Held D3O Diablo Protectors - Shoulder

I’ve now changed all of my motorcycle kit over to D3O Diablo Level 2 armour, and these Held-branded shoulder protectors are the ones I bought to upgrade some new Klim kit.

They fit perfectly in the Klim armour pockets, and in my experience most D3O limb armour is fairly universal. These are sold as shoulder protectors, but the shape and size means they will fit a lot of different jackets from different manufacturers, provided the armour pocket is broadly the right size.

The big thing with Diablo is that it doesn’t feel like traditional Level 2 armour. Older Level 2 inserts can be bulky, stiff and annoying, especially on the shoulders. These are thin, flexible and very easy to live with. Once fitted, I barely notice them, which is exactly what you want. They move properly with the clothing instead of making the garment feel awkward.

Ventilation is also excellent. The open design makes a real difference, especially in summer kit. I’ve used them in my Klim gear, including very vented jackets, and they don’t ruin the airflow in the way some chunkier armour can.

I obviously hope I never properly test them, but knowing they are CE Level 2 gives me a lot more confidence than the level 1 stuff that comes in a lot of kit. For me, this is the ideal upgrade: better protection, better comfort, less bulk, and better airflow.

They are lighter and thinner than even Klims own armour - and certainly better than any Level 2 armour before them. See my attached photos of these compared to D3O original Level2, and Klims own Rogue Level 2.

They are not cheap if you are upgrading a whole wardrobe, but they are absolutely worth it. This is now my go-to armour. Highly highly recommended.

These are fab. Fit into my jacket really easy. Flexible and lightweight. Not bulky either. Love them.