Choosing the Right Clothing for a Motorcycle Tour

[@Loudpedal10]

I've found that Merino wool socks are fantastic. Everyone knows about their ability to retain body heat when wet and cold but they work great in the summer too. They wick away moisture in the summer and wool is naturally anti microbial so you can wear a pair for a number of days if need be without any odor.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I have some Smartwool socks and they are very nice, particularly in the fall and winter. I find them a little warm during the summer though. I know they make different versions for summer, I will have to check them out again. They are definitely the most comfortable. Thanks!

[@TonVerkleijT3]

Good advice. And really something to consider for if you are about to buy something for a ride. Clothing that does not work or feels not fine will absolutely spoil you ride AND your concentration. One thing to think about are elastic riding socks. At a day's ride, your blood will descend to your feet causing them to swell up, which is really painfull in your boots. Elastic riding socks are tight and prevend your blood and bodyfluids to make your feet swell up. Climatic situations may vary on different continents. I live in a county near the sea in the north west of Europe, and the climate here is mild and wet, with the occasional tropical days occurring. I therefore use a two peace combined leather/synthetic suit with ventilation vents, it is very comfortable, reasonably water tight and easy to wear, For the really hot summer days I also have a ventilated textile two piece suit. There is also a two peace leather suit, but I only use this occasionally on my old sports bike as it will make you stand in a racing crouch. Makes people state at you on the street like you're the boogie man. Please keep on making these enlighting videos, I do enjoy them. I have subscribed on your channel now. Regards, Ton.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Ton Verkleij Thanks for the input, good stuff. Everyone is different but for me if the sock is short (half way up the calf or less) then I can get some swelling after a long day in the saddle. However, when I use the longer socks that come all the way to the knee, they act like compression socks and seem to help with blood flow. Of course they should not be "too tight." As you said whatever you wear has to be comfortable.

[@sparkelius]

You have provided the most important information w.r.t clothing that I have never seen any veteran rider talk about. Cheer and thanks, was just what I was looking for.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you sir! Glad you found the video useful. Ride safe!

[@vics-videos]

Outstanding! This is the best, most instructive motorcycle clothing video I have seen to date. The specific brands (as examples) are very helpful! Very well done!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks, I did another series last year before I went to Alaska. I am always learning new things.

[@terribrown4178]

Thank you so much for posting this. I found it informative and helpful.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Glad it was helpful!

[@silvertonguedaywalker9116]

Great info, i am checking out the gear for a member of our family that is going on the a bike for the first time soon, So much to take in. His safety and comfort is so very important.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Check out my newer videos about gear. My personal choices have changed a bit over the years. I now only ride with a full-face helmet and I have upgraded my jacket and pants. There are a lot of choices, but the main thing is that you should wear something, no just a t-shirt and tennis shoes. Thanks!

[@silvertonguedaywalker9116]

Thank you for your reply. As a Mum i a worried but that is Natural is it not. We drive cars. No nothing about bikes. The cen where the lessons will take place have some really great feedback.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yes, it is normal to be worried. My mother still worries about me. Along with wearing proper gear, training is very important. There is a not more to learn than just how to pass the class and get your license. Seek out folks who can teach the more advanced stills. I live in the Northeast US and I get training every year, I used Ken Condon of Riding in the Zone (he has a great book called Motorcycling the Right Way) and the Stayin Safe classes. There are others out there as well.

[@KimMoonbmwmoonie]

Yeah, great review! Really helped. I already purchased most of the items suggested since I am an avid cyclist and alot of the items cross over. But, I never heard of Kevlar jeans until now. Definitely hooking up a pair of those! Thanks again!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Kim Moon Your welcome. I am wearing my Diamond Gussets as we speak. I pretty much live in them as they are comfortable and I live the phone pocket.

[@ontheothersideoftheroad]

This video may be old but it is still relevant..great advice brother.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you!

