It is common to think that is way too hot to ride the bike during hot summer days. You have your heavy leather jacket and full face helmet from the winter. Your gloves are extra thick and you don't want to wear shorts and burn your legs on the exhaust. For safety and comfort keep these tips in mind when making your next motorcycle gear purchase:

 

1. WEAR JACKETS WITH VENTILATION

     Jackets with mesh panels allow more air to pass through. Pay attention to the stitching as well. Double stitching will always be more durable and last longer. Some leather jackets have zip vents for temperatures above 85 degrees.

 

2. CHOOSE GLOVES WITH MESH BACKS

     Never ride without gloves because they are one of the first things that will hit the ground if you get into an accident. They are just as important as your other safety gear. Perforated leather and finger less gloves give you more breathing room. Textile mesh is also a good material. 

 

3. WEAR PANTS WITH ENHANCED FABRIC

     For many years leather was the best option, but it gets way too hot! Safety gear has evolved tremendously. It is more affordable as well. Jeans with kevlar lining have protectors for your pockets. Many protective jeans have elastic material as well. Don't just settle for shorts and risk road rash.

 

4. WEAR BASE LAYERS TO ABSORB PERSPIRATION

     Layers can protect you from discomfort when humidity is high. Wear thermal layers that are light and wick moisture. It may seem like it will make you hotter, but it will actually keep your sweat from making you miserable. 

5. CHOOSE A BREATHABLE HELMET

     Many bikers wear a novelty helmet or just a hat if the state allows it during the summer. There are many different options on the market in 2019. Carbon fiber, fiberglass, and poly-carbonate materials provide better ventilation. These materials are lighter as well and some even include Bluetooth for your phone. Look for a helmet that has transitioning sun visors.

 

6. WEAR SUMMER-WEIGHT BOOTS

     Your lower body retains quite a bit of heat. Many military veterans know this already. You no longer need steel toe boots from Walmart or overpriced Harley boots. Look for motorcycle boots with mesh side panels and tiny frontal holes. Not tennis shoes though! Leave your basketball shoes in your bag. You don't want to damage them anyway. 

7. PACK SUMMER ROAD TRIP SUPPLIES

    Always bring sunscreen and your medication. You never know when you might get stranded or stung by a bee. It is not uncommon during the summer months with many part time bikers getting on the road again. Drink plenty of water during stops. After all, when your body sweats, it is depleted of water at a more rapid pace. Consuming water will keep your body replenished. 
     Try to keep water as your primary drink when you're riding. Drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol can leave you dehydrated and cause you to urinate more frequently due to the diuretic properties of these beverages. Sugary drinks can also cause you to experience an energy crash

8. MAKE STOPS

Take a break once per hour when it is really hot. Your brain doesn't work the same when you're tired and lethargic. Gas station attendants don't normally mind if you go in to get some cool air. They get lonely too you know.

9. BEWARE OF HEAT EXHAUSTION

     If you feel dizzy pull over at the next exit and re-hydrate. Cramps and fatigue are signs of heat exhaustion and you should avoid a major accident. You could have a heat stroke or seizure. Don't feel pressured by your buddies to keep on riding. Know your hand signals and tell them you need gas or to take the next exit.