Motorcycle Summer Clothing

I love riding during the summer, the sun is out, everybody looks happy, and I can really enjoy the breeze as I take on the roads, it truly is the best time for riding.

Despite these positives, summer riding brings its own set of challenges. The temperature and humidity can become unbearable while wearing your protective gear, especially with a lot of the heat being generated from your bike; it can sometimes feel like sitting in a radiator.

But please do not try the T-Shirt and shorts thing. It offers no protection and there are a number of other ways to keep cool and comfortable during your summer rides, without compromising on your safety. Here are just a few suggestions on how to keep cool and safe while riding in the summer.

Head Wear

‘Zub wear’ tubular head wear, this interesting piece of kit can be worn as a do-rag, bandana, headband and many more. It’s a breathable material, the polyester absorbs moisture and pulls it to the top layer, while the surface acts like a radiator, enhancing and promoting evaporation, providing you with a wonderful cooling effect.

Motorcycle Sunglasses

Sunglasses look cool, but they serve another function. Intense heat from the sun  can damage the eyes and lead to ocular problems like cataract, snow blindness and in some cases cancer. So why not look cool and protect your eyes by investing in some motorcycle sunglasses.

Summer Motorcycle Jackets

It might sound crazy, but in warm temperatures, you actually need to wear more to stay cool. When the temperature outside exceeds the body’s’, wrapping up means you lose less body fluid from evaporation, and the extra layer creates a cooler micro climate around your body.

It isn’t pleasant wearing your bulky winter jacket in this weather, so why not invest in a light summer jacket. They offer maximum protection with cooling vents. Many are made with perforated materials which are breathable and conducive to a comfortable ride.

Motorcycle Jeans

For those days where you absolutely must wear denim, but still want to enjoy a bike ride; why not wrap your legs in the tough stuff? Many motorcycle jeans are made with at least 40% extra Kevlar than your standard denim wear. ‘Draggin’ started the trend, but now there are many brands that make CE approved motorcycle jeans that offer reinforcement in the knee section and other areas that are likely to come into contact with the tarmac. 

Here are just a few ideas on how to stay cool this summer while being protected, please share some of your summer essentials with us. See you on the roads boys and girls!

Photo credit: Elvert Barnes on Flickr