Motorcycle riding is an exhilarating and adventurous activity that many people enjoy. However, it also comes with inherent risks and dangers, as motorcycle riders are more exposed and vulnerable to injuries and fatalities in the event of a crash. Motorcyclists have a 28-fold higher risk of dying in a traffic accident than occupants of passenger cars, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Therefore, motorcycle riders must wear proper protective gear, such as helmets, gloves, boots, and jackets. But one of the most important and often overlooked pieces of protective gear is motorcycle body armor.
Motorcycle body armor is a type of clothing or equipment that is designed to protect the rider’s body from impact, abrasion, and penetration in a crash. It usually consists of hard or soft pads that cover the chest, back, shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips. Some body armor can be worn as standalone pieces, while others can be inserted into pockets or slots in jackets, pants, or suits. Motorcycle body armor can provide various benefits for the rider, such as:
Reducing the risk and severity of injuries
Motorcycle body armor can absorb and dissipate the force of a crash, preventing or minimizing damage to the rider’s bones, organs, and tissues. Studies have shown that wearing body armor can significantly reduce the risk and severity of crash-related injury and hospitalization. For example, wearing a back protector can reduce the risk of spinal injury by 45%, and wearing a chest protector can reduce the risk of chest injury by 20%. Explore Twisted Throttle Discount for potential savings when considering the purchase of motorcycle body armor.
Enhancing comfort and performance
Motorcycle body armor can also improve the rider’s comfort and performance, especially in long or challenging rides. High-quality body armor can provide ventilation, moisture-wicking, and flexibility, keeping the rider cool, dry, and agile. Some body armor can also offer ergonomic features, such as adjustable straps, buckles, or Velcro, that allow the rider to customize the fit and the level of protection. Additionally, some body armor can also provide thermal insulation, wind resistance, and water repellency, making the rider more prepared for different weather conditions.
Boosting confidence and peace of mind
Motorcycle body armor can also give the rider more confidence and peace of mind, knowing that they are well-protected in case of a crash. Wearing body armor can make the rider feel more secure and relaxed, which can enhance their concentration and enjoyment of the ride. Furthermore, wearing body armor can also demonstrate the rider’s responsibility and professionalism, as it shows that they take their safety and the safety of others seriously.
However, not all motorcycle body armor is created equal. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best body armor for your needs, such as:
Safety standards and certifications
Motorcycle body armor should meet or exceed the relevant safety standards and certifications, such as the European CE or the American DOT. These standards and certifications ensure that the body armor has been tested and proven to provide adequate protection and quality. You can check the labels, tags, or websites of the body armor manufacturers or sellers to verify their safety standards and certifications. Consider checking for an Automotive Discount Code when looking for high-quality motorcycle body armor that meets safety standards.
Materials and construction
Motorcycle body armor should be made of durable and resilient materials that can withstand high impact and abrasion. Some of the most common materials used for body armor are thermoplastic resins, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, or high-tech foams, such as EVA or D3O. These materials can offer different levels of protection, comfort, and weight, depending on their density, thickness, and shape. You should also look for body armor that has strong and reliable stitching, seams, and closures, that can prevent the body armor from tearing or falling apart in a crash.
Fit and comfort
Motorcycle body armor should fit snugly and comfortably on your body, without restricting your movement or causing discomfort. You should measure your chest, waist, and limb circumference, and compare them with the size charts of the body armor manufacturers or sellers. You should also try on the body armor before buying it, and make sure that it does not slide, shift, or chafe on your body. You should also look for body armor that has breathable, moisture-wicking, and flexible fabrics, that can keep you cool, dry, and agile.
Style and preference
Motorcycle body armor should also suit your style and preference, as it can reflect your personality and taste. You can choose from different types, colors, and designs of body armor, depending on your riding style, purpose, and budget. For example, you can choose from strap-on or insertable body armor, depending on whether you want to wear it separately or with your existing clothing. You can also choose from black, white, or colored body armor, depending on whether you want to blend in or stand out. You can also choose from plain, patterned, or branded body armor, depending on whether you want to keep it simple or make a statement.
Conclusion
Motorcycle body armor is an essential piece of protective gear that every motorcycle rider should own and wear. It can protect the rider’s body from impact, abrasion, and penetration in a crash, reducing the risk and severity of injuries and fatalities. It can also enhance the rider’s comfort and performance, especially in long or challenging rides. It can also boost the rider’s confidence and peace of mind, knowing that they are well-protected in case of a crash. However, not all motorcycle body armor is created equal. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best body armor for your needs, such as safety standards and certifications, materials and construction, fit and comfort, and style and preference. By choosing the right body armor, you can enjoy the thrill and adventure of motorcycle riding, without compromising your safety and well-being.
