Three Key Ways the Wise Motocross Rider uses Protective Gear

Don't go Cheap on Your Protective Gear. Face it, crashes happen. Don't you want to get back in the saddle as soon as possible? Even more important, avoid permanent injury? First, consider your helmet (the brain bucket). Think of the things it protects. Your brain is the most important of course, but it also protects your sensory portal to the outside world: It directly protects your ears which mean your hearing. Coupled with well-fitting goggles, your sight will not be compromised. How do you know your helmet is a good fit? Obviously, it shouldn't feel sloppy on your head when the snap is snuggly snapped. Comfort is important since that's the only way you can compete effectively. How about your goggles? They should be snug but not allow any debris in. Other than your head, other parts of your body deserve protection as well. A plastic chest plate will protect your breastbone and your ribs. A broken rib will bench you for a while. Wear your kidney brace to avoid those sucker punches.

Away From the Core: Further Protection. So far we've covered your body's core; the areas that (hopefully) remain relatively centered over the saddle. Those areas comprise your major organs, but being centered they are less at risk than the parts of your body that are out of your personal safety zone. Take your leather gloves for example. They will protect your knuckles and palms when you take a dive. You can choose gloves that completely cover your fingers (great during the wintertime), or if you need more flex, models with part of the fingers cut off. Either way, be sure they're comfortable. How can you test the fit? The best way is to put them on and make a fist, then open it and extend your fingers. Does it bind up? If so, go for the next size. Keep in mind that your hands will swell when you're racing or the weather is warm. What's the next protective gear to consider? Motocross boots! They're not just stylish, they're probably the most important protection after your helmet. Consider how often you use your feet to stabilize during tight turns. When you take a tumble, they are a buffer zone against strains and sprains. Fit? The should reach up your calves, employ shock relief, and sturdy ankle buckles.

Choose Your Clothes for Function. You're a participant, not a fan. You don't want expensive knock-off team logo gear. You want functional gear that really performs and protects you. Save the label-envy for other occasions. Motocross clothing is very sport specific, just as good running shoes protect the marathoner better than a celebrity-endorsed piece of junk. Quality motocross gear strives to strike a balance between aerodynamics, protection, weight, and the ability to move freely. Try it on for fit. The padding should be in the right place for your body. Focus on padding on your elbows and knees and across your shoulders; these are going to be your most vulnerable areas in a tumble. Include the fashion element in your choices, but remember that protection is the first objective for the serious athlete.

Article source: Motocross training by www.MxTrainingJournal.com
Picture: Ian Kerr