The Motorcycle Protective Clothing Assessment Program: A Star Rating System

Motorcyclists wear protective clothing and helmets to reduce their injury risk. However the protective performance of motorcycle clothing in crashes is variable and many garments are poorly designed for use hot climates. In the absence of objective evidence, motorcyclists must rely on advertising, brand reputation and social networks when buying protective clothing. The objective was to develop an independent process for testing and publicizing the protective and thermal management performance of motorcycle clothing to encourage usage and reduce injury rates. Protocols were based on existing standards to allow a smooth transition for industry to improve their products where necessary.