How to face winter on a motorcycle? Part 2/2

Hello everyone,

This is the second part of our article on equipment to combat the cold when riding a motorcycle(part 1 HERE). We're going to look at essential products such as neck protectors and motorcycle boots... Equipment you can also use on your skiing vacation :)

Balaclava and neck protector

These are very important because they protect your neck from the wind and therefore from the cold (no more colds!). What's more, they prevent air from getting into your jacket and helmet, which is essential if you want to stay at the right temperature.

Which one to choose?

That's up to you. But remember that 1 third of the body's moisture is evacuated through the head, and the areas most sensitive to cold are the forehead, nose and crown of the skull. Wearing a full-face helmet is usually enough to protect these areas, except when it's very cold. Some people will need to wear a balaclava to keep their heads warm (for those with little hair left, for example).

All our balaclavas here

Neck warmers are simpler, and can be simply slipped over the head, or have a Velcro opening system (more convenient). More or less technical and enveloping, there's something for every budget!

These days, there are a number of different technologies available, including classics like fleece and wool, as well as "technical" ones like Windstopper, which is windproof. Designed by Gore, this material is the most common because it's highly effective and offers good value for money.

Personally, I don't like wearing a balaclava, as it gets in the way when I have the helmet on my head. So I always wear a neckband. A small one in summer, and a more wraparound model with a bib in winter.

See our neckwraps here

Windproof underwear

As you can see, wind and air infiltration are the enemy. It's hard to insulate yourself completely. In fact, even if you've got the best gear, you can still get air infiltration through the sleeves, neck or zipper of your jacket. The best way to combat this is to wear dedicated undergarments. They feature a windproof, heat-retaining membrane to keep you as insulated as possible. Very useful if you go on long outings in winter or if you ride daily on fast lanes.

According to my colleague JB, who rides his bike on the freeway all year round, the best thing to wear is: "a little undershirt over your windproof clothing, then a sweater on top and your pants on the bottom. Then all you have to do is put on the jacket, and zoupla boum you're ready for your winter adventure!

Remember: The most important thing to remember isnot to multiply layers. The rule is 3 touches max. A first technical layer right on the body. This layer can be thicker or thinner, depending on the weather conditions you'll be facing. It must be breathable, of course. The best is a merino undergarment. Put on a second layer of fleece or a Windstopper-type windbreaker, and finish off with your jacket. That's all there is to it!

All our motorcycle underwear

Boots

Often overlooked, yet much appreciated, boots are essential for tackling winter roads in comfort and safety. Winter boots are generally equipped with a waterproof, breathable membrane such as Gore-Tex®. Not only will they protect you from the cold and bad weather... but also from impacts (numerous reinforcements).

For the best protection, choose zippers with flaps over the zips, as the latter are not waterproof. If you're only riding in urban areas, we recommend that you at least wear waterproof boots (which look better than boots). There are now many models of sneakers or dress shoes that are both attractive and protective.

Our shoes/sneakers here

If you're going to be out on the road, it's essential to have technical, high-cut boots. Prices are reasonable, starting at €160 for a Gore-Tex® model. Well-maintained, you'll keep your boots for many years (I'm 9 years into my Alpinestars Web Gore-Tex®!).

All our motorcycle boots here

That's it, that's an overview of the different types of motorcycle equipment available to protect you from the cold. I'll be writing an article on motorcycle accessories to combat winter soon. To conclude: "The cold is one of the biker's worst enemies... So protect yourself! "