Hot Weather Motorcycle Riding Gear

The iconic black leather jacket and jeans look isn’t well suited to motorcycle riding in hot weather. Leather isn’t very breathable, and dark colors absorb light and make you feel hotter. When it comes to motorcycle riding in hot weather, special riding gear is often required. Use these tips from Boise Indian® Triumph® to help you find motorcycle riding gear that will keep you comfortable and protected in hot weather.

Protection Vs. Comfort

The main difficulty with finding good motorcycle gear for hot weather is balancing protection and comfort. Short sleeves may be more comfortable, but they will not shield your skin from the sun or protect you during a crash. On the other hand, full-length clothing that does not breathe can quickly lead to you overheating and drain your stamina. Look for clothing made with cooling mesh material and vents that still provides adequate protection. 

The Right Helmet

Many bikers find their normal helmets too stuffy for hot weather riding. Look for models that offer additional ventilation while still protecting your head. Some people choose to switch to a half-helmet during the warmer months, though this of course comes at the expense of protection. 

Sunglasses

The glare of the sun can strain your eyes and impair visibility. Find a pair of sunglasses that are compatible with your helmet and will protect your eyes from bright light. 

Gloves

Gloves are important since your instinct during a crash will be to break your fall using your hands. On the other hand, sweaty hands can make it more difficult to grip your motorcycle’s controls. Find a sturdy pair of gloves with mesh panels for ventilation. 

Bandana

Having both hands at the controls leaves you with no way to wipe the sweat off your forehead. Wearing a bandana is a great way to keep sweat out of your eyes. 

Neckerchief

Bikers experienced with hot weather have developed a trick. They wet a neckerchief before they hit the road and tie it around their necks to keep them cool. The best part is that you can re-wet the neckerchief whenever you stop to help keep yourself cool. 

Cooling Vests

Cooling vests are like neckerchiefs for your entire body. Simply soak one in water for a few minutes and then wring it out. These vests can be worn under your jacket for a cooler ride, and soaked as many times as necessary. 

We here at Boise Indian® Triumph® hope you found these tips helpful. To view our selection of new and pre-owned motorcycles, visit our dealership in Meridian, Idaho. We are proud to serve communities like Boise, Idaho, and we hope to see you soon.