The term “roost deflector” often confuses those new to dirt bike riding. What does this word “roost” that gets thrown around so casually amongst dirt bikers mean? The word roost is short for “roostertail,” and when photographed or witnessed in person, roost looks somewhat like a rooster’s tail—hence the term roost. Roost is also used to describe the many objects thrown off the rear tire of a motorcycle being ridden directly in front of you on a motocross track, a trail ride, or a dualsport/adventure ride.
The modern dirt bike or adventure motorcycle makes a tremendous amount of horsepower thanks to an incredible power to weight ratio. And when combined with today’s improved tire technology, dirt bikes and ADV bikes can launch materials from the rear tire at a high velocity towards any rider following too closely behind. What’s referred to collectively as “roost.” Roost can be anything from rocks and gravel to soil and sand or any other form of detritus. Needless to say, “getting roosted” hurts! And because it hurts, new riders quickly learn proper roost protection is a must.
How does one protect themself from roost? Choose a roost protector that works best in the type of riding conditions you ride. For example: Are you a casual rider who primarily rides at a distance from others and rarely gets hit by roost from another rider? Are you a racer surrounded by other riders exposed to roost constantly? Or perhaps you ride trails and are only occasionally exposed to roost but want protection from impacts by branches, brush, and other on-trail obstacles? All three are valid scenarios where roost protection is essential, and for all three, EVS has a protective product.
In this article, we’ll outline the many types of roost protection available from EVS so you can make an informed decision when you’re ready to make a purchase. We’ll provide a brief overview of each product, suggest the type of riding each is best suited for, and whether each can be worn under or over a jersey or riding jacket.
Have a question about roost protection? Feel free to drop us a line at cs@evs-sports.com.
IMPACT VESTS
An impact vest is designed to be worn under a jersey or jacket and uses memory foam to provide mild roost and impact protection.
TUG Impact Vest
Using RMF (Reactive Memory Foam) Technology that’s soft and pliable yet hardens when force is applied, the TUG Impact Vest provides comfort and protection in a short sleeve under-jersey design. Perforated Air Mesh fabric allows air to flow unimpeded, and strategically placed impact pads add an extra layer of protection. CE 14021 Certified.
BEST FOR Motocross racing, cross-country racing, trail riding, and downhill MTB.
BEST WORN under a jersey/jacket.
ROOST DEFLECTORS
Roost deflectors combine an exterior made of hard polymer materials with memory foam to provide maximum roost and impact protection that, in most cases, can be worn over or under the jersey to provide optimal roost protection, functionality, and comfort.
F2 Roost Deflector
The F2 Roost Deflector’s innovative modular design allows riders to customize their protective setup for various riding conditions and preferences. The two-piece Pivot System chest plate on the F2 articulates with the rider’s lateral leans to provide more fluid movements and is designed to fit all EVS race collars and most neck braces. An internal Flyte Liner lifts the deflector off the skin for increased airflow. Exterior Flow Vents provide additional air circulation. The F2 is CE 14021 Certified for roost deflection and CE 1621-1 Certified for back impact protection.
BEST FOR motocross racing and riding, cross-country racing, and trail riding.
BEST WORN over or under a jersey/jacket.
F1 Roost Deflector
The F1 is a lightweight, form-fitting modular roost deflector designed to be worn over or under the jersey to provide optimal roost protection, functionality, and comfort. The F1’s exterior Impact Shield and plush bio-foam liner provide optimum protection against debris and collisions. Grid-style air vents provide additional air circulation to regulate core temperature. The F1 Roost Deflector is Race Collar Compatible and strategically designed to fit all EVS race collars and most neck braces. Integrated loop straps ensure the race collar stays in place during use.
BEST FOR motocross racing and riding, cross-country racing, and trail riding.
BEST WORN over or under a jersey/jacket.
Revo 5 Roost Deflector
The Revo 5 is the roost deflector of choice for riders seeking modular front and back protection in a comfortable, sleek, under-the-jersey design. The Revo 5 is built to be the most versatile and vented roost deflector in the EVS line, with removable shoulder pads and enough adjustability to protect riders of all sizes. The Revo 5 is Race Collar Compatible, which means it is strategically designed to fit all EVS race collars and most neck braces. CE and EN 14021 Certified.
BEST FOR motocross racing and riding, cross-country racing, and trail riding.
BEST WORN over or under a jersey/jacket.
Vex Roost Deflector
The Vex is a roost deflector that offers effective front and back protection in a lightweight neck-brace-compatible design meant to be worn over a jersey or riding jacket. Lightweight vented polycarbonate construction provides maximum breathability and impact protection, while adjustable front and back panels offer a personalized fit.
BEST FOR motocross racing and riding, cross-country racing, and trail riding.
BEST WORN over a jersey/jacket.
