Best Overall
Best Summer Motorcycle Gear for 2025
Evan Rally
Updated: June 28, 2025
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Hot rides are the dream, until your gear turns into a furnace.
Too many riders treat ventilation like a compromise. It’s not. With the right gear, you can have airflow, armor, and all-day comfort without sweating through your base layer.
Riders screw this up all the time. Mesh gets dismissed as “not protective,” or we assume ventilation means vulnerability. The truth? You can have airflow, armor, and all-day rideability if you pick smart. That’s where this roundup comes in.
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We’ve pulled together the best summer gear for 2025. Gloves, jackets, pants, boots, and helmets that are built for heat but still hold up when things go sideways. Every pick is backed by in-depth reviews, real test miles, and rider-first honesty.
Hit the road. Hit the links. Get the gear that won’t melt you from the inside out.
Top Motorcycle Summer Gear
Looking for quick hits? These are the top-performing pieces of summer gear across key categories. Each one is built to beat the heat without cutting corners on protection.
Best Summer Helmet 
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Best Summer Jacket 
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Best Summer Gloves 
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Offers top-tier airflow, a quiet ride, and all-day comfort with a built-in sun visor. Designed to stay cool in traffic and stable at high speeds. | The Commando UH is the rare jacket that delivers both CE AAA safety and real ventilation. With mesh airflow zones and abrasion-resistant fabric, it’s built for heat and high-risk roads. Full review here. Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off. | Combines serious knuckle protection with flexible mesh construction for high airflow and control. Built for riders who need durability and ventilation in equal measure. |
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Best Summer Helmet
Offers top-tier airflow, a quiet ride, and all-day comfort with a built-in sun visor. Designed to stay cool in traffic and stable at high speeds.
- Super quiet
- Wind tunnel molded for smoother ride (less fatigue)
- Eyeglass compatible
- Internal sun shade and Pinlock visor
- A bit heavier than carbon‑shell alternatives
- Sun‑visor side light bleed may bother some
Best Summer Jacket
The Commando UH is the rare jacket that delivers both CE AAA safety and real ventilation. With mesh airflow zones and abrasion-resistant fabric, it’s built for heat and high-risk roads. Full review here.
Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.
- Material 15x stronger than steel
- Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
- Excellent airflow
- CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders
- Back protector sold separately
Best Summer Gloves
Combines serious knuckle protection with flexible mesh construction for high airflow and control. Built for riders who need durability and ventilation in equal measure.
- Superior ventilation for maximum airflow
- Advanced knuckle protection for impact resistance
- Enhanced grip and flexibility for better control
- Limited wrist coverage due to short cuff
Summer Motorcycle Gear Myths, Debunked
Hot weather brings out all kinds of bad habits and worse advice. Riders start skipping gear, buying junk mesh, or believing myths that haven’t been true for years. Here’s what you’ll hear, and what’s actually real when the road is radiating heat.
“You have to choose between airflow and protection.” Nope. The best summer gear gives you both. Helmets with multi-port ventilation, CE AAA-rated mesh jackets, Dyneema-reinforced jeans, even boots and gloves with real armor—they all exist and they all breathe. The right materials do the work. You just have to choose gear built for the job.
“If you’re just riding around town, you don’t need full gear.” Most crashes happen close to home, not on tour. Whether it’s a short blast or a gas station run, you’re still exposed. Lightweight gloves with knuckle protection, vented riding shoes with crush protection, a breathable jacket—none of that takes extra effort. It just takes better choices.
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“Mesh gear is cheap and falls apart in a slide.” That depends on the mesh. Cheap Amazon specials? Sure. But CE-rated mesh jackets and pants now use high-strength weaves, reinforced impact zones, and built-in armor. Some flow air better than a T-shirt and protect better than old-school textiles.
“Open-face helmets are the best option for heat.” They’re breezy, but they give up serious protection. A well-vented full-face or modular helmet stays cooler than you think, especially with a good liner and airflow design. You don’t have to expose your jaw to ride cool. Just invest in a lid that moves air right.
“Low-cut boots and short gloves are good enough in summer.” Not if you go down. Riding shoes and gloves designed for heat still need armor, abrasion resistance, and solid construction. A skate shoe isn’t a motorcycle boot. A fashion glove isn’t hand protection. Don’t confuse less fabric with more freedom.
Best Summer Motorcycle Helmets
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When the temps climb and the road starts to shimmer, your helmet can either be a breathable lifesaver or a heat-trapping punishment box. The difference comes down to airflow, comfort, and smart design. A good summer lid should vent like a fan, feel light on your neck, and stay cool even when you’re baking at a red light.
