Motorcycle riding can be a thrilling and exciting experience. However, it is also one of the most dangerous forms of transportation. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car occupants. With this in mind, wearing proper motorcycle gear is essential for staying safe on the road. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the importance of wearing motorcycle gear and what you should wear to protect yourself.
The most important piece of motorcycle gear is the helmet. Helmets protect your head and brain in the event of an accident, reducing the risk of head injury and death. According to the NHTSA, helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders and 41% effective for passengers. When choosing a helmet, look for one that meets safety standards, such as DOT or Snell.
A motorcycle jacket is another essential piece of gear. It not only keeps you warm but also protects your upper body from abrasions and impacts. Look for a jacket made of durable materials, such as leather or Kevlar, and one that has armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back for additional protection.
Wearing pants while riding a motorcycle is crucial, as it can protect your lower body from injuries in the event of an accident. Look for pants that are made of thick, durable materials, such as leather or Kevlar, and have armor in the knees and hips.
Gloves not only keep your hands warm but also provide protection for your hands and wrists. In the event of a fall, your hands and wrists are likely to hit the ground first, making gloves an essential piece of gear. Look for gloves that are made of durable materials, such as leather or Kevlar, and have armor in the knuckles and palm.
Finally, a good pair of motorcycle boots is essential for protecting your feet, ankles, and shins in the event of an accident. Look for boots that are made of durable materials, such as leather or Kevlar, and have a sturdy sole for good traction. Also, make sure the boots are comfortable enough for you to wear for long periods.
In conclusion, wearing proper motorcycle gear is essential for staying safe on the road. Helmets, jackets, pants, gloves, and boots all provide protection for different parts of your body in the event of an accident. When choosing gear, look for items that are made of durable materials and have armor in key areas. By taking the time to invest in quality gear, you can help reduce the risk of injury or death while riding a motorcycle.
As a companion piece to our “Top 5 Full Face Motorcycle Helmets” article, we bring you a list of the best DOT approved half helmets for those of you that enjoy living life on the edge. Although the half helmet is not nearly as protective as the full-face helmet, there are certainly some benefits.
First and foremost, I have always found that I feel much more free in a half helmet. You can hear the growl of your bike better and enjoy the sounds around you a bit more. Also, the visibility as a whole is much better in a half helmet, which does bring at least one safety benefit into play. Half helmets are generally more comfortable during long rides and weigh significantly less. They don’t put as much strain on your head, neck, and shoulders as full-face helmets do.
Anyways, if you are thinking about making the switch from full face to a half helmet, here is a list of potential options you might want to consider.
I, myself, have both a full-face helmet and a half helmet. I choose to wear my full-face helmet for colder riding weather and my half helmet for those hotter days. Having one of each may be an option you would like to consider as well.
The newly designed Rebel Warrior motorcycle half helmet is the ideal choice for motorbike riders looking for a more comfortable and stylish ride with its technology-loaded design, lightweight half face coverage, and cool comfortable fit.
Show off your USA pride with the aggressive patriotic flag design or choose one of the solid colors for a more streamlined look. The Rebel Warrior skull cap helmet is perfect for both men & women and loaded with features that offer you a more comfortable, custom fitting beanie motorcycle helmet.
Safety comes first, done! Then what? Visual Appeal and Comfort. That’s why we included a Free Head Wrap and Cloth Draw String Bag for you to enjoy.
Other items cut into your neck when bending your head back. We solved this problem by designing our Skull Cap with a contoured shape. This ensures that If you bend your head back our helmet will never cut into your neck. It will also prevent a lift effect at high speeds by keeping your Skull Cap straight instead of inclined. Daytona Helmets offers a wide selection, from Patriotic themes to famous landmarks, of colors and high-resolution novelty printed images for this Skull Cap.
The ultimate low profile half shell with dual density. The TORC Spec-Op is the helmet for you. It fits. With that slim, close to the head profile that others have tried to produce without success. The integrated, retractable drop-down sun visor is a great way to have sun shade when needed.
