A neck protector comprising a collar sized and shaped to provide a continuous closure around a neck of a wearer. The collar has a first pair of opposed ends, with one end having a first tongue and the other a first groove. The first tongue fits into the first groove to form a first tongue and groove interlock, which is maintained with a closure. Also, an upper body protector which may be used in combination with the neck protector. The upper body protector comprises a body portion and a spine protector shield system, and/or a chest protector shield system attached to the body portion. Both shield systems comprise at least two overlapping shield sections sized, shaped and positioned to cover at least a portion of the wearer's spine or sternum, while permitting flex, freedom of movement, and venting.