We put the latest helmets to the test in real heat, city traffic, canyon runs, dusty trails, and these three rose to the top. Whether you want full-face coverage, open-air feel, or dual-sport versatility, these helmets don’t just survive summer. They thrive in it.
Want to get deeper into helmet design? Check out our guide to the best motorcycle helmet brands or see which lids made the cut for our lightest full-face helmets. For now, here are the top summer picks that actually perform when the heat is on.
Best Overall
Shoei nailed it again. The GT-Air 3 blends premium ventilation with a super quiet shell and a built-in sun visor that’s made for blinding summer rides. It vents through multiple intake and exhaust ports that actually move air at speed. If you want the full breakdown on what makes this helmet a leader in hot-weather performance, check out our Shoei GT-Air 3 review.
- Super quiet
- Wind tunnel molded for smoother ride (less fatigue)
- Eyeglass compatible
- Internal sun shade and Pinlock visor
- A bit heavier than carbon‑shell alternatives
- Sun‑visor side light bleed may bother some
Best for Dual-sport and ADV
The XD-5 is built for long days on dirt and pavement alike. Arai refined the peak design, added improved ventilation, and kept their famously plush interior. It breathes better than any ADV helmet we’ve tested and still fits like a glove when the road disappears. If you’re splitting time between trails and tarmac this summer, the Arai XD-5 review has the full story.
- Quietest ADV helmet
- Removable peak
- Tons of ventilation
- Can use with googles
- DOT and Snell approved
- Heavier than lightweight ADV lids (~1814 g)
- Visor fogs in heavy rain without Pinlock
Best Open-face
This is what open-face should feel like in the heat: cool, breathable, and ready for anything from café runs to evening blasts along the coast. The Classic-V brings old-school styling with modern ventilation built right into the shell. It's a standout in our best open-face helmets guide.
- Comfortable fit with a compact profile
- Advanced ventilation system with hidden ports
- Premium build using Arai's strong PB-cLc shell
- Higher price point compared to similar retro-style helmets
If you’re riding on a tighter budget this summer, don’t worry, we’ve got solid picks that won’t cook your skull or drain your wallet in our best budget helmets guide. But if you want the best of the best for heat-heavy riding, these three are where you start.
Best Summer Motorcycle Jackets
There’s hot, and then there’s stuck-in-traffic-wearing-the-wrong-jacket hot. When the sweat starts pooling in your elbow armor and your collar feels like a furnace collar, it’s a sign: your gear’s not built for summer. The right jacket doesn’t just let air in, it moves it, keeps armor in place, and doesn’t turn into a swamp every time you stop.
These three jackets stand out because they actually work when the heat’s up. They’re comfortable, protective, and built to perform when the pavement’s radiating heat and the miles feel endless. For more details on what makes great hot-weather gear—and how we tested these picks, check out our full summer motorcycle jacket guide.
If you want to explore more styles beyond summer picks, like adventure-ready shells, cruiser classics, or top-tier brand roundups, take a look at our guides to the best jackets overall or our breakdown of the best motorcycle jacket brands.
Best Overall
CE AAA rated but still breathable. This jacket is proof. The Commando UH blends abrasion-resistant UHMWPE fabric with large mesh zones to let air in where it counts. It’s cut for real-world riding, not too bulky, not too slim, and comes with SAS-TEC armor included. For the full breakdown on how it rides, check out our Pando Commando review.
Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.
- Material 15x stronger than steel
- Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
- Excellent airflow
- CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders
- Back protector sold separately
Best for City Riding
A city staple for a reason. Massive mesh front and back panels, slim-fit silhouette, and just enough armor to stay safe in traffic. The Eclipse 2 is lightweight, easy to stash, and doesn’t scream "technical jacket" when you hop off the bike.
- Excellent airflow for hot weather
- Lightweight and comfortable
- CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor included
- No waterproof or thermal liner
- Back protector not included
- Limited storage/pocket space
Best for Touring
Ventilation when it’s dry, waterproofing when it’s not. The Marco 2 has a removable waterproof liner, massive mesh zones, and CE armor included, making it a strong pick for multi-day rides in unpredictable summer weather. It’s one of the more practical hot-weather options for sport touring and ADV riders who don’t want to overpack.
- Superb airflow keeps you cool on hot rides
- Includes waterproof liner for unexpected showers
- Robust CE Level 2 armor in shoulders and elbows
- Smart, roomy pockets hold essentials securely
- Adjustable fit delivers comfort without bulk
- No included back protector—sold separately
- Sleeves may feel long on shorter riders
And if you’re wondering how to make your gear last through sweat, grime, and summer storms, don’t miss our take on how to clean your motorcycle jacket properly. Ladies looking for warm-weather gear built for their fit and function, we’ve got you covered with our top picks in the best women’s motorcycle jackets list.
