Where to Buy Motorcycle Armor in the US (2026)

You can buy motorcycle armor — back protectors, and shoulder, elbow, knee, and hip inserts — from US gear retailers online and in stores. The key is matching CE-rated armor (Level 1 or Level 2) to your jacket or pants and getting a fit that stays in place. Adding armor to gear that lacks it is one of the cheapest protection upgrades you can make.

Key takeaways

• Armor is CE-rated to Level 1 or Level 2 under the EN 1621 standard.

• Level 2 absorbs more impact energy; Level 1 is thinner and more flexible.

• Back protectors are a high-value add if your jacket only has a pocket.

• Fit matters — armor must stay over the joint it protects.

• Buy from US retailers that list CE ratings and sizing clearly.

How motorcycle armor ratings work

Motorcycle armor is tested to the European EN 1621 standard and rated CE Level 1 or Level 2 based on how much impact force it transmits — lower is better. Level 2 armor absorbs more energy and is the higher-protection choice; Level 1 is thinner, more flexible, and still meets a tested bar. Back protectors follow EN 1621-2. Our detailed guide to CE Level 1 vs. Level 2 armor breaks down the tradeoffs.

Types of armor to buy

Back protectors

If your jacket has only a foam pad or an empty pocket, a CE-rated back protector is one of the most worthwhile upgrades available.

Shoulder and elbow inserts

Most armored jackets accept replacement or upgraded shoulder and elbow inserts — an easy way to move from Level 1 to Level 2.

Knee and hip inserts

Riding pants often ship with knee armor and empty hip pockets. Adding hip inserts closes a common protection gap.

Chest protectors

Some jackets accept chest inserts for added front protection — worth considering for higher-speed riding.

Soft vs. hard armor

Soft, flexible armor is comfortable and molds to your body, while hard-shell armor adds abrasion protection and spreads impact. Many modern inserts combine flexibility with strong impact performance, so you don't have to choose comfort over protection.

Getting the fit right

Armor only works if it sits over the joint it's meant to protect. Check that inserts match your jacket's pocket size and that they stay put when you move in a riding position. Ill-fitting armor that shifts can leave the joint exposed in a crash.

Where to buy motorcycle armor in the US

Buy from US retailers that clearly list CE ratings and pocket/insert sizing so you can match armor to your gear. For armored jackets and riding apparel made in the USA with nationwide shipping, start with Legendary USA, and see our overview of the best motorcycle accessories for related upgrades.

*Disclosure: MotoGearRater is affiliated with Legendary USA and may earn a commission on purchases made through links in this article. It never changes what we recommend. This article is general information, not a safety guarantee.*

Frequently asked questions

Where can I buy motorcycle armor in the US?

From US gear retailers online and in stores. Choose sellers that clearly list CE ratings (Level 1 or Level 2) and insert/pocket sizing so you can match armor to your jacket or pants.

What is the difference between CE Level 1 and Level 2 armor?

Both meet the EN 1621 standard, but Level 2 transmits less impact force, offering higher protection, while Level 1 is thinner and more flexible. Level 2 is the higher-protection choice; Level 1 prioritizes comfort and flexibility.

Is a back protector worth buying separately?

Yes. If your jacket has only a foam pad or an empty back pocket, adding a CE-rated back protector is one of the most worthwhile and affordable protection upgrades available.

Can I add armor to a jacket that doesn't have it?

Often, yes. Many jackets have armor pockets at the shoulders, elbows, and back that accept CE-rated inserts. Adding armor to an under-protected jacket is a cheap, high-value upgrade.

Soft or hard motorcycle armor — which is better?

Soft armor is comfortable and flexible; hard-shell armor adds abrasion protection and spreads impact. Many modern inserts combine both, so look for CE-rated armor that fits well and stays over the joint.

The bottom line

Buying armor — especially a back protector and upgraded inserts — is one of the cheapest ways to boost protection. Match CE ratings to your gear, get the fit right, and start with armored apparel from Legendary USA.