The LS2 Rebellion is a motorcycle half helmet that stands alone and charts its own course, just like you. We set out to revolutionize the half helmet market. We started with a stylish shell made of our high performance, lightweight Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA). It has just the right blend of retro-cool with a technical edge.
Imagine a half-shell motorcycle helmet that offers flow-through, ported ventilation to keep you cool on the hottest of days. The short peak and Twin Shield System drop down sunscreen will protect your eyes when the sun is in the horizon. The sun shield itself has a unique, two-stage adjustability: lock it 1/2 way for just a little shade, or full open for total sun protection. It’s called “Freedom of choice.”
Our dual-density EPS meets or exceeds DOT standards. Finish it off with a DOT approved micrometric, quick release chin-strap, and you have all the convenience and comfort of a traditional motorcycle half helmet, but with the technology of the future. The LS2 Rebellion is set up for easy and seamless installation of our new Link In Bluetooth communication system (Link In sold separately). If you’re a rider that sets his own course, the LS2 Rebellion was designed for you.
Lightweight Advanced Poly-carbonate Composite Shell. Superior fit and comfort using advanced CAD technology. Integrated smoked sun shield deploys easily. Plush and moisture-wicking Nylex interior with removable and washable anti-bacterial liner. Nylon strap D-Ring retention system. DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard.
Stand out from the crowd. The Rogue combines raw attitude and real-world practicality in one bad-ass helmet!
Purpose built to guard against the elements, the new Rogue has the look of a half helmet with the comfort of a 3/4. Featuring an adjustable and removable muzzle, the Rogue offers an innovative solution for exceptional rider comfort. Add in a lightweight composite shell and ultra-comfortable interior, and you’ve got the perfect weapon for a day on the road.
With 1″ of polystyrene protection, a Micro DOT Helmet Is super light (14oz – 18oz), super thin (1″) super comfortable and super cool (Not Hot). Being safe, comfortable and affordable without the “Mushroom Head” look has many benefits. The benefit your family will cherish above all others is that, You’ll Wear It! Sizing is Helmet Specific. To avoid exchanges for wrong fitting PLEASE measure your head circumference in Inches, against the size chart.
The LS2 Bagger 568 half helmet is deceptively full-featured. Start with an ultra-lightweight High Performance Fiberglass Composite (HPFC) shell. We add a removable, washable comfort liner is fully removable and washable, so you can keep it as fresh as new, (Always wash by hand and air dry).
We include a zip-off neck skirt that will keep you warmer on cool days, and can be removed when the sun is shining. The neck skirt has pockets for speakers from your MP3 player, and a hidden pocket around the neck to hide any wires. It includes a removable, 3-snap peak to shade your eyes. DOT approved.
Choosing the right motorcycle helmet is an important decision that can impact your safety and comfort while riding. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a motorcycle helmet:
Safety Ratings: Look for helmets that have been tested and certified by reputable organizations such as the Department of Transportation (DOT), Snell Memorial Foundation, or the European ECE. Helmets with these certifications are more likely to provide adequate protection in the event of an accident.
Fit: A properly fitting helmet is crucial for both safety and comfort. The helmet should fit snugly but not be too tight, and it should not move around on your head. Use the manufacturer’s size chart to determine the correct size and try on helmets in person if possible.
Comfort: The helmet should be comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. Look for helmets with adjustable padding, ventilation, and a comfortable chin strap.
Style: Motorcycle helmets come in a variety of styles, including full-face, modular, open-face, and half helmets. Consider which style will best suit your needs and preferences.
Visibility: Look for helmets with reflective materials or bright colors to increase your visibility on the road, especially at night.
Weight: A heavy helmet can cause neck fatigue and discomfort over time. Look for helmets made with lightweight materials such as carbon fiber or polycarbonate.
Price: Quality helmets can be expensive, but it’s important to invest in a helmet that meets safety standards and fits well. Consider the cost as an investment in your safety.
Remember, a helmet is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you can wear while riding a motorcycle. Take the time to choose a helmet that fits well, meets safety standards, and is comfortable to wear.
