Spain bans open footwear for motorcyclists, fines start at €200
From 1 October 2026 Spain’s Directorate General for Traffic (DGT) will enforce a comprehensive overhaul of motorcycle safety rules. Riders must wear CE‑approved gloves, fully enclosed shoes and helmets that meet current ECE 22.05/22.06 standards. Open footwear such as sandals or flip‑flops will be prohibited on all roads, and non‑compliance carries a minimum fine of €200 per offence, with multiple violations (e.g., missing gloves and open shoes) potentially costing €400.
The reform also permits motorcyclists to use the hard shoulder on designated highway sections during congestion, limited to 30 km/h and clearly sign‑posted. A transitional period runs until 31 December 2026 for riders to acquire compliant gear. The measures aim to reduce severe injuries to feet, ankles and hands, which are among the most common injuries in motorcycle accidents, and apply to both Spanish residents and foreign tourists riding in the country.