Smart Learning - Buying your clothing

This is a very personal choice as the style tends to reflect not only your personality but also the type of bike you ride. One piece race leathers on a Harley just doesn’t work…

Leaving style to one side we suggest before you buy you consider what type of riding you will be doing. Are you on the bike for long periods or just going for a blat on the weekend? Are you going to stop somewhere on your ride for a reasonable length of time? Are you riding all year round or just on dry days? The answer to these questions will help determine what you need. One piece leathers are great from track days and blasting around but not so good if you want to stop off for a few hours and have lunch. Motorcycle jeans are great and can be safer than some leathers but they are poor in the wet and the cold.

If you want to buy 1 all round set of clothing then textile is the way to go. With a combination of vents, heat control systems and waterproof layers they are now comfortable and safe in all conditions. Depending on the make and model you buy they can be safer than leathers in an accident as well.

Leathers are great but can be cold when the temperature drops and they take a long time to dry out once wet.

The same applies to gloves. Lightweight summer gloves are fantastic and give great feel but are not so great in the cold and wet so 2 pairs might be sensible.

The key thing with clothing is go to a store where the staff will spend time with you to understand your requirements and make sure the clothing kits properly. Too tight means you will be uncomfortable after a very short period. Too loose will significantly reduce the ability of the clothing to protect you if an accident happens. Look for the abrasion resistance of the materials used and how long they will protect you before they wear through. Proper boots with armour are almost essential. Body armour is a sensible purchase as well but some find it uncomfortable.

Smart Learning recommends Skins Café and Keep Biking. Both the shops will give you sound advice and kit you up to ride safely and comfortably.