History:
I'm currently a member of an MMA fight team that is looking to make its amatuer debut this March. As such, we needed a torso protector to go with the mits/ pads for body shots/
knees. I opted for the Top Contender body protector from
www.ringside.com
First Impressions: I have to say, I was kind of hoping for something I could also spar in. Make no mistake: this is a serious piece of equipment to be used by a dedicated coach/ padholder only. It is HUGE!.
First Test:
I strapped it on (better if someone else does this for you. It is comfortable to wear, but kind of difficult to buckle by yourself.) and let the biggest member of the fight team, a 300 lbs Superheavyweight go balls out on it. Knees, elbows, hooks, kicks, etc.
The results: you feel a little bit of the force, but it does an excellent job of distributing it over a large area. A++ on this aspect. It does exactly what it was designed to do.
Pros Its big. I'm 6'1, 230lbs, and it has plenty of room to spare as far as the adjustable straps are concerned. Force dispersal is excellent. It is big enough on me to cover the hip bone to protect against hand breakage. Fairly cost effective (approx. 60 dollars).
Concerns: The only thing I'm worried about it the stitching. The material is kind of thin (not CSI thin, but still a bit thinner than I'd like). I'm not sure of the long term durability of the piece. We needed something now, and this was the best thing for the price.
Overall:
I like it. If it lasts 3 months, I'll consider it money well spent for necessary fight prep. If it lasts a year or more, I'll be elated. It is easy to put on, adjust, and can absorb an incredible amount of force.