But I do remember how once I started riding with elbow and knee pads I felt much more confident going over rocks etc so I didn’t tense up or brake as much and became better at them.
Seems reasonable, especially if you're heading out to session some jumps or going somewhere with uplift.
I've only ever bothered with full face at Revs or Antur Stiniog (and might if I ever go to BPW again).
Overkill.
But I do remember how once I started riding with elbow and knee pads I felt much more confident going over rocks etc so I didn’t tense up or brake as much and became better at them.