Road safety: a high visibility vest mandatory for motorcyclists

A new law will force French motorcyclists, starting next year, to have a high visibility safety vest with them while driving. The transalpine centaurs must wear the garment over the technical garments, under penalty of a rather salty fine.

 

From January 2016, in France, motorcyclists will also be obliged to wear a high visibility safety vest. The new rule of the Transalpine road code, provides that centaurs are not obliged to purchase a technical garment specifically designed for motorcycles, but that will be enough the “classic” yellow vest that, even we Italians, we are obliged to keep in the car. In the case of two wheels (in reality the obligation also applies to three-wheeled scooters and quads), the garment will necessarily be worn while driving and not hidden in the saddle. Also the sanctions are ready: who should not wear it, in fact, could incur a fine from 11 to 135 Euros, a figure considered too high by the French Federation of Motorcyclists, already contrary to the law and that would like the use of the vest is a personal choice.

 

As is clear, the provision is aimed at protecting the safety of motorcyclists, making them much more visible on the roadway: since 2008, in fact, when the garment became mandatory in the event of a breakdown or stop, the number of victims has dropped. In addition to the FFMC, many motorcyclists turn up their nose, already fitted with reflective bands on helmets and technical jackets. In Italy, for the moment, there is no change to the code in this direction, even if common sense recommends to always wearing a garment equipped with at least high visibility strips.

 

 

The Ultra Gore-Tex jacket with reflective elements

The new Ultra Gore-Tex Shaker incorporates a patent-pending Zip Over system on the back that allows the backpack to be comfortably carried under the safety jacket.

 

Endurance sports brand presents the second generation of its functional two-layer jacket by Gore-Tex Active Shell with the innovative Shaker technology. Until now, the constant rubbing of the backpack could impair the performance of the membrane. To put an end to this limitation, Dynamic’s textile designers have developed a solution: the new Ultra Gore-Tex Shaker incorporates a patent-pending Zip Over system on the back that allows the backpack to be comfortably carried under the jacket.

 

In the summer season of 2017, Gore’s textile engineers caused a stir with their new laminate with Shaker technology. This laminate is composed of two layers: a waterproof membrane on the outside and a light woven lining on the inside. On the other hand, the outer textile layer disappears and it is the same membrane serves as the outer skin. The Shaker technology ensures that the water on the surface slides permanently and can be shaken, without causing annoying impregnation.

 

Thanks to the design in two layers, it is possible to reduce the weight considerably without sacrificing functionality. However, this Gore-Tex material, which is currently the lightest and most breathable on the market, has a limitation: it is not recommended to use a backpack with reflective material, since the performance of the membrane could be altered by constant friction. The response to this challenge from Dynamite endurance sports specialists is both simple and intelligent.

 

The indispensable backpack for long races will be under the jacket. The Ultra Gore-Tex jacket Shaker Jacket 150 incorporates a backpack system on the back. When necessary, the fitted jacket can be expanded with a zipper closure and the additional material offers enough space to comfortably carry a small backpack under the jacket. This principle also offers the advantage that the backpack is protected from the wind and the weather, while saving the runner the time to put on and take off the backpack every time he wants to do the same with the jacket.

 

In case of training without a backpack, the garment can shrink back in the blink of an eye and is adjusted to the body without the excess material limiting the freedom of movement of the runner. The new Ultra Gore-Tex Shaker Jacket 150 weighs an amazing 150 grams in the model for men and 138 grams in the model for women, which marks new milestones in the ultra light category. The jacket is windproof and thanks to its water column of 28,000 millimeters, offers total comfort and protection against the weather. In addition, as it also has a high breathability, it is the perfect complement for a variety of sports disciplines in the background and long distance, without having to put it on and take it off constantly.

 

With its patches that favor the transport of moisture, the so-called Active Airflow Ventilation, laser-perforated areas under the arms, provides additional ventilation. For its design, the product developers thought of minimalist equipment that would reduce the weight and volume as much as possible. The jacket is provided with a zipper along the entire front and elastic waistbands. The hood has an aerodynamic and tight design, has a small-reinforced area to ensure optimal visibility and can adjust its width with a single pull.

 

This functional minimalist jacket is completed with reflective bands on the sleeves and the back area, so that the athlete is more visible in bad weather or in the dark. Folded inside the hood, the Ultra Gore-Tex Shaker Jacket 150 fits perfectly in any backpack and even in the pocket of the pants.

 

Reflective material is a highly recommended safety measure

Many runners wonder if it is advisable to go running with rain and wind. Today we tell you what risks exist and the best tips for running safely.

 

It rains and you want to run … But, is it advisable? Wind and rain can be factors to make us stay home and stop training. But if it rains several days in a row, are you sure you want to stay at home? If you are a passionate runner we are sure that it will not be so. That’s why today we tell you the risks of running with rain or wind and the best tips to do so.

 

Risks of running with rain or wind

As you can imagine, the risks are more related to the amount of rain or wind that we face. It is clear that in the event of a thunderstorm or excessive winds in which we cannot control our movements, it is best that we do not run. If you want to train, that day you can do some exercise routine at home. Here are some of them: Exercises for oblique abs: The most effective and complete home body routine: What is and complete guide.

 

But if the rain or wind is moderate and bearable, you can go running by taking some precautions that we will tell you next, such as making the routes you already know, avoiding earthy soil or use reflective vest. You do not have to fear a cold. Unless you are already hatching one, you do not have to get sick after a running session in the rain or wind, as long as you carry out these tips. Take note!

 

Tips for running with rain or wind

Some runners definitely cannot stand the rain, and if they catch them in the middle of a race, they just stop and stop exercising. Of course it’s your choice, but if you do not want to stop training or want to participate in races, ideally, you keep running and do not stop for rain. If you know that it can rain or it is already raining, you can leave much more prepared to give everything. Take note of these tips that will help you run in the rain or wind safely and confidently.

 

On rainy day do not set goals of effort. Ideally, you should do a continuous race that does not require stops, jumps or movements that can cause you to slip through the water or become unbalanced by the wind.

Make a known route and if possible, with a non-earthy terrain, since with the water it can get muddy and the wind can cause sand to get into your eyes. If possible, asphalt on bad weather conditions is the best option. Being a porous soil, it will prevent you from slipping.

Avoid fast roads. Ideally, in a day like this you run on running tracks or parks, but if you do not exist or you do not have access to them, at least try to run in areas where cars do not pass very fast. It will be much safer.

Keep in mind that the wind and rain remove visibility to cars on the road, so wearing a vest or reflective bands is a highly recommended safety measure. Also wearing light clothing or flashy colors is a good choice for those days.

 

In the case of running with rain, wear waterproof running shoes. If you do not have it, choose the ones with the best gripping soles, essential to avoid slipping and injury in the rain. So that you do not get blisters when you get your feet, use more Vaseline than usual in the ankle areas or sensitive areas of your foot. You can also apply Vaseline under armpits or nipples, to avoid excessive rubbing with wet clothes, in case you do not wear raincoats.

Your visibility should be your priority to run with confidence and safety, so protect yourself with a cap or visor in case of rain or running glasses in the case of wind. You will prevent water and dust particles from entering your eyes.