Winter Motorcycle Clothing
When winter arrives, with its blustery winds and wet spells, being a biker becomes tough. In order to stay mobile, we wrap up in our warmest winter motorcycle clothing, hoping to defend ourselves from the relentless weather we ride forth into. Waterproof gloves, and windproof jackets protect us from the brunt of the elements, but even they can’t do the job alone.
Introducing under layers! Thermal base layers and other winter motorcycle clothing provide the essential back up we need against the cold weather. As all of our natural warmth comes from our bodies’ cores, keeping it there means starting with the basics.
Below is a thorough review of the best winter motorcycle clothing available, split into two sections. Within the Layered Winter Motorcycle Clothing section, find all your base layers, mid layers and full under layer suits. In section two, Itemised Winter Motorcycle Clothing, we look at inner gloves, socks, neck warmers and balaclavas. Heated motorcycle gear is also touched upon, but best to follow this link to learn more about that.
Layered Winter Motorcycle Clothing
Base Layers
Also known as the fundamentals, base layers are tops and bottoms designed to be worn under your other garments, usually in direct contact with the skin. They offer the final line of defence (or the first, depending on how you look at it) against the chilly gusts and spitting rain that will have you shivering all ride long.
Although close fitting winter motorcycle clothing usually insulates heat better, it can also cause you to sweat. Sweat plus wintry wind equals cold droplets on your body, so moisture wicking properties are preferable when looking at decent base layers. Equally important is a product’s breathability.
Well ventilated items will prevent you from over heating, and it doesn’t necessarily make them any less effective at retaining heat. With such a variety of technologically researched materials available, under garments today are more advanced than ever. It is now the standard for base layers to simultaneously draw moisture away from the body, eliminate odours and regulate your core temperature.
Exceptional base layers will also consider muscle support with elasticated fabrics, and include compressive qualities. This can contribute to higher-level comfort, energy conservation and overall convenience. Combine all the above with wind-proofing and water-repelling attributes and you have yourself the optimal set of base layers.
The following products find that balance.
RST Thermal Wind Block Top
One of the most popular and highly recommended base layers available online. The RST Thermal Wind Block Top is soft on the skin and fits snugly to the shape of your torso.
• Excellent at retaining body heat, with thermal qualities designed specifically for winter riding.
• Four-way stretch fabric, constructed of nylon and spandex, allows for unobtrusive range of movement.
Complete the set with the Thermal Wind Block Pants.
Oxford Warm Dry High Neck Long Sleeved Top
An all weather under garment, particularly useful in colder temperatures. With thermal insulation and moisture wicking abilities, this long sleeved top regulates your body heat whilst keeping you dry.
• Flat seams are reinforced for enhanced durability and comfort.
• Treated to with anti-bacterial formula to eliminate odours.
Complete the set with the Oxford Warm Dry Trousers.
Also available in a ladies version.
Dainese No Wind Layer D1
Although a slightly pricier option, as always with Dainese, you get what you pay for. This versatile top is not only windproof, but doubles down as a water-repelling base layer.
• Elasticated Interon construct is both water-resistant and completely windproof.
• Can be worn casually off the bike, inclusive of two front pockets and a front zip.
Complete the set with the Dainese No Wind Thermo Pants.
Alpinestars Ride Tech Long Sleeve Winter Top
Top quality from a top brand. Muscular compressing fabric used in the construct of this garment boosts your energy levels by fighting fatigue and offering support.
• Most exposed areas of the body are protected by double density, moisture wicking fabric.
• Made from polypropylene, which has superior abrasion resistant qualities.
Complete the set with the Alpinestars Ride Tech Winter Pants.
DXR Warmcore Long Sleeve Shirt
This multi-purpose base layer is packed with benefits, on a budget. Its lightweight construct moulds to the body, insulating your core and keeping your temperature up.
• Moisture wicking hollow fibres increase insulation properties.
• Thermal quilted, yet breathable.
Complete the set with the DXR Warmcore Pants.
Also available in a ladies version.
Mid Layers
Much like their base layer brothers, mid layers are generally intended to be worn underneath your more substantial riding gear. However, this is not always true. Mid layers are often designed with versatility at the forefront. This means that they can compliment your other gear, but alternatively, they can be worn as casual clothing when you’re not riding.
