How to Measure a Motorcycle Racing Suit
Are you on the hunt for a new motorcycle racing suit? If you’re planning to hit up track days, you’ll probably want to buy a motorcycle racing suit. Long sleeves and pants may suffice for a first timer, but honestly, a full motorcycle racing suit, preferably a one-piece or two-piece that zips together, is certainly recommended for more safety. Motorcycle racing suits are designed to be fire-retardant and also offer significant abrasion protection, which will minimize the impact on your body if you do take a fall.
If you’re hunting online for a new suit, like one from Furygan or Taichi, one thing you’ll probably want to know is what size you are. Well, that’s why we’re here today! We’re hoping to help riders out there who need help understanding how to measure a racing suit.
It’s important to remember that different brands may have different size charts, and it can get confusing if you’re looking at a European size chart. Either way, you’ll probably come across a size chart that resembles something like this:
So, it’s time to get out that measuring tape! Measuring for a motorcycle is not unlike going to get fitted for a tux for a wedding. It’s sorta like going to the tailor. If you don’t know your measurements, here’s what you’ll probably need to get a good idea:
Chest Measurement- Hold the tape measure to your sternum, and measure around the widest point, under your armpits. Take a deep breath.
Waist Measurement- Measure around the navel, all the way around back to the center
Hip Measurement - Around the largest point, around the hips
Inseam Measurement - Have the individual hold the top of the measuring tape to the inside of their groin, measuring the inside of their leg to the top of the anklebone
Arm Measurement- Take this measurement from the bone in the center base of the neck, and draw the measuring tape out to the wrist
Shoulder Measurement- Thinking about going seam to seam across the back of the shirt, measure all the way across from the left shoulder to the right shoulder
Neck Measurement- Wrap the measuring tape around your neck at its largest point
Once you have your measurements, you should be able to pick the size that’s best for you, but here are a few other tips:
A one-piece racing suit should be uncomfortable to stand up in, because it should feel better in a riding position, not a standing position
A little bunching around the waist or thighs while in a tuck is okay, and if it's a little tight around the chest, that’s ok
Brand new suits ARE HARD TO PUT ON, but you need to be able to zip up the chest. It should be snug around the arms and legs
You’ll want to make sure that your armor in the protection zones doesn’t move around
If you plan on adding a little extra armour underneath (chest, spine, hip, tailbone) you may want to go a bit bigger and more comfortable, so consider your base layer underneath
Long-sleeved Under Armour works well to help get in and out of your suit
Different brands will run a bit bigger or smaller, just like shoes, so if you’re shopping online, don’t be surprised if you order a racing suit and it isn’t perfect. If you order form Moto Z, we can always help you find the right suit for you! Just get in touch with us to talk to Jeff or Deanna, who can help you determine what size should work for you! Good luck! Happy Racing!
