Although motorcycle riding is a ton of fun, it also comes with a great deal of risk. Motorcycle riders are extremely vulnerable on the roadways, especially when you add other factors into the mix, such as cars, trucks and other road hazards. So when you do choose to get out there on your bike, it’s important to adhere to the best safety practices to protect you in the unfortunate event of an accident.

As far as safety equipment is concerned, helmets, jackets and spine protectors are frequently discussed as the most important equipment to use, however your feet are another very important part of your body that need to be properly protected.

The latest studies from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have shown that in 2014 there were over 92,000 motorcycle injuries nationwide due to accidents. According to Las Vegas motorcycle accident attorney William Brim, 30% of these injuries happen to your legs or feet. “In serious motorcycle accidents, we see a significantly higher rate of injury to the lower extremities when riders are not wear boots specifically designed to protect motorcycle riders. The right boots can be expensive but, like most motorcycle safety gear, everyone riding a motorcycle should be using them.”

In case that’s not enough, here you will find six reasons to protect your feet with good riding boots.

#1: Impact and Open Wound Protection

During motorcycle riding, your feet are exposed. And this leaves them vulnerable to instances to vehicles (including your own) rolling over or falling onto your feet. To protect yourself against this, it is recommended to wear shoes that are reinforced – typically with steel – and structured to protect the numerous bones in your feet from extreme weight and/or sudden object impact. Protective boots can also significantly reduce the chance of suffering injury in the event of a crash.  One study found that riders wearing protective riding boots were half as likely to suffer an open wound injury as those who wore regular shoes.

#2: Full Ankle and Foot Support

When your motorcycle comes to a stop, you have to not only balance your own weight, but also that of an average 450 lb. bike beneath you. You need adequate ankle support to allow you to safely do this. Also, in the case of an accident, your feet might be subject to extreme twisting and/or contouring. It’s recommended to protect your ankles and keep your feet intact in this situation, and also importantly keep your shoes secure during an impact or in the case of extreme twisting. It has become evident that most tennis shoes or casual shoes will completely slip off in the event of a motorcycle accident.

Need a good way to see if a pair of boots is going to protect you in a crash? Grab the toe in one hand and the heel in the other, then twist and push as hard as you can. Does the shape they contort into look survivable for you foot?

#3: Good Traction 

When you find yourself losing control on a motorcycle, the tendency is to stick your feet out to the ground in order to stabilize yourself. To do this successfully, you need to wear shoes that have adequate traction on them that will help to grip the road. This is especially important to have control during rain or wet situations.

#4: Weather Proof

As mentioned previously, your feet are usually exposed when riding a motorcycle, and this means that they are exposed to the varying weather elements. In warmer climates like around Las Vegas, NV, it is recommended to wear shoes or boots that are breathable. However in colder climates, it is important to have apparel that is waterproof and also protects you from cold temperatures, as well as moisture.

#5: The Necessity to Look Awesome

Style is a very important aspect of a motorcycle rider’s get-up. Nothing compliments a rugged leather Harley Davidson jacket like some heavy-duty riding boots. And nothing goes better with a fashionable AlpineStars riding outfit than some slick racing shoes to go with them!

#6: Benefits Outweigh the Burden

It might be a pain and even a hassle to remember your heavy, bulky motorcycle riding boots when you go riding – and to pack a second pair of shoes if you are commuting to work, but its extremely important to protect your feet from the hazards of the road when out motorcycling. Your feet are an integral part of your body, as most people use them every single day of their lives, and you will be glad that you took the extra step to protect them.