Guide to Winter Riding Gears & Accessories
Contents
- Clothing/Gears for Winter Motorcycle Riding.
- Protective Winter Gears.
- Accessories for Comfort and Safety
- Conclusion.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
Winter has arrived! The mountains are wrapped in a white blanket, and reaching out and touching them feels tempting. Perhaps you feel the same—the urge to touch it, walk on it. Riding your motorcycle over that white sheet of ice is one of the most incredible experiences in the world. Don’t you think?
However, riding a bike in cold weather can be challenging, especially when choosing the right protective gear. In this essential beginner’s guide, we will discuss all the essential riding gear and offer suggestions for a safe and enjoyable winter ride.
1. Clothing/Gears for Winter Motorcycle Riding.
A. Base Layers
The base layer plays the most important role while riding motorcycles in winter. It keeps sweat away from your body so that you do not feel cold due to sweat.
Importance of dry-fit clothes for the base layer – Cotton clothes always absorb sweat, so these are not good for the base layer during winter. Instead of cotton, dry-fit or polyester-made fabric should be used for the base layer.
Recommendation – Decathlon, Rynox and Viaterra are some of the good brands that make amazing base layers that will help you a lot in your winter motorcycle riding.
B. Mid Layers
The mid-layer helps trap body heat inside your clothing, keeping you warm and protected from cold winds.
Importance of the Mid-Layer – A high-quality mid-layer prevents chilly winds from penetrating your body, ensuring warmth stays locked in.
Recommended Brands: Brands like Rynox, Royal Enfield, and Viaterra produce excellent mid-layers that fit comfortably under your riding jacket, providing warmth and comfort.
C. Outer Layer
The outer layer acts as a shield against winter winds, rain, and — if needed — impact protection during a crash, thanks to its inbuilt protective armour.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing an Outer Jacket,
Pay attention to
✔ Fabric Quality – Durable and weather-resistant materials
✔ Safety Rating – Look for CE certification for impact protection
✔ Armour Protection Level – Ensure proper padding in key areas
✔ Wind Protection – Essential for winter riding to block cold air
Recommended Brands: Some top brands offering high-quality riding jackets for all seasons include Rynox, Solace, BBG, and Royal Enfield. These brands also provide jackets designed specifically for winter protection, ensuring safety and comfort on your rides.
2. Protective Winter Gears
A. Gloves: Protecting Your Hardworking Fingers
While riding in winter, your hands are doing the most work. Clutch, accelerator, braking and steering. And it is the fingers that feel the most cold, I am telling you this from my experience. Hopefully, you also felt the same. If these are protected from cold weather, your ride will be very comfortable.
Types of Winter Gloves
Insulated Gloves – Provide warmth and protection from cold.
Heated Gloves – Come with built-in heating elements for extreme cold conditions.
You can choose from both of these according to your budget.
Key Features to Look For
✔ Inner Lining – Ensures warmth and insulation.
✔ Waterproofing – Protects against rain and snow.
✔ Protection – Always look for CE certification for safety rating.
✔ Grip – Maintains control over the bike, even in wet/damp conditions.
💡 Prioritise functionality over colour and style.
Recommended Gloves
✅ Viaterra Winter Riding Gloves
B. Footwear: Keeping Your Feet Warm & Dry
Our feet are our body parts that come in contact with the ground first. If they get wet in the cold or do not have any protection to protect them from the cold, your winter ride will not be fun but a punishment.
What to Look for in Winter Riding Boots?
✔ Insulation – Keeps feet warm in freezing temperatures.
✔ Waterproofing – Prevents moisture from seeping in.
✔ Good Grip – Essential for riding on snow and black ice.
✔ Protection – Always look for impact protection for safety.
Recommended Gloves
✅ Tarmac riding boots
C. Headgear: Extra Protection for Your Head & Neck
Your head and neck need extra protection while riding in the cold. These are such body parts that should never be ignored.
Winter Helmet Features
Full-Face Helmet – Offers the best protection against cold winds.
Anti-Fog Layer – Prevents visor fogging for clear visibility.
Minimum ISI Certification – Ensures basic safety standards.
Recommended: ECE-Certified Helmets (higher safety standards than ISI).
💡 Pro Tip: Wearing a good quality balaclava inside the helmet will give you extra warmth and comfort.
3. Accessories for Comfort and Safety
A. heated grips and bar muffs
Cold hands reduce your ability to control the bike. Heated grips and bar muffs help.
Benefits – Heated grips give you extra comfort during extremely cold conditions. Although this feature is available in premium bikes, you can still order these accessories from international e-commerce websites like Aliexpress/eBay at low prices.
Recommended brands – Generic heated grips and bar muffs are available online.
B. windshield
A windshield on your bike will help you protect yourself from cold air in winter, and if it is fitted by the company on your bike, it will also improve the aerodynamics of your bike.
Best options: Aftermarket windshields from Autofy and other Generic Brands on E-commerce websites.
C. Luggage solution
Carrying extra luggage on a motorcycle during cold days while touring can be challenging. Winter riding gear takes up more space, and if your luggage is not weatherproof, it can quickly become a problem.
Our top luggage recommendation for all-weather luggage systems– Indian brands like Viaterra, Rynox and Royal Enfield make some great all-weather touring luggage affordable on a budget.
4. Conclusion
Riding a motorcycle in winter is an incredible experience. The mountains and trees are covered in a stunning white blanket, creating a breathtaking view. Witnessing this scenery while riding is truly unforgettable.
This experience becomes even more enjoyable when you have the right riding gear for the season. Our recommendation is to choose your gear based on the weather conditions, ensuring comfort, warmth, and safety. With the right preparation, you can fully embrace the beauty of winter and make the most of your motorcycle adventures! 🏍❄✨
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I wear to stay warm during a winter ride?
✅ Always wear a dry-fit/polyester base layer to wick moisture away.
✅ Use an insulated mid-layer to retain body heat.
✅ A windproof & waterproof riding jacket provides outer protection.
✅ Pair it with insulated gloves, riding boots, and a full-face helmet with an anti-fog system for maximum comfort and safety.
2. Are there specific brands known for winter motorcycle gear?
✅ In Indian weather conditions, heated grips and gloves can help but are generally unnecessary.
✅ Instead, opt for high-quality insulated riding gloves, which provide sufficient warmth.
✅ Recommended brands: Rynox, Viaterra, Royal Enfield, Solace, and BBG.
3. Is it safe to ride a motorcycle in the winter?
✅ Yes, winter riding is safe if you take the right precautions:
✔ Control your speed and avoid sudden movements.
✔ Follow traffic rules and maintain a safe distance.
✔ Avoid riding at night if possible.
✔ Check the weather forecast before heading out.
4. What are some tips for riding smoothly on icy roads?
✅ Avoid sudden braking and steering to prevent skidding.
✅ Use tire chains for better grip on icy surfaces.
✅ Ride slowly and steadily to maintain control.
With the right precautions and gear, winter motorcycle riding can be a safe and thrilling experience! 🏍❄🔥