Revo 4 Roost Deflector
The Revo 4 Roost Deflector provides front-only roost and impact protection in a lightweight, low-profile, under-the-jersey design. The Revo 4 is Race Collar Compatible, which means it is strategically designed to fit EVS race collars and most neck braces. The Revo 4’s exterior Impact Shield and plush bio-foam interior liner combine to provide optimum protection against debris and collisions while still providing optimal air circulation to regulate core temperature.
BEST FOR motocross racing and riding, cross-country racing, and trail riding.
BEST WORN under a jersey/jacket.
Bantam Youth Roost Deflector
Designed specifically for younger riders, the Bantam Youth Roost Deflector offers the same protection as an adult piece but is scaled down for little rippers. The Bantam’s low-profile, articulating design provides maximum upper body roost and impact protection by combining biofoam construction with TPR shields for optimal impact absorption, comfort, and breathability. The Bantam’s form-fitting material and adjustable elastic strap system mean this youth roost deflector is as comfortable as it gets.
BEST FOR motocross racing and riding, cross-country racing, and trail riding.
BEST WORN over or under a jersey/jacket.
BALLISTIC JERSEYS
Our collection of ballistic jerseys is designed to be worn under the jersey or by themselves. They are lightweight, form-fitting, and offer full upper body protection from impacts and abrasion. Breathable materials and mesh panels offer maximum airflow and comfort.
G7 Ballistic Jersey
The G7 offers ultimate offroad upper body protection against debris and impacts. The G7 incorporates Impact Shield technology, an exterior high-impact-tested polymer located on the front and back that provides optimum protection against debris and collisions. An integrated kidney belt adds lower back support and stability, and removable sleeves add versatility for varying conditions. Whether you’re on a trail ride or multi-day adventure, the G7 Ballistic Jersey provides all-day comfort and protection. CE Certified to EN 14021 for chest, and CE Certified to EN 1621-2 Level 1 for back protection.
BEST FOR motocross and trail riding, adventure (ADV) riding, downhill MTB.
BEST WORN under a jersey/jacket.
G7 Lite Ballistic Jersey
The G7 Lite offers the ultimate offroad upper body protection in a lightweight short-sleeve design. An exterior Impact Shield shell is made from a high-impact tested polymer to provide optimum protection against debris and collisions. Flow Vents provide air circulation to help regulate your core temperature. An integrated kidney belt provides lower back support and added stability. The G7 Lite is strategically designed to fit EVS race collars and most neck braces. CE Certified to EN 14021 for chest, and CE Certified to EN 1621-2 Level 1 for back protection.
BEST FOR motocross and trail riding, adventure (ADV) riding, downhill MTB.
BEST WORN under a jersey/jacket.
G7 Soft Ballistic Pro
Superior protection meets ultimate comfort; the Ballistic Pro provides the best of both. The Ballistic Pro features RMF (Reactive Memory Foam) Technology that’s soft and pliable in its natural state yet stiffens when force is applied to provide a protective impact barrier. Perforated Air Mesh fabric allows air to flow unimpeded while protecting against abrasion and sunlight. The Ballistic Pro is CE 1621-3 Certified for chest, and CE 1621-1 Certified for back protection.
BEST FOR motocross and trail riding, adventure (ADV) riding, downhill MTB.
BEST WORN under a jersey/jacket.
Comp Suit
The Comp Suit is an ultra-lightweight breathable ballistic jersey with integrated mesh stretch panels to provide full torso front and back protection and superior fit. Flow Vents located on the exterior Impact Shields of the chest, back, arms, and shoulders provide air circulation. An integrated kidney belt (Adult sizes only) provides lower back support and added stability on longer rides. The Comp Suit is strategically designed to fit EVS race collars and most neck braces.
BEST FOR motocross and trail riding, adventure (ADV) riding, downhill MTB.
BEST WORN under a jersey/jacket.
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Have a question about roost protection? Feel free to drop us a line at cs@evs-sports.com.
Written by Dale Spangler.
CAP
April 22, 2022
After MANY years of riding/racing and being on the end of another riders pic perfect roost OR on the adv ride through cross hanging shrubs and limbs,etc, I had enough and got both the soft/hard protection. Most of the time just free riding the soft works great for those brushy, hard to tell what you will find rides in the woods. If I’m riding with multiple bikes OR rough terrain I throw on the hard stuff. Its still very comfortable/breathes BUT it sure helps when you bunch up on a rocky hill, creek bed, etc and no matter how hard someone tries-stuff flies! PLUS my old body appreciates as much protection between it and a handlebar, a whoops drop or slide you get Aquitaine’s with the ground on. After having them and neck protection I feel MUCH more protected than in the “old days”. Do you need it? Hundreds of stitches, countless bruises, roosts that hit yiu like a machine gun or a sapling bent over a trail in the shadow you dont see until right there says YES. At least get as much protection as you can and keep adding to it if you were/are poor like me but riding gives that mind clearing freedom. You will thank yourself on that first rock/tree or Mother Nature slide. Be safe out there!