Advice & Guides If it feels like armour in your bike kit then the law demands it is actually proper, protective armour. Here's how to tell how effective your impact protection is...
Great material but back protector is small compared to otjes so i use a seperate one
I previously owned a Knox armoured shirt, but it always felt just a bit too small and restrictive. As soon as I put on the Bowtex Elite it felt very comfortable, lovely soft feel fabric, nice and light despite being AAA rated and more roomy, less clingy than the Knox! I only went in for boots and ended up buying the jacket too. In the hottest of weather, it perhaps doesn't feel quite as free flowing with air as the Knox had, but the looser fit stopped it feeling restrictive. I wear a Helite airbag jacket on top, which doesn't help with airflow, but perhaps more importantly, where the fabric of the jacket has 'caught' the velcro of the airbag, it has caused some rather unsightly bobbling on the material surface. Whilst it doesn't present a problem, it is perhaps the only 'issue' that disappoints me a little about the jacket. AAA rating and fitted with level 2 armour it does present itself as a very good 'armoured shirt' especially for use in the hottest of weather.
I bought this as a recommendation from a friend who actually crashed in this armoured shirt. Being AAA rated, he was completely fine and the armour still lives to tell the tale.
With the unfortunate passing of a good friend due to a motorcycle crash, I decided it was time to invest in some quality gear that will protect my life should I need it.
Super comfortable and lightweight. I usually throw a hoodie over the top of this and nobody knows it’s there. Would recommend 100%
This is excellent and in these temperatures a life saver
Really comfortable, great armour, AAA, very well made, good, strong fabric. I felt safe and protected on a ride from Hanoi to Saigon in Vietnam. Now back home, the material is stretchy enough to allow me extra layers underneath for warmth. Well done and thank you Bowtex, I was looking for ages for the right top!
I couldn’t be more impressed with the Bowtex Elite CE Protective Shirt V2 in black. From the moment I put it on, the comfort stood out straight away — it fits like a second skin without feeling restrictive at all. The material is incredibly breathable, which makes a huge difference on longer rides or even in warmer weather. You don’t get that heavy, sweaty feeling like with some other protective gear.
What really surprised me is how discreet it is under normal clothing. Once it’s on, you genuinely forget you’re wearing a fully protective layer. It sits smoothly under a hoodie or jacket without adding bulk, and it doesn’t draw attention at all.
Overall, it strikes the perfect balance between protection, comfort, and everyday wearability. Easily a 5-star product — highly recommended for anyone who wants serious protection without sacrificing comfort or style.
This armoured shirt is very comfortable and you cant really feel the armour in it which surprised me. Now I can wear shirts, jerseys coats etc while I ride.
Good quality and fit. Can be worn on its own or under a hoodie or jacket. Ventalation is good on a hot day and the thumb loops keep the sleeves from riding up.
I purchased this item along with the protective leggings, which I also recommend.
10/10.
| XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK SIZE | 35-36 | 37-38 | 39-40 | 41-42 | 43-44 | 45-46 |
Find it cheaper at any major motorcycle accessory retailer, online or in-store and we‘ll match it.
How to request a price match.