For safe motorcycle riding only a good riding skill or experience is not enough. To ensure maximum safety you have to wear the best quality motorcycle riding gear. Many riders invest a lot of money to buy riding gear but they don’t know how to buy the perfect gear for them. So don’t waste your money investing in the wrong motorcycle gear. Here are some steps that I consider for buying my motorcycle gear and I believe that these steps will also help you to select the right motorcycle gear for you.
1. Helmet
A helmet is the most important piece of all your motorcycle gear. There are many types of helmets available on the market such as Full-face helmets, Modular helmets, Open-face helmets, and Half helmets. Between them, a full-face helmet provides maximum safety. The full-face helmet is specially designed for long-distance and high-speed riders. Modular helmets are a hybrid helmet between full-face and open-face helmets. These helmets also provide good protection and are popular among touring riders. I will never suggest you buy Open-face helmets and Half helmets.
Tips: Your first consideration will be the helmet you are buying that meets the safety standards such as DOT (Department of Transportation), ECE (Economic Commission for Europe), or Snell certification. Check well that the helmet fits properly and comfortably on your head. A properly fitting helmet should be snug but not tight. Try on several sizes and see what fits you. Ensure the helmet has a clear, anti-fog visor and adequate ventilation to keep your face and head cool. Lighter helmets reduce fatigue on long rides but ensure proper safety.
2. Riding jacket
Among riding jackets most prominent materials are leather, textile, and mesh. Leather jackets are known for their abrasion resistance, durability, versatility, and style. Textile jackets are made from synthetic materials like nylon or polyester. Textile jackets are versatile, offering good protection, breathability, and weather resistance. Mesh jackets are ideal for hot-weather riding. Mesh jackets offer maximum ventilation but provide basic protection.
Tips: Select a jacket that is CE-rated armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back. Make sure your jacket is snugly fitted to your body and not making any difficulties when you move your arms. If you ride during the rain purchase a waterproof jacket. Buy a jacket according to your riding hours. If you mostly ride at night time and in foggy weather, select a jacket with reflective materials or bright colors. It will enhance your visibility to other drivers on the road.
3. Gloves purchasing tips
Gloves are one of the most vital parts of motorcycle gear. Purchase your gloves according to your needs. Whatever leather or textile gloves you are buying make sure the gloves are comfortable to wear, well fitted, and maintain a good grip with your motorcycle handlebar. Purchase gloves with knuckle protection, palm sliders, and reinforced fingers for better protection.
4. Boots
There are various types of boots available in the market such as sport boots, touring boots, cruiser boots, and adventure boots. Select the right boots according to your riding type. Sport boots are mainly made for aggressive riding and provide better protection than any other boots. Some sports boots have features like reinforced toes, ankles, and shin which ensure better protection. Touring boots are for long-distance riding. Cruiser boots are known for casual riding. Adventure Boots are specially made for off-road riding.
Tips: Buy a boot that is perfectly fitted with your foot. Purchase a boot that offers a non-slip or oil-resistant sole for better grip. Make sure the boot is comfortable and not causing any problems with feet.
Be patient to find the perfect gear for you. The perfect fitted and quality gear will improve your safety and style. Comfort and weather adaptability are also very important for making every ride more enjoyable.