dress for the slide, not the ride

English

Phrase

dress for the slide, not the ride

1. (motorcycling) When choosing clothing for riding a motorcycle, priority should be given to protective gear that helps one survive an accident.
   • 2005, Pat Hahn, How to Ride a Motorcycle, →ISBN:

     There's merit to the saying, "Dress for the slide, not the ride." Even at a modest 30 miles per hour this is.

   • 2016 June 24, Morgan Gales, “UglyBros Motorpool Jeans Reviewed”, in Motorcycle Cruiser Magazine:

     Moto pants are probably the trickiest aspect of my riding getup. I don't like any gear that really shouts “I RIDE A MOTORCYCLE,” but I also want to make sure I'm protected. Dress for the slide, not the ride, right?

   • 2017 July 16, Amanda Smith, “Investigative Reporter Amanda Smith learns what it takes to get a motercycle license”, in WKBN News:

     Riders are told to “dress for the slide, not the ride.” This means you should be completely outfitted to improve your chances of surviving a crash.

   • 2017 December 11, Taylor Knight, “Some Question How Safe Mopeds And Motorcycles Are For College Students”, in WUSF News:

     “Dress for the slide, not the ride," said Florida State University Police Officer Sheffield. “Doesn't always look cool it's not always I was just going down the street. But if you get hit by a car and your head hits the asphalt or if you just simply fall over and it wipes out from underneath you. That's where a lot of the damage comes from. A lot of the injury comes from. Its traumatic brain injury."