Is Leather Good for Hot Weather?

The choice of material is crucial when it comes to summer motorcycle clothing. Riders often find themselves torn between the classic appeal of leather and the need for comfort in hot weather. This blog post aims to explore whether leather is a good option for riding in high temperatures and what alternatives might be better suited for summer motorcycle clothing.

The Appeal of Leather

Leather has long been a staple in motorcycle gear, and for good reason. It offers several benefits that make it a popular choice among riders:

Durability

Leather is incredibly durable and can withstand the wear and tear that comes with riding. It offers excellent abrasion resistance, which is essential for protecting your skin in case of an accident.

Protection

One of the main reasons riders opt for leather is its protective qualities. Leather jackets, pants, and gloves provide a significant layer of protection against road rash and other injuries.

Style

Let's face it: leather looks cool. The classic biker aesthetic often includes a sleek leather jacket, making it a fashionable as well as functional choice.

The Downside: Heat Retention

While leather has many advantages, its suitability as summer motorcycle clothing is questionable due to one major drawback: heat retention.

Poor Breathability

Leather does not breathe well. This means that your body heat gets trapped inside your gear when you're riding in hot weather. This can lead to excessive sweating and discomfort, making your ride less enjoyable.

Weight

Leather gear tends to be heavier than other materials. When combined with high temperatures, this added weight can make you feel even hotter and more fatigued during long rides.

Limited Ventilation Options

Although some modern leather jackets come with ventilation panels or perforations designed to improve airflow, these features are often not enough to counteract the material's natural heat-retaining properties.

Alternatives to Leather for Summer Motorcycle Clothing

Given the drawbacks of wearing leather in hot weather, many riders turn to alternative materials that offer better breathability and comfort without sacrificing protection.

Textile Gear

Textile motorcycle gear has advanced significantly in recent years. Modern textiles like Cordura or Kevlar blends offer excellent abrasion resistance while being much lighter and more breathable than leather.

Mesh Panels

Many textile jackets have mesh panels that allow air to flow freely through the garment. This feature makes them ideal for hot-weather riding, as it helps keep you cool without compromising on safety.

Waterproof Options

Some textile gear also has waterproof liners or coatings, making it versatile enough for various weather conditions beyond hot days.

Perforated Leather

Perforated leather might be the answer if you're not ready to give up on leather entirely but still want something suitable for summer riding. These garments have tiny holes punched throughout the material to improve airflow while still offering some level of protection.

Hybrid Gear

Another option is hybrid gear that combines both textile and perforated leather elements. These pieces aim to offer the best of both worlds by providing durability where it's needed most (like on impact zones) while incorporating breathable fabrics elsewhere.

Tips for Staying Cool While Riding in Hot Weather

Regardless of what type of summer motorcycle clothing you choose, there are additional steps you can take to stay cool during your rides:

Hydration

Staying hydrated is crucial when riding in hot weather. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your ride to keep your body temperature regulated.

Cooling Vests

Investing in a cooling vest can make a significant difference on extremely hot days. These vests are designed to hold water and slowly release it through evaporation, providing a cooling effect as you ride.

Frequent Breaks

Take regular breaks during long rides to cool down. Find shaded areas or air-conditioned spots to rest before hitting the road again.

Conclusion: Is Leather Good for Hot Weather?

While leather offers undeniable benefits like durability and protection, its poor breathability makes it less than ideal as summer motorcycle clothing. For those who prioritize comfort during hot weather rides, textile options or hybrid gear may be more suitable choices without compromising safety.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and specific riding conditions. By considering factors like breathability, weight, and ventilation options alongside traditional protective qualities offered by different materials, you can find summer motorcycle clothing that keeps you safe and comfortable during those scorching rides!

Check out our full range of products, such as motorcycle clothing, motorcycle boots, motorcycle helmets, motorcycle gloves, motorcycle suits, motorcycle jackets and motorcycle trousers, which are available online or by visiting our Darwen store today. If you have any questions regarding any of our ranges, please call our customer service team at Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear store on 01254 704 000, and we will be more than happy to help.