Riding a motorcycle in cold weather is a challenge to even the hardiest soul.  Layers of underclothes from silky thin to medium and heavy the search for cold weather motorcycle clothes is dynamic.  The seasoned rider not wanting to hang up the chaps and admit defeat rides on. The chart below shows what the temperature actually is (windchill factor) when taking wind speed into consideration.

When riding in frigid weather paying attention to what happens to your body when cold weather is a factor could be the difference between a fun ride and a miserable ride.

By reviewing the three stages of frostbite motorcycle riders could avoid a painful and possibly life changing event.

What Is Frostbite? What Causes Frostbite? What Is Congelatio?

Motorcycle Clothes For Winter Riding
Regardless, watching the weather and dressing appropriately is the answer to a safe and fun ride.
Choosing the proper riding gear is the first step.  Beginning with outer wear and working your way in gives the rider room to move.
1st – Choosing a riding jacket a size larger will allow room for layers.  Leather or textile, a jacket with a zip in or snap liner is an extra layer not usually considered.

Made In The USA High Quality Leather

100% waterproof, high abrasion resistant cotton

2nd – A good pair of Motorcycle Chaps and or Motorcycle Leather Overpants will help keep the lower body warm by blocking the cold wind from penetrating.  Layers are going to be your best defense. Underclothes for Men and Underclothes for Women come in ultralight or silky, medium and heavy made from cotton and cotton blends.

Hands and feet are probably the hardest part of the body to keep and stay warm.  For the hands combining a good pair of  lined gloves and hand grip warmers will do the job even on the coldest days.  Try wearing a pair of thin rubber gloves (surgical) under your regular gloves for extra protection.

The feet can prove to be a bit more difficult but a good pair of Thermal Lined Socks can keep the feet warm or even consider battery operated heaters.  Bring an extra pair if on a longer ride just in case your feet start to sweat.  Once socks become damp the feet will get cold making it harder to warm them back up.

A baclava or leather bandanna tucked into the jacket collar will not only block the wind and protect the neck but also create warmth from exhaled air captured.

Motorcycle riding is a passion fueled by the wind, sun cold and rain.  Wearing proper riding gear is necessary when challenging the elements.  When riding in cold weather create a flight plan with frequent stops to allow the body temperature core to warm back up.  By doing your homework and assembling the proper gear, cold weather riding is possible.

For more information, and tips with a recommended selection of motorcycle riding gear and clothes visit www.cool-riders.com.  Be Safe and Ride On.

HubShout.com