The John Doe XTM Air back protectors feature a height-adjustable design specifically suited for select John Doe jackets.

Available in Level 1 or Level 2 variants, each one is slim as can be, and measures approximately 18 x 42 centimeters. Notably, this is one of the first height-adjustable back protectors we’ve seen, and one size (large for mens jackets; medium for women’s jackets) can work for any size as they’re easily repositioned thanks to slim built-in Velcro strips on either side of the armor.

The Level 2 protector is naturally thicker, but still only a half-inch; with the Level 1 measuring in at a miniscule 3/16” thick. Weight wise, there’s not much difference, although the girth of the Level 2 will make it slightly more noticeable in a jacket.

John Doe markets these as being made from viscoelastic foam, like their elbow and knee armor components found in their shirts, jackets and jeans.

We would say that these are not as flexible and soft as D30’s formula, but it’s an academic point because if you need back armor for a compatible John Doe garment, these are the only game in town.

Although other standard back armor options come in a similar rectangular format—eg: , or —the use of an official John Doe back protector is required because the sleeve for the back protector is extra long, and designed to be used with the low-profile Velcro strips built into the back armor.

Because the opening for the back protector sleeve is fastened at the bottom, using another rectangular back protector would cause the armor to immediately slip to the bottom of the sleeve, and eventually work its way out.

Level 1:

0.3125 / 5/16” thick
388 grams (13.7oz)

Level 2

0.5 / 1/2" thick
434 grams (15.3oz)