Many of the previous properties mentioned, such as moisture wicking, heat insulating, water-repelling and wind-proofing are desirable traits in any piece of winter motorcycle clothing. With mid layers in particular though, the additional considerations are aspects such as multi-functionality, high visibility and increased durability. These are the attributes focussed on here.
Rukka Aldrich Mid Layer Jacket
Versatile and stylish, this Rukka jacket can be worn in combination with your other gear, or as an independent piece. With its smart appearance and pockets, it’s clearly intended to be more than just a basic base layer.
• Triple layered, knitted fleece.
• Well ventilated and breathable, to avoid over heating.
• Elasticated waist and cuffs, to prevent cold air and water breaching.
Alpinestars Tech Layer Top
Cleverly constructed to fit close to the core, with pre-curved sleeves and Lycra thumb loops. This design is better for insulating heat, and more convenient for wearing with other gear.
• Windproof, with a thermal fleece inner lining that wicks moisture.
• Reflective elements on front and rear aid visibility when worn separately.
• Chest pocket and internal mesh pocket ideal for storing personal items safely.
Merlin Yuri Insulated Textile Jacket
Thoughtfully designed to be suitable as a stand-alone jacket, or as a cosy mid layer. A mid cut length, elasticated cuffs and a short collar, ensure this jacket stays in place however it’s worn.
• Durable mini-ripstop nylon construct.
• Packed with white duck fill and 650 powder fill for superb warmth retention.
• Multiple tricot soft lined pockets for convenient storage.
Dainese Destination Layer
Combining technology and versatility, Dainese created this subtle mid layer that is both fashionable and practical. Not the cheapest, but probably the most sophisticated.
• Polartec Power Air material used to form a secure thermal layer.
• Lightweight, and allows for full range of movement while riding.
• Windproof and warm, with a high collar to enhance these qualities.
Rev'it Climate 2 Jacket
Quick drying, moisture wicking, water-repelling premium product! Inspired by clothing worn by the US Navy Seals, using Polartec Alpha insulation.
• Polyester 75D and Polartec Alpha construct provide 5-star heat retaining capability.
• Perforated outer shell to assist regular air flow.
• Figure-hugging and stretchy, with thumb loops for a grippier fit.
Klim Yukon Pullover
Casual top off the bike, or warm mid layer on the bike. This quarter-length, zipped pullover suits either purpose, fulfilling individual requirements for both.
• High-vis elements aid your presence for off the bike safety.
• Insulating fleece forged using 325g Polartec Thermal Pro material.
• Shoulder and elbow overlays to strengthen prone areas.
Dane Ladies Hygge Textile Jacket
The top pick over the Rukka Ladies Holt Mid Layer Jacket and the Rev’it Ladies Solar 2 Base Layer. Higher quality than the former, lower price than the latter.
• Duck down and feather filled.
• Lightweight and easy to compress, ideal for packing.
• Durable polyamide and polyester construct, for increased longevity.
Under Layer Suits
If you’re looking for the best all-round winter motorcycle clothing, under layer suits have you totally covered – literally! To fend off the cold from head to toe, full winter suits will include a thermal top, well insulated trousers, a head-hugging balaclava or substantial neck warmer, and a pair of toe-toasting socks. Forgive me for saying, but a pair of inner gloves can also be handy!
Dull digits on your hands and feet make operating your bike’s controls that little more difficult. By wearing a pair of thick winter socks and lining your riding gloves, you can avoid this deadly discomfort and concentrate more on the road ahead.
Helmet refrigeration is another potential problem. Fortunately, this distraction is easily eliminated, so your ears needn’t chill like your weekly perishables! All encompassing balaclavas and woolly neck warmers will go a long way toward keeping the bitter cold at bay. By sealing the gaps where air might otherwise breach, these items shield everything north of the shoulders.
A variety of under layer suits have been reviewed here, with preference given to the options that cover the entire body.
Spada Chill Factor 2 Base Layer Body Guard
Fleece lined for close to the body warmth, this guard does what it says on the tin. Its tensile fabric means it can be worn conveniently under your other gear, and in combination with the other products in the Spada Chill Factor line, without limiting your movements.
