How High Quality Motorcycle Gear Reduces Risk in Accidents

Riding a motorcycle is thrilling, no doubt about it. With the wind in your face, you experience a sense of freedom as the world whips by and you focus on enjoying the journey. But it’s also inherently risky.

In the unfortunate event of an accident, the difference between minor scrapes and serious injury often comes down to one crucial factor; your gear. High-quality motorcycle gear isn’t just a fashion statement, it’s an investment in your safety.

Statistics from the European Commission reveal that riders without protective clothing are far more likely to sustain severe injuries. Real-life experiences, including the PANDO MOTO crash tested stories, underscore this. Consider the case of MB, a rider who walked away from a motorway collision after being clipped by a car thanks to his abrasion resistant gear. His jeans may have been shredded, but the SKIN UH 03 leggings underneath kept his skin intact.

Let’s break down how motorcycle gear plays a role in keeping you safe on the road, and what to look for when choosing top-notch protection.

The role of motorcycle gear in rider safety

When it comes to motorcycle protection, your gear is your first and last line of defense. There are no airbags or vehicle superstructure to keep you safe, when things go south you need to be able to rely on what you’re wearing to protect you.

What gear is appropriate can depend on the style of riding you do. Some equipment like helmets, motorcycle pants and jackets, and armor, are used both on and off the road. Others are most specialised, like the neck braces used by many dirt bike riders. Understanding what protection you need for the style of riding you do is a starting point for finding the right motorcycle gear to reduce your risk.

Base layers

While sometimes overlooked, modern motorcycle base layers can be an impressive combination of textile technology and design choices that result in a versatile, durable piece of protection. They can wick away moisture, regulate body temperature, and reduce chafing, making long rides more comfortable, while also providing high levels of protection when made of advanced, abrasion resistant textiles like Balistex. 

One of the beauties of base layers is that they’re versatile. On warm, summery days you can wear the layers by themselves or with a T-shirt, staying cool while remaining protected. When night falls or the days start to get cooler you can layer them with casual clothes or other riding gear, making base layers suitable for year-round use.

Motorcycle jeans

Not all jeans are created equal. Regular denim might look rugged, but it offers little resistance against asphalt, putting you at greater risk for injury during an accident. 

Motorcycle jeans, on the other hand, are often made of specialised denims where cotton has been woven with man-made threads to create abrasion and tear-resistant fabrics. A prime example of this is Armalith, one of the strongest denims in the world which is made using UHMWPE fiber and cotton.

Purpose-built to withstand slides, motorcycle jeans can protect your skin from serious road rash. Some also include pockets for impact cushioning knee and hip armor, ensuring these high-impact areas of the body are covered.

Motorcycle jackets

Your jacket does more than just block the wind and keep you warm; it’s a critical piece of armor designed to protect the core of your body. High-quality motorcycle jackets are made of materials such as leather or Cordura, that offer excellent abrasion and tear resistance. Like motorcycle pants, many also include built-in or removable armor to protect vulnerable areas, in this case, the shoulders, elbows, and back.

One of the good things about high-quality motorcycle jackets is that as well as being protective, they tend to be functional and stylish too. Premium options often include features like ventilation pockets, waterproofing, removable insulating layers, and rubberized cuffs, meaning you can choose a jacket that fits your riding conditions, as well as your personal sense of style.

Body armor

Speaking of armor, it’s worth emphasizing its importance as a stand-alone piece of gear. Most motorcycle clothing is designed to slide and resist abrasion, but it’s not impact cushioning. This is where armor comes in.

Armored pads should be strategically placed in jackets and pants to absorb the forces of an accident, helping reduce the risk of life-altering injuries. These pads need to be high quality and made of appropriate materials to be fit for purpose.

Other motorcycle gear to consider

As mentioned before, there’s a wide range of motorcycle gear available with pieces to protect just about every part of your body. As well as base layers, pants, jackets and armor, here’s some other motorcycle gear worth wearing if risk reduction on the road is your aim.

• Helmet
• Goggles
• Gloves
• Boots

For whatever reason, some people might consider substituting casual clothes for riding gear, for example wearing a pair of sunglasses instead of motorcycling goggles, or winter gloves rather than riding gloves. That brings us to the importance of materials and construction.

Why materials and construction matter

When it comes to motorcycle gear, the devil is in the details. Materials like leather, Baltistex, and Cordura are capable of resisting the heat and friction of a slide. Casual clothes can’t. To reduce risk your gear needs to be made of materials that have been tested and are fit for purpose.

It’s not just about the fabric either; how the gear is constructed matters just as much. Double stitched seams prevent tearing, while reinforced panels in key areas add to the durability. High-quality fastenings are less likely to rust or fail, and brands that are known for their craftsmanship and quality have a consistency that cheaper copies may not be able to match. Think of it as the difference between a parachute that’s hastily sewn together versus one meticulously crafted to withstand stress; you want the peace of mind of a higher quality safety net.

Tips for choosing high-quality motorcycling gear

With so many options on the market, selecting the right gear can feel overwhelming at times. Here are five tips to help guide you on your next purchase.

1. Prioritize durability and abrasion resistance by looking for materials like leather, Armalith, Balistex, or Cordura.
2. Check the gear is CE Certified as this means it has been independently tested and rated against the European Union safety standards. Also, look for a CE performance level and check how that matches against the relevant standard.
3. Take the time to check your measurements and try on items where possible because wearing gear that’s too loose or too tight can compromise its effectiveness, as well as being uncomfortable. If you buy online, go with companies that have a sensible return policy in case you need to swap sizes.
4. Look for trusted and established brands like PANDO MOTO that have a reputation for quality and performance, making them a more reliable and thus safe choice.
5. Prioritize finding motorcycle gear that’s comfortable and safe because you’re more likely to wear something that feels good. It’s also easier to stay alert on the road when you’re comfortable, with focus on your surroundings being a huge part of accident risk reduction.

 

Ride safe, always

Investing in high-quality motorcycle gear is about more than ticking boxes, it’s about protecting your future. Each piece, from base layer to body armor, plays a critical role in reducing the risks associated with motorcycling. By understanding the role each piece of gear plays, as well as the importance of materials, construction, and fit, you’re not just buying gear; you’re buying peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones.

So, gear up wisely, ride confidently, and remember safety doesn’t just happen, it’s a choice you make every time you hit the road.