Learning to ride a unicycle, also known as a one-wheeler, is not without its challenges, shall we say – and that’s to put it lightly.
It’s normal to take a few spills when learning to ride a bike. When learning to ride a unicycle it’s foregone. We call them unplanned dismounts.
And the truth is that even experienced riders take a tumble or two from the saddle from time to time.
This reality is why appropriate safety is critical for comfort and safety. Here’s a breakdown of what you should be wearing.
A Helmet
By far, the most serious injuries that occur in cycling accidents are to the head, and the vast majority of fatal accidents implicate a head injury.
For this reason alone you should wear a helmet every time you mount or dismount, no exceptions – period. Even when you’re learning, or on soft ground, a fall can be dangerous.
Close-Toed Shoes
So you might not consider close-toed shoes to be safety gear, but your feet will take the brunt of scrapes and falls, especially those that are not serious.
Wearing shoes that protect your toes and feet (laceless shoes or shoes with the laces tucked in are preferable) will help protect your feet, keep you more comfortable, and help prevent infections that arise subsequent to scrapes.
Knee, Elbow and Wrist Pads
After a helmet, knee, elbow and wrist pads are the most essential unicycle safety gear. Knee and elbow pads help protect your knees, elbows, and forearms from abrasion, and injuries to the forearm are very prevalent after head injuries. Therefore elbow pads should take the number two spot.
As for wrist pads (or wrist guards) that’s up to you. Some unicyclists wear them to help prevent scuffs to the wrists, and they can help keep you more comfortable, too.
Leg armor, which shields both the shins and the knees, is another popular option in safety gear, and can help keep you more comfortable and safe while you’re learning to ride.
Gloves
Like wrist guards, gloves are another popular choice among unicyclists because they protect your hands not only while riding but in the event of a fall.
Some gloves are extended and shield and support the wrists, too, so you can kill two birds with one stone there.
A middle-ground if you don’t want to compromise sensitivity is to get fingerless gloves; that way, you’ll still have dexterity through your fingertips, but your palms and the backs of your hands will be shielded.
Where to Get Unicycle Safety Gear?
If you’re here for bike or unicycle safety gear, there is one good place to get it – Unicycle.com. Visit their website to explore a catalog of helmets, knee, elbow and wrist pads, and other unique options like wrist guards and leg armor.
In addition to safety gear, they also sell unicycles, odd bikes, and a variety of parts and tools – it’s definitely a website you want to have in your repertoire if you’re a cyclist.
