10 Best Cold Weather Motorcycle Riding Gear 2026 in the United States

The Alpinestars SMX-1 Air V2 gloves are designed primarily for warm weather and street riding rather than cold-weather use. Their leather and mesh construction offers excellent breathability and airflow, which is great for keeping hands cool but means they lack insulation and waterproofing needed to protect against cold and wet conditions.

The gloves provide solid protection with a hard polymer knuckle guard and reinforced areas, meeting CE safety standards, which is a strong plus for any rider. Fit and comfort are well addressed through pre-curved fingers and stretch inserts, allowing natural movement and good dexterity. However, since the gloves are short cuff and focused on ventilation, they don't offer much wind protection or coverage to keep the cold out.

Visibility features are minimal, limited to their black and white color scheme, so they might not improve rider visibility in low light. These gloves are best suited for warm or mild weather riders seeking lightweight protection with good grip and comfort rather than for cold-weather motorcyclists who need insulation, waterproofing, and extended coverage.

The HWK Motorcycle Jacket for Men Adventure/Touring in Hi-Vis Green, size XL, is designed to cater to all-season riders, offering a blend of durability and comfort. The 600D Cordura polyester fabric provides a sturdy outer shell, while the removable CE armor padding on the back, elbows, and shoulders enhances rider protection.

The jacket's insulation and thermal lining make it suitable for winter use, though its versatility is evident with the inclusion of five airflow ventilation panels for warmer conditions. Waterproofing is addressed with a Reissa membrane, ensuring you stay dry in light rain, although prolonged exposure might be a challenge.

High visibility is a significant strength, thanks to reflective HWK logos and bright colors that enhance nighttime safety. The jacket's fit is adaptable, with options to choose a snug or loose fit based on your measurements. However, some users might find it heavier at 4.09 pounds compared to lighter alternatives. This jacket is a robust choice for adventure and touring motorcyclists seeking reliable protection and comfort across various weather conditions.

The ILM Detachable Winter Motorcycle Riding Pants provide a range of features that cater well to cold-weather riding. Their major strengths include the ease of use with durable resin zippers on both sides, making them simple to put on and remove. The CE-2 removable protective pads and abrasion-resistant 600D Oxford fabric significantly enhance safety, offering a good level of protection against impacts and scrapes, with reinforced knee areas for added durability.

The pants offer decent water resistance thanks to tightly woven fabric, although they're not ideal for heavy rain due to potential water infiltration at the zips. For warmth, these pants come with a soft lining that ensures thermal comfort in cold conditions. Visibility is also taken into consideration with multiple reflective tape designs, which are beneficial for nighttime riding.

However, some potential drawbacks include the weight of the pants at 3.43 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users, and the water resistance that may not hold up in very wet conditions. These pants are well suited for riders looking for a combination of protection, comfort, and visibility in cold weather conditions, but they might not be the best choice for heavy rain scenarios.