[@davebeck925]

Excellant video! There wasn't anything that I would disagree with and price point has a lot to do with choices. I originally started with a Tourmaster Air 3 jacket/pants combination, but have since transitioned to an Aerostich Roadcrafter R3 suit, and have left the Tourmaster outfit, unworn since, in the closet. It has proven to be good in weather ranging from 32 degrees (with a sweatshirt and jeans underneath) to around 85 degrees. Beyond 85, I wear a Veskimo cooling vest system underneath and have comfortably ridden in 112 degrees. I also wear LCD shorts which are quite pricey, but am interested in his recommendations for Under Armor shorts and Rev-It socks. The advantage for the LCD shorts is that you only need 2 pair, and can wash one pair, roll it into a towel to dry, while wearing the other pair the next day on long distance tours. Ride safe - this guy knows what he's talking about!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Dave Beck Thank you sir! Since I did this video, lIke you, I have switched to a touring suite. I my case I am using the Klim Latitude jacket and pants. It does bet a bit warm over 90 degrees, but overall it has grest ventilation and eliminates the need to carry extra rain gear.

[@rachelmccollum8466]

Great Video! cowboy work boots never crossed my mind, but I will have to check em out. Another suggestion for clothing: merino wool. socks, shirts, underwear, bras, etc. Since wool isn't a synthetic material, it wicks sweat without getting stinky. That means, for me, I can jump off the bike after a long summer drive and not have to worry about my odor offending anyone.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Rachel Mccollum Thanks! I have not worn 100% wool base layers, but have used "Smart Wool" which is a blend of wool and synthetic fibers. I works very well...

[@martijnrozendaal]

Yeah! I love those rev'it goods! Can't go wrong with them.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yep. they make good stuff! Thanks!

[@johnc8910]

I wear mesh Tourmaster gear. I live in north Texas. In the Dallas area, temps have lately been 100F - kind of warm, but not bad as long as you are moving. I crossed the Great Salt Lake last July. Temps were 115 - 120F. I had a long sleeve UnderArmour T-shirt under my jacket. I stopped about every hour and poured a quart of water over my body and sleeves. That and drinking lots of water (my basic summertime touring load includes 2 gallons of ice water) made the trip - not bad. My biggest complaint about mesh gear is the PITA internal rain layer. A dedicated rainsuit is a better idea. One problem with waterproof boots: once they do get wet, you really have problems.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I agree, drinking lots of water is essential. You must keep hydrated. I also agree about the internal rain layer, PITA. That is why I have since switched to a Klim Gortex jacket. I have also had, so called water proof boots get soaked through--they were not really water proof. Whenever possible, I spend the bucks and get Gortex. They always have a lifetime warranty for water-proofness...is that a word. Thanks for the input!

[@johnc8910]

The reason more clothing makers don't use Gortex is that they do not want to pay the licensing fee. My problem with my boots wasn't that they weren't waterproof. It is that they trapped water running down my legs.

[@MemphisMike901]

Great informative info on Gear. I've been pretty pleased with TourMaster Intake 3.0 for Riding, however , the rain liner does not perform too well..otherwise very functional jacket. Use Tourmaster pants as well. Good to see other brands there!

[@DominusEstOK]

Good info. Thanks for taking the time to put it together.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+David Homoney Thanks for watching!

[@BucketWheat]

I also recommend a Summer riding jacket in very Light Colors, or White! Not only does that Reduce heat from the Sun, but it also adds visibility! (Especially as the Sun goes down..) I also have a very GOOD quality Rain Jacket, that I carry with me all the time, that is large enough to fit OVER my riding jacket when it gets colder...even if it is just the temperature drop after Sundown during the Spring and Fall. That cuts All of the wind, and my riding jacket becomes 'insulating material' that holds that warmer air around my body.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks for your input!

[@conradmason87]

I was unable to find the piece you did on KLIM bike gear but I'm definitely getting into KLIM...their gear is excellent, from socks to base layers to jackets and even a very nice balaclava for the cold weather. Can't thank you enough... yes... they might be considered 'expensive' but for what you get for your money, in my view, well worth it.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks! Klum gear is good stuff. If you go to my channel the latest video should be my update on my Kim Latitude jacket. My original review should be in the Reviews playlist.

[@conradmason87]

Thank you Craig.

[@spanky522]

Other than my chaps and leather jacket, I carry rain gear and wear water proof boots and I can go just about anywhere. After several long distance trips (3000-4000+ miles) I guess I can safely do 600-700 miles a day without discomfort. I good seat is key also. I ride a 1996 1100 Honda Shadow and love it.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Painter D Everyone has their preferences, and if leather works for you that's great. For me most leather jackets just do not have enough ventilation. Since this video, I have purchased a Klim Latitude jacket that has good ventilation and is water proof to boot. Now I don't have to carry rain gear...freeing up half a saddle bag. Thanks for watching!

