The Impact of Rider Safety Examines Boots and Gloves
- Delbert Grush
- Apr 11
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 13
The Ride Safe Podcast
Sound credit: Music by Ian Kelosky, from the album Legacy via Soundstripe.com.
Motorcycle safety gear, from head to toe, plays a critical role in reducing rider injuries and improving overall protection, including gloves and boots, according to Bob Burnett and Emery Knudtson, featured in the Ride Safe Podcast.
This episode brings back motorcycle aficionado Emery Knudtson, previously featured in a discussion on helmet laws in the Ride Safe Podcast – The Impact of Helmet Laws on Rider Safety. Bob Burnett joins the discussion while the two examine the evolution of motorcycle gloves and boots, emphasizing the impact of innovative new technologies and design improvements to enhance rider safety.
While federal data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirms that helmets reduce the risk of fatal injury by 37% for operators and 41% for passengers, data on gloves and boots remains limited. However, experts agree that these items are essential components of personal protective equipment (PPE). Gloves help prevent road rash and hand trauma, while boots protect the feet and ankles during crashes.
Manufacturers have integrated advanced materials such as Kevlar and carbon fiber into modern gear, improving safety and comfort. Gloves are now engineered for increased grip and feedback, while boots are designed to offer greater impact resistance and ankle support. These changes reflect a broader industry shift to meet the diverse needs of motorcyclists.
Riding style also influences gear selection. Sport riders often require higher levels of abrasion resistance, while cruiser and touring riders may seek a balance of protection and comfort. Off-road motorcyclists typically prioritize mobility and rugged construction. Understanding the relationship between riding style and appropriate gear is key to optimizing safety.
The conversation also references previous podcast discussions on helmet laws and their life-saving potential. A study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that more than 20,000 motorcyclists could have survived if stronger helmet laws had been enacted since the 1970s. The discussion underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to safety, where helmets, gloves, and boots function together to reduce injury and fatality risks.
Listen to the full Ride Safe Podcast featuring Emery Knudtson and Bob Burnett for further details on the evolution of motorcycle gear and expert insights from seasoned riders into valuable perspectives on protective equipment above.
Delbert, I truly appreciate you carving out a space for Bob and me to dive into the critical topic of motorcycle safety gear, your support speaks volumes. These conversations can save lives, and it means a lot to have the room to explore them fully, for to better good of the sport of motorcycling and the enthusiasts who enjoy it. - Emery Knudtson.