FAQs About Airbag Vest Technologies

Airbag vests are a new technology designed to protect the torso and internal organs of a bicycle, motorcycle or ATV rider. The air vest is much like an airbag that is worn as a garment, designed to protect the body from harm in case of an accident. These FAQs about airbag vest technologies provide a little more information.

Q: How is it activated?

A: Air vests work on tether-cord technology, much like a treadmill. The tether cord attaches to the bike and activates when you are thrown from the bike and the cord is pulled. Pulling of the cord inflates the vest only about a 1/4 of a second before your body makes contact with the ground.

Q: Are they comfortable?

A: Yes; many are designed for freedom of movement to ensure easy use by equestrian and motorsport athletes, without limiting their field of movement and making them less competitive. Air vests are lightweight so that they easily fit over or under other attire.

Q: After inflation, is it possible to reuse air vests?

A: Yes; unlike a car’s airbag that deploys once and then needs replacement, airbag vests are deflated in about two to three minutes and are easily set for reuse.

Q: Why are airbag vests important?

A: In the United States alone, motorcycle drivers make up only 1 percent of drivers on America's highways. Motorcycle accidents, however are responsible for roughly 20 percent of all fatal accidents on the road. This statistic is staggering and could enjoy significant reduction if drivers wore airbag vests.