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Hey guys...

I'm looking to grab some knee/shin guards, full face helmet and spine protection. Any reccomendation for some low profile stuff that isn't too restictive. Currently just wearing a open face protec helmet and bulky knee pads but want some better protection for an upcoming trip. thanks for the advice.

Shafty

The Fox shin guards are awesome and tough and may look bulky but you will hardly notice them while jumping and can put them on under your clothes. Full face helmets for paragliding are more or less designed for what we do. Stay away from the worthless junk designed for skydiving.

What about some of the full face mountain bike or moto x helmets? Sixsixone has some decent looking stuff. Or is there a big advantage with the paragliding helmets over them?

I personally use an open face ski helmet because I'm cheap and that's what I have. My wife jumps an Icaro paragliding helmet and it is WAY less bulky with no snag points compared to moto helmets. Probably would be the main difference between the two.

For Comparison these are both her helmets sized for the same head. MotoX and Para.

A lot of people use the SixSixOne Comp Knee guards.

As for the helmet, Paragliding helmets are much nicer in size/weight, though probably less protective then the BMX ones.
Don't quote me on that.

moto helmets are way to heavy

I run a https://www.triple8.com/shop/category/Full-Face-Racer-Helmets

I got some of these the other day for MTB, but I think I will wear them jumping too as they are super comfy and you can run with them, where the bmx ones arent really suited for.

http://www.raceface.com/guards/legs/flank-leg/

I jump this full face helmet. Was only around $100. And weighs 1050grams. I removed the visor which reduced the weight slightly. I've had it for quite a few years and it's been a good helmet.
http://www.amazon.com/...Helmet/dp/B000BO3CTQ

Also jump POC knee pads and body armor.

POC has some of the best gear on the market. 661 Comp pads are a cheaper option but tend to be bulkier and less comfortable. TLD has a few cheaper options that are slim enough to fit under most pants and better than the Comps. G-Form is more minimalist but not a bad choice for wingsuiting or other situations where thicker gear won't work. Pick something that you will use. If is uncomfortable and bulky, it is more likely to be left at home.

Look for gear that has no snag hazard potential. That goes for both knee and elbow pads. If you are looking for a full jacket, the POC VPD version is the best I have seen on the market with no snag hazards and widely adjustable fit.

As for helmets, try before you buy, if possible. POC helmets fit most Caucasian heads but different companies have different fits and size scaling. I have been using a Receptor Bug for the last two years and it has been great.

Also, with helmets, don't skimp. Buy something that has the proper crash ratings, and something that fits snugly. A helmet that slides around on your head is worthless. Ski helmets from major manufacturers are your best bet. Moto helmets tend to be very heavy, which creates its own set of problems.

And when/if you do bounce your head off a rock or the ground, get a new helmet. Most helmets are designed to take one crash. The damage may be invisible but the foam inside the helmet is designed to crush to reduce shock on the brain.

I know a few people that have been saved by good helmets a d a few people that would probably still be here if they had good helmets. Anything made for skydiving at this point is just a camera holder, including the models sporting D3O foam.

I would offer to sell you some but we are on our way to Europe and won't be selling online again until Bridge Day. Backcountry and Eastern Mountain Sports sell what you need.