Hot Weather Motorcycle Riding Gear

If you asked most people what bikers wear, they’ll say “a leather jacket”. Unfortunately, this iconic piece of riding gear isn’t very practical for hot weather. Leather isn’t very breathable, and dark colored clothing absorbs light so that you feel hotter. That’s why it’s often a good idea to switch out your normal riding gear when things start to feel a bit balmy. If you’re not sure where to start, this guide from Moroney’s Motorsports has information about riding gear that can help keep you cool during a summer ride.

Protection Vs. Comfort

Summer motorcycle riding gear needs to strike a careful balance between protection and comfort. Short sleeves may be cooler, but they won’t provide much protection in the event of a crash or from the sun. Of course, you don’t want to get heat exhaustion due to wearing long sleeves in the summer. Look for riding gear that both provides adequate protection and has built-in mesh and vents to provide cooling.

The Right Helmet

A DOT certified helmet is often the difference between a lethal crash and one that you eventually recover from, but they also tend to be a bit stuffy. Look for a helmet that offers extra ventilation, or else just switch to a half-helmet until temperatures start to cool down.

Sunglasses

Not all motorcycle helmets have built-in eye protection. The sun's glaring rays can disrupt visibility and cause eye strain in the long-term, so investing in a good pair of sunglasses may be a good idea.

Gloves

Riding gloves are important since your first instinct in a crash will usually be to break your fall using your hands. However, sweaty hands make gripping a motorcycle’s controls more difficult. A good set of summer riding gloves will provide adequate protection and have mesh paneling to prevent your hands from becoming too hot.

Bandana/Neckerchief

Many bikers use bandanas to keep sweat out of their eyes. Neckerchiefs are another popular accessory for riding a motorcycle during the summer since they can be wetted down and tied around the neck to keep the wearer cool. Neckerchiefs are useful since they can be re-wetted as many times as needed.

Cooling Vests

If you plan to ride your motorcycle in scorching heat on a frequent basis, invest in a cooling vest. These special vests act as a neckerchief for your entire body. They can be soaked in water, wrung out, and worn under your jacket to help you beat the heat.

Shop motorcycles at Moroney Motorsports in New Windsor, New York. We also offer motorcycle servicing and parts. We’re proud to serve communities like Newburgh, New York, and we hope to see you soon!