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What to Wear When Riding a Motorcycle in Hot Weather

Summertime is the best time of year, am I right? The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the temperatures are perfect for riding a motorcycle. Wait… what’s that you say? Is it too hot to ride in summer?

Pish posh! Nonsense! With proper gear and outfits, it’s possible to ride a bike in any weather. If you can’t decide what to wear when riding a motorcycle in hot weather, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ll discuss the best motorcycle gear for hot weather so you can stay cool and comfortable when riding in summer.

What to Wear When Riding a Motorcycle in Hot Weather

Dressing up for the weather when hitting the open road is one of the basic rules of riding. In the summer, you need to wear the right clothes and gear to stay fresh and get protection from bugs and other debris.

You’ll need to consider a few things when riding in hot weather.

Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses or goggles is essential in hot weather. The sun can be incredibly bright in summer, and it’s vital to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.

Look for a pair that offers 100% UV protection. It’s better if it has wrap-around coverage to keep the sun out of your eyes from all angles.

What to Wear When Riding a Motorcycle in Hot Weather
The sunglasses must have UV protection. Image credit: PxHere

Sunscreen

Next, you’ll need good sunscreen. In hot weather, it’s easy to get a sunburn, even if you’re wearing a helmet.

Apply it liberally to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, and hands. Don’t forget to reapply every few hours when riding for extended periods.

To make sure the sunscreen stays in place while you’re riding, choose one that is designed for athletes or outdoor enthusiasts. It should be sweat-resistant and have a high SPF rating.

If you hate the greasiness of sunscreen on your skin, try this non-greasy, water-resistant lotion.

Breathable clothing

Speaking of sweat, you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing breathable clothing that will help wick away moisture. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are great for this. Avoid cotton and leather, as they absorb sweat and become heavy and uncomfortable.

Wear light-colored clothing to reflect the sun’s heat. If you’re riding in an area with high humidity, it’s also a good idea to wear moisture-wicking clothes.

a. Jacket

Choose a jacket with plenty of ventilation. If possible, avoid dark colors, as they will absorb more heat. A light one is ideal for summer riding.

A jacket with mesh panels or vents sounds perfect. It will allow proper air circulation to disperse the body heat.

b. Pants

Jeans are not the best choice for hot weather riding. Instead, opt for light-colored pants made from a breathable fabric. You can find purpose-built motorcycle riding pants with ventilation panels.

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High-quality summer motorcycle pants should have both perforated and mesh panels to help them breathe better. There could be additional stretch panels to aid in movements. A stretchy waist area will be a good option since it improves fitment and contributes to venting performance.

c. Gloves

motorcycle gloves

Thin gloves will help you keep a firm grip on the handlebars while still allowing your hands to breathe.

A good pair of gloves will protect your hands from the sun and wind.

Ensure the gloves have a sound ventilation system to allow air to circulate around your hands.

Mesh panels or perforated materials are ideal for summer riding.

Helmet with ventilation

You’ll also want to invest in a good helmet. A full-face helmet will protect your head from the sun’s rays and bugs, and it will also keep you safe in case of a crash.

A good summer helmet must have plenty of ventilation so that your head stays cool and dry. Buy one that is specifically designed with a lot of airflow in mind so it can keep you cool even on long rides.

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Breathable boots

Motorcycle boots are essential for safety, but in hot weather, you’ll want to choose a pair that’s well ventilated.

Heavy leather boots will make your feet sweat in the summer heat. Choose something lighter-weight made from a breathable material. The footwear has to have good traction to keep your feet from slipping on hot pavement.

Final Words

With these clothing and gear suggestions, you no longer need to worry about what to wear when riding a motorcycle in hot weather. Get ready to take on the summer heat in style! Don’t let the hot weather stop you from enjoying your bike – get out there and go for a breezy ride.

Do you have any tips for staying cool while riding a motorcycle in hot weather? Let us know in the comments below.

FAQs about What to Wear When Riding a Motorcycle in Hot Weather

What kind of clothes should I wear riding a motorcycle in hot weather?

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton or mesh. Synthetic materials that trap heat should be avoided.

Should I wear long pants when riding a bike in hot weather?

Long pants made from lightweight, breathable fabric like linen or cotton are recommended for protection from the elements.

What kind of jacket should I use?

Opt for a mesh or perforated leather jacket to allow ventilation and air circulation. A textile jacket with vents is another option. Avoid heavy, non-breathable leather or vinyl jackets in hot weather as they will trap heat and cause sweating.

Should I wear motorcycle boots in hot weather?

Open-toe sandals are not recommended. Instead, choose motorcycle boots with good airflow and lightweight materials. Ventilated motorcycle boots provide ankle protection without overheating your feet.

What about a helmet?

A helmet is essential gear when riding a motorcycle. Choose a helmet with good ventilation, especially one with an open face shield. Some helmets come equipped with retractable sun visors or tinted shield options to help block the sun.

Are motorcycle gloves necessary in hot weather?

Gloves are important to protect hands from wind, road debris, burns and blisters. Look for perforated or mesh motorcycle gloves that allow for airflow while providing impact protection over the knuckles and palms.

Can scarves or bandanas give protection from the sun?

A lightweight scarf or bandana can provide neck protection from the sun, wind and flying debris. They can also be soaked in water and wrapped around the neck to help keep the rider cool. Just make sure it is secured safely and does not obstruct the rider’s view.

Any tips for staying cooler while riding?

In addition to wearing light, breathable clothing, ride at a slower speed to reduce wind chill. Take frequent breaks in the shade. Rehydrate often and consider wearing a cooling neck gaiter, face mask or bandana. Apply sunscreen to exposed skin before riding.

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