• Breathable and lightweight to prevent overheating.
• Thermal and fleece lined, forming a warm and windproof screen between you and the biting air.
Complete the set with the Trousers, Inner Gloves, Boot Liners, and Neck Guard or Balaclava.
Also available in a ladies version.
Forcefield Tornado Advance 2 Shirt
The flat seams used in the Forcefield Tornado Advanced range make them soft, nonintrusive garments. Add that to the fact that they’re water resistant and windproof thermals, and you have a solid under layer suit.
• Longer, contoured cut in the body which further reduces wind chill, without leaving excess material.
• Comprised of Thermalite fabric for high performance insulation.
Complete the set with the Pants, and Neck Warmer or Balaclava.
Proskins Moto Long Sleeve Base Layer Top
With an advanced moisture management system incorporated, this top actively controls your micro climate temperature to reduce your perspiration levels. This draws sweat away from your body, while an anti-bacterial silver inner lining eliminates any odours emitted.
Oxford Advanced Expedition MS Jacket
Ergonomically designed to work well as part of a layering system with other gear. Lined with with ‘fur-fleece’ for that premium feel of thermal warmth.
• Lightweight and flexible, minimises bulk and maximises comfort.
• Constructed using highly breathable and windproof fabric.
Complete the set with the Oxford Advanced Expedition MS Trousers.
Rukka Down-X 2.0 Jacket
Generously filled with 110g of down and feather, this Rukka jacket is popular with riders because of its light weight and high quality. Even ‘better in the flesh’, it functions as a stylish overcoat, as well as a very competent heat retainer.
• Purpose built, yet versatile, with superior thermal qualities packed into a compact jacket.
• Comes with its own bag for packing, and is easily travelled with.
Complete the set with the Rukka Down-X 2.0 Trousers and Rukka Mark Thermal Set.
Also available in a ladies version.
Rukka Down-X 2.0 Jacket
Heated Winter Motorcycle Clothing
Itemised Winter Motorcycle Clothing
Inner Gloves
Unlike outer gloves which which have to be impact absorbing and abrasion resistant, inner gloves’ sole purpose is to keep your fingers from freezing. A well-padded, thermally lined pair can boost your comfort, uplift your spirit and heighten your concentration enormously on a frigid day’s riding. This increases not only your safety, but other road users’ too. Justifiably so, no-one wants to share the road with an angry rider who’s not paying attention.
Important factors to consider when searching for inner gloves include suppleness, compatibility, and heat retention efficacy. Below is a selection that I’ve found tick these boxes.
Furygan Furysilk Inner Gloves
Well-priced, long-lasting gloves from Furygan, a company with over 50 years experience in research and product development. Designed specifically to fit inside your current riding gloves, so they don’t ride up or add bulkiness.
• Elasticated cuff for secure fit.
• Unisex, and can slide beneath men’s or women’s outer gloves with ease.
• Highly rated by riders for their addition of warmth and thermal qualities.
Rukka Offwind Gore Infinium Gloves
Premium finesse from all-weather experts, Rukka. Claiming to be fully windproof, these inner gloves are constructed with an exceptionally toasty Gore Infinium lining.
• Breathable fabric construct prevents hands from sweating.
• Winter inner glove weighing in at the same as a summer glove.
• Intended to be worn under a pair of waterproof gloves.
Merlin Ladies Outlast Inner Glove
A pair of Merlin branded inner gloves for the ladies, finding the balance between too hot, and too cold. Feature inbuilt thermal regulating technology.
• NASA developed fabric construct.
• Outlast Technology, thermal regulation.
• Made using moisture wicking material that keeps your hands dry.
DXR Micro Inner Gloves
Made to stretch, the DXR Micro Inner Gloves will feel grippy and precise under your outer gloves. Their 12% spandex, 88% polyester construct also makes them respectably durable, but very affordable.
• Boasting comforting moisture wicking properties.
• Breathable, silky feel friendly to skin.
• Low price for a highly-rated product.
Tucano Urbano Pole Gloves
All-purpose inner gloves, suitable for both men and women. Reasonably priced, although less effectual than the aforementioned.
