When you think about the job it’s doing, your motorcycle clothing and helmet should be the most considered purchase you ever make.
It doesn’t make sense for a country of New Zealand’s size to establish its own standards for motorcycle safety gear. Not much is produced here, and most kit is from big international brand names that get extensively tested in other markets.
New Zealand uses a mix of international standards, mostly from the European Union, the USA and Australia.
New Zealand recognises three international standards for motorcycle helmets: US Snell (M 2000), European (ECE 22.05) and Australian (AS 1698).
Look for at least one of these standards. You may also have heard of a UK Government initiative called SHARP - Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme. It’s worth taking into account but make sure the helmet you buy has Snell, ECE or AS approval.
Not only is there not a New Zealand standard for these garments, international standards are in disarray. In theory, the European Standard for “protective” motorcycle clothing is EN 13595 Parts 1-4. In practice, garments so-labelled are rare.
Disagreements mean many manufacturers don’t bother with EN 13595 certification. They’ll fit CE approved armour and label it as such, with many buyers thinking the whole thing is CE certified. It’s not.
That doesn’t mean it’s not good, just that it’s not certified. If you do find EN 13595 certified clothing, great. Otherwise, use our guidelines on choosing gear, favour well-known brands and make sure it includes CE approved armour.
Slip-in armour for shoulders, elbows and knees should display standard EN 1621. There are three levels of protection. Level 3 (Extreme Protection) absorbs twice the energy of Level 1 (Basic) before transferring the same maximum level of force.
Back protectors should be labelled EN 1621-2. There are only two levels under this standard, and the maximum force transferred is approximately half that of joint protectors. Standards here, though, are only half the story.
Slip-in back protectors might pass the impact test but are nowhere near as effective as ones that strap to your body. The reason is coverage - right around the back of your rib cage and, in some cases, down to your cocyx.
Motocross riders have worn chest shields for years, but they’ve only recently appeared for road and track riders. Expect a similar CE standard around the EN 1621 test.
Gloves should meet CE standard EN 13594, boots should be labeled EN 13634.
