Riding different vehicles, such as ATVs, scooters, or motorcycles, is fun, whether you are racing or doing it for recreational pleasure. Powersports might be exciting, but they are also dangerous due to factors like incompetent drivers on the road and unfriendly weather conditions. This is why it is crucial to prioritize your safety, regardless of your skills or confidence. Here is the safety equipment that every Powersports enthusiast should wear during their ride;
Motorcycle Helmet
As a Powersports enthusiast, you need a helmet to protect your head when riding your motorbike. According to medical experts, head injuries take a long time to recover. They can also cause severe brain trauma. In some cases, the traffic crash victims die or fail to recover.
Statistics indicate that head injuries cause the largest number of deaths among motorcycle riders. The most effective way to keep yourself safe is to wear a helmet before you hit the road or trail.
Today, you can find different types of helmets, all with different levels of protection. Ensure that your helmet fits properly and does not block your vision.
Additionally, consider choosing one that offers eye protection and has a partial or face shield. If you purchase the open-face helmet, ensure that you wear sunglasses.
Protecting Eyewear
Dust and debris will likely hit your eyes, especially if you are riding your motorcycle or ATV at a high speed. Wearing goggles can shield your eyes from these external materials.
It also lowers the risk of sports-related eye injuries. You can shop around to find eyewear that matches your style and fits your face for optimum protection.
Boots
You need the right shoes to ride safely and comfortably on the road or trail. Wearing open-toed shoes is risky because your toes might become painful when shifting gears on your bike. When riding your scooter, you will sit on the exhaust system and engine, and they might get hot and burn your feet.
Additionally, flip-flops and other open-toes shoes might slip off while you are on the bike and expose you to dangerous situations. This is why it is advisable to wear boots.
Your shoes should be sturdy and have a rugged sole to prevent you from slipping as you try to balance your bike at a stop. They should also have a low heel and a strong ankle support to make balancing easier. Boots with a durable material like leather offer better protection.
Gloves
A pair of gloves is the second most common safety gear after a helmet. If you get involved in an accident, your hands will likely be the first to touch the ground. It is because your natural inclination will be to use your hands to support yourself and break the fall.
Wearing gloves will protect your hands in case of an accident. They will also offer protection against the strong wind or heat as you ride. Ensure your gloves have adequate padding around the palm, fingers, and knuckles.
Some types have textured surfaces around the palm and finger areas to offer a better grip on the brake levers. Leather is the best material because it is sturdy and durable. You can also choose a waterproof pair.
Mouth Guards
Wearing a mouth guard can be necessary as it protects your teeth, lips, and tongue from potential injuries. It also reduces the risk of experiencing a fractured jaw or concussion in case of an accident.
Choose a mouth guard that fits perfectly and stays in place even when you hit a rough terrain. Also, ensure that it does not restrict you from breathing and speaking comfortably.
Jacket
A jacket will protect you from bugs, wind, and sun. Different jackets on the market today have varying features. For instance, some have sturdy pads along the shoulders and elbow area for additional protection. Such types prevent road rash in case of an accident.
A full all-weather jacket is an excellent option because you can wear it during the cold or hot seasons. It has detachable layers, which you remove if it gets too hot. You can choose between the leather or synthetic material, although the leather is more durable. Also, ensure that the riding jacket you wear fits well.
Riding Pants
Many riders assume that wearing a pair of jeans or sweatpants is enough. It is essential to know that there are pants uniquely designed for this role.
Riding pants have heavy armor and adequate ventilation. Most of them have a waterproof layer. If you are an aggressive rider, consider investing in a set with additional knee protection. Also, invest in riding pants that are slightly larger than your regular pants so that you can wear them effortlessly during long rides.
Knee and Ankle Guards
It is essential to wear knee and ankle guards in addition to the jacket and riding pants. Choose the light and compact types that will make you feel as comfortable as possible during your ride.
Riding/Racing Suit
This advanced riding gear is a jumpsuit that integrates the upper and lower body guards in one place. The suits are only available in leather.
In case of a motorcycle fall, this material allows you to slide easily, reducing the risk of severe scratches and injuries. Some manufacturers equip these suits with high-tech devices to identify all physical conditions that you experience on the road.
Ear Plugs
The noise that comes from the wind can damage your ears. This is where earplugs come in. This safety gear protects your ears from the wind noise and allows you to hear other sounds like car horns. Many motorbike owners underestimate the significance of earplugs until they go for a long ride.
High-Visibility Vest
A reflective motorbike vest ensures that other drivers and riders can see you. Ensure that you wear it when riding at night, under unfriendly weather conditions, and in high-traffic areas.
In summary, protective gear guarantees a safe, enjoyable, and comfortable ride. Wearing a helmet, goggles, earplugs, jacket, riding pants, riding suit, and boots prepares you for any circumstances that you might encounter during your ride.