What Is Ballistic Motorcycle Cloth? A Complete Rider’s Guide

In the case of motorcycles gear, security is all that matters. Riders know the hazards of the open road and proper selection of the proper material can be the difference between walking away after a fall - or not. Ballistic cloth, also known as ballistic nylon, is one of those materials that has earned a good reputation in the motorcycle apparel industry worldwide. However, what is ballistic motorcycle cloth, and why it is viewed as one of the best options in terms of durability and safety to be used by the riders?

Here, we shall discuss what ballistic motorcycle cloth is, how it is used and why it is important to serious riders.

Learning Ballistic Cloth

Ballistic cloth or ballistic nylon is a very strong synthetic fabric used, primarily in the military. Developed in World War II by DuPont, it was used to protect airmen of fragments and shrapnels. Although it was not bulletproof, it was an excellent choice so far as resisting tearing, abrasion, and puncture was concerned, quite apart from the fact that it was made by a motorcycling enthusiast and it was obvious in the 1950s that this was the right fabric to be a part of motorcycling attire.

Ballistic cloth is generally of nylon (or a special type of nylon) fibers woven in a tight basketweave and appreciated because it has a strong shock resistance and remains flexible. It is much stronger and hard wearing than ordinary nylon or polyester cloths used in normal clothing items.

The reason why ballistic cloth will suit motorcycle attire.

As motorcycle riders, we are always exposed to danger- whether we are going at very high speeds or in encounters of harsh weather conditions or even debris in the road. These issues are dealt with by ballistic cloth by providing:

1. High degree of Abrasion Resistance

The gear of a rider can come too close with the road in case of a fall or slide and get in touch with it when having high speed. Ballistic cloth is abrasion resistant thus decreasing the chance of road rash and other skin injuries. It is also much stronger than standard material when you impact and frictional forces occur it buys you some much needed time to protect yourself in an accident.

2. Puncture and Tear resistance

Other than a slide, motorcycle accidents may also have the effect of sliding towards sharp debris or rough surfaces. The tightness of the weave in ballistic fabric makes the material almost impossible to tear or puncture, which is an additional defense in event of a crash.

3. Durability and Long Life

Clothing worn on motorcycles manufactured using ballistic cloths are durable. Whether you are riding in the rain, the sun or the snow, the material wears and endures all types of weather better than lighter versions hence a reliable option as an investment to frequent riders.

Where Do You Find Ballistic Cloth in Motorcycle gear?

Ballistic cloth is found in jackets, pants, gloves and even the luggage or backpacks made to suit motorcyclists. It also tends to be put in the locations where impact is of utmost concern e.g. the elbows, shoulders, knees, hips.

Most manufacturers of motorcycle clothing use multi-layered protection systems by using ballistic nylon and provisions of armour inserts and reinforced stitching. In others the ballistic panels are integrated with fabrics such as leather or Kevlar or mesh to increase comfort and adaptability.

Is ballistic cloth comfortable?

Although being applied, ballistic cloth is heavier and stiffer, than ordinary fabrics, modern developments have made the use of the black cloth more rider-friendly. Premium ballistic equipment has ventilation zones and stretch panels to allow more breathability and moisture-absorbing lining.

Touring, adventure and all weather riders can afford the small weight sacrifice to gain peace of mind over safety and durability.

Conclusion

Ballistic motorcycle cloth is of a very high standard of protective riding clothes. This sturdy abrasion-resistant fabric was to be durable and is thus with the military originally but has been a name that people have trusted in the motor world. Ballistic cloth is a good option when it comes to riders giving serious thought to their safety and who are not ready to suffer any compromise when it comes to quality.