Forget about getting robbed in Baja. If you have the cojones to traverse the desert, short-course track or rocks at high speeds, then you'd better have the brains to know what you need to stay safe while doing so. What we showcase throughout these pages is but a sprinkling of the gear available on the market today. And although we pride ourselves on displaying the best of the best, there is much more to know. According to Jeff Furrier, owner of one of the most well-known racing gear distributors in the nation, UPR Racing Supply, it's up to the consumer to educate himself. Furrier tells us, "The consumer can make a much better-informed buying decision if he or she knows what to expect. Buying the right gear is just an introduction to safety. What they need to do now is take the next step and get informed."

He adds that his company is constantly evaluating new products and questioning marketing claims to ensure what is being sold exceeds the racers' expectations for quality and safety. So talk to the experts at UPR or get more information from experienced racers–the best way to stay safe is to stay in the know. Equipment is constantly changing to keep up with the times, and so should you!

ALL ALPINESTARS, ALL THE TIME: Off-road racers love Alpinestars gear just about as much as we love this sexy shot of Genevieve, head to toe in the companys Tech 1-T shoes, GP-2, two-layer driving suit and Tech 1-R gloves. Available at Alpinestars.com and UPR.com.

EYE OF THE TIGER: Sparco claims its driving suits feature 30 years of innovation. Equipped with an X-Cool inner liner, the new F1-ADV suit also features HANS-friendly shoulders and strategically placed stretch panels, giving Matthew comfort as well as functionality (SparcoUSA.com). And click on UPR.com to view HJCs helmets.