Stay Dry: Rainwear for Motorcyclists

How long do waterproof membranes keep you dry?

A large portion of motorcycle clothing is equipped with a waterproof membrane, but even this has a limit. This limit is called the water column. It indicates how much water pressure is needed before the membrane becomes saturated, and water starts to seep through. The higher the water column, the longer your motorcycle suit will remain protected against the rain. The water pressure is important in that regard, which means you can ride longer in drizzly rain than you can ride during heavy rain. Riding at high speed also affects this. Keep in mind that expensive motorcycle clothing will have a better waterproof membrane than comparable motorcycle clothing sold for half the price, even if it is also marketed as waterproof. There is motorcycle clothing with an integrated or removable membrane, and there is laminated motorcycle clothing. In the latter, the membrane is laminated to the outer fabric so that the clothing does not start to soak up rain and weigh you down.

Motorcycle Clothing with Gore-Tex Membrane

If you have the budget and are looking for the most waterproof motorcycle clothing, then you can opt for motorcycle clothing that is equipped with a Gore-Tex membrane. Gore-Tex is very strict in granting licenses for making clothing with their membrane in it. Every piece of clothing that carries their name is thoroughly tested by them before it gets approval.

By purchasing motorcycle clothing with a Gore-Tex membrane, you won’t easily run into trouble during a rain shower. This while you are already provided with all the extra protection in the clothing. Fortunately, we at RAD have Gore-Tex motorcycle jackets as well as the necessary Gore-Tex motorcycle pants.

Motor rain suit as an addition to your existing outfit

Do you not have waterproof motorcycle clothing or has the existing waterproof membrane worn out/insufficient to handle heavy rainfall? Then you can surely buy a rainsuit to supplement your existing motorcycle clothing. Rainsuits are light, compact to carry and often equipped with reflective elements or a noticeable fluorescent color to increase your visibility. Personally, I have a motorcycle jacket that has been in service for several years. As a result, some wear has occurred on the waterproof membrane, so I have learned to wear rain gear over the jacket during heavy rain. The fact that the jacket is no longer 100% waterproof after a few years is normal wear and tear. The different layers of textile in the jacket rub against the membrane, that takes a beating in areas such as the elbow, and allows water to pass through.

When purchasing my rain suit, there was one important consideration I had to make. Do I go for a rain suit or do I buy a separate rain jacket and rain trousers? The size in your luggage doesn’t need to be a concern. Rain gear comes in a handy pouch, which you can store compactly. They each have their pros and cons, which one suits you best is up to you.

Rain suit as a waterproof whole

A full rain suit has the advantage of there being no overlap between the jacket and the trousers. This means there is no risk of the rain finding its way to your groin, lower back or upper thighs. The downside? It is a full suit to put on all at once. Fortunately, most manufacturers equip the rain suits with extra large zippers, so you can easily get in and out of the suit with your motorcycle clothing and boots on.

Combine a motorcycle rain jacket and rain pants

A separate rain jacket and rain pants to combine is the most practical option. A two-piece rain suit allows you to make the necessary combination depending on your motorcycle clothing and the rainfall. If you are on the road in motorcycle jeans combined with a waterproof motorcycle jacket, this allows you to only put on rain trousers when rain comes your way. In my case, I will put on a rain jacket over my motorcycle jacket. My motorcycle pants are a recent purchase and the Alpinestars D-Dry membrane in these pants matches the waterproofness of Gore-Tex. I often leave the extra rain pants at home.

The right size motorcycle rain gear is comfortable and safe

Motorcycle rain gear follows different sizes than regular rain gear. To determine the size, you can simply look at the sizes of your current motorcycle clothing. If you wear a jacket in size L, then you should be fine with a rain suit in size L. If you want to be absolutely sure that the size is perfect, we recommend you to visit one of our stores to try on the necessary rain gear over your outfit. It’s important not to buy a size too big. Suppose you buy a rain suit that is several sizes too big, it will function like a sail. You will catch wind and the surplus of fabric can even hinder you in performing the necessary actions on the bike.

Waterproof motorcycle gloves or over-gloves

If you have waterproof motorcycle gloves, then you’re in good shape. Unfortunately, they are not all waterproof and for example summer gloves come with ventilation, but not necessarily with a waterproof membrane. By using a pair of over-gloves, you are spared from cold wet hands. There’s nothing as frustrating as riding with wet gloves and the time it takes for the gloves to dry.

Waterproof Motorcycle Shoes or Boot Covers

Depending on the type of motorcycle boots or shoes you wear, they may or may not be equipped with a waterproof membrane. Water can also enter through your feet. In this case, opt for a pair of boot covers. This way, you will have a fully waterproof outfit and never have to worry about a downpour.

Maintain your vision during the rain

Your motorcycle helmet can also struggle during rainy weather. For example, during heavy rainfall, rain can enter your helmet if the top ventilation remains open. Inside the helmet, there is a high chance that you will experience condensation on your visor. This can be solved by using an anti-fog spray or installing a Pinlock visor. The outside of your helmet can be easily treated with Rain-X, so the rain rolls off your helmet with ease, which is a luxury in the rain. A pair of gloves equipped with a visor wiper is a handy extra.

Looking for the best motorcycle rain suit for you?

At RAD, you will surely find a compact rain suit to complement your outfit. We will gladly assist you in purchasing a motorcycle rain suit, waterproof motorcycle clothing, or a Gore-Tex outfit. The right motorcycle rainwear can save you a lot of discomfort. Feel free to visit one of our stores for additional advice or simply order online.

Related links:

• Motorcycle rain gear
• Gore-Tex motorcycle jackets
• Gore-Tex motorcycle pants