
Dirt-bike riding and other motorsports are a lot of fun, but they’re not easy on the ill-prepared. Without the proper riding gear, you won’t be able to get the most out of your motorsports experience. In fact, you could even end up in an unsafe situation. The gear that dirt bike and ATV riders wear may be cool, but it’s not just for show. The proper gear is essential to your safety.
But finding the perfect gear isn’t always easy. That’s why we’re here today to discuss a few things you should consider as you narrow down your choices for the ultimate in riding gear. We’ve got tips, tricks, and criteria for your consideration, and it’s all just below — so read on!
Focus On Safety
The single most important thing that proper motorsports gear does for you is protect you. Helmets are proven to be incredibly effective in reducing death or injury in all sorts of situations, and in the sometimes dangerous world of motorsports, they should be considered mandatory.
Tough jackets, pants, gloves, and boots are ideal for protecting your skin and body in the event that you get into a slide or are thrown from your vehicle. From goggles to boots, safety is the No. 1 thing that you should consider as you shop for gear.
Look for tough materials that will still breathe well enough to keep you cool and comfortable. Work with knowledgeable motorsports shop employees and look up online reviews to ensure that you’re picking gear that has a good real-life track record in protecting riders.
The Fit’s the Thing
Choosing motorsports gear that fits you well is very important. In addition to looking better on you, fitted gear is going to be better able to accomplish its intended purpose. Take a helmet, for instance. If a helmet is too small, it won’t fit you (obviously), and you won’t wear it. But if it’s too big and your head is rattling around in there, you’re not going to get the proper cushioning in the event of a crash.
You can get a good idea of what kind of sizes you need by measuring yourself. For instance, you can measure yourself for a dirt-bike jacket in the same way that you might measure yourself for a blazer or sports coat (that is, by measuring your chest and arms). But it’s also a very good idea to try on stuff before you buy it, or to shop at reliable online retailers that have good return policies.
Check to make sure that your fits are close, but not restrictive — you don’t want to be all decked out in gear that’s going to make you less effective as a rider, but you also don’t want baggy and loose gear that will get caught on stuff or will be less effective at protecting you. Aim for that happy medium, and get gear that fits like a second skin.
Brand Names Matter
Brand name gear sometimes costs a bit more, but it is often well worth the expense to go with a reliable brand name. When you go with Alpinestars boots or a brand-name helmet, you can be more sure of getting a high-quality product. You’ll be safer, your gear will last longer, and you’ll be able to rest easy knowing you’re protected.
Of course, it doesn’t hurt that brand-name gear also helps your motorsports style game stay on point! When you pick the right gear, you’ll get to look good and feel safe at the same time.