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Motorcycle Riding Gear

Wear The Proper Riding Gear

Wear riding gear that keeps you comfortable, visible, and protected. Choose clothing that helps you maintain a steady temperature, stay dry, and avoid discomfort from wind, hail, rocks, or bugs. Pick gear that helps you see and be seen, and that protects your body if a crash* happens.

Even with careful riding, crashes* can occur. Wearing the right gear—a DOT‑approved helmet, eye protection, a durable jacket and pants, sturdy gloves, and over‑the‑ankle footwear—gives you essential protection and can greatly reduce the severity of injuries. The right gear also makes every ride more comfortable and enjoyable.

*Safety professionals use the term “crash” instead of “accident” because “accident” suggests something unavoidable. Most crashes have clear, preventable causes, and using the term “crash” highlights that we can take steps to reduce them.

Helmets

Choose a properly fitting motorcycle helmet every time you ride. A good helmet keeps you comfortable by managing wind, weather, and debris so you can stay focused on the road. It also provides essential protection in a crash. Helmets greatly reduce the risk of death and are even more effective at preventing serious brain injuries.

  • In Nevada, riders and passengers are required to wear an approved motorcycle helmet that meets federal safety standards – look for the Department of Transportation (DOT) sticker on your helmet indicating it meets these standards. NRS 486.231

Eye Protection

Protect your eyes every time you ride. Many motorcycles don’t have windshields, so choose eye protection that keeps wind, insects, dirt, and debris from affecting your vision. Good vision helps you stay focused and aware.

Pick high‑quality goggles, glasses with safety lenses, or a helmet with a face shield. Make sure they’re scratch‑free, shatter‑resistant, and well‑ventilated to prevent fogging. Use only clear shields at night so you can see contrasts and hazards more easily. Even if your motorcycle has a windshield, wearing eye protection is still recommended.

  • In Nevada, motorcyclists and passengers must wear protective glasses, goggles, or face shields unless the motorcycle is equipped with a transparent windscreen. NRS 486.231

Jackets And Pants

Choose motorcycle‑specific gear that protects you from weather and abrasion. Wear a durable jacket with long sleeves that fit comfortably over your clothing. Pick long pants that fit snugly, cover your legs fully, and stay clear of the chain, hot exhaust, and foot‑pegs. You can also choose a one‑ or two‑piece riding suit for full‑body protection.

Help others see you. Wear bright colors, add a lightweight reflective vest, and use retro‑reflective materials on your gear, helmet, and motorcycle—especially when riding at night. Being visible gives other drivers more time to notice you and avoid a crash.

Gloves

Wear durable, non‑slip gloves to keep a firm, confident grip on your controls. Choose leather or sturdy fabric gloves with reinforced palms or grip strips. Gauntlet‑style gloves are a great option because they cover your wrists and help keep wind, insects, and debris out of your sleeves.

Footwear

Choose footwear that protects your feet, ankles, and lower legs. Leather boots offer the best protection, but sturdy athletic shoes that cover the ankles are a solid second choice. Avoid sandals, sneakers, and other soft shoes; they provide little protection from abrasion or impact. Keep laces tucked or secured so they won’t catch on any part of the motorcycle.