I’m 51 yo guy who didn’t start seriously riding till I was 47. Yes I wear pads. I like Poc products. Vpd jacket mostly just for shoulders and elbows and their bones knee pads. Usually I just wear the knee pads unless I’m planning a rowdy ride or going full DH. Can’t tell how many times this gear has saved me from the ER. I’ve done epic endos fallen down 10’embankments rag dolled down rock pikes etc. never a serious injury while wearing armor. Before I started wearing armor i got a grade 3ac joint separation and cracked ribs. Wear the stuff!!