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Rib protectors that include a sternum plate?
From what I understand, the sternum plate on some newer rib protectors is meant to spread force across the chest instead of only covering the sides, which seems useful when you get bounced around in a kart. Honestly I am still unsure how much extra protection that really adds in normal club racing though. I have been looking at options with that feature but I keep wondering if the extra plate ends up feeling bulky or annoying once you are strapped in and leaning forward. Has anyone actually run one with a sternum plate and found it comfortable over a full day of sessions?
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The sternum plate came about mainly for the little kids. They sit right up against the wheel and lack the arm strength to brace when inertia takes over, so the chest goes straight into the rim. Adult drivers sit farther back and can push off better, so the need is lower, though a sternum injury is still a bad outcome worth avoiding.
Those plates are required for every age at international events now. On the comfort side, a design like the Bengio keeps the chest plate from adding bulk you notice once strapped in and leaning forward. It simply disappears while you drive.. no real annoyance over a full day of sessions if the rest of the protector fits properly.
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