I can say, after breaking my ribs on my handlebars a couple summers ago, that a chest protector is a very good idea. Now I never ride without one. You just never know what can happen on a ride. The more protection the better. Currently I wear at least an EVS chest and back protector, but that is my preference. Finding something that fits comfortably and protects adequately are the first two things I look for. After all, a chest protector doesn't protect chests if it is sitting in the gear bag because it doesn't fit right.
(ETA sounds like 08700xx and I were on the same wavelength. )