If you’ve ever tried to shop for motorcycle body armor, you know how overwhelming it can feel. Between CE ratings, armor levels, and different types of gear, it’s easy to get lost in the details. The good news is that it’s not as complicated as it seems once you break it down.
Choosing the Right Motorcycle Body Armor: A Simple Guide to CE Ratings
This guide will walk you through the basics so you can make a confident, informed decision.
What Does CE Rating Mean?
CE stands for “conformité européenne”, which means European Conformity. This standard, established in 1993, ensures that motorcycle gear meets specific safety requirements for protection.
When you see a CE rating on gear, it means it has been tested for things like:
- Abrasion resistance
- Tear strength
- Seam durability
- Impact protection
CE Ratings for Motorcycle Gear (Garments)
Motorcycle jackets and pants are given CE classes based on overall protection:
- Class A – Basic protection
- Class AA – Mid-level protection
- Class AAA – Highest level of protection (commonly found in racing gear)
There are also two additional categories worth knowing:
- Class B – Provides abrasion resistance but does not include impact armor
- Class C – Designed to hold armor but does not provide abrasion resistance on its own
For example, many mesh jackets fall into Class A or are designed with airflow in mind, sometimes sacrificing higher abrasion resistance for comfort.
CE Ratings for Armor (Impact Protection)
This is where many riders get confused, as armor has its own rating system, separate from the garment.
Armor is rated by how much force it allows through during an impact:
- CE Level 1 – Transmits up to 35 kN of force
- CE Level 2 – Transmits up to 20 kN (better protection)
In simple terms, Level 2 armor absorbs more impact energy and provides better protection, but it’s often thicker and less flexible.
Back Protectors vs Limb Armor
Not all armor is tested the same way.
- Limb armor (shoulders, elbows, knees, hips) follows one standard
- Back protectors follow one another and typically cover a larger surface area
CE Level 2 back protectors generally:
- Absorb more force
- Offer broader coverage
- May feel bulkier or warmer
However, many modern Level 2 back protectors are still designed to fit comfortably inside jackets.
Why High-End Gear Doesn’t Always Include Level 2 Armor
You might expect a AAA-rated jacket to automatically come with Level 2 armor, but that’s not always the case.
That’s because:
- Garment ratings measure abrasion and structural strength
- Armor ratings measure impact absorption
Manufacturers often balance:
- Protection
- Comfort
- Weight
- Flexibility
Sometimes, thinner Level 1 armor is used to improve comfort while still passing overall safety standards.
Since we’re talking about protection, you may like to read this next: When Should You Replace Your Helmet?
Choosing the Right Armor for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best gear depends on your individual needs.
Here are a few things to consider:
1. Riding Style
- Aggressive or high-speed riding → lean toward AA or AAA + Level 2 armor
- Casual or city riding → A or AA + Level 1 or 2 armor may be sufficient
2. Comfort vs Protection
- Level 2 offers more protection
- Level 1 is often lighter, thinner, and more comfortable
If gear isn’t comfortable, you’re less likely to wear it, and that defeats the purpose.
3. Weather Conditions
- Hot climates → mesh gear (often lower abrasion ratings)
- Cold or mixed conditions → layered or higher-rated gear
4. Budget
Protective gear can get expensive. While a higher-rated gear is ideal, the most important thing is wearing something reliable every time you ride.
What About Non-CE Rated Armor?
You may come across gear that isn’t CE-rated. This doesn’t automatically mean it’s unsafe—it may simply mean the manufacturer didn’t go through the certification process, especially if the product isn’t sold in Europe.
However, without CE testing, you’ll need to:
- Rely on brand reputation
- Read reviews
- Do extra research
Final Thoughts
Choosing motorcycle body armor doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Once you understand the difference between garment ratings and armor ratings, everything starts to make more sense.
At the end of the day, the best gear is the gear that:
- Fits well
- Matches your riding style
- Keeps you comfortable
- And most importantly, you’ll actually wear it every time you ride
Do your research, weigh your options, and choose what works best for you. Your safety is worth the effort.
