Specially designed gear keeps women motorcyclists stylish and safe

For women who love the experience of hitting the open road on a motorcycle, doing so can be a bit more complicated than it would be for a man. Since it's mostly been a male-dominated pastime in years gone by, it's been difficult for women to find products that are made specifically for them.

There's been a significant spike in the number of female motorcycle riders over the years. Even in the past few years, according to a survey by the Motorcycle Industry Council, motorcycle ownership among women has steadily crept upwards, and as many as 5.7 million of America's 25 million riders are women. That means that the demand for specially designed equipment has skyrocketed.

If you're a woman who's enticed by the power and mystique of motorcycles, you'll have many more options for outfitting your bike than women of previous generations. These are some of the specially designed items you'll want to have for a comfortable and safe riding experience.

* Custom motorcycle seats - You wouldn't wear pants designed for men, so why should you have a seat designed for men on your motorcycle? No matter what kind of bike you have, it's possible to have it fitted with a customized seat that allows you to sit properly and feel more comfortable.

* Jackets - Leather motorcycle jackets are a classic clothing item, even among people who don't ride. But that doesn't mean that any motorcycle-style jacket will do. For women motorcycle riders, a jacket is as much about safety and practicality as it is about fashion and style. A man's motorcycle jacket might not fit you correctly, which can cause all kinds of problems - your jacket needs to keep you warm, stay close to your body, be waterproof, breathe properly and move seamlessly along with you.

* Gear - Beyond the jacket, there's plenty of other motorcycle riding gear that you need to consider. Consider custom handlebars that fit your size, and other clothing items needed to keep you safe. Women riders should always buy pants, gloves, boots and eyewear specifically designed for them, so that they are properly protected - and have that extra element of style.

* Helmets - Many riders won't get on a bike without one, but a bad helmet can be a major problem in its own right. Look for versions that are made to fit the unique dimensions of women's heads, and consult a professional to find out what the right fit should feel like. You can choose to go for old-school simplicity or pick a cutting-edge version with amenities like a helmet cam, but make sure that it's fitted properly.

Women motorcyclists are making their voices heard in what is still a male-dominated world and showing that they have the know-how and passion to be a major part of the motorcycle community. And when you've got the right gear to adequately protect you, you'll be able to feel even more confident as you head out on your next great ride.