You see a label on your back protector with "EN1621-2" and "Level 1" of "Level 2". But what does that actually mean and what does it stand for? It's not just any random stamp. It's the European safety standard that determines whether a back protector has actually been tested for shock absorption. At Spines , we think it's important that you know exactly what you're buying, so we've laid it out for you below.
Below you can read what the standard entails, what the difference is between Level 1 and 2, and what to look for when choosing a back protector.
What does the EN1621-2 standard mean?
EN1621-2 is the European safety standard specifically for back protectors. The standard measures how much force a back protector allows through upon impact: the less force that comes through, the less you feel it and the better you're protected. Even a certified back protector does not guarantee that nothing will ever happen to you.Well, you can be sure that it has passed the official impact tests.
Without this certification, a back protector may look the same, but you have no certainty about the actual protection you get.
What is the difference between CE-level 1 and CE-level 2?
Both levels fall under the EN1621-2 standard and are tested according to the same method. The difference lies in how much force a back protector allows during an impact.
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Level 1 — allows a maximum of 18 kN. As a result, this variant is usually lighter and more flexible to use.
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Level 2 — allows only 9 kN, less than half. Therefore, this variant is usually thicker and sturdier.
Why is this standard important when choosing a back protector?
Without this standard, you have no reference point. Two back protectors can look almost identical, the same model, the same price, while one has been tested and the other has not. Only the EN1621-2 label tells you which one actually provides protection.
So always pay attention to this label when purchasing, and check whether it is Level 1 or Level 2. This way, you know exactly what you're buying, instead of relying on how a back protector looks or feels.
Do Spines-back protectors meet this standard?
Yes. All our back protectors are EN1621-2 Level 1 certified. Each model has been tested and approved according to European safety requirements.
We consciously chose Level 1: the best balance between protection and freedom of movement for most athletes.
Now that you know what EN1621-2 and the CE levels really mean, you won't be misled by a back protector that only looks good. At Spines , we believe you should be able to trust what you wear, not just how it looks.
Curious which back protector suits you? Then check here.
