Is there a rating for cold weather gear?

[markyodo]

Back in the day I would throw on a leather jacket over a hooded sweatshirt and call it a day. Things have changed a bit. I was price shopping cold weather gear and I see all jackets now come with some type of insulating vest, some with water proof shells.

My question, are there any type standard ratings for these new jackets for lowest temperature before it's unbearable? I haven't seen any during my research.
And whats the lowest temperature you've ridden in?

I really want to commute to work daily (10 miles) until the snow starts flying.
Thanks in advance...

 

[lyonsden]

Back in the day I would throw on a leather jacket over a hooded sweatshirt and call it a day. Things have changed a bit. I was price shopping cold weather gear and I see all jackets now come with some type of insulating vest, some with water proof shells.

My question, are there any type standard ratings for these new jackets for lowest temperature before it's unbearable? I haven't seen any during my research.
And whats the lowest temperature you've ridden in?

I really want to commute to work daily (10 miles) until the snow starts flying.
Thanks in advance...

I've ridden in 26 degree weather. I have a gerbing heated jacket liner and it makes it much better. If you keep your core warm the rest is just fine from my experience.

 

[JerryB]

Hi mark,

Re: I really want to commute to work daily (10 miles) until the snow starts flying.

I would suggest that you contact these guys; I have found that they make really good outdoor gear. And it looks like that there are two locations in Columbus.


http://www.rei.com/map/store#

Jerry Baumchen

 

[Bob Denman]

BajaRon, and FirstGear should be able to handle the chore... :thumbup:

Ridden in 28 degree weather with only a set of Kneenecks added to my riding gear; they kept my legs warm. :thumbup:

 

[ARtraveler]

No specific ratings that I am aware of.

Heated gear seems to be the gear of choice for colder weather riding. I am one of the rare ones in that I don't own any here. I ride as cold as 10 above zero OR until ice and snow are on the roads.

Firstgear or similar is what I have used for years. Textiles come with a zip out quilted, cold weather liner, in both the jackets and the pants. Some also come with the "waterproof" liners. They are not good for cold weather. My coldest rides are textile, jacket, pants and cold weather liners attached. A balaclava for inside the helmet and neck, and good gloves.

I like to leather up also, but the leather jacket, liner, and chaps just don't do it for me in the cold any more.

It comes down to a choice thing, and there is no one solution.

 

[PrairieSpyder]

I've seen temp ratings on coats at REI and (I think) Land's End (or LL Bean). But not motorcycle gear, per se.

BTW, REI is everywhere, and you can order from online, too.

 

[cuznjohn]

i wear a set of joggers under my denim jeans, a long sleeve flannel shirt and a army surplus jacket and i am warm as toast. but than again i am built like a polar bear

 

[ChasCS]

Don't follow any season ratings here, per se

We follow the rule of layering, and the ability to remove or add as needed.

Rinse and repeat often... Keep your feet dry. Dr. Scholls.
http://www.drscholls.ca/en/products/odour-destroyers-medicated-foot-powder

Chas