Under-Armour

[Ewan]

Can anyone specifically recommend any particular type of under-armour? I've seen rigid plastron/chest and upper abdomen protectors, equestrian 'back protectors' and flexible martial arts tops.
I'm not sure if any of the above are perfect (they all seem to lack some feature) but I'd be interested in hearing from someone who can strongly recommend their particular favourite, and why.

[Caroline]

It all comes down to a balance between protection and movement.
I find my vest gives a lot of protection in most areas(though not the stomach area) but does impact on my ability to move slightly. I felt far "more free" when I exchanged without it a couple of weeks back, but risked hits to the chest.
the "stormtrooper" armour breastplate, digs in at the edges (this affects the sides and under the arms) but allows better movement , although has no clavicle protection.
everything else I've seen used in the school sits somewhere in between...

If you want to try my riding vest next week, just ask , and you can see how it works for you.

[Phil]

For leg armour, I would recommend the McDavid Hexpad goalkeeper shorts - light, not restrictive, but gives padding to hips and thighs.
The McDavid armguards are also good.

Newitts sell them at good prices.

I would also recommend the Addidas boxing groin guard.

[Phil]

Check out http://www.eskrimatrading.com/products_armours.htm

D-30 and D-40 (arm protector and thigh/knee protector)

I am looking to do a bulk order to save on shipping - if anyone is interested please let me know ASAP so that I can order enough.
Prices will be in the £10 - £20 range, depending upon shipping and tax (arms cheaper than legs).

I am planning on ordering a range of sizes if people want to wait and try them on first...

Cheers,
Phil

[Neil]

Phil

Myself and Catherine would be interested, although we are not certain what sizes to go for.

Neil