Ultimate Guide to Women's Motorcycle Wear in the UK: Sizing Tips, Best Shops and Essential Gear
- Michelle Hatcher
- Apr 3
- 4 min read
Riding a motorcycle is thrilling, but having the right gear is essential for safety and comfort. For women riders in the UK, finding motorcycle wear that fits well and suits their style can be a challenge. This guide covers everything from sizing tips to the best shops for women's motorcycle leathers, boots, helmets, and gloves. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, this post will help you gear up confidently.
Finding the Right Motorcycle Leathers for Women in the UK
Motorcycle leathers protect you from abrasions and weather, but finding the right fit is crucial. Women’s leathers are designed with different cuts to fit female body shapes, but sizes can vary widely between brands.
Best Online Shops for Women’s Motorcycle Leathers
RevZilla UK
Offers a wide range of women’s motorcycle jackets, pants, and suits with detailed size guides and customer reviews.
Bike Shed
Known for quality British motorcycle gear, Bike Shed stocks women’s leathers with a focus on style and protection.
Motolegends
Specialises in vintage and modern motorcycle clothing, including women’s leather jackets and suits.
Oxford Products
Offers affordable and durable motorcycle gear for women, including leather options.
What to Do If You Can’t Find Your Size in Women’s Leathers
Sometimes women need to buy men’s leathers due to limited sizing options. Here’s how to make it work:
Check the size chart carefully. Men’s sizes are usually larger in the chest and shoulders but narrower in the hips.
Look for slim or tailored cuts in men’s ranges. Some brands offer “slim fit” men’s jackets that might fit better.
Consider alterations. A tailor can adjust sleeves, waist, or hips for a better fit.
Try layering thin base layers. This can help fill out a slightly loose jacket without bulk.
Pay attention to length. Men’s jackets may be longer in the torso and arms, so check measurements carefully.
Choosing the Right Motorcycle Boots for Women
Boots protect your feet and ankles while offering grip and comfort. Women’s boots come in various styles, each suited to different riding needs.
Popular Styles of Women’s Motorcycle Boots
Racing Boots
Designed for sport riding, these boots offer maximum protection with reinforced toes, heels, and ankle support. They tend to be stiff and high-cut.
Touring Boots
Comfortable for long rides, touring boots balance protection with flexibility and waterproofing.
Casual or Street Boots
Stylish and versatile, these boots look good off the bike but still provide essential protection.
Adventure or Dual-Sport Boots
Built for mixed terrain, these boots are rugged, waterproof, and often have a taller shaft for extra support.
Where to Buy Women’s Motorcycle Boots in the UK
Duke Motorcycles
Offers a good selection of women’s boots with detailed sizing info.
Sportsbikeshop
Large inventory including women’s boots from top brands like Alpinestars and Sidi.
Helmet Sizes and Choosing the Right Helmet for Women
A helmet is the most critical piece of safety gear. Women’s heads tend to be smaller and differently shaped than men’s, so finding the right fit is vital.
Why Choose Shark Helmets
Shark helmets are popular in the UK for their safety ratings, comfort, and style. They offer models designed with women’s head shapes in mind, providing a snug but comfortable fit.
What to Avoid When Choosing a Crash Helmet
Avoid helmets that feel too tight or cause pressure points.
Don’t choose a helmet that moves excessively when you shake your head.
Avoid helmets without proper safety certifications like ECE 22.05 or the newer ECE 22.06.
Steer clear of helmets with poor ventilation if you ride in warm weather.
Avoid helmets that obstruct your peripheral vision.
Tips for Measuring Helmet Size
Use a soft tape measure around the widest part of your head, just above your eyebrows.
Compare your measurement with the brand’s size chart.
Try helmets on if possible, as sizes can vary between brands.
Remember helmet liners compress over time, so a snug fit is better than loose.
Gloves for Women: Sizes, Styles, and When to Wear Winter Gloves
Gloves protect your hands from injury and weather. Women’s gloves come in smaller sizes and different styles to fit better and look good.
Choosing Leather Gloves
Look for quality leather like cowhide or goatskin for durability and comfort.
Check for reinforced palms and knuckles for extra protection.
Choose gloves with pre-curved fingers to reduce fatigue.
Consider gloves with touchscreen-compatible fingertips for convenience.
Glove Sizes for Women
Measure the circumference of your hand around the knuckles, excluding the thumb.
Use the measurement to find your size on the brand’s chart. Women’s gloves usually range from XS to L.
When