Sports protection needs to suit the activity, your body and the conditions. A cycle helmet for commuting has different requirements from protection for mountain biking or motocross. A pair of cycling glasses, knee brace or hi-vis vest is only practical if the fit, visibility and materials are right for how you plan to use it.
Many disappointing purchases come down to three common pitfalls:
The size determines whether your protective gear stays in place. A cycle helmet’s adjustment dial should hold it securely without creating pressure points. Also check that the chin strap sits flat just below your jaw and cannot slip. Even if a helmet looks undamaged after an impact, it should still be replaced according to the product instructions.
Adjustable hook-and-loop fastenings are practical on knee and elbow pads, especially for children who are growing quickly. For motorcycle protective clothing, always measure your chest, waist and leg size according to the size chart. Loose protectors can shift during a fall.
A PC shell with EPS foam is used in cycle helmets and is designed to absorb impact. According to the product description, the OutdoorMaster RhinoUrban uses in-mould technology, a PC shell and an EPS lining. The helmet also has 17 ventilation openings.
Motorcycle protection often combines hard PE, PP or PVC shells with EVA foam. A motorcycle protective jacket is designed to cover several areas, such as the chest, back, shoulders and elbows. Motorcycle protective trousers generally focus on the hips, thighs and knees. Check whether the protectors are removable and whether the clothing fits under your motorcycle suit.
A cycle helmet with glasses and a light can be useful for commuting and riding in low light. A rechargeable rear light makes you easier to spot, but it does not replace legally permitted cycle lights under the Highway Code.
In bright sunshine, look for UV400 cycling sunglasses and consider the lens colour. UV400 refers to protection against ultraviolet light up to 400 nanometres, as stated in the relevant product information. Polarised cycling glasses can reduce glare from wet tarmac, water and metal surfaces. However, light transmission still matters: a dark lens isn’t automatically suitable for cloudy weather or dusk.
Why it suits this profile: For cyclists looking for one piece of kit for city rides, e-bike use, road cycling and recreational mountain biking. Size L is designed for a head circumference of 58-61 cm.
The adjustment dial and chin strap help prevent a loose fit. The glasses and peak are removable, so you can use them only when wind, rain, sand or sunshine makes them useful.
According to the product description: CPSC and ASTM certification, 17 ventilation openings and a USB-C rechargeable rear light with multiple modes.
Why it suits this profile: Suitable for road cyclists and mountain bikers who spend a lot of time riding in bright daylight and value a lightweight frame, adjustable nose pads and a wide lens.
The product information gives a light transmission of around 15.2%. Check that these lenses suit your routes and avoid using them in low light.
According to the product description: TAC polarised lens, UV400, ANSI Z87.1 performance standard, TR90 frame and a weight of around 33 grams.
Why it suits this profile: For off-road riders and outdoor sports enthusiasts looking for protection for the chest, back, shoulders, elbows and waist.
The shoulder straps, waist belt and cuffs are adjustable. This lets you fine-tune the fit more precisely than with a jacket that has no adjusters.
According to the product description: PE outer shells, EVA padding, breathable mesh, zip fastening and hook-and-loop fastenings. The protectors are removable for maintenance.
For children’s cycling protection, sets with knee, elbow and wrist guards are practical. The OutdoorMaster Kids set is available in sizes S and M and, according to the product information, is designed for children and young people aged 3 to 15. Check the fit for each body part; age alone isn’t a precise guide to sizing. According to its description, the RoyalBaby set is designed for children aged 3 to 7.
For fitness, knee braces for fitness or 7 mm knee sleeves are primarily training accessories. Thor Athletics Knee Sleeves in size L are supplied as a pair, but the product information says they come up small. Measure your leg circumference 15 cm below the knee and choose the larger size if you’re unsure. This product is not a medical device. An ankle brace can provide adjustable compression, but it isn’t a substitute for medical advice if you have persistent pain or an injury.
A yellow hi-vis vest is lightweight and easy to wear over workwear. A hi-vis jacket also offers protection from wind and rain; according to the product description, the Dunlop Safety Jacket uses fluorescent yellow fabric, retroreflective strips and PU-coated polyester.
For long rides or outdoor activities, facial sun protection may be useful. The Beneunder Anti-Sun Mask lists UPF 50+, coverage around the corners of the eyes and adjustable ear loops. This is information supplied by the manufacturer. Use the covering as an extra layer of protection and pair it with suitable sunglasses and other sun protection.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Replace a helmet after a hard fall or collision, even if there’s no visible damage. Replace knee, elbow and motorcycle protectors if shells crack, foam becomes misshapen, seams come apart or fastenings stop working properly. Store protective gear somewhere dry and out of direct sunlight.
Not necessarily. As well as checking for UV400, look at light transmission, lens colour and fit. A dark or polarised lens can be comfortable in bright sunshine, but less suitable at dusk. Your glasses shouldn’t obstruct your vision, helmet or awareness of traffic.
Start with the activity, then measure yourself according to the size chart. Next, check the materials, adjustability, ventilation, stated standard and care instructions. Finally, make sure the protection doesn’t shift once you’ve put it on and that you can move freely.