There is an 80% injury and death rate for motorcycle accidents. This is significantly higher than car accidents; however, it shouldn’t stop you from riding your bike.
Before hitting the road, it’s important that you research and invest in motorcycle riding gear. The right gear will help ensure your safety and protect you in case of an accident.
Wearing a motorcycle vest comes has a lot of benefits which we will talk about later in the guide. However, choosing the right one isn’t as easy as it sounds. There are a lot of factors to consider and it’s not a decision you can make without research.
We want everyone to be safe on the road, so we’ve listed everything you need to know below. Keep reading for more information on motorcycle safety!
Consider Material
One of the first factors to consider when you’re choosing a motorcycle vest is the material.
You want it to provide maximum protection but also be comfortable. No matter how long your ride is, you don’t want your vest to be causing skin irritation. Durability is one of the key components to be on the lookout for when you’re searching for the best option.
Leather vests are very common because they are durable and last a long time. A textile vest is another option and will provide more versatility and may come with additional features.
Keep in mind the main goal of the vest is to provide protection.
Check Fit and Size
Searching for a vest online is a great way to see all of your options. However, it’s crucial that you try on vests before making a final decision. This will help you ensure that it fits properly.
If a vest is too tight, it will be uncomfortable and could restrict your movement. The last thing you want when you’re riding your bike is to have your range of motion compromised.
If it’s too loose, it may not provide as much protection. The vest should cover your chest and back completely. If there’s a portion that is uncovered or if there’s a gap, you may want to continue the search.
When making your purchase online, be sure to check the manufactures sizing charts. This will allow you to find and choose a size that will fit your body type.
You also want to check the return policy. Once it comes in the mail, try it on and make sure it fits. If it doesn’t, you can send it back and buy a new one.
Assess Visibility
When you’re riding your motorcycle at night, you always want other cars and vehicles to be able to see you. Even though your motorcycle has lights, it’s important that your vest has reflective panels or strips.
This will make it easier for other drivers to see you and decrease your chances of being in an accident.
You never know when weather conditions can change, so it’s crucial that you have a reflective vest on everything you ride. It could start raining or become cloudy without warming and you always want other people to see you.
Is There Ventilation
Vest ventilation is one of the most common factors that people forget to consider. However, if you’ve ever ridden your bike out west in the summer, you know the heat can be brutal. Having motorcycle gear with ventilation can make all the difference.
You don’t want to overheat on your drive. Mesh panels and air flaps can help regulate your body temperature on hot days and make the ride more enjoyable.
You don’t want to have to avoid driving your motorcycle because it’s too hot and muggy.
Look for Pockets and Storage
Unlike other vehicles, you don’t have a lot of storage on your motorcycle. That’s where a vest can come in handy.
There are how many options that have pockets and compartments that will make traveling short distances much more effortless.
It’s not uncommon to be concerned about your belongings coming out of your pockets on your ride. To avoid this issue, be on the lookout for a vest with compartments that are secure and also easily accessible.
Review Brand Reputation
Before making your purchase, it’s important that you research and find a reputable brand. Reading through customer reviews can help you determine if the product is going to be high quality or not.
Purchasing from a trusted brand will increase your chances of getting a product that will last you a long time and will also keep you safe. A well-known company is also going to take pride in its products and will be more likely to take customer feedback into consideration when they’re making the vests.
Analysis Armor and Protection
Unfortunately, when you’re riding your motorcycle, there isn’t much to protect you from injury. Motorcycle accidents can sometimes be very severe owing to the exposed nature of the vehicles, and if you are involved in one then it would be smart to hire a lawyer handling motorcycle crash lawsuits. Your safety is the number one priority, and that’s why it’s so important to look for a motorcycle vest that incorporates protective features.
Armor or padding can make your body less vulnerable and help lessen the impact if you are in an accident. There are some vests that come with inserts or panels that add extra protection.
Typically, the most vulnerable areas are the back, chest, and shoulders, so be sure these areas have adequate coverage. If you have other areas of concern, you should be able to find a motorcycle vest with extra padding.
Additional Features
We know we’ve covered a lot so far, but you want to consider some additional features. These may not be necessary if you’re using your bike for short trips or errands around town. However, if you’re planning a cross-country road trip or even a drive that’s a few hours long, you may find these features beneficial.
Removable insulation for riding in the winter can be very helpful. You may also want to consider waterproof or resistant material for rainy days.
There are also vests with adjustable straps for a customized fit. However, if you spend the time searching for the right one, you may not need this feature.
Benefits
There are countless benefits of wearing proper motorcycle gear. For starters, you can reduce and possibly eliminate your need for a local personal injury lawyer as you’ll be more protected. Other motorists will be able to see you as the vest and gear will provide more visibility.
The vest will also provide protection. Not only if you get into an accident, but also from flying rocks and debris. Weather protection is another key benefit.
Removable thermal liners, air ventilation, and waterproof materials will help keep you comfortable on your ride. It can also help keep the wind from getting to your skin when you’re traveling at high speeds.
Ultimately, a motorcycle vest helps you stay comfortable. When you’re driving and uncomfortable, you’re more likely to get distracted and either cause an accident or get in a wreck.
Once you invest in a vest, you’ll be surprised by how convenient it is to wear one. Having your essential items in the compartments of the vest allows easy access.
It can be very convenient to have your wallet, phone, small tools, and a first aid kit in reach. You can also keep your ID in a pocket for easy identification in case you’re involved in an accident.
Finding the Right Gear
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to learn where to start your search. There are a lot of brands out there, but they don’t all produce high-quality gear for motorcycle safety.
Start by talking to friends and people in the community that also own and ride motorcycles. They may have purchased vests in the past, and you can learn a lot from other people. Recommendations can help you narrow down your search significantly.
Online reviews can also be helpful. It’s important that you don’t make your decision solely on reviews, as some of them may not be authentic.
Cost isn’t always an indication of high quality, but analyzing the price can be a helpful tool.
Motorcycle Vest
Whether you’ve been riding a motorcycle for years or you just purchased your first one, you can benefit from a motorcycle vest. Your protection is the most important thing, and the proper gear can help ensure you get to your next destinations unharmed.
Unfortunately, when you’re riding your motorcycle, there isn’t much to protect you from injury. Your safety is the number one priority, and that’s why it’s so important to look for a motorcycle vest that incorporates protective features.
Keep this guide close by so you don’t forget anything important factors when you’re on the hunt for the perfect vest. We hope you’ve enjoyed the article. Keep browsing our site for more helpful tips and tricks.