Motorcyclist under snow

Winter is a tricky time for motorcyclists.

Even when the roads are clear, riders are still in danger from bone chilling temperatures. They run the risk of hypothermia, a potentially fatal condition that occurs when the body’s core temperature drops.

People in the grip of hypothermia can experience uncontrolled shivering and dizziness, both of which are the last thing you’d want to go through on a motorcycle.

That’s why it’s important to dress for the cold and keep warm while you’re on your bike. Here are 10 tips for staying warm and safe on the road this winter:

  1. Invest in some thermal underwear -- Thermal underwear is thin, but will still keep you warm, allowing you to avoid wearing several bulky layers and keeping you free to move around.
  2. Keep your extremities warm – Your fingers and toes need to be warm and working when you’re on your bike, so be sure you have insulated gloves and cozy woolen socks.
  3. Find the right jacket – Leather jackets can cut down on wind, but leather can grow stiff and cold. Find a textile material that will keep your arms and neck warm.
  4. Remember the wind chill – When temperatures get cold in wintertime, the wild chill makes things feel even colder. If you’re traveling 50 mph when temperatures are around 30 degrees, the wind chill will make it feel like you’re riding through subzero weather. If you can’t get out of the wind, slow down, crouch down, and tuck your legs into the tank. You can also modify your bike with a windscreen and/or handguards.
  5. Stop when you can – While it’s important to dress warm, it’s also important to know your limitations. Stop frequently, have a warm drink, and thaw out. If you can, look for public restrooms and hand-dryers that can help you warm your fingers. At the very least, you should try pulling over for a few minutes and move around to get your blood pumping.
  6. Keep dry – Consider wearing a waterproof layer while on your bike, or at least applying water repellant to your gear. Even a light mist can saturate your clothing and exacerbate the effects of wind chill.
  7. Keep hydrated – You may not feel as thirsty during the winter as you do in the summer, but it’s still important to keep hydrated when the temperatures drop. Lack of hydration can make you feel fatigued and less alert while you drive.
  8. Avoid alcohol and coffee… – You might feel like you’re warming yourself by consuming alcohol or caffeine, but both substances increase the blood flow to your skin, causing your body to actually lose heat. Besides, it’s never a good idea to drink alcohol before driving, as it affects your judgement.
  9. …but be sure to eat – When we get cold, our metabolism slows down. That’s why we shiver: our bodies are trying to create internal heat. By eating foods filled with nutrients, antioxidants and immunity boosters, we’re helping fight off the cold. Fruit, soup, spicier foods, and carbohydrates will all be effective at keeping you warm.
  10. Protect your eyes – Gusty winds and cold temperatures can cause dry watery eyes and make for an uncomfortable ride. And if there’s snow off to the side of the road, the glare from the sun reflecting off of the snow can make it increasingly difficult to see. Invest in a pair of motorcycle sunglasses to protect your eyes out on the road.
Copyright LJ Moskowitz Copyright LJ Moskowitz

Copyright LJ Moskowitz Copyright LJ Moskowitz

If you’re looking for the right pair of motorcycle riding glasses, Liberty Sport can help. The patented Powered by Switch™ technology in our glasses allows you to remove the side cups when you’re not out on the road. You’ll go from wearing protective motorcycle eyewear to a more relaxed casual look in seconds.

Our Rider Collection features four sunglass styles built to fit multiple face shapes and sizes and are able to accommodate your prescription ensuring to meet both function and style requirements.  These frames also have a Z87 impact rating to protect your eyes from debris. Visit our site to find something you like next time you are looking for protective motorcycle eyewear, stay warm and safe and enjoy your ride this winter.

Please follow and like us: