Gear
Motorcycle Riding Gear
Bell Qualifier Helmet
Pros:
$ Budget-Friendly
Comfortable
Accurate Fit
Color Choices
Anti-Fog Shield
Adjustable Vents
DOT & ECE Certified
Easy Shield Swap
Aftermarket Shields
Comm Speaker Pockets
Cons:
Noisy >40mph
Kyle’s Notes:
Wide field of view. Comes with clear shield; if you want a tinted one, you'll need to order it separately. Plays well with sunglasses.
ScorpionEXO AT960 Helmet
Pros:
Modular Design
Quiet
Comfortable
Color Choices
Anti-Fog Shield
Adjustable Vents
DOT & ECE Certified
Easy Shield Swap
Aftermarket Shields
Comm Speaker Pockets
Pinlock Adaptors
Tool-less Shield System
Internal Sun Visor
Compatible with Goggles
Cons:
Tight Fit
Kyle’s Notes:
Order one size larger than measured. Wide field of view. Controls are easy to use. Remove the visor before a long highway journey; it catches the wind like a sail and whistles incessantly.
HWK Motorcycle Jacket
Pros:
$ Budget-Friendly
600D Cordura Textile Exterior
Waterproof Liner
Removable Thermal Liner
5 Air Vents
Color Options
Waist Connection Zipper
Large, Waterproof Pockets
Adjustable Girth
Reflective Panels
Accurate Fit
CE Armor
Cons:
Too hot for an Oklahoma summer.
Kyle’s Notes:
The Medium fits me fine, including the length of the sleeves, which is a pleasant surprise. Plenty of room for me to layer up in winter. The longer cut works well on my long torso.
Joe Rocket Velocity Motorcycle Jacket (Men's)
Pros:
Breathable Mesh
Adjustable
Removable Waterproof Liner
Reflective Strips
CE Armor
Secure Zippers
Waist Connection Zipper
Cons:
Not good for winter.
Kyle’s Notes:
It's a short bomber jacket with a wide neck. Fine for summer, but not fit for cooler weather.
Joe Rocket Velocity Motorcycle Jacket (Women's)
Pros:
Breathable Mesh
Adjustable
Removable Waterproof Liner
Reflective Strips
CE Armor
Secure Zippers
Waist Connection Zipper
Cons:
Not good for winter.
Kyle’s Notes:
It's a short bomber jacket with a wide neck. Fine for summer, but not fit for cooler weather.
HWK Motorcycle Pants
Pros:
$ Budget-Friendly
600D Cordura Textile Exterior
Removable Waterproof Liner
Air Vents
Waist Connection Zipper
Large, Waterproof Pockets
Adjustable Girth
Reflective Panels
Accurate Fit
CE Armor
Cons:
Limited Colors
Kyle’s Notes:
Cordura is tough, and I like the lighter color.
Borleni Motorcycle Gloves
Pros:
$ Budget-Friendly
Carbon Fiber Knuckle Protector
Breathable Mesh Upper
Touch-Screen Compatibility
Cons:
Require break-in period for best fit.
Kyle’s Notes:
Armored-up mechanic gloves with mesh for cooling.
Merrell Moab 3 Tactical Boots
Pros:
Waterproof
Leather Outsole
Chunky Lugs
Very Comfortable
Available in Wide
Cons:
They don't breathe well.
Kyle’s Notes:
Instead of a "riding boot," I prefer a tall tactical boot. Merrell Tactical Boots are capable outdoor boots made for backpacking, hiking, and hunting. My adventures usually get gnarlier when I get OFF the bike.
Safety Second Tee Shirt
Pros:
Poly/Cotton Blend
Appropriate Message
Cons:
None.
Kyle’s Notes:
I didn't go out into the woods to be safe.
Tru Spec ECO TAC Tee Shirt
Pros:
Recycled Polyester
Side Mesh
Slim Jim Pockets
Cons:
Occasionally stinky.
Kyle’s Notes:
This is my primary backpacking shirt. This shirt is LONG. Keep it tucked in. It's tough, it wicks away sweat, but since it's 100% polyester, it can get a little smelly in the pits after a couple of days.
Darn Tough Boot Socks
Pros:
Merino Wool
Lifetime Guarantee
Practically Blister-Proof
Tough as Nails
Cons:
Expensive.
Kyle’s Notes:
I only wear Darn Tough socks when I hike now. I have never gotten a full-on blister while wearing them. They wick away moisture, provide a soft cushion, and reduce friction all the way around. While I own several different versions of these socks, I selected these because of their soft bottom cushion, tall boot height, and top-of-the-foot venting material. Ten out of ten stars. Would recommend to anyone.
BALEAF 3D Padded Bike Shorts
Pros:
3D Padding
Color Options
Cons:
I wish they had more padding under the sit bones.
Kyle’s Notes:
I never imagined I would review underwear, but these are worth it. My iron-butt challenge doesn't have to be so rough now.
Borleni Winter Motorcycle Gloves
Pros:
Thinsulate
Gauntlet Design
Palm Skid Plates
Touch-Screen Capable
Waterproof
Cons:
More colors, please.
Not pre-curved for riders.
Kyle’s Notes:
My summer gloves don't work well at 20 degrees F. These are warmer than expected, and even better when coupled with handguards.
Guide Gear Lightweight Base Layer
Pros:
Long Enough for Tall Guys
Stretchy
Moisture-Wicking
Cons:
Not the smoothest material.
Kyle’s Notes:
I have worn mine camping and hunting for 15 years. It's still in great shape. I use the base layer pants, too.
Rothco ECWCS Gen III Level II Thermals
Pros:
Military Grade
Warm
Breathable
Cons:
Floppy fit.
Kyle’s Notes:
Military ECWCS (Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System) is effective and often inexpensive. I use the grid-fleece pants a lot.
OneTigris Balaclava
Pros:
Stretch Fabric
Close Fit
Multicam Camouflage
Convertible
Cons:
Short Neck
Kyle’s Notes:
Protect that neck and face from cold and wind!
