FLEXI BACK PROTECTOR TRAIL VEST

Beefy, reassuring

​As I’ve said already, back protectors are the new helmets for American skiers. The Shred Flexi Trail Vest is my big thing this winter, with snow coverage and acreage at a minimum on lift-served terrain in parts of Colorado but the hill still being packed with out of control skiers. I’m on the hill 110 days a year as a ski instructor, so I have maximum exposure to unguided human missiles. I put this thing on during Christmas break and felt an immediate reduction in cortisol. This vest is a solid, well-made piece of protection equipment. I’ve checked out other brands and this one looks to have the superior durability, substantial thickness yet comfort, and low profile I need under my uniform jacket. It’s sweaty but understandably so, so the pad is easily removable for rinsing. I won’t ski without it and am psyched to put it on every day. Ima defy the actuarial tables for risk exposure and emerge unscathed at the end of ski season. Thanks SHRED!

Back protection

The protector is comfortable to wear and with the hip pocket well suited for food.

surprisingly comfortable - and comforting

I had previously tried a strap-based spine protector and it just didn’t feel right. After reading a great review of this one in the WSJ, I tried it - and I really like it. I’ve been skiing with it multiple times, and the vest format just works. It’s relatively lightweight, and the zip up vest holds it in place just right. I’m looking forward to using this in the summer for mountain biking as well.