When we think about sports injuries, most people picture twisted ankles or concussions. But in contact sports like Rugby, AFL, NRL, cricket, and roller derby, some of the most vulnerable areas are often overlooked: the chest, ribs, sternum, and shoulders.
For female athletes, this risk is even higher. Traditional protective gear was built for men and then “shrunk and pinked” for women, leaving gaps in fit, comfort, and — most importantly — safety. Poorly fitting armour doesn’t just fail to protect; it can increase the chance of injury by shifting during impact or exposing unprotected zones.
The Most At-Risk Zones
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Chest & Breasts: Impacts can cause bruising, soft tissue damage, and long-term breast health issues.
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Ribs & Sternum: Vulnerable to fractures and cartilage injuries in tackles and collisions.
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Shoulders: Frequent site of dislocations and sprains from heavy contact.
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Back: At risk from high-impact falls or being driven into the ground.
Protective Measures Beyond Armour
Injury prevention isn’t just about one piece of equipment — it’s about a holistic approach. Alongside specialised body armour, athletes can strengthen their defence through smart preparation and supportive gear.
Protective Gear:
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Head & Face: Helmets reduce head trauma risk; goggles and face shields prevent eye injuries; mouthguards protect teeth and jaw.
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Pads & Guards: Shin, knee, and elbow pads cushion against impact; wrist and ankle braces add joint stability.
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Taping: Offers added reinforcement for weak or recovering joints.
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Footwear: Properly fitted shoes provide shock absorption and ankle support.
Training & Conditioning:
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Preseason Checks: Early screenings can highlight existing vulnerabilities before they become injuries.
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Strength Training: Builds resilience in muscles, ligaments, and tendons, making them less prone to damage.
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Flexibility & Warm-Ups: Dynamic stretching and activation drills prepare the body for high-intensity play.
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Technique Coaching: Correct form reduces unnecessary stress and lowers injury risk.
Supportive Habits:
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Hydration & Nutrition: Fuels muscles, supports recovery, and helps prevent fatigue-related injuries.
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Awareness: Listening to the body and respecting pain signals can stop small problems from escalating.
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Equipment Checks: Worn or damaged gear should always be replaced to ensure safety.
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Following Rules: Sporting regulations often exist for athlete safety — using mandated equipment is part of staying protected.
How Fempro Armour Makes the Difference
While general protective strategies help, female athletes need targeted solutions for areas most at risk. This is where Fempro Armour steps in.
Our CE-certified female chest armour is built to absorb and disperse force where women need it most. Unlike generic foam pads or poorly fitting “unisex” gear, Fempro Armour is designed for the female form — delivering true protection to the chest, ribs, and sternum without restricting movement.
When paired with smart conditioning, proper gear, and supportive routines, our armour ensures athletes can step onto the field with confidence, knowing they’re protected from both everyday hits and game-changing impacts.
Bottom Line: Injury prevention requires a complete system — equipment, preparation, and health habits. But for women in contact sports, Fempro Armour fills the most critical gap: chest and rib protection engineered for female athletes.
Want to learn more about how Fempro Armour is leading the charge in female athlete protection? Contact us or explore our latest products designed for female and male athletes.