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You already know that motorcycle safety gear can help reduce your chances of serious injury or death in the event of a motorcycle crash, but did you know that you can add in some different types of motorcycle body armor for even more protection.
Learn about the different types of motorcycle armor below.
Does Motorcycle Armor Work?
You can think of motorcycle armor as anything with extra design features or materials that can withstand impacts.
The most common type of motorcycle armor is your helmet.
Obviously, you know that wearing a motorcycle helmet can save your life in a crash.
However, there are other types of armor that can add to the effectiveness of your standard safety gear as well.
The bottom line is that motorcycle armor works. Anything you can do to make sure you will be protecting in a collision is a smart idea.
Types of Motorcycle Armor
Aside from your helmet, here are some other types of motorcycle armor that can help keep you safer in a crash.
Some types of armor is integrated into the equipment itself, some can be added and taken out as needed, and others can be worn in addition to (on top of or underneath) existing gear.
What is Motorcycle Armor Made of?
Motorcycle armor is made from a combination of abrasion-resistant exterior material, a hard-shell, and padded impact-absorbing material.
Common types of material found in motorcycle armor include:
- Kevlar.
- Carbon fiber.
- Leather.
- EPS foam.
Armored Jackets, Vest, and Riding Suits
Armored jackets, vests, and one-piece riding suits feature built-in armor or pockets that allow you to add additional armor as needed.
This type of gear features armor in the follow areas:
- Shoulders.
- Ribs.
- Back and spine.
- Elbows.
- Chest.
If you opt for an armored vest, you can wear this over or under your other riding jacket.
Knee and Elbow Pads
Stand-alone knee pads and elbow pads can be a good choice if you’re riding in hot weather or are using jackets or pants without armor pockets.
These can be worn under or over your other gear for extra protection.
Motorcycle Spine and Back Armor
Spine and core armor can either be worn in addition to your other gear or added to the armor inserts on your jacket.
A spine and back protector can be effective in protecting spinal injuries and keeping your organs safer in an accident.
Armored Riding Pants
Armored riding pants can also include built in armor or pocket to add it in.
Extra padding and armor locations typically include:
- Knees.
- Hips.
- Pelvis.
- Shins.
- Thighs.
Hip Armor
Hip armor and extra armor for your legs can take the form of padded shorts that you can wear under your riding pants.
These will include armor over the hips, knees, and thighs.
Armored Motorcycle Boots
While any type of over-the-ankle boot is going to add some protection for your feet and ankles while riding, armored motorcycle boots can add even more protection.
These types of boots often feature:
- Extra ankle support and straps.
- Reinforced toes and heels.
- Abrasion resistant exterior.
- Oil-resistant soles.
The tie system for armored motorcycle boots is also designed to stay compact and out of the way, and it won’t come off in a crash.
Learn more about motorcycle safety gear.