6 Adventure Motorcycle Gear Essentials

Six Essentials of Adventure Motorcycle Gear

1. Adventure Motorcycle Jackets

When you’re an adventure rider facing the elements, you may want to forget about the classic leather look. Instead, the best adventure motorcycle jacket needs chameleon-like capabilities. That means finding materials that can do it all: withstand spills with abrasion protection, offer breathability in the scorching sun, and meanwhile ward off unexpected downpours with water-resistant properties. Bonus points for removable liners that let you shed layers as the temperature heats up, and for strategically placed pockets that keep essentials within reach. Look for these features and more in the top-notch adventure motorcycle jackets from Harley-Davidson.

2. Adventure Motorcycle Pants

Dust, rocks, rain, wind and spills: even the best adventure motorcycle pants are almost bound to face them all, perhaps in the span of a single ride. Choose tear- and abrasion-resistant fabrics like those in your jacket, with extra reinforcements in the knees and seat.

Again, waterproof membranes are non-negotiable, when it comes to choosing the best adventure motorcycle pant, but they must be paired with breathable fabrics and zip-up ventilation that lets you cool down when the heat cranks up. Among our best adventure riding pants, look for cutting-edge temperature control features like the VCS Aquadefence ventilation system that enhances airflow in sweltering conditions—and can be opened and closed easily with just one gloved hand. 

3. Body Armor for Adventure Rider

Traversing unchartered (not to mention uneven) terrain on your adventure rides, taking added protection precautions becomes paramount. Help protect yourself with CE-approved body armor that fits snugly, yet comfortably, beneath your jacket without hindering your comfort or maneuverability with unnecessary bulk and weight. Some of the best body armor for adventure riding can be found at Harley-Davidson®.

4. Adventure Motorcycle Boots

Your feet may take a beating over the course of an all-terrain, all-weather adventure ride. If you’re looking for the best adventure motorcycle boots, it’s best to choose sturdy, mid-calf or higher boots made from waterproof leather or synthetic materials. Your adventure boots should offer added ankle support and protection, while still allowing for some flexibility for maneuvering the bike. Meanwhile, opt for adventure riding boots with good grip and abrasion resistance to handle off-road terrain and protect your feet from accidental drops.

5. Adventure Motorcycle Helmets

While a regular, full-face helmet might suffice in its protective capability, an adventure-touring specific helmet elevates your overall experience. Oftentimes the best adventure motorcycle helmets are equipped with the ability to easily incorporate goggles and integrated sun visors that help combat glare, not to mention lightweight construction to reduce fatigue. Modular helmet options may offer some added weight but often offset that consideration with the convenience of an open face when needed, as well as added features like Bluetooth® audio and comms to help you keep in touch with fellow riders—or in tune with your own personalized soundtrack.

6. Adventure Motorcycle Gloves

Your hands are crucial for controlling your bike, so protecting them is paramount. Choose adventure motorcycle gloves made from abrasion-resistant materials like leather or textile, with reinforced palms and fingers for added protection. However, be careful not to sacrifice dexterity; look for options with advanced stitching that offer the sensitivity adventure riding demands alongside a secure fit. Meanwhile, as with the rest of your adventuring outfit, handwear that can adapt to changing weather conditions is crucial: explore the top options below that incorporate ventilation for warm days, waterproofing for wet days, and still manage to keep your fingers warm in the winter months.