• Elasticated thermal insulation to hold heat close to the source.
• Polyester textile suitable for milder, not extreme, temperatures.
• Sleek and thin, for a lightweight supplement to outer gloves.
Socks
Seemingly, the most unpleasant body parts to freeze up are our toes. Somehow, they feel like the most vulnerable and sensitive, the first to cause us stress and irritation on an Arctic adventure ride. (Although equally as painful on our daily, and slightly less daring, cold season commutes.)
How do we stop our feet from getting frostbite? By wearing great, thick, thermally lined socks! Wrapping up our rear brake and clutch operators gives us two major advantages:
1. We amplify our awareness and concentration levels, thus our safety alike.
2. We enjoy the ride for what it is, instead of cursing the day we were born.
The highlights of a quality sock are a robust construct, non-slip elements, extra padding, arch support and moisture wicking properties. The listed items put their best foot forward!
MotoGP Boot Socks – Winter
Official product of our beloved MotoGP – complete with the chequered logo. No wonder they’re a best-seller!
• Strong loop knit construct provides superior comfort.
• Thoroughly cushioned for soft feel heel and added sole support.
• Stay in place fitted ankle.
Klim Mammoth Socks
Top of the range thermal socks that provide excellent heat retention across the shin, feet and toes. Benefitting from reinforced toe, heels and soles, they also promise to be enduring.
• Moisture wicking, keeping your feet dry inside your boot.
• Multiple stretch bands and a regular knit reduce bunching and keep socks firmly in place.
• Comfort and warmth in abundance thanks to their 100% Terry construct.
Oxford Thermal Oxsocks
Boasting a heat trapping thermal knit construct, these Oxford socks surround the foot in consistent warmth. Available in two lengths, of which the longer version covers up past the calf, and over the shin, just below the knee.
• 4 way stretch fabric for a tighter fit.
• Cleverly placed moisture wicking panels.
• Extra cushioned areas, including heels, toes and shins.
Dainese Thermo Mid Socks
Fabricated using hi-tech thermoregulating material, these Dainese socks can withstand sub-zero temperatures as low as -20°. Great for extreme temperatures, and fatigue fighting too!
• Compression lines lower vibrations, offering support and increased blood flow.
• Grippy soles prevent unwanted shifting inside the boot.
• Structured ankle support enhances controllability.
RST Adventure Riding Socks
Highly recommended by hardy riders! RST Adventure Riding Socks are ‘nice and toasty’ and ‘you can hardly feel them on’.
• Made from easy to wash cotton.
• Well balanced fit that hugs, but doesn’t constrict the foot.
• Luxuriously padded, cushiony sole.
Neck Warmers
These could be the most underrated pieces of winter motorcycle clothing on the list. It’s only once you’ve left the house without one that you realise the impact of a proper neck warmer.
Bridging the gap between jacket and helmet, neck warmers posses multiple benefits. Principally, they block out chilly air, which without one would blow down into our jacket, and up into our helmet. Secondarily, they insulate an area which needs to remain flexible and relaxed. A cold neck can become stiff, especially under the weight of a helmet, and rigid necks are no good at performing life saver checks. In fact, we can become discouraged from doing them altogether if they cause soreness, which is why it’s imperative to look after that part of our body in cold temperatures.
The best neck warmers will span from the bottom of your chin (inside your helmet), to around your collarbone. They’ll be reliable wind stoppers, and preferably waterproof. Being stretchable is also key, leaving enough give for a full range of movements.
Here are a few of the most suitable for the job.
Alpinestars Neck Warmer
This popular neck warmer from Alpinestars is a solid shield from whatever the weather. Don’t just take it from me, read some of the many 5-star rated reviews it receives from other riders!
• Constructed of soft thermal fleece which isn’t scratchy on the skin.
• Creates a warm seal, and wicks away any unwanted moisture.
• One size fits all, and can stretch over the bottom half of the face for extended cover.
Rev'it Urbano WB Wind Collar
Multifunctional protective barrier, featuring water-repelling properties. Can be used as a proficient neck tube, or full on face mask.
• 50/50 fleece/jersey split, for multiple ways to wear.