Best Summer Motorcycle Pants
When the heat rolls in, bad pants turn every stoplight into a sweat lodge. Thick liners, no venting, sticky waistbands, it’s enough to make you wish for shorts. But the good ones? They flow air, flex when you move, and still protect when things go sideways.
We’ve tested everything from armored leggings to full ADV shells, and not all summer pants are created equal. Whether you’re commuting, touring, or carving through the twisties, these are the ones we actually want to wear when the sun’s out and the miles are piling on.
If you’re still sorting out what kind of riding pants even make sense for your setup, start with our best motorcycle pants roundup. It breaks down all the styles and why they matter. For now, here are the top three summer picks that nailed it when the temps went high.
Best Overall
If we could only wear one pair all summer, it would be these. Ultra breathable and CE AAA rated, the Skin UH leggings use Dyneema-infused stretch fabric that fits close but flexes easily in the saddle. SAS-TEC armor at the knees and hips comes included, and they work solo or under casual layers. We broke it all down in our full Pando leggings review. They might be the only pair you really need.
- Super flexible and breathable
- Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit
- Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor
- None
Best for ADV and Touring
Hot weather riding meets off-road grit. The Baja S4s use Karbonite Micromesh for airflow and leather inner knees for grip and abrasion protection. With full D3O Level 1 armor and serious venting throughout, they are made for long hauls, mixed surfaces, and unpredictable summer terrain.
- Outstanding ventilation keeps you cool in 80–100 °F heat
- Stretch‑woven fit flexes with every movement
- AA-rated abrasion and Superfabric knees add real protection
- D3O Level 1 vented armor in hips & knees
- Adjustable waist/calves fit over large boots comfortably
- Baggy leg bottoms can snag when walking
- Heats up behind engine shields at slower speeds
Best Casual
These aren’t your average riding jeans. The Arnie Slims pack CE AAA rated Armalith denim with SAS-TEC armor and a clean, no-fluff silhouette. They breathe better than most lined jeans and look like everyday denim, but they’ll hold up when things go south. Want more low-profile options like this? Hit our AAA-rated motorcycle jeans guide for everything from skinny cuts to full armor utility pairs.
- CE AAA-rated single-layer ARMALITH® denim for superior abrasion resistance.
- Includes SAS-TEC TripleFlex CE Level 1 knee and hip armor.
- Slim fit with a clean, everyday appearance.
- Higher price point compared to some alternatives.
- Armor may feel less substantial to some riders.
- Limited ventilation, which may affect comfort in hot weather.
And yes, ladies, we’ve got you covered too. If you’re after gear that fits, vents, and protects without compromise, don’t miss our best women’s motorcycle pants picks.
Summer rides are brutal on the wrong gear. These three pairs get it right. Cool when you’re moving, protective when it counts, and wearable day in, day out.
Best Summer Motorcycle Boots
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Hot feet are miserable. Sweat pooling in your socks, soles slipping inside your boots, toes feeling like they’re cooking on a cast iron skillet. And yet, a lot of riders still try to tough it out in insulated touring boots or heavy-duty race gear when the mercury climbs.
You don’t have to suffer to stay protected. Summer motorcycle boots today offer real abrasion resistance, ankle armor, and even shift pads, without sealing your feet inside a swamp. Whether you’re riding to work, ripping corners, or logging long days on tour, the right pair makes a massive difference.
If you’re looking for something beyond pure hot weather performance, like options for wide feet, or the most comfortable touring builds, we’ve got full guides that cover it all, including our roundup of the best motorcycle boots overall.
Best Overall
Track-grade protection with airflow that works. These boots feature a perforated microfiber upper, reinforced TPU armor, and a breathable liner that actually moves air through the boot. Ideal for sport and street riders who want full coverage without heat overload.
- Excellent ankle/shin support
- Laser-perforated airflow keeps feet cool
- Easy on/off with generous Velcro flap
- Replaceable toe sliders & shift guard
- True-to-size fit with plush comfort
- Velcro may wear out after prolonged use
- Could feel stiff initially before break‑in
Best Track Performance
If you’re pushing pace on the track in the summer heat, this is your move. The RT-Race Pro Air brings serious venting to a race boot, with a durable microfiber shell, torsion control system, and replaceable sliders. Engineered for high-speed protection that doesn’t cook your feet.
