Most Protective Motorcycle Gear Materials
Motorcycle collisions can cause severe physical injuries that the victim may have to live with for the rest of his or her life. As a motorcyclist, your safety is in your hands. Choosing the best protective gear to wear, made from materials that are proven to be effective, can reduce your risk of major injury in a motorcycle accident.
Dyneema
The best motorcycle gear optimizes both safety and comfort. For this reason, textiles such as Dyneema have become more common rather than only the traditional leather motorcycle gear. Textiles can offer advantages such as being lighter weight, more comfortable and more flexible than leather. With a strength that is about 15 times more than steel, Dyneema offers the highest level of protection as a motorcycle gear fabric. A textile that is reinforced with Dyneema can provide optimal protection in an accident while remaining breathable and comfortable. The average durability of Dyneema is between 5 to 10 years. Dyneema-reinforced jackets, vests or jeans will not absorb moisture the same way as Kevlar, another popular textile additive in motorcycle gear. It is also more breathable, making it the better choice when riding in hot weather. Dyneema-enforced textiles combine outstanding protection from abrasion with comfort.
Kevlar
Kevlar is the same material that is used to make bullet-proof vests, as well as to armor helicopters. It is a military-grade fiber that offers superior protection yet is still lightweight. Kevlar is a good material for longevity in a motorcycle jacket, as it stands up well to impact and high-intensity wear. Many cotton-based motorcycle denim is layered with Kevlar for enhanced protection and durability. However, unlike Dyneema (which has a cooling effect), Kevlar can absorb moisture and generate heat.
Cordura
Cordura is lighter and does not cost as much as Kevlar when added to textile gear, but it still offers abrasion resistance and protection in an accident. Cordura is known for being breathable, with good airflow as well as water-resistant properties. Many waterproof motorcycle jackets have Cordura present in their outer shells, making them ideal for wet-weather rides. However, Cordura does not offer the same amount of protection as Dyneema or Kevlar.
Leather
Leather is considered the best protective material for motorcycle gloves and boots. Leather is extremely durable and can protect the wearer’s skin from contact with rough surfaces, such as asphalt, to help prevent road rash. Leather is also easy to clean and lasts a long time. However, leather is not ideal in extreme weather conditions and it is not water-resistant.
Protect Yourself Before and After a Motorcycle Accident
When it comes to choosing the right motorcycle gear, think about the conditions you will most often be riding in: are they hot? Cold? Wet? This can help determine the material that is best for you. No matter what you choose, the material should offer a high degree of protection to help prevent injury in the event of an accident. If you suffer an injury in a motorcycle accident despite wearing strong protective gear, help is available at Rose, Klein & Marias, LLP. Our LA injury attorneys have extensive experience representing bikers in insurance claims and lawsuits. We can seek maximum compensation for your injuries, medical bills and other losses. Contact us today for a free consultation.