We know to put on a helmet every time we ride, but helmets are not the only basic protection that riders need.

Other than helmets, motorcycle safety gear such as riding gloves, boots and jackets will comfort your body and protect your limbs from injury during accidents.

Gloves shield your hands from the windy cold as well as flying stones and low-hanging branches, while boots guard your feet against the worst injuries.

I care as much as you do about being able to enjoy riding safely and in comfort whenever I want. Choosing protective gear can be tricky, and this is why I’m writing this guide on what a rider should look for.

Boots

A good pair keeps feet dry against spraying water and mud from the ground. Low-cut models formed with perforated leathers or microfibers allow air to cool your feet on warm days.

Check for double-stitching or better on soles and other areas which tend to come apart. Abrasion-resistant layers, armor inserts, and sliders that cover the heels, ankles, and sides offer worthwhile protection along with metal-plated toe boxes. Make sure you choose boots with anti-slip soles and straps for any laces to prevent them from catching on moving parts.

Good boots are usually harder to put on and take off, but this also means they are less likely to slip off during accidents. There are vented models with perforation or mesh uppers that will suit bikers doing runs on hot days.

It’s wisest to wear your motorcycle boots any time you go riding. Here are some motorcycle boots models to fit different seasons.

Helmets

Wise bikers always wear their helmets. It’s the most critical protective gear for everyone. Those who don’t wear helmets are more likely to suffer worse long-term damage and fatal injuries during bad falls.

A helmet will greatly reduce wind noise and thus reduce your fatigue during long rides. Half-cap models offer far less shielding than full-face helmets with visors. Leaving a helmet unsecured can be almost as bad as failing to wear one when something happens, so make sure to fasten the chin strap every time you ride.

DOT certified models that provide protection for the entire face are recommended. Other product safety ratings such as Snell are great for finding the best-designed models that you can still wear comfortably.

Gloves

Motorcycle gloves have reinforced parts that shield your hands against harsh impacts during bad tumbles. They also protect against flying debris and splashing water as well as assist you in grasping the controls and grips better.

The better models vent heat and flow in cooling air in hot conditions, or else insulate against leaks and trap warm air in cold season. Short-cuffed gloves with perforated leather or mesh materials allow in cool air on hot days. Long gauntlets with tough shells and cozy linings should leave your hands warm against oncoming cold winds.

Look for high-quality stitching on areas that are most likely to come apart, such as sewn palms. Lightweight nylon or leather shells that include armoring for the knuckle and palm areas are great choices. Pick models with layers that resist abrasion and cover your fleshy parts such as the palms. The best have shells and tips that are contoured to prevent your wrists and fingers from being overly bent and twisted during rolls.

Jacket & Pants

Rider-oriented clothes made of tough materials will stave off the wind, insects, and anything else flying as you beat fast down the pavement. Look for armor inserts around elbows and knees and sliders on the shoulder and buttocks. Check for padding to keep you comfortable and insulated linings for use in colder climes.

Needless to say, waterproof versions will keep you from getting fully drenched in rain. Pricier multi-season jackets and pants can be worth it as they do more than protect your skin from injury. Their vents and moisture-wicking materials can better cool you in the heat, warm you in the cold, and dry you out after a downpour.

Drivers involved in crashes with bikers often say they did not spot them in time, so it makes sense to wear brightly colored or striped clothes and accessories.

Safety Is Worth The Cost

I rely on a few pieces of motorcycle safety gear (and common sense) as you should. Bike owners of various styles and disciplines will find a range of stuff on the market suitable for different seasons and budgets.

Frankly, if you are serious you will ride all geared up more often than not. Whatever you choose, always remember to put on the best protective gear you can afford. 

Author Biography

Over the past 10 years, Lucas Knight has been a motorcycle rider. He has built up an incredible passion for travelling by motorbike and always wishes to contribute to motorcyclist community. This is the reason why he created MotorManner.com where his passion is turned into useful and interesting information to the motorcycle lover.