How to keep hands warm when riding a motorcycle in winter?
Riding a motorcycle in winter can be thrilling, but it's hard to enjoy the ride when your hands feel like ice blocks. Cold hands can lead to reduced control over your bike, and that's a safety concern you can't overlook.
You can easily solve this by ensuring you ride with the correct winter gloves, however we’ve collated a range of tips on how to keep your hands warm during the colder months in the UK.
How to keep hands warm when riding a motorcycle in winter?
When winter hits, keeping your hands warm on a motorcycle should be a top priority. The chill can seep through glovesand affect your grip and control, which is critical for safe riding. Here are the best strategies to ensure your hands stay warm and functional on those frigid rides.
Why Your Hands Get Cold When Riding
Understanding why your hands get cold is crucial in finding effective solutions. When you're riding, wind chill dramatically lowers the temperature of your hands, even if it's just mildly cold outside. Blood flow to your extremities decreases as your body tries to conserve heat, meaning your fingers can feel numb, stiff, or overly cold.
Also, if your gloves aren't properly insulated, they can fail to trap body heat, leading to faster heat loss. Keeping your hands warm isn't just about comfort: it's essential for maintaining control over your bike.
Best Ways to Keep Your Hands Warm on Winter Rides
There are several effective strategies to combat cold hands while riding:
1. Wear Proper Winter Motorcycle Gloves
Invest in a good pair of winter motorcycle gloves. Look for gloves designed for cold weather, featuring thick insulation and waterproof materials. Brands like RST and Alpinestars offer gloves that are not only warm but also provide excellent grip and control.
2. Use Heated Motorcycle Gloves
If you find that regular winter gloves aren't cutting it, consider heated motorcycle gloves. These gloves have built-in heating elements that provide consistent warmth, ideal for long rides in freezing temperatures. Many riders swear by them for keeping their hands cozy without sacrificing mobility.
3. Add Heated Grips or Handlebar Muffs
Another great option is to add heated grips to your bike. Plus to warm gloves, heated grips can provide a significant boost in comfort. Alternatively, handlebar muffs (or mitts) can cover your gloves, providing another layer against the cold wind while allowing for full control over your bike.
4. Layer With Glove Liners for Extra Warmth
Consider wearing glove liners under your winter gloves. Thin, thermal liners can add much-needed warmth without reducing dexterity. Look for materials like fleece or merino wool for optimal warmth.
5. Block Wind With Handguards or Wind Deflectors
Installing handguards or wind deflectors can dramatically reduce wind chill on your hands. These additions redirect airflow away from your hands, helping to keep them warm, especially on longer rides.
6. Keep Your Core Warm to Improve Hand Circulation
Never underestimate the power of a warm body core. When your torso is warm, blood circulation improves, which can help your hands feel warmer as well. Dress in layers and ensure your base layer is insulating and moisture-wicking.
7. Check for Poor Fit or Worn-Out Gloves
Finally, ensure that your gloves fit correctly and are not worn out. Gloves that are too tight can restrict blood flow, while old gloves may no longer provide adequate insulation. Investing in a new pair of properly fitting gloves can make a world of difference in your comfort.
What Not to Do When Riding in Winter
Avoid the temptation to wear thin gloves or those not designed for winter riding, as they won't provide the insulation you need. Also, steer clear of layering too many thick gloves, which can restrict your movement and result in a poor grip on the handlebars. It's also advisable not to rely solely on your bike's heating system, if equipped, as temperatures can drop quickly, and relying on it might leave you unprepared for unexpected drops in temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are heated motorcycle gloves safe?
Yes, heated motorcycle gloves are safe and designed to be used while riding. They include built-in heating elements that are insulated to prevent overheating and are tested for safety standards.
Do heated grips replace winter gloves?
Heated grips can complement winter gloves but should not completely replace them. They offer additional warmth but do not insulate your hands from the cold wind, making gloves essential for full protection.
What temperature is too cold to ride?
Riding in temperatures below 5°C (41°F) can be risky, especially if you're not adequately prepared. Understand your own comfort level and ensure you have the right gear before heading out.
