The leather jacket itself is the favored option for many riders for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the protection leather can provide. Riding a bike is serious business and the safety gear a biker buys should be a top priority. From leather jackets to helmets, biker gear must speak to safety first. To do otherwise, is to make a bad call that can cost a lot.

Looking for great biker gear requires a few things. Here are some basic rules of thumb to help you look for the best whether it's pants, jackets, helmets or gloves:

* Safety: Whether you're looking at jackets or a new helmet, safety should be the top priority. Clothing should protect the skin from harmful falls and scraps as much as possible. It should also be rated by proper authorities in the case of helmets. There's no second chance to buy something that will help you withstand a crash, so making sure gear is meant to help you survive is the absolute most important thing you can do. Helmets should provide good visibility, eye protection and basic shock absorption. Clothing should stand up to basic scrapes.

* Comfort: Motorcycle gear should be comfortable. This even includes helmets. Whether you're buying gloves, a jacket or more, the clothing and gear you buy should feel right. It should breath and it should offer maximum movement. A tight, tight leather jacket that doesn't enable you to move your arms correctly, is not appropriate. Neither is a helmet that blocks your vision.

* Durability. Good gear is expensive. To make the most of your money, it pays to shop around and find the best fit, the greatest safety features, the most comfort and the best durability chances. Weatherproof materials and those rated for protection in crashes are good ideas.

* Appearance. This doesn't fall in line with the safety factor, but for some it can. If something doesn't look good, you won't feel good wearing it. So, to make sure you remember to don all your biker gear before you ride, buy items you enjoy wearing. Get that special leather jacket (as long as it offers the right movement) and do buy the helmet of your dreams if it's rated for safety and fits your head. There's nothing wrong with looking good while being safe.

Motorcyclists know there's often no turning back from a crash. The clothing you wear and the helmet on your head are what's there to protect you, your skin and your head in the event of a crack up. Be smart and buy the best. Shop around for comfort and fit and don't compromise on appearance, but most of all make sure what you buy will do its job. Biker gear is there to protect you. Buy the best for you and it just might save your life.