with your body.
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Step 3: Secure the spine protector correctly
Before you jump onto your skateboard, make sure that the spine protector is completely secured. This means checking that all straps are tightened and secure so they won’t come loose while you skate.
Step 4: Clean and store your back protector properly
As you use it, your back protector can absorb sweat and endure some wear and tear. Keeping it clean and storing it properly in a dry place increases the longevity of your spine protector and keeps it working effectively.
Best spine protectors for skateboarding
Best spine protector insert
Dakine Dk Impact Spine Protector: available at Amazon
Compatible with many jackets and backpacks, this insert lies along the spine and provides highly flexible support and protection for the spine while skating.
Best spine protector backpack
POC Spine VPD Air Backpack Vest: available at Amazon
If you like to wear a backpack while skating around your neighborhood, this is the ideal solution. The backpack is lightweight and is water and dirt-resistant.
Best spine protector vest
POC VPD Air Vest with Back Protector: available at Amazon
This full vest comes with a built-in spine protector. It’s ideal for more advanced skaters who want light and flexible protection without restricting mobility.
Lauren Farrell is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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