[@plinkbottle]

Have some alternative jackets, but what I don't like on some, is when there is no flap of material behind the zipper and the wind can get straight thru..Worst conditions for me is hot sun, cold damp wind. Stop for only a minute, hot as hell, then ride off covered in perspiration and its freezing cold.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Since I made this video I have switched to Klim gear and wear LDComfort LDComfort baselayers. It worked great riding through Death Valley this year.

[@HJC1950]

LD Comfort for base layer top and bottom. Made for riding.

[@birdbreaker]

Good source for bike enthusiast. Thank you.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Chris Morris Thank you!

[@nomansland4811]

The Duluth Trading underwear is great. Been wearing it for a couple of years.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Nomans land Thanks I will check them out.

[@huyked]

Thank you, sir, for this video.

[@Petercamp19591]

Nice review, obviously experience helps. Thank god It helps us also.

[@dayriderschat]

Don't forget the last weeks newspaper to shove inside your jacket ...hahaha!! works best of all !

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

An old cycling trick. Thanks!

[@klouism1]

Thanks always like to hear what others use. For winter I have Klim Gortex jacket & pants. Warmer I have Icon mesh and sometimes use a Klim windbreaker separate underneath. I also have mesh pants with armor in it. I have not tried the under armor shorts, shirt and socks. I will give that a try.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Idaho Rider I recently purchased a Klim jacket myself. It can be a bit hot when sitting still but as long as I am moving the venting works great, and they work as advertised in the rain.

[@TonVerkleijT3]

You do not doubt the advice given by father christmas. Or you will never receive any presents anymore.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

That's right. And for the attractive young ladies, over 18 of course, I will be at the local mall this weekend to hear your Christmas wishes.

[@TonVerkleijT3]

I allways thought father christmas has a beady eye for the young female side of manhood. I do now understand why he constantly shouts 'hoho'. A different way of vocally expressing yourself that is. Never mind, it's fine with me. For whom the bell tolls, let alone his bell.

[@huyked]

Sir, I just found out about "evaporative cooling vests", the ones with gel in them so that it doesn't dry too fast. I've heard it lasts about 1.5 hours in 100 degree F weather. One user said it felt like 20 degrees cooler with it on. It's such a good idea, especially for the hot Summers here in So Cal. Going to buy a silver mesh, Joe Rocket jacket today, which helps with evaporation. Lookin' forward to using it when it's murderously *_hot_*, just to try it out. Haha. :D

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

We have two sets of cooling vests. One is the gel type you describe. I found them to be very effective in the Western US, as it is not and dry. Water evaporates quickly. The vests to last in those kind of temps about an hour to an hour and a half. You then re wet them with cold water and you are good to go. Back here in the east and south, where it is humid, I have not found the vest to be very effective. I have friends who like them, but for me, it is like wearing a hot water bottle after about 30 minutes. Since water and sweat does not evaporate as quickly when it is humid, the vest reaches an ambient temperate quickly and loses its cooling effect. I have just gone with drinking plenty of water, letting myself sweat and making sure I have a jacket with good ventilation. The vests are not that expensive, I would give it a try and see how it works for you. As I said, my friends like them more than I do. Thank!

[@huyked]

Thank you so much for the verification on two points (in dry heat vs. humid heat)! This is great to know. Thank you, sir! I think I am ready for a "long" (1 hour and 50 minutes; I've only been riding for a month. Haha.) ride to Anza-Borrego (for the wildflower blooms in the desert) soon. It will be my longest ride. My max so far is taking the non-freeway paths (due to having a permit and not a motorcycle license yet) to work, which is 50 minutes. It's typically 30 minutes if I use the freeway. But it is so much more fun (with the "twisties" and picturesque using the inside roads.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Sounds like you are doing it right, working you way up as you confidence increases. Have fun and continue to ride safe!

[@huyked]

Thank *_you_*. You, likewise, as well!

[@hershchat]

Just bought the sweat shirt. Will await arrival in 4 weeks!!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Sorry, I have no control over that. Everything is taking longer these days.

[@hershchat]

@@LivingOffTheSlab I enjoy the anticipation. Will wear it to work Fridays, all winter.

