What To Look For In Cold Weather Motorcycle Apparel

Motorcycles aren't just for the summer, but if you've ever ridden your motorcycle in cold weather, you're probably aware of how important cold weather gear is.

If your body is uncomfortably cold while riding, it will tend to distract your attention from the road. Cold weather riding can put you in a position of grave danger not only because your cold muscles will respond slower than normal, but because your cold head will think slower. Put those two things together and you are asking for a possible bad situation.

As far as your helmet goes, a full face helmet is going to protect your face much more from the cold than just a half helmet. If you ride while wearing a half helmet, you should think about investing in a full-face helmet as well. If it's really cold out and the full face helmet isn’t enough, you can put something like a ‘watch cap’ on beneath it to hold in your heat.

Well insulated but still pliable gloves are a must. The insulation will keep your fingers warmer and more responsive and pliability guarantees free movement.

Your jacket will not only need to act as an insulator, it will also need to act as a wind breaker. One that will snap up around your neck (should you need it) is also a big plus. You can accomplish all of this by having an all inclusive jacket, or you can wear layers of clothes. This will give you the option of removing layers should weather conditions dictate it.

Your pants and your boots will also need to have insulating qualities as numb extremities will not respond as well and will also affect your comfort level. Riding while your feet are getting frostbitten sucks, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.

Cold Weather Riding Gear: