The Importance Of Properly Fitting Riding Gear
When it comes to powersports, safety and comfort are most important. Whether you're hitting the trails on an ATV, cruising the highways on a motorcycle, or tackling rugged terrains in a UTV, properly fitting riding gear is important. At 2Brothers Powersports in Onalaska, Wisconsin, we know the significance of wearing gear that fits well for maximum protection and comfort. In this post, we’ll discuss why the fit of riding gear is so important, what features to look for, and explore the top brands we carry, including Fly Racing, Can-Am, and ICON.
Why Properly Fitting Riding Gear Is Important
Safety And Comfort
The primary purpose of riding gear is to protect you in the event of an accident. Gear that fits correctly stays in place and provides the intended protection. Here’s why fit matters:
Helmets: A well-fitted helmet protects your head by absorbing impact and reducing the risk of serious injury. A loose helmet can shift during a crash, failing to protect critical areas. Additionally, a properly fitting helmet helps distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure points.
Jackets and Suits: These provide abrasion resistance and impact protection. If a jacket is too loose, it can shift during a fall, exposing skin to the pavement. If it’s too tight, it can restrict movement and reduce the effectiveness of padding. Proper fit also allows for full range of motion without causing chafing or discomfort.
Gloves: Properly fitted gloves protect your hands from abrasions and impacts while maintaining dexterity. Loose gloves can come off in an accident, while tight gloves can cause discomfort and reduce control. Comfortable gloves help maintain a strong grip on handlebars.
Boots: Fitted boots protect your feet and ankles from impacts and abrasions. They should be snug enough to stay on during a crash but not so tight that they cause discomfort or restrict movement. Comfortably fitting boots prevent blisters and give stability.
Choosing The Right Riding Gear
Instead of just measuring for gear, consider these tips and factors to help you select the right riding gear:
1. Material Quality
The material of your riding gear significantly impacts both safety and comfort. Look for high-quality, abrasion-resistant materials like leather, Kevlar, or advanced synthetics that offer durability and protection. Check that the gear has reinforced areas, especially in high-impact areas like elbows, knees, and shoulders.
2. Ventilation And Climate Adaptability
Riding gear should provide adequate ventilation to keep you cool in warm weather and insulation to keep you warm in colder conditions. Look for gear with adjustable ventilation panels, removable liners, and moisture-wicking fabrics to maintain comfort across different climates.
3. Armor And Padding
Quality riding gear often includes built-in armor or padding to protect against impacts. Check that jackets, pants, and suits come with CE-rated armor in critical areas like shoulders, elbows, back, hips, and knees. Some gear allows for additional armor inserts if needed.
4. Adjustability And Fit Customization
Choose gear that offers adjustability to fine-tune the fit. Features like adjustable waist straps, Velcro closures, and stretch panels can help you achieve a snug yet comfortable fit. This is particularly important for making sure that armor stays in place during a crash.
5. Reflective Elements
For enhanced safety, especially in low-light conditions, select gear with reflective elements. Reflective piping, logos, and panels improve visibility to other motorists, reducing the risk of accidents.
6. Purpose-Specific Design
Select gear designed specifically for your type of riding. For instance:
Off-Road Riding: Look for gear with increased flexibility, durability, and ventilation, such as off-road pants and jerseys.
Touring: Opt for gear with extensive storage pockets, weatherproof materials, and comfort-focused features for long rides.
Sport Riding: Choose gear that offers maximum protection and aerodynamic efficiency, like race suits and armored jackets.
Top Brands At 2Brothers
At 2Brothers Powersports, we carry a wide range of high-quality riding gear from leading brands, including but not limited to:
Fly Racing
Fly Racing offers a range of gear designed for off-road and motocross riders. Their products are known for their durability, comfort, and innovative features. Properly fitting Fly Racing gear gives you the protection and flexibility needed for demanding rides.
Can-Am
Can-Am’s riding gear is designed to complement their vehicles, offering protection and comfort tailored to their powersports vehicles. Their gear features advanced materials and ergonomic designs for a perfect fit.
ICON
ICON is renowned for its stylish and protective gear for street and sport riders. Their products combine high-performance materials with unique designs, so you look good while staying safe. ICON gear fits snugly and comfortably, offering excellent protection.
Conclusion
Properly fitting riding gear is important for your safety and comfort while riding. By considering factors like material quality, ventilation, armor, adjustability, and purpose-specific design, you can make informed decisions that enhance your riding experience. At 2Brothers Powersports in Onalaska, Wisconsin, we are here to help you find the perfect gear. Visit us today to get expert advice and explore our selection of Fly Racing, Can-Am, and ICON gear and more!