When we stumbled across a surprising tip to keep cooler when riding under the blazing summer sun, we knew we had to share it.

According to one rider in the in the Motorcycle Enthusiasts group on Linkedin , wearing long sleeves in hot, steamy weather keeps you cooler than bare arms (as if you\’d ride bare-armed anyway!) and prevents rapid dehydration as well. 

Do you agree with this tip?  Learn why it works, and test it out.  Then let us know your findings.more

Cover Up to Cool Down! Riding With Long Sleeves

You\’ve seen the photos of nomads trekking across the desert wearing clothing from head to toe? In the desert wind, the theory goes, staying covered actually keeps the body cooler.

The philosophy for riding in the wind is quite the same.

Here\’s the thinking:

Lightweight, moisture-wicking materials are best.

Hot Weather Motorcycle Gear

We can\’t say if this tip works or not … but when it\’s VERY hot — like triple digit hot — there\’s some special hot weather gear that can provide extra reIief. 

For instance:

• Cooling vests such as ones manufactured by Veskimo and Artic Heat are popular among bikers.

• Cooling sleeves are also comfortable to wear.

• Some riders swear by Ice-collars, ice bandanas, cooling crystals filled neck collars or cooling bandanas. These items are lightweight, durable, reusable and washable. Refilling with ice every few hours or re-wetting with cold water will continue the refreshing feeling.

• Vented and Mesh Summer riding gloves help to keep hands protected and cool. Venting systems enable excellent airflow, mesh fabric webbed in between fingers provides strong ventilation as well. And, moisture-wicking materials wick-away perspiration from hands.
  

For 21 other rider-tested tips for keeping cooler, read our Summer Survival Guide.  Keep cool, and ride safe!

Lightweight Long Sleeves or ATGATT in Hot Weather?  What Say You …

Would you even consider wearing anything less than a fully protective jacket, no matter what the temperature?  Do you agree that long sleeves can keep you cooler than bare arms?  What helps keep you comfortable in the heat?

Let us know … we\’d like to hear from riders on this one.

P.S. Olympia makes 40 styles of summer motorcycle gloves — many with free shipping.  Visit your local dealer, or our online store.