- Excellent ankle brace for crash safety
- Replaceable magnesium toe & heel sliders
- Michelin sole offers strong peg traction
- Perforated upper keeps feet cool
- Secure fit with inner lacing + ratchet strap
- Feels stiff when walking off‑bike
- Zip area can rub after extended rides
Best Casual
Low-cut, easy to live in, and surprisingly protective. The Fulton Air looks like a skate shoe but adds crush-resistant inserts, ankle protection, and mesh panels that make summer city riding bearable. A solid pick for commuters or anyone going for a stealthy look.
- Excellent airflow
- Comfortable for walking
- Reinforced toe, heel, and ankle protection
- Not waterproof
- Basic, utilitarian styling
- Less ideal for cold or wet conditions
Summer boots don’t have to be soggy, stiff, or sketchy. We tested the most breathable, ride-ready options and picked the ones that can actually take the heat. Want more options, test notes, and deeper dives? Hit up the full best summer motorcycle boots guide.
Best Summer Motorcycle Gloves
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You want airflow. You want protection. And you absolutely don’t want to feel like you’re riding in ski mitts. Summer gloves need to breathe, flex, and stay protective without turning your hands into slow-roasting sausages at every stoplight.
The good news? You don’t have to compromise anymore. The best gloves for hot-weather riding now come with real knuckle armor, touchscreen compatibility, reinforced palms, and ventilation that actually works at speed. Whether you’re ripping around town, logging miles on a touring route, or bouncing along gravel backroads, there’s a glove built to match.
Best Overall
Built for airflow and adventure, the Sand 5s combine ventilated 3D air mesh with TPR knuckle and finger armor. They breathe exceptionally well without sacrificing protection. Ideal for ADV riders and touring in hot, rugged conditions.
- Superior ventilation for maximum airflow
- Advanced knuckle protection for impact resistance
- Enhanced grip and flexibility for better control
- Limited wrist coverage due to short cuff
Best for Street/Urban
These gloves blend minimalist style with real safety—featuring Dyneema-infused fabric and flexible knuckle protection. Lightweight, breathable, and street-smart, they’re perfect for urban riding and short-range summer runs.
- 0.8mm cowhide leather with perforation for ventilation
- TPU knuckle guard and PU palm slider for impact protection
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertip for easy device access
- Short cuff may not suit all riders
Best for Dual-sport
Designed for high-temp performance, the Mojave gloves use stretch mesh and perforated leather for airflow, plus Poron XRD protection at impact points. Best suited for dual sport and off-road riders who demand maximum ventilation and dexterity.
- Excellent airflow for hot weather
- Durable synthetic leather palm for longevity
- Touchscreen-compatible for convenience
- Limited insulation for colder conditions
Looking for the right pair to beat the heat without giving up protection? We tested the best warm weather options out there, from short cuffs to mesh panels with solid armor, and narrowed it down to the ones that actually deliver. Check out the full list in our best summer motorcycle gloves guide.
Summer Motorcycle Gear Buying Guide
Riding in the summer isn’t just about staying cool. It’s about staying protected and cool without feeling like you’re wrapped in a hot tarp. The right gear for warm weather makes every mile more comfortable, safer, and straight-up more enjoyable. Here’s what to look for when you’re shopping for summer motorcycle gear that actually works.
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Prioritize Airflow Without Sacrificing Safety Mesh is your best friend, but not all mesh is created equal. Look for gear that uses high-abrasion mesh panels in non-impact zones and reinforces shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips with tougher textiles or CE-certified armor. Bonus points if the gear meets CE Level A, AA, or AAA ratings.
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Watch out for: Cheap mesh gear that flows air but falls apart in a slide. It’s not worth saving a few bucks if it shreds on contact.
Watch out for: Cheap mesh gear that flows air but falls apart in a slide. It’s not worth saving a few bucks if it shreds on contact.
CE-Certified Armor Is Non-Negotiable Hot gear doesn’t mean soft gear. Make sure your jacket, pants, gloves, and boots come with CE Level 1 or 2 armor in the right spots—elbows, shoulders, knees, hips, ankles. Level 2 is better for impact, but Level 1 is usually lighter and cooler.
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Tip: Look for breathable armor like D3O Ghost or SAS-TEC Flex if you want max comfort in the heat.
Tip: Look for breathable armor like D3O Ghost or SAS-TEC Flex if you want max comfort in the heat.
Fit Matters Even More in the Heat Summer gear should fit close, not tight. Loose fabric flaps in the wind, but too-tight gear traps sweat. Look for pre-curved sleeves and knees, adjustable cuffs, and stretch panels where it counts. For gear that blends protection with cruiser or café styling, check out our best cruiser jackets guide. Want something built more for rugged multi-terrain travel? Check out our full adventure jacket guide.
