Staying protected

[Serenitynow]

What about the whole leather vs. textile thing? I've heard of big crashes survived in the Aerostitch type gear. I mean that's pretty top of the line, I guess, for tex stuff but there's some other stuff that's good quality too. Anyway, you also hear about ppl having the material melt to your skin from the heat of the abrasion. Is that true? Or, is leather the only real choice?

Also, how much does perforated leather lower it's protective qualities over solid?

How do the special reinforced riding denim jeans (w/ kevlar etc.) compare to actual leather pants as far as protection?

If we were all really concerned about safety (being seen) wouldn't we all wear bright neon glow green or safety orange vests over our jackets at all times? What if in the future every motorcyclist wore these super bright lime green suits and you'd be looked upon as some squidly moron dude if you didn't?

[julianista]

And what about now that summer is coming. I live in TN and the humidity is 100% at 90 degrees. You put on a full face and you have your own personal sauna on your face! I really hate riding during the summer because of this. I am now looking for a good open face helmet with full visor though. Not as much protections as a full face, but it's either am open face or not riding at all. What do you guys do? full face and sweat like a pig? or what is your choice for the summer?

[scotchtape]

I'd really like a response to the whole leather v. textile v. mesh thing.

I'm trying to get gear for myself, but I need to find a store that carries a lot of Dainese stuff. Nothing around me here in Vancouver

I still need to take my course and want to get it over with first though! So I want to get some temporary gear... Is a mesh jacket a bad idea? I'm planning on getting a Dainese leather jacket when I can figure out my size. Are textile pants bad - do I have to get leather ones too?

I wish we had more stores here, and American prices.

If you only commute, or get around town, do you need full leathers, or is textile ok? If you're full on riding will textiles or mesh cut it? Need some answers so I can stay safe!

[El Tel]

For long rides-
Komine mesh jacket with full protection arm, shoulder, chest & back.
Knee & shin pads under Icon Recon jeans
Sidi boots
Mountain bike gloves
Arai full face

For short rides-
Komine mesh jacket with arm, shoulder & back protection
Icon Recon jeans
Alpinestars ankle-length boots
Arai full face

I'm in SE Asia, so in the city traffic, the full-face and the jacket can get uncomfortable but once on the open road, the air-flow system keeps me cool enough.