How to Measure & Fit a Body Protector | The Drillshed Guide

Ensure maximum protection while riding with our expert guide on measuring and fitting a body protector.

A well-fitted body protector is essential for rider safety. If it doesn’t fit correctly, it won’t provide the protection it’s designed for. At The Drillshed, we know how important it is to get the right fit—so here’s our expert guide to measuring and fitting your body protector properly.

Why Fit Matters

A correctly fitted body protector helps reduce the risk of injuries, including bruising, lacerations, and soft tissue damage. It also provides vital protection for your internal organs, such as the liver, kidneys, and spleen.

How to Measure for a Body Protector

For accurate sizing, always measure over light clothing using a soft tape measure in centimetres (cm). Follow these four simple steps:

Step 1: Waist Measurement

Wrap the measuring tape around your natural waistline. This ensures the body protector sits securely without shifting during movement.

Step 2: Chest Measurement

Measure the circumference of your chest by wrapping the tape under your arms and around the widest part. This determines the size range you fall into.

Step 3: Back Length Measurement

Measure from the base of your neck (C7 vertebrae) down to the base of your spine. This ensures the protector offers sufficient coverage without restricting movement.

Step 4: Choose Your Size

Use the sizing chart for your chosen body protector to find the best match for your measurements. If possible, visit a local stockist for a professional fitting.

How to Fit and Wear a Body Protector

Once you’ve selected your size, follow these six steps to ensure a perfect fit:

Wear your body protector over light clothing, with heavier layers worn on top.
Loosen all straps and fastenings before putting it on.
Use your thumbs inside the armholes to bring the two panels together and zip up easily.
Adjust the straps until the fit is snug but comfortable. Ensure the red Velcro markers are fully covered—if they’re still visible, the protector is too small; if the fastenings can’t be tightened enough, it’s too large.
Adjust the shoulders so the neckline lies flat against your body. If this isn’t possible, you may need a shorter back length.
Check the back length by sitting in a saddle. There should be about a hand’s width between the base of the protector and the saddle.

At the front, your body protector should reach your breastbone at the top and cover the bottom rib at mid-chest by around 2.5cm, without covering your belly button.

Fitting Checklist

Before you ride, check these key fit points:

The waist fits snugly, while the chest has enough room for deep breaths.
It fully covers your rib cage but does not extend past your belly button.
Bend forward at the waist—if the protector digs into your stomach, it’s likely too long.
Shoulder straps should sit midway between the point of your shoulder and the base of your neck.
There should be roughly three inches between the bottom of the protector and the cantle of your saddle.
All Velcro straps should fully cover the red safety markers.

If your body protector passes these checks, you’re good to go!

Choosing the Right Body Protector for Your Body Type

Charles Owen body protectors cater to all riders, offering a variety of sizes and fits.

For Women

Designed to accommodate different body shapes, Charles Owen protectors ensure a comfortable fit for petite, plus-sized, curvy, or tall riders. The bust is accounted for as chest size increases, without altering back length.

For Children

Young riders can be fitted with body protectors tailored to their growing needs. Junior sizes follow standard chest-to-waist measurements and come in short, regular, long, and extra-long back lengths.

Need Help?

If you’re unsure about sizing, our expert fitting team is here to help. Visit your local stockist for a professional fitting or explore our full range of body protectors at The Drillshed.

Shop Our Best-Selling Body Protectors

Stay safe, ride with confidence, and find your perfect body protector with The Drillshed.