Before You Ride—Off-Road Basics
Protective Clothing and Gear
By definition, off-road means “rugged,” and
that requires protective clothing. Nothing
can protect you completely; but knowing
what to wear can reduce the chance of
injury, as well as make your ride more
comfortable.
Never operate an ORV without these
essential items:
- Motorcycle
helmet
- Helps prevent serious head
injury.
- Must be a U.S. Department of Transportation–approved
crash helmet.
- Goggles or other eye protection
- Be aware that branches, road debris, and insects can hit
your eyes and distract or even blind you.
- Do not use sunglasses, which do not provide adequate
protection.
- Use goggles or a face shield for better protection.
- Choose eye protection that
bears the marking VESC8 (or V-8)
or Z87.1, or is made of hard-coated
polycarbonate.
- Carry gray-tinted eye protection
for bright days, yellow-tinted
for overcast days, and clear
for night rides.
- Gloves
- Keep your hands warm in cold
weather.
- Prevent soreness and fatigue.
- Offer protection during a spill
or a collision with branches.
- Should be padded over the knuckles
for the best protection.
- Boots
- Heels prevent your feet from
slipping off footrests.
- Off-road boots are best, offering
protection for lower legs, ankles,
and feet.
- Long pants and long-sleeved shirt
or jacket
- Protect your skin from scratches.
- Provide the best protection with off-road riding gear that incluses:
- Pants with kneepads
- Chest and shoulder protectors
|