[@edfarnham5590]

Great info! Thanks man. At .06 seconds you are wearing a brown jacket that looks really nice & comfortable. What is It please? Also, I want to say that I find bib overalls to be extremely comfortable to ride in with a good under layer. I've got Gore-Tex bibs both insulated and un-insulated and, also plain denim. They're all super comfortable, easy to let the bib down if you need to. Jacket over the top and you're good to go. My final thought is gloves. Nylon outer and Gore-Tex membrane is the way to go.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Ed Farnham Thank you sir! The jacket in the intro is actually the TourMaster Air Intake III that I mention in the video. I think it just looks brown because of the way the sun is being reflected. Thanks for the tips!

[@Unknwn_Senpai]

Lycra is what you want to see in clothes for the wicking properties what underarmour uses as well as plenty of cheaper options

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yes Lycra or Spandex is a great fabric for both wickability and breathability. Thanks!

[@Unknwn_Senpai]

thought I would mention it for the comment readers, so many people had no idea what lycra was even store associates who sold under armour were lost.

[@joepasquarello1273]

Good video. Thanks for taking the time to post it.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Joe Pasquarello, Thanks for watching!

[@robertnocerajr3985]

Great message.. thank you. Robert jr NJ here Asbury Park and the pine barrens XR 650 owner

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, glad you found it useful.

[@dionreload]

Could you do a video for What motorcycle clothing you would buy if you knew everything you know now back when you started out?? kinda like a beginners guide sort off, im a subscriber and love youre video's!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

That is an interesting idea. I am going to do a clothing video for the Alaska trip, but I will see what I can do. Thanks!

[@JayBrosch]

I couldn't agree more on the base layer recommendations (cotton sucks). I'm not that familiar with Under Armor products, but I've had really good luck with Nike's DrI Fit wicking fabric. I had an Aerostich Roadcrafter (GoreTex) suit that lasted 8 years/90K miles. It needed just a bit better ventilation for the summer. Then I thought I'd save some money and bought Fieldsheer. Big mistake. I think I'll try Rukka or Klim next.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

There are a lot of options to choose from. Sometimes it's just a trail and error to find the one that works best for you. The Klim has good ventilation but with the humidity we have been having the last few days, it does get a bit warm. But overall I am very satisfied.

[@rex4x4]

Great vid bud .... Wish I watched this before I did my east coast trip this summer .... Vids are on my channel .... See how miserable I was lol

[@mattbrown1277]

Great video, informative and entertaining.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@scott917]

Put white vinegar on a sunburn. Yes it stinks, but it will take the heat out of a sunburn. Aloe Vera to moisturize the skin.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Ok, thanks!

[@akepettersson4847]

+CraigRipley All the best to you on your Alaska trip ! I'm heading up to northern Sweden & Norway after our Midsummer. It's time for some "Midnight Sun" 😄. Btw ; I use clothes from "Halvarsson". The underlayer too. My helmet is a Schuberth C3 Pro.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you! Sounds like you have a great trip planned as well. Ride Safe and have a great time.

[@BrainFester]

Craig, my wife an I messed up. You gave a very helpful reply to our question about "cooling vests". I'm sorry to say we lost your reply due to deletion of my wife's mostly unused gmail account that was attached to youtube. If you don't have time to re-post your response we understand, but if you reply again it will be MUCH appreciated! Thanks, Brian & Sandy

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Sure...I have two types of cooling vests. The first is the type you soak in cool water. We got these while riding in AZ and then temps were in the 100's with little humidity. For these conditions, the vests work great. You need a jacket with good ventilation to get air flow, and you will need to stop and re-soak the vest every hour or so. Where I found these vests do not work very well, is in hot and humid conditions, like we faced down in Texas. For me, after about 10 minutes the vest was like wearing a hot water bottle on your chest. I was better off without it. The second type if the Macna Cooling Vest from Twisted Throttle. This vest is a dry cooling vest, in that you put about 10 oz. of water inside the vest. The principle is the same as the wet vest in that you need airflow and evaporation for it to work. I found that this type of vest does work better in humid conditions, but there are still limitations. After about an hour the vest started loosing its cooling effect. The water in the vest gets to the same temperate as the surrounding air and you no longer feel the cooling. I am sure, the water is still evaporating and probably keeping you cooler, but you do not feel it as much. If you stop, get the vest out of the sun and let the water temp cool off, when you put it back on you again get the cooling effect. This type if vest is substantially more expensive ($250, or so) vs the other vest at $90, the last time I looked, which was a while ago. With all that said, having a cooling vest is not a substitute for staying hydrated, keeping the sun off of your skin and maintaining adequate air-flow. Wearing a base layer that allows the sweat to come to the surface, so it can evaporate is essential to stay cool. I have been wearing the Cycle-Gear Heat Out shirts. They work well and are not that expensive. They are compression clothing so you may have to go up a couple of sizes (normally, I wear a LG to XL but in this shirt I wear a 2X). Under Armor makes some similar shirts that you probably can find at your local sporting goods store so you can try them on. To be honest, I have these cooling vests, but I very rarely use them. If I do the things I list above, I can stay comfortable in temps in the 90s and even 100s. Hope this helps!

