CE Armour Explained: Level 1 vs Level 2 and What to Look For
Armour is the part of your gear that takes the impact, so it's worth knowing what the CE label actually tells you. The short version: Level 2 lets through roughly half the force of Level 1, and the right armour is the one that fits and stays in place.
The standards behind the label
Motorcycle armour sold in the UK is tested to European standards and carries a CE or UKCA mark. Three matter most:
| Standard | Covers |
|---|---|
| EN 1621-1 | Limb armour: shoulders, elbows, hips and knees |
| EN 1621-2 | Back protectors |
| EN 1621-3 | Chest protectors |
The whole garment (jacket, trousers or suit) is tested separately under EN 17092, which rates abrasion, tear and seam strength as well as impact. Classes run from AAA (highest) through AA and A. Our custom suits, jackets and trousers are made to Class AA as standard, with Class AAA available as an upgrade.
Level 1 or Level 2?
In the impact test, a weight is dropped on the armour and the force that passes through is measured. Lower is better.
| Armour | Level 1: average force passed through | Level 2: average force passed through |
|---|---|---|
| Limb (EN 1621-1) | 35 kN or less | 20 kN or less |
| Back (EN 1621-2) | 18 kN or less | 9 kN or less |
Level 2 is the better protection; Level 1 is often thinner and lighter, which some riders prefer in jeans or casual jackets. For road and track leathers, we recommend Level 2. You'll find Level 2 inserts for your back, shoulders, elbows, hips and knees in our armour range.
How to read an armour label
- CE or UKCA mark and the standard number (for example EN 1621-1)
- Level 1 or 2
- Type or zone: limb armour shows where it's meant to go (S shoulder, E elbow, H hip, K knee); back protectors show their coverage, such as FB for full back or CB for central back
- Size, so you can match it to your jacket or suit
If there's no label or the label doesn't name a standard, treat it as padding, not certified armour.
Choosing armour for each area
- Back: the most important upgrade. Choose one that covers your spine from shoulders to waist when you're in your riding position. See our back protectors, including SAS-TEC and Forcefield inserts.
- Shoulders and elbows: most RTX jackets and suits have pockets for inserts. Our limb protectors include SAS-TEC Level 2 shoulder and elbow sets.
- Hips and knees: the knee armour must sit over your kneecap when you're crouched on the bike, not just when standing.
- Chest: an extra layer for track riders; we stock SAS-TEC Level 2 chest inserts.
Fit matters as much as level
Armour only works if it's over the joint when you hit the ground. Check that it doesn't slide when you move, and that your leathers are snug enough to hold it there. If you're ordering custom leathers, tell us which armour and any airbag you'll use, so we can build the pockets around them.
Upgrade your leathers
Browse our armour range, or add SAS-TEC armour to a custom suit, jacket or trousers when you order. Not sure what fits your gear? Contact us with the product name and we'll help.
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