My Go-To Riding Gear

Motorcycle Riding Gear: Style, Protection, and the Freedom to Ride

Riding a motorcycle is about more than just getting from A to B—it's about the experience, the adventure, and the connection between rider and machine. But freedom comes with some responsibility, and that means gearing up properly. Thankfully, modern motorcycle gear has evolved far beyond bulky, uncomfortable layers into stylish, comfortable, and highly protective options.

Finding the Balance: My Go-To Riding Gear

Everyone has their go-to setup, and mine has been refined over the years to balance protection, comfort, and style. My usual riding outfit consists of:

• Helmet: Roeg JETT – classic styling with solid protection.
• Jacket: Merlin Brody Overshirt – looks casual but packs abrasion resistance.
• Gloves: 13 1/2 Lowlander leather gloves – tough, comfortable, and well-fitted.
• Pants: 13 oz Japanese Selvedge Jeans – sturdy enough for a ride, comfortable enough for a day out.
• Boots: Heavy leather boots – because proper ankle protection is non-negotiable.
• Base Layers: One of my Surf City Cycles tees, or when it’s a bit cooler, the OG Logo Long Sleeve tee. If temperatures drop further, I throw on the BLVD sweatshirt under the Merlin overshirt for extra warmth.

Layering Up for the Ride

Surf City Cycles, gear is designed with riding, surfing, and adventure in mind. It’s all about layering—being able to adapt to the conditions while staying comfortable and looking good. Right now, I’m working on a new outerwear range that’ll work both on and off the bike, blending function with style. Keep an eye out for that later this year.

Winter Riding and the Search for a Hack

I’ll be honest—I haven’t ridden much this winter. The weather has been bloody awful, and Fanny (my XV1700 Roadstar) deserves better than being dragged out in the wet and grime. I’ve been toying with the idea of getting a winter hack - something that I don’t mind putting through its paces in the colder months. When that happens, you can bet I’ll have the right winter gear for it.

Will Surf City Cycles Ever Make Protective Gear?

Short answer: No. There are already plenty of great manufacturers doing it right, and I don’t see the need to reinvent the wheel. That said, once Surf City Cycles is a fully grown-up business, I’d love to collaborate with a UK manufacturer on something special. But for now, I’ll stick to designing apparel that works with your protective gear, rather than replacing it.

Where I Get My Gear

Project 83 in Newquay. Their personal approach to retail is second to none, and I can always get exactly what I need. They also have a killer selection of women’s gear under the Ride and Defy banner, so if you’re in the area (or even if you’re not), they’re worth checking out.

What’s Your Go-To Riding Gear?

Every rider has their own preference when it comes to gear. So, what’s in your kit? Do you have a setup you swear by, or are you still refining what works best for you?

See you out on the road!