Balaclavas & Face Masks

XLMOTO – Heated Clothing

There is nothing more annoying than getting a cold when on a motorcycle. That’s why many manufacturers chose to design heated clothing, varying from vests, base layers, and pants. Heated motorcycle clothes are on the rise, as many people are still in the dark on this. This type of clothing will not only keep you warm on a winter’s day but will also provide enough warmth at night or in the evenings when the sun is down.

Benefits of heated motorcycle gear

Are you thinking about buying heated motorcycle gear, then it’s good to know the main benefits of these items. Of course, the main benefit is that it will keep you warm in winter, on a cold day or even in the evenings. This type of gear as being kept warm by special equipment that’s incorporated in the clothing. It provides a proper solution for people that do not have heated grips.

Besides that, the clothing is very safe. Not only does it provide protection when you fall, it’s also safe in terms of the heat source. You can easily put on the clothing underneath your jacket or pants, without being disturbed by the extra layer. That is because of the fine fabric that is used with all the products that we at XLMOTO have.

What to look for in heated motorcycle gear

When buying heated motorcycle gear, it’s good to have certain criteria in the back of your mind. These criteria can determine the duration and intensity of the heat. Let’s look at some of the different criteria.

Elements

The first important criteria are the elements that are being used to provide the heat. Most of these elements are incorporated in the liner and are charged by means of batteries or a special battery. Pay attention to where you will find the elements in the clothing. In most cases, the elements are situated on the jacker in the collar, back, and on the chest.

Do you want to wear pants, then you will find the heating elements at the leg and around the seat. Important is to check how the elements can get heat or need to be charged. In some cases, it is possible to charge the heating elements while driving, but this is not always the case.

Duration

Also check the power and duration of the heating elements. The power of the elements determines how hard the elements can work. The higher the power, the more heat the elements can provide. Most heating elements use a voltage of 7 to 12 volts.

The power of the heating elements has a big influence on the price of the heated motorcycle clothing. The more volts run trough the elements, the more it costs. Are you easily cold, then it is advised to use a higher voltage in order to get warm more easily.

Fine-tuning

Every rider has it’s own preference with regards to heat. Some people would like to get warm and cozy on the motorcycle, while others choose to keep it more on the downside. For you to regulate the heat, there are forms of heated motorcycle clothing with different options. This allows you to regulate the heat output to your own taste.

If it is warmer then intended, you can lower the elements. If you need more heat, for example with rain or during the evening, you can also set the clothing on the highest setting. Not all heated motorcycle gear has the option to use multiple settings.

Closing

And lastly, it might be useful to fully close off your motorcycle clothing from outside air. In that case, the generated heat does not escape from your sleeves or trouser leg. There are even special connections to connect your boots or gloves to your heated motorcycle clothing. In that case, your whole body will benefit from the heated motorcycle clothing. Not all motorcycle clothing has the possibility to be fully closed off.

Balaclavas and Face Masks

During winter times, balaclavas and face masks are the best friend of every motorcyclist. Although the ride itself may be beautiful, it can be quite cold on a motorcycle in the winter. In that case, clothing is everything! A quality balaclava will keep you warm and reduces the cold feeling on your face. On a cold winter’s day, a balaclava or face musk is a must-have essential for every motorcyclist.

Benefits of motorcycle balaclava

In general, there are different benefits of using a balaclava under your helmet. One of the main advantages is warmth. Due to an extra layer of clothing, you feel less wind in your neck, face and, depending on the balaclava you buy, the top half of your body.

A second benefit is that the balaclava provides extra hygiene. The balaclava is a safety net for your sweat and hairs. As they do not end up in your helmet, it prevents your helmet from leaving a bad smell. The last advantage is also safety. In some cases, the balaclava is flame retardant. This makes sure that in case there is an accident, your face is protected for a longer period.

Types of motorcycle balaclavas

Motorcycle balaclavas can be obtained in a lot of different forms. Although a lot of people qualify them as balaclavas, a distinction can be made between a neck warmer, balaclava and beanie, all focused on keeping you warm during the ride. Let’s look at the different options you have.

Balaclava under helmet

Almost all balaclavas are made of polyester, cotton, or silk. Polyester is a breathing fabric and doesn't wear off easily. The fabric is very tough and light, which is why it’s the number one choice for motorcyclists. This type of balaclava can be used both in summer and winter. In the summer, this type of balaclava is mainly used for hygiene purposes.

A silk balaclava is very thin and often chosen for its great fit. As the fabric is very soft and smooth, it is very easy to use under a helmet. As the fabric dries very fast, this type of balaclava is mainly used in summer. This motorcycle face mask is not made to keep you warm during the cold mornings.

The last fabric that is often used is cotton. This type of balaclava is mainly used to keep you warm. The fabric feels very smooth and acts like a second skin. It absorbs moisture very well, and we often see that this type of fabric is combined with elastane to make it easier to get over your head.

Neck warmer

Next to that, there is also the neck warmer, mainly designed for people that think a balaclava is a bit too stuffy. The big advantage of this neck warmer is that you can pull this up right under your eyes, giving you a warm neck and bottom side of your face. It also functions as a protector against dust or insects.

Beanie

The last type of balaclava is the beanie. This is mainly used for hygiene purposes, as it only covers the top of your head. It goes right over your ears, so it will keep them warm during winter days. This type of face mask does not cover the bottom half of your face and neck.