[@MrBbbthomas]

4:39 squirel :)

[@antoniofdez01]

i love the squirrel on the three at 4:39

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Antonio Fernández Yeah, our backyard is pretty active in the summer time.

[@dionreload]

What motorcycle clothing would you buy if you knew everything you know now back when you started out?? kinda like a beginners guide sort off, im a subscriber and love youre video's!

[@yiy3429]

Just what I need to know. Thanks.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@LeeKirkman88]

You are the double of my friend Vic he is a trike builder.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Another good looking guy, I am sure.

[@leeedsonetwo]

excellent advice thankyou

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+leeedsonetwo You are welcome and thank you!

[@Seamusog1987]

I use merino wool as under clothing and merino ski socks. extremely expensive but the best. Also never put phones or keys into your side pockets, as its not what you want to land on should you fall.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I have some smart wool products, that are very nice. I don't use them in hotter weather, but in spring and summer they are great. Thanks!

[@wildone2163]

sorry but in my experience under amour doesn't keep wet out at all, it just accumulates less because it's thin. Still taking my UA t-shirt wet in summer.

[@jawdatrahmah2549]

Thank you you helping me a lot.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you! Glad you are getting something out of my videos.

[@DerHerbman]

what a great video, thanks!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+derHerbman Thank you!

[@poden3863]

somehow I ended up watching this old post. One thing you did not consider is how Visible a rider is on the road. All black outfitted riders can be hard to see on overcast / rainy days.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@Tax2Me]

Very good tips. Moisture issue well taken. Under Armor next 4 me

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@Peter-976]

I`m surprised you don`t use heated gear. I have a dedicated Tourmaster Draft 2 mesh jacket that I use 75% of the time and a FirstGear Kenya jacket the other 25% of the time. I use the gerbing heated liner with both which allows me to only need a short sleeve shirt underneath all the time

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I have friends how swear by the Gerbing's heated clothing, but I just have never taken that step. So far, I have been able to stay warm by layering. The one thing that would be nice is heated gloves. I have heated grips on both of my bikes, but gloves would be nice. Thanks!

Great tips! Thanks :-)

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Cássio Siqueira Thank you, sir!

[@tbillyjoeroth]

I wear compression stockings. They're usually polyester, go up to the knees, and your legs will thank you after a long day's ride. All these brands are getting recommendations they don't necessarily deserve. Russell makes polyester underwear with silver ions built into the thread which is antibacterial. Underarmor is expensive just for the name. Jeez.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you for your input.

[@MemphisMike901]

Have you ever used the Layering Gear from Cyclegear.com? I picked up 5 pairs of "Heat out" Shorts..moisture wicking underwear...Have been pleased and even use them on the day job as a UPS driver. Have also used their "Freezeout" Gear as well. So far all this gear has been great AND affordable as well!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+MemphisMike Yes, I picked up one of the Heat Out compression shirts over the summer and so far I am very pleased with it. They do run a little small though. I normaly wear a large or XL and I had to get a 2X, and I still get plenty of compression.

[@MemphisMike901]

Yes...the shirts fit EXTREMELY tight..I felt really squeezed in them when I tried them on. Pretty good value I think for the gear, especially if bought near the end of the season!

[@gryphongryph]

Great video

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

gryphongryph Thanks!

[@davidfalgout7304]

Very Good info! I have about the same experience level as you. One thing I found however was MOTOPORT. After 2 aero's, a few less expensive others...etc etc.. I will never ride again in anything other than Motoport Kevlar. Check them out.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks, I will take a look!

[@johnnygross4415]

mexico is where I want to go!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Sounds good!

[@seanwillman6373]

Thank you!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Your welcome, glad you got something out of the video.

[@FK-2all]

Hey bearddo great info!!!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Fritz kamstra, Thanks!

[@DannyIves]

great video!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Danny Ives, Thank you!

[@tobiray]

great vid brother

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Tobi Jay Thanks, glad you liked it!

