Why Gear Matters
Proper motorcycle gear can be the difference between walking away from a crash and life-changing injuries. It also matters for your legal case - proper gear shows you were a responsible rider.
The Essential Gear
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Helmets 🪖
The most important piece of gear.
What to Look For:
- DOT certification (minimum standard)
- Snell certification (higher standard)
- ECE 22.05 certification (European standard)
- Proper fit - snug but not uncomfortable
- Full-face for maximum protection
Why It Matters:
Helmets reduce fatal head injury risk by 37% and head injury risk by 69%.
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Jackets 🧥
Protection for your torso, back, and arms.
What to Look For:
- CE-rated armor in shoulders, elbows, back
- Abrasion-resistant material (leather or textile)
- High-visibility colors or reflective elements
- Proper ventilation for comfort
- Secure closure system
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Pants 👖
Your legs are vulnerable in crashes.
What to Look For:
- CE-rated knee and hip armor
- Reinforced seams and slide zones
- Connection points to jacket
- Riding jeans with Kevlar at minimum
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Boots 👢
Protect your feet and ankles.
What to Look For:
- Above-ankle height
- Reinforced toe and heel
- Oil-resistant sole
- Secure closure (no laces to catch)
- CE certification for impact protection
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Gloves 🧤
Your hands hit the ground first in most crashes.
What to Look For:
- Knuckle protection
- Palm sliders
- Secure wrist closure
- Proper fit for control operation
Gear and Your Legal Case
Wearing proper gear demonstrates responsible riding:
- Shows you took reasonable precautions
- Reduces severity of injuries (lowering medical costs)
- Defeats arguments about contributory negligence
- Gear condition documents crash severity
Always preserve your damaged gear as evidence after a crash.