When riding, it is imperative that you not only have safety gear on, but also safety gear that is comfortable, durable, and fits you correctly.  The following is a list of the most important gear to protect you when riding and in the event of an accident.

1. Helmet
   By far the most important safety accessory is your helmet.  The debate over mandatory helmet laws is a controversial one. Some states require helmets while other states require you to wear helmets up to a certain age. Regardless, this is not a piece of equipment that you want to skip.  The following features are necessary:
   • Hard outer shell- this protects the rider from penetration and shocks on impact.
   • Vents- one of the biggest complaints among motorcyclists regarding helmets is that they get very hot.  Finding a helmet with proper ventilation will increase your likelihood to wear it.
   • Comfort liner- this helps ensure a secure fit to your head.  It is very important that you find a helmet that fits properly so that it does not obstruct your view.
   • Visor- this protects your nose, cheeks, and eyes from bugs, debris, and wind.
   • Impact absorbing liner- this absorbs shocks on impact.
   • Retention system- this secures the helmet to your body in the event of an accident; it is usually a strap that buckles.

   Some helmets do not protect the full face or have visors.  Goggles do not protect other parts of the face as visors do.  Partial helmets do not protect the mouth and jaw area in the event of an accident as full face-face helmets do.  The Motorcycle Safety Foundation strongly suggests obtaining a helmet with both of these features.
   For more information about motorcycle helmets check out Motorcycle Helmet Critic.

2. Footwear
   Having proper footwear will protect you from roadside debris and parts on the motorcycle that get hot, such as the exhaust.  It is important that your footwear has good soles for gripping both the motorcycle and the pavement.  Boots can also protect you in an accident from foot and ankle injuries.
3. Protective Clothing
   Protective pants, jackets, and suits are essential for a motorcyclist.  While riding, this clothing provides the cyclist with protection from the elements, such as rain and wind.  Materials like leather, Cordura, Kevlar, and ballistic nylon are the most durable materials to protect riders from the elements and serious wounds in the event of an accident.Full bodysuits are the best option because riders do not have to adjust jackets and pants, which can move while riding.  If you do choose a jacket-pants combination, be sure that the jacket has a strong elastic belt that prevents it from riding up; pants should also have a strong elastic band around the waist.
   Motorcycle gear should be slightly bigger than your normal clothing, but it should not be confining or too loose.  Clothing that does not fit properly can result in distraction, and then an accident.All clothing should have strong elastic bands around the ankles, waist, and wrists.  Both jackets and full bodysuits should have a high collar to protect your neck from the elements.  The Motorcycle Safety Foundation suggests layering when you ride to avoid being too hot or cold.
4. Gloves
   Gloves should fit snugly so that they do not interfere with your steering.  Gloves help you sustain a good grip; they also protect you from the elements and injuries in the event of a crash.  Thinner gloves should be worn in warmer months and thicker gloves should be worn in colder months.

Keep in mind that if you’ve been a victim of a motorcycle accident, you’ll need an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to represent you in order to have a successful chance in winning damages.