Boots and Gloves: Think Light, Not Fragile Good summer boots and gloves use perforated leather, mesh panels, or vented synthetic materials to let air flow without ditching protection. Look for boots with reinforced toe boxes and ankle armor, and gloves with knuckle protection and abrasion-resistant palms.
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Avoid: Thin, fashion-style gloves or casual shoes that offer zero slide or impact protection.
Avoid: Thin, fashion-style gloves or casual shoes that offer zero slide or impact protection.
Helmets That Vent Well Are Worth Every Penny A helmet with real ventilation is a game changer in the heat. Prioritize lids with multiple intake and exhaust vents, moisture-wicking liners, and removable cheek pads for cleaning. Full-face is still the safest, but modular and open-face options can work for low-speed or urban riding if you’re strategic.
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Waterproof Liners Are a Nice Bonus, Not a Must In most summer gear, waterproof liners just make you hotter. If you need rain protection, look for removable waterproof liners or carry an external shell. Mesh jackets with fixed liners trap heat. Pass on them unless you ride in places where sudden downpours are the norm. If waterproof capability is more your concern, check out our best waterproof pants guide for options that keep you dry without turning into a steam room.
Consider One-Piece Underlayers or Cooling Base Gear A good moisture-wicking base layer can make a bigger difference than you think. It helps reduce chafing, keeps armor from sticking, and makes taking your gear off a lot easier after long rides. Some riders even use evaporative cooling vests for extreme heat days.
Summer Motorcycle Gear FAQ
Got questions about staying cool without giving up safety? You’re not alone. Summer riding pushes your gear harder than any other season. Here’s what riders ask the most and what actually matters when the temps spike.
Is mesh motorcycle gear really safe?
Yes, if it’s built right. Not all mesh is flimsy. Look for gear made with abrasion-resistant mesh in low-impact zones and reinforced textiles or armor in high-impact areas. Bonus if it’s CE rated—ideally Level AA or AAA. Good mesh gear will keep you cool and hold up in a slide.
What’s better for summer riding, textile or leather?
Textile. Leather gets hot fast unless it’s fully perforated and super light. Textile gear with mesh panels and airflow vents is way more breathable and easier to wear for long rides in the heat. Save the leather for cooler days or short blasts.
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Should I remove my armor to stay cooler?
Nope. If you’re too hot, get better gear, not less gear. Look for ventilated or low-profile armor like D3O Ghost or SAS-TEC that won’t feel like a heat trap. Armor’s there to save your skin. Don’t ride without it.
Do I need different gear for city riding vs highway or touring?
It helps. For city riding, lightweight mesh jackets, short-cuff gloves, and ventilated shoes work great. For touring or ADV, go with more protective mesh gear that includes liners or has space for layers, since temps can shift fast over distance. If you’re focused on low-speed, short-distance rides, check out our guides to the best retro helmets or the best scooter helmets for stylish, low-profile options that still deliver on comfort and airflow.
What about rain in summer? Should I get waterproof gear?
Not unless you ride in a place where it rains constantly. Most waterproof liners trap heat. Instead, carry a packable rain shell or buy gear with a removable waterproof liner so you can stash it when it’s dry.
Are open-face helmets safe enough for summer?
They’re cooler and more breathable, but they give up a lot in crash protection. For short urban rides, they’re fine. For touring or higher speeds, stick with a well-vented full-face or modular helmet for the best of both worlds.
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Can I wear shorts or regular jeans in summer if it’s too hot?
You can, but you shouldn’t. Regular jeans shred fast in a slide. If you want to stay cool without giving up protection, try CE-rated motorcycle jeans or armored leggings with mesh or Dyneema blends. Gear exists that’s cooler than denim and ten times safer.
Is there a way to stay cooler under my gear?
Yes. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer. It helps sweat evaporate, keeps armor from sticking to your skin, and makes it easier to get gear on and off. Some riders also use cooling vests for extreme heat.
Can I just ride in a T-shirt and gloves in the summer?
Sure. Until you crash. The road doesn’t care how hot it is. Even lightweight summer gear offers way more protection than street clothes. You don’t have to roast, but you do have to respect the risk.
Wrapping-Up…
Riding in the summer doesn’t have to mean sweat, sunburn, and sketchy compromises. The right gear makes the heat manageable, the miles more comfortable, and the ride a whole lot safer. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend blast or commuting every day, summer gear should work with the weather, not against it.
We’ve tested what holds up, what flows air, and what still protects when things go sideways. Now it’s your turn to gear up smart and keep riding when most people are packing it in.
