Riders choose textile motorcycle gear for its versatility and protection because it is both safe and comfortable. There is, however, a common question: should you wear clothes underneath your textile gear? With the help of this guide, you'll be able to discover what works best for your needs when it comes to layering.
What Is Textile Motorcycle Gear?
Motorcycle gear made from textiles like nylon, polyester, or Kevlar is known as textile motorcycle gear. Materials like these offer durability, resistance to abrasions, waterproofing, and breathability.
Types of Textile Gear
- Textile Jackets: Protect with added ventilation and weather resistance.
- Textile Pants: Designed for comfort and protection, often with reinforced panels.
- Textile Suits: Full-body protection combining jacket and pants into one piece.
Why You Might Consider Wearing Clothes Under Textile Gear
Comfort and Hygiene
In addition to preventing direct skin contact with the gear, base layers reduce friction and make sweating easier. Additionally, this prolongs the life of your textile gear.
Temperature Regulation
Keeping you comfortable in different weather conditions, base layers wick moisture away and provide insulation when needed.
Types of Clothes to Wear Under Textile Gear
Base Layers
You should wear a base layer between your skin and your gear to keep moisture away from your skin. In most cases, they are made from synthetic fibers or merino wool.
Compression Wear
By wearing compression garments, you can improve circulation and reduce muscle fatigue. Fitting close to the body can help your textile gear fit better and reduce bunching.
Moisture-Wicking Materials
As you ride, polyester and nylon pull sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry.
Benefits of Wearing Clothes Under Textile Gear
Enhanced Comfort
In order to reduce irritation and chafing, you should wear a base layer between your skin and the gear. Wearing your gear can be made more comfortable this way, especially during long rides.
Better Fit and Movement
A snug base layer can help your textile gear fit better and move with you, reducing bunching or pinching without an additional layer.
Effective Sweat Management
A moisture-wicking base layer prevents sweat buildup by wicking moisture away from the skin to keep you dry and comfortable.
What Not to Wear Under Textile Gear
Cotton and Other Non-Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
Cotton absorbs moisture and dries slowly, leaving you feeling wet and uncomfortable. Additionally, it does not regulate temperature like synthetic materials do.
Loose Clothing That Can Bunch Up
It can be uncomfortable and potentially detrimental to your protective gear's fit and performance to wear loose clothing under textile gear.
Layering Tips for Different Weather Conditions
Hot Weather Considerations
Wear lightweight, breathable base layers in hot weather to keep cool and to wick sweat away from your body. Choose fabrics designed specifically for high temperatures.
Cold Weather Considerations
It may be necessary to wear additional thermal layers under your base layer during cold weather. Ensure that these layers aren't bulky or restricting.
Do Professional Riders Wear Clothes Under Their Textile Gear?
Professional riders often wear base layers under their textile gear to enhance comfort, manage sweat, and ensure their gear fits correctly. By wearing these layers, riders can focus on performance rather than discomfort or temperature fluctuations.
The Role of Armor and Protective Gear
Integrated armor is often found in textile gear to provide additional protection. Wearing a base layer does not compromise the effectiveness of this armor; in fact, it may even prevent it from shifting.
Maintaining Your Base Layers
Wash the base layers according to manufacturer instructions to keep them effective and in proper condition. Avoid fabric softeners, which reduce moisture-wicking properties.
Conclusion
Wearing clothes under motorcycle helmets and gear can greatly enhance your riding experience. From improving comfort and fit to managing sweat and regulating temperature, base layers offer numerous benefits. Consider incorporating them into your riding attire for a more enjoyable and comfortable ride.