[@CdBrakr]

Hey Craig, I've talked to a few motorcyclist and they all have their accident stories. Whats your worst accident you've had? And by wearing these clothes, how has is prevented it from being worst?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+C0d3Br3ak3r Thanks, that is an interesting question, that probably deserves its own video. I have only had one accident that was back when I was 23 years old. An elderly driver made a left turn from the right hand lane and stopped dead in front of me. I only had about 50 feet to stop from about 50 mph. I was thrown from the bike, bounced off another car in the median and then off the hood of the car that stopped in front of me. I ended up on the far side of the elderly drivers car sitting up in the middle of the road. At the time I had taken my helmet and my shirt off, because it was 100 degrees out and I was just going up the road to get something to eat. I was extremely lucky in that I only ended up with a few bruises (no road rash) and a dislocated left shoulder. Witnesses told me I looked like a rag doll flying around and they were surprised I was walking around (or even alive) the next day. I was one lucky bastard that day! Someone was looking out for me. What this taught me, when I returned to motorcycling later in life, was that I did not want this to happen again. So I now always wear some kind of protective gear. I am not an ATTGATT guy in that I need to wear full leathers and rigid boots, but I never ride without a helmet, long pants, gloves, and some kind of boot (I have several different kinds). I either use my Klim gear or Kevlar riding jeans. It is the very rare occasion that you will find me without a jacket--almost never. Since returning to motorcycling I have also made it a priority to get my self trained, so that I am a better, safer rider. I have taken several classes of differing kinds and continue to do so. All the gear helps to protect you in the case were you cannot avoid an accident, but the best protection is to avoid the accident in the first place. Not always possible, but I strive to do everything in my power to make sure they do not happen. So far so good..knock on wood!

[@CdBrakr]

+Craig Ripley (Living Off The Slab) Awesome! thank you for replying back. And if you could, you should make a video about that. I think it'd be great for an addition to you page.

[@elisabethrall7197]

Great! THX

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you. Glad you liked it.

[@roadglide]

Gotta have a new gear review by now.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I did a head to toe review for 2022. Look for the latest videos.

[@robertostman2075]

ok I really like the video... I want to ask.... what about riders that live in warm states and countries... isn't there a option for them??

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Robert Ostman Thank you! The clothing I discussed in the video is what I wear in hot conditions. The jacket is fully vented and allows great air flow. In addition the base layers are designed to allow sweat to evaporate more efficiently, thus helping to keep you cool. I did not discuss things like cooling vests, maybe I will do that in the future. I do not suggest that anyone goes without gear just because it is hot.

[@robertostman2075]

agreed... how ever the problem of excessive heat does seem to be many drivers decisions... they end up doing strange things... like getting married... hehe

[@niravbhatia]

informative..thx .i always got iron butt 😢😢

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Your welcome. Staying as dry as possible will help.

[@ajkylen]

thank you from fall city wa

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks for watching!

[@ajkylen]

There is a ferry that runs from Bellingham wa to Alaska Google for information

[@gghostrrider]

Should rain gear be sized to fit over a jacket or replace a jacket?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Fit over the jacket.

[@azafran2010]

Squirrel!!!!! @4:38... just saying. Great info.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yep...Thanks!

[@conradmason87]

Brilliant...also...what's the music at the beginning?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Conrad Mason Thanks! The ;music is from a royalty free set that I purchased called Blue Nuke. The specific song is called Gas Mask Gracie.

[@conradmason87]

Thanks Craig...As I live in England I've just purchased some base layers from the UK website of UA thanks to your superb tips. All the best bro'.

[@SmokinZen]

Have you made a video on carrying extra gas in saddle bags?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Not in the saddlebags per say. I have a roto pack system on my Tenere, but have never carried extra gas on my Vision. Thanks.

[@bmwrider-nl8in]

check out the "cool-vest" check out revzilla or amazon. excellent!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks. I have two different cool vests, one that you soak and the other that you put water inside. They both have their benefits and drawbacks. Overall I find that the vests work great in dryer climates, but their effectiveness goes down as the humidity goes up. I have some friends though that use them all the time and love them. Thanks again!

[@debbiebroadhurst5306]

great

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Debbie Broadhurst Thanks!