• Windproof, water resistant panel.
• High quality, premium feel.
MotoGP Windproof Neck Tube
Simply styled and MotoGP branded, this is a classic neck tube. Fully adjustable with a draw string that can be tightened to increase insulation, or loosened to enhance air flow.
• Water-repelling, wind blocker.
• Thick and warm, practical on winter rides.
• Compact fit, stays in place and doesn’t slide downward.
Ixon Thermal Bandit
Intended to be worn over the lower face, this Ixon Thermal Bandit neck warmer includes perforated mesh over the mouth area for top-notch breathability. This creates a hardy defence spanning from the neckline, all the way to the base of the skull, and over the nose.
• Lined with micro-fleece, to compliment thermal polyester outer construct.
• Smooth to the touch, with flat seams to avoid irritation.
• Competitively priced for a comprehensive neck warmer.
Held Face & Neck Warmer
Thoroughly thought through face mask, with many desirables. Moisture wicking, thermally lined and well ventilated.
• Easily put on and removed, with Velcro fastening.
• Husky micro-fleece lines the Neoprene outer layer for warmth.
• Unique style showcasing a nose cut out and mesh mouthpiece.
Balaclavas
For a more complete shelter from the air inside your helmet, balaclavas do what mere neck warmers can’t. Engulfing the whole head, they cover a few more areas susceptible to the cold, notably the ears and forehead.
Our fragile ears are prone to numbness, and although this won’t put you in any immediate danger, it will cause soreness and be an annoyance. The forehead is less of a concern for most riders, but nonetheless, worth keeping warm. Prolonged exposure to cooler air trapped against this region can cause nasty headaches, and this can alter our balance, vision, and our attention span. Combine these three with fatigue, and you’re smack-bang in the middle of a dangerous situation.
Wind rushing around the helmet can be reduced with the previously mentioned gear, but the negative effects can be practically eliminated by a balaclava. Thermally insulated, and comfortable to wear are the most sought after traits, followed closely by moisture wicking capabilities.
Some of the finest balaclavas available online, which fulfil these duties and come highly recommended, have been reviewed below.
Alpinestars Winter Touring Balaclava
Full face, neck and shoulder protection, with ventilating breathing holes. Designed for superior comfort and practical usability.
• Waterproof and windproof external neck skirt.
• Double sided Lycra panels for flexibility.
• Microfibre inner ling provides excellent insulation.
Rukka RWS Hood
Highly durable and well-built wind stopper. Covers a large area starting from the upper chest, leaving no gaps for breaching elements.
• Rich and hefty Gore Windstopper shell construct.
• Coolmax hooded top, for outward ventilation.
• Strong seams to promote long-lasting lifespan.
Richa Balaclava
Here’s a super lightweight bala, which fits with ease under the helmet. Lacks the bulkiness of others, but still warms the entire head like a stretchy blanket.
• Totally deflects wind on covered areas.
• Easy breathe zones for added comfort.
• Sturdy construct from a reliable brand.
MotoGP Balaclava
• Constructed using nothing but cotton – 100%!
• Close-fitting, for air tight protection.
• Embroidered logo from the household name.
Macna Balaclava 3.0
This all enveloping Macna option surely earns extra credit! Shielding the chest, trapezius, neck, and entire head, this is the definition of an ultimate balaclava.
• Windproof chest piece, to double up on your riding jackets coverage.
• Elasticated Spandex construction, for full unhindered flexibility.
• Mixed mesh and micro-fleece lining, for breathability and thermal insulation in separate areas.
Knowing now what winter motorcycle clothing is available online, and how it can benefit you, braving the ‘off season’ won’t be so arduous. It can be daunting heading off into the bitter cold as a motorcyclist, but with a combination of the items listed above, it is possible to wrap up warm and retain your body heat.
Rain can be repelled, and wind can be blocked, so defending yourself against the elements with the proper gear is easily achieved. Staying dry, well-aired and agile are all common advantages that can also be found in worthwhile winter motorcycle clothing. And unlike the low temperatures, prices won’t leave you shuddering.
Whatever the weather, ride safe and respect the road. There’s always more miles around the corner!