Motorbike clothing and helmet safety: what you need to know
Motorcycling is one of the most exciting forms of transport, but it also comes with risks. Therefore, it is crucial to be well protected with the right motorbike clothing and helmets.
The importance of good motorbike clothing
Motorbike clothing is not just a fashion statement, but a necessary safety tool. The right motorbike clothing can make the difference between a serious injury and a minor injury in a crash. Here are some important considerations when choosing motorbike clothing:
- Material choice: Leather and textile are the two most common materials for motorbike clothing. Leather offers excellent wear protection, but textiles can be lighter and more comfortable, especially in changing weather conditions.
- Waterproofing: For many motorcyclists, waterproofing is a crucial factor. Textile jackets with waterproof membranes such as Gore-Tex can be a good choice, especially in wet climates.
- Layering: Jackets with removable liners are versatile and can be adjusted to different temperatures, ensuring comfort on both hot and cold rides.
Safety standards and Protection
One of the most important things to consider when choosing motorbike clothing is the safety mark. Most modern motorbike clothing has a CE mark, indicating that it meets certain European safety standards.
- CE Mark: This mark can be found in most motorbike clothing sold in Europe. It is important to check whether the clothing has this seal, especially if you are buying outside Europe. Jackets, trousers and helmets have certification marks, but so do gloves and shoes.
- Abrasion resistance rating (A ratings): Motorbike clothing is also rated according to abrasion resistance, denoted by one to three A's. A single A's means the clothing is more comfortable but less abrasion-resistant. Three A's indicate the highest abrasion resistance and safety, but may be less comfortable. If you want more details on ratings, you can visit D3O's website: https://www.d3o.com/d3o-news/motorcycle-armor-ce-certification/
- Protectors: Protectors are essential for impact protection. They are classified into 2 levels: Level 1 and Level 2, with Level 2 offering better protection. Some modern protectors such as D3O Ghost are thin and flexible, but still offer Level 2 protection, providing a good balance between comfort and safety.
Choosing the right helmet
Helmets are probably the most important piece of equipment for any motorcyclist. They protect your head in an accident and can save lives. Here are some important aspects to look out for when choosing a helmet:
- Safety standards: Helmets must meet strict safety standards. In Europe, the ECE 22.05 and the newer ECE 22.06 labels apply. The 22.06 standard offers improved safety through more extensive testing procedures.
- Fit and Comfort: A helmet should fit well without being too tight or too loose. Wearing a helmet that does not fit properly can reduce protection.
- Lifespan of Helmets: Helmets have a limited lifespan, usually around five years. Even if a helmet is not used often, the materials can degrade over time, which can reduce protection. So it's good to pay attention to that, and check the inside or your chin strap to see how old your helmet actually is, because it does have a maximum lifespan.
Undergarments and extra protection
There are also other forms of protection available that can be worn under your regular clothing. For example:
- Protective Underwear: Brands such as Pando Moto offer leggings and vests that can be worn under your normal clothing. These offer abrasion and impact protection without sacrificing style.
- Replaceable Protection: Many jackets and trousers have pockets for protectors that are removable, so you can wash the clothing without the protectors in it. Or you can upgrade Level 1 protectors to a higher level of protection.
Practical tips when buying motorbike clothing and helme
- Buy locally: Try to try on motorbike clothing and helmets in a shop before buying. This will ensure you get the right size and fit. The shop staff will also be able to help you with the right ratings.
- Read reviews: Check out reviews from other motorcyclists to get an idea of a product's performance in real life.
- Look out for offers: Obsolete models of helmets with older labels can often be found at discounted prices, but make sure they still meet the necessary safety standards..
Conclusion
The safety of motorbike clothing and helmets cannot be underestimated. By paying attention to labels, wear ratings, and impact protection, you can ensure that you are well protected on every ride. Don't forget to regularly check your gear and replace it if necessary, so you are always optimally protected.
For more information and advice, visit our specialist shops in Belgium, the Netherlands or Austria, or browse our website for a wide range of safe motorbike clothing and helmets. Safe motorcycling starts with the right equipment!
