What Are Airbag Vests?

Many people do not realize the importance of personal safety while riding a motorcycle. Exposure to the elements, bumps in the road and highway speeds affect motorcyclists far more than people driving cars. One big rock in the pavement and you can find yourself thrown to the ground at 60 miles per hour or more. Not wearing safety clothing is not a risk riders should take when there are options out there that save lives. Airbag vests are a new concept for most people, especially those from the "good old days" who think that even just wearing a helmet is cumbersome. In reality, airbag vests are an important article of protective clothing for any rider.

What airbag vests do and how they work

The vest works like an airbag in reverse. Whereas in a car, an airbag shoots out of the steering wheel, walls and doors to protect the person inside, an airbag vest expands rapidly away from the person wearing it to cushion their fall as they hit the pavement, dirt or mud. A tether is attached to a horse bridle or motorcycle and, when the tether is yanked after falling off the bike or horse a certain length, the vest automatically inflates. The procedure is automatic. The vest pouches are changeable after one use and can easily mean the difference between life or death for many riders who fall or are hit.

How they feel

You should not feel too much added bulk or size while you are wearing an airbag vest, but you are sure to notice it if you fall. They go over your normal riding clothing and do their job when needed.

Use airbag vests to protect your life from falls or accidents while riding a motorcycle or a horse. The vests are worn with little detriment to your style or weight and the inflatable area is interchangeable after you have used it once.