Dress for the slide, not the ride, is at the core of All the Gear All the Time (AGATT). Wearing the proper gear makes riding safe and fun.
You’ve probably heard the phrase All the Gear, All the Time — but do you live by it? Or maybe dress for the slide, not the ride? Think back to those hot summer days on your motorcycle. How many riders did you see cruising around without a helmet, or worse, in a tank top, shorts, and sneakers?
Be honest — have you been that rider?
I’ll admit it: I’ve ridden without a helmet before. And looking back, it was a dangerous choice that could have changed my life forever.
Experience Changes Us
As I’ve gotten older, safety has become a much bigger priority. I’m not a kid anymore, and my experiences — good and bad — have shaped the rider I am today. I’ve been in a crash and was lucky enough to walk away with minor injuries. That moment changed everything for me.
Now, when I throw a leg over my bike, I gear up. Every time. And I hope you do too.
Start With the Helmet
We all know the importance of wearing the right gear — or at least we should. The helmet is the most critical piece of all. Make sure the one you buy is DOT certified. Skip the cheap, flashy helmets online that sacrifice protection for style.
You don’t need to drop $1,000 either. Brands like HJC, Bell, and many others offer excellent helmets that won’t break the bank.
Dressing for the Unexpected: When the Weather Doesn’t Cooperate
AGATT isn’t just about impact protection — it’s also about being prepared when conditions change unexpectedly. One of the most overlooked riding risks isn’t speed or traffic, but weather. Sudden rain, temperature drops, and wet roads can turn a routine ride into a dangerous one fast if you’re not equipped for it.
If you want to take the AGATT mindset a step further, this companion article breaks down how to stay comfortable, dry, and focused when the rain returns — whether you’re commuting, touring, or riding off the grid.
It’s a practical extension of riding smart — because the right gear doesn’t just protect you in a crash, it helps you avoid one in the first place.
Footwear: Your Ankles Will Thank You
Good riding boots or protective shoes aren’t optional — they’re essential. Your everyday sneakers aren’t designed for the forces of a crash. You need footwear with reinforced ankle support and durable construction.
The best part? Quality riding boots don’t have to be expensive.
Don’t Skip the Gloves
Gloves might seem optional, especially on a warm day, but they’re not. In an accident, your instinct will be to put your hands out to break your fall. Without gloves, you risk far more than bruises or fractures — you could lose skin, suffer burns from the pavement, or face long-term hand injuries.
Jackets, Pants, and Added Protection
A solid riding jacket with protection in the shoulders, elbows, and back is a must. Mine has reinforced leather and built-in armor — and it has saved me more than once.
You can also wear padded gear under your clothing for additional protection. If you prefer jeans, make sure they’re at least 12 oz denim or, better yet, motorcycle-specific jeans with pockets for hip and knee armor. Pads can usually be purchased separately if they’re not included.
Ride Smart. Ride Safe. Share the Knowledge.
As you head out on your next ride, remember AGATT. Gear up, enjoy the open road, and help other riders stay safe too.
If you’re experienced, share what you’ve learned. If you’re new, ask questions — riders are one of the most supportive communities out there.
