Let’s face it, there isn’t a cooler-sounding job in the world than a motorcycle stunt performer. While it’s a high-stakes job, there is also often a high payoff, and it can be a lot of fun when you’re a professional who is also a bit of an adrenaline junkie.
But, as a stunt performer, safety should always be your top priority. So, whether you’re just getting started in the industry or you’ve been at it for years, taking a look at your wardrobe is a great place to start when it comes to making sure you have the essentials that will keep you as safe as possible while allowing you to perform your daring motorcycle sequences with ease.
The choices and considerations stunt performers make when it comes to their wardrobe should be a combination of safe and stylish. If you’re a motorcycle stunt performer who hasn’t given your wardrobe much thought in the past, take a second look in your closet, and you might consider making some different clothing choices.
The Beginning Gear Everyone Needs
If you’re just starting out as a stunt performer, one of the easiest ways to make sure you have the right gear is to go back to basics. Some of the most common motorcycle gear beginners should invest in include:
- A helmet
- A jacket
- Boots
- Gloves
- Pants
At the end of the day, if you’re just casually riding, these pieces will be enough to keep you protected. But, stunt riders typically aren’t just cruising for fun. Motorcycle stunt riders have to go at dangerous speeds, make daring leaps, and sometimes even crash on purpose or race through frightening elements like fire or extreme weather.
It’s not safe to assume that the filmmakers you’re working with will know everything about keeping you safe, especially if they’re new to the game, too. While safety on set is always important, it’s up to you to make sure you’re personally protected and you have the right gear for the job. So, once you have the basics covered, consider what else might be needed to keep you safe during your next stunt.
Choose Quality Every Time
As a stunt performer, your life is on the line every time you go to work. So, when you’re deciding on the right safety gear to wear during your stunts, consider the kind of price you’re willing to pay for your well-being.
Simply put, you should be investing in quality gear every time.
For example, you should consider investing in quality boots, jeans, and jackets, as these items will last for years, especially when you take care of them. They might be a bit pricier, but they are designed to endure tough conditions. Pay attention to materials when it comes to what you’re buying. Things like genuine leather are made to last and tend to be “on brand” for most motorcyclists. It also pays to go with trustworthy brand names that have proven themselves over the years, like Carhartt or Ariat.
Some film sets might be specific about the type of clothing you wear while performing your stunts. You might be filling in for an actor or the movie itself might have a certain look they’re going for. But, whatever the wardrobe calls for, don’t compromise on quality. Even if you have to wear your protective gear underneath other clothes, it’s a worthwhile investment that could end up saving your life and preventing serious injuries.
The Personal Payoff of Stunt Performing
Thinking about protective gear while stunt performing might seem a bit obvious. But, if you’ve been at it a while or you’re new to the scene, it’s easy to forget what’s actually needed to stay safe. It’s even easier to get cocky or to assume you don’t need all of the gear you once did when you didn’t have as much experience.
There are plenty of payoffs to being a stunt performer. The pay is often great. You get to do something you love. And you get to enjoy the natural benefits of riding a motorcycle. Things like reduced stress and better physical health from the strength and control it takes to drive. But, it’s important to make sure those benefits don’t cloud the risks involved with this kind of career. You have to know how your motorcycle behaves, especially when you’re filming a scene, so you don’t end up making a harmful mistake.
Even if you feel like you know the ins and outs of every scene and how your motorcycle tends to ride, your life isn’t worth a cool shot. Never neglect safety when it comes to stunt performances. While there are plenty more things to consider and more gear you might need to keep yourself safe when you’re working, starting with your stunt wardrobe is easy and more effective than you might realize. Take the time to invest in high-quality gear designed to keep you safe from head to toe. Not only will it make you a more confident rider, but it will allow you to perform the most daring of stunts with less risk and more rewards.
Did you know?
Amanda Winstead is a writer from the Portland area with a background in communications and a passion for telling stories. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.
