Rider Equipment

ATGATT (All the Gear, All the Time)

Basically, if you want to significantly increase your odds of surviving a motorcycle, high-quality gear is essential.  When done correctly, riding equipment should be comfortable, body forming, made of quality materials, and "one" with the rider.

To meet these criteria, it's important to try, wear, test, and read independent reviews prior to purchasing.  I strongly believe that having an experienced motorcycle mentor and subscribing to quality publications (or websites) can be an excellent place to gleam this information.  Also critical to doing this correctly, riders should seek equipment that is as customized as possible.  While more expensive than off-the-rack equipment, custom-made motorcycle gear can make all the difference in the world for comfortable and safer riding.

Fully suited - Front view

Person in motorcycle gear, wearing a high-visibility yellow and gray motorcycle jacket, black pants, gloves, helmet with visor, and sunglasses.

Starting from the top, my gear includes:

White motorcycle helmet with Arai logo, front view showing clear visor and black interior padding.

BMW Hi-Visibilty Armored Jacket

With armor loaded in the forearms, elbows, shoulders, and back, BMW does not skimp on quality materials or double stitching.  With high-viz colors, I hopefully increase the likelihood of being seen by a distracted motorist.  This jacket also features an insulated shell that allows comfortable three-season use.  This equipment is suitable for temperatures from 55 degrees F - 90 degrees (without supplemental heating or cooling).  The jacket has adequate snaps and velcro to customize the fit to the rider.

Close-up of a person wearing a high-visibility BMW Motorrad motorcycle jacket with neon yellow and gray details.
Black motorcycle or riding glove with protective features, including a zipper and branding, for hand protection.

Motoport Kevlar Pants

I took customization to the max with these pants.  Made with a Kevlar exterior and armored pads throughout the legs and rear, these American-made pants define comfort and protection.  Because of their durability and strength, I wear shorts under the overpants, which provides much needed air flow on hot summer riders.

Held Two-in-One Gloves

With kangaroo leather palms, armored knuckles, air vents for warm temperatures, and velcro cinches, these gloves have all the attributes for comfortable hands.  Additionally, the gloves feature two hand sleeves - one for "breezy" or dry conditions, and one for "wet" conditions. I use the "wet" side for cooler weather (55 - 70 degrees) and the "breezy" side for warmer weather (70+ degrees).  For rainy conditions, the left gauntlet has rain wiper for the helmet face shield.

Pair of navy blue tactical pants with cargo pockets and reinforced knees, paired with black boots.
Pair of black motorcycle or dirt bike riding boots with straps and protective knee guards.

Arai Corsair V helmet  

Comfort starts with the head. Appropriate air flow, visibility, cushion in the cheeks, plush materials, and space around the ears... these are the makings for the right head for a rider.  Safety wise, it's important to purchase helmets that meet Snell and DOT safety tests.  (See more details on this helmet and related accessories below.)

SIDI boots

I bought these boots when I started riding in 2009.  20k of riding miles and 7+ years later, these boots still have plenty of time still to go.  Water proof and light weight, these boots are perfect for all seasons.

Attached to the Arai Corsair V, I'm using a Sena 10C video and communicator.  I primarily use it for linking my iPhone to noise-cancelling ear buds via Bluetooth.  This adds much-needed wireless comfort and simplicity. While its communication system is excellent, I have noted a couple of on-and-off issues with the camera and videos.  I included several high-definition photos from the Sena 10C in the Gallery section of this website.

On the right is an up-close image of my Held Two-in-One gloves.  You can see the armored knuckles, velcro attachments, and solid construction.  The palms are made of kangaroo skin, which is known for its toughness and durability.