[@barnbersonol]

Check this fella's other vid : A day at the Father Christmas convention.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@mikequinn7223]

I recently moved TO WPB Florida from Syracuse. Not only hot, it's the MOST DANGEROUS Riding I have experienced in 40 yrs of serious riding. I must dress accordingly. Moving is probably smarter. Biker deaths up 23% this yr

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Wow. It does not sound like a good place to ride. Up here in Ma we have our own issues. We are not know as the best drivers, and I sware it has gotten worse in the last few weeks...got to keep your eyes open. Ride Safe!

[@mikequinn7223]

I added a back off module and a headlight module. In addition I wear a blaze orange shirt. Sounds extreme, but I love riding. I have no plans to stop. Thank you. Be safe too!

[@tian7328]

at about 4:35 there is a squirell running down the tree on the right side :D

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

He is still there...thought I got rid of him...LOL

[@tian7328]

Living Off The Slab Haha :D why do you want to get rid of him? Is he watching you shower? :D

[@mrniceguy4920]

you don't need clothing with a beard like that, dude

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

lol...the bread is a little shorter now a days.

[@edfarnham5590]

+Craig Ripley (Living Off The Slab) Trim it man. Makes you look older than you are.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Ed Farnham I have trimmed it, and I still look old...

[@johnnygross4415]

Regular nylon jerseys work ok?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

The short answer is yes, any of the synthetic fibers have wicking properties and will help to keep you dry.

[@OlllOHD]

Okay thank you David Letterman

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@davidmathew7712]

Always wear pure wool against my skin

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@arthurb8631]

I own a one piece Aerostitch light suit. Anybody you know tour with one and any problems with it?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I only have one friend who has one and he loves it, but I have heard from several others and they are all very happy with them. Thanks!

[@arthurb8631]

Living Off The Slab I mostly worry I will clash with my club mates whenever we stop at places. For example what to do with the suit in a restaurant.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Well...I wear my Klim outfit on my club rides. I dont care what everyone else wears. Not sure what you would do with the full suite, I am sure it zips down.

[@arthurb8631]

Living Off The Slab thanks again and love the videos!

[@birdbreaker]

You have birds chirping in the background :-)

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Chris Morris Yes, and a squire makes a cameo. Nice summer day.

[@alexanderschmidt75]

have you tried LDComfort?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Alexander Schmidt, Yes, wearing them now in Alaska.

[@kennethsettles5597]

Crotch and Feet. Most important parts of the body to keep happy. The legs and arms will survive. But ignore the named parts and they will make you regret it. Enjoy..

[@kennethsettles5597]

Actually, shopping a Goodwill or other charity store in the better parts of town yield all sorts of "Sport" ware at a huge discount. For those starting out or on a budget, check there first. Just go knowledgable as to materials and brands.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I agree. This is an older video and I have sense upgraded my crotch protection to LDComfort.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@intergratedmgtow1844]

I use football gear when I ride.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Ok...

[@yoshimitsu411]

Gloves?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+yoshimitsu411 Yes, I did not cover gloves for this video.But, I would suggest that whatever you choose, they should offer protection and be waterproof, or at least carry a second set of waterproof gloves. I actually usually carry at least two pairs.

[@northof-62]

Shoes: soles should be able to take the weight of the bike without crushing your foot

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

What boot do you suggest is strong enough to support a 900 plus pound touring bike?

[@northof-62]

Well good point but I don't think the whole weight of the bike will be resting on my foot in a drop. So a solid sole with metal inlay or even a wooden sole should prevent a lot more damage than a sneaker type sole. We have compulsary safety lessons in Norway when we train for our mc driving license and in class we were presented with various boots from accidents and we could see the results of choosing a soft sole with our own eyes .

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I agree with you, wearing some kind of boot is optimal. The more the support the better. You point is well taken. Thanks!

[@4484paul]

You like to buy American wear Wicker's under wear

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I will check it out, thanks.

[@D1it4FN]

Anyone spot the squirrel?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yes, they have...

[@johnfogerty5629]

Can i work with you father? i want job please help me.thank you god bless you.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@scoobydoo7346]

hot

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

LOL...thanks.

[@nigelbradshaw8266]

Didn't know the old geezer from the Simpsons was a biker ❓🤔

[@jofuji8255]

Disagree re underwear. 100% cotton against the skin for me. You're lucky if you're body tolerates synthetic fibres, particularly your undercarriage!

[@rrmorris67]

you wear all that heavy gear in summer? you have got to be kidding me. just a few minutes at a traffic light with all that crap on and you're gonna heat up like a curling iron. God. no way.