Summer Motorcycle Gear: How to Stay Cool and Protected
In short: For hot-weather riding, choose certified gear with breathable fabrics and light construction rather than a T-shirt and regular jeans. Look for an EN 17092 class and armour at the joints. Our summer picks: Warrior Jeans (CE AA, PEKEV® Lite), Klondike Jeans (single-layer), Kingston Shirt and Wellington Hooded Sweater (both CE AAA).
When the temperature climbs past 30°C, riding in full gear can feel like a sauna on two wheels. That is exactly when many riders are tempted to ride in a T-shirt and regular jeans. Summers in the Okanagan, the Prairies or southern Ontario can get properly hot. The good news: you don't have to choose between staying cool and staying protected. Here is how to dress for hot-weather riding.
Why you shouldn't ride in a T-shirt
A crash at city speeds is enough to cause serious road rash. Regular cotton wears through in a fraction of a second on asphalt, and nothing protects your elbows, shoulders or knees from the impact. Heat makes this worse, not better: on hot days, skin is often the only thing between you and the road.
What makes summer motorcycle gear work
- Breathable fabrics that let heat and moisture escape
- Light construction: single-layer fabrics or thinner linings instead of heavy, multi-layer builds
- Ventilation, from mesh panels, vents or simply a looser fit
- Still certified: a CE class under EN 17092 and armour at the joints
Why staying covered keeps you cooler
It sounds backwards, but at highway speed, hot air and direct sun dry you out quickly. A breathable layer that covers your arms and legs protects your skin from the sun and wind, and helps your body cool itself. Drink more water than you think you need, and take breaks.
Our summer picks
| Garment | Why it works in the heat | CE class |
|---|---|---|
| Warrior Jeans | PEKEV® Lite: a thinner, lighter lining made for warm-weather riding; stretch denim | AA |
| Klondike Jeans | Single-layer selvedge, no separate lining | Fabric tested to AAA, garment certification in progress |
| Kingston Shirt | Single-layer PEKEV® Ultra Lite, wears like an overshirt | AAA |
| Wellington Hooded Sweater | Lightweight, breathable nylon and cotton fleece | AAA |
All four come with RE ZRO® Flat Level 2 armour, which is ventilated and lightweight. More on armour in our guide to motorcycle armour.
Tips for hot-weather riding
- Ride early or late. Mornings and evenings are cooler and the light is better.
- Wear a moisture-wicking base layer instead of cotton. It dries faster and keeps you cooler.
- Wet a neck tube or base layer at a stop. Evaporation at speed cools you down.
- Drink before you are thirsty and take regular breaks in the shade.
- Don't take off the gear at the first stop. The ride home is just as long.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to ride in jeans in summer?
Regular jeans offer very little protection. Certified motorcycle jeans with a light lining or a single-layer protective denim give you real protection and stay comfortable in the heat. See our motorcycle jeans guide.
What is the coolest motorcycle gear?
Single-layer garments and mesh gear are the coolest options. Single-layer protective fabrics feel closest to regular clothing.
Can I wear a motorcycle hoodie in summer?
Yes, a breathable certified hoodie is a good choice for warm, dry days. Read more in our guide to motorcycle hoodies.
The bottom line
Summer riding gear should feel like regular clothing and protect like riding gear. Choose light, breathable, certified garments with armour at the joints, and you won't have to choose between comfort and protection.
