I have an opinion for sure but let me start with a few "facts". Crashing hurts and breaks things. Done that enought to know I dont like it so I decided several years ago to protect myself as well as possible without limiting movement/enjoyment. In mx I wore inflexible boots,knee braces, chest protector and full face helmet-even elbow gauards in the rocks or on ice. Fact is I ride -I crash. Can't seem to shake that cycle and kinda enjoy it in a weird way:). Fact is all the protective gear adds a layer between me and ground,rock,tree or bike. Given the choice I prefer that layer.
In trials I have for several years worn full face high quality downhill mountain bike helmet. I also wear chest protector(roost guard) and back guard albeit a lightweight one but it has some serious grooves from savin my skin!. I also wear knee guards and use them quite frequently! I have even been wearing a Leatt neck brace(get some snickers on that one. I prefer to not be paralyzed and can take the snickers so I will keep wearing it especially when I am attempting more difficult obstacles.
Does this protection come at a cost of lack of mobility? Most of it does not hinder mobility but for sure neck brace is annoying at times. I am seeking other braces that may offer more range of motion. Everything else I wear doesnt bother me in the least.
Now on to my opinion(oh boy! lol) A wisw man once told me if your going to be stupid you better be tough. I am neither(please dont ask around as you may get a different opinion!. I think most people should wear full face helmets. Give it a try for 3 rides and then let me know how it feels and what problems you are having as I would like to know. I think knee guards are mandatory. I think eye protection should be worn most of the time. I wear safety glasses 95%Z of the time. I dont like sticks or branches in my eyes. Last but not least I like to ride-not be injured. I have spent as much as 13 consecutive months on crutches and that gave me a lot of time to think about whether i prefer to be hurt or whether I will take precautions to keep me riding. I choose riding
My fingers hurt from typing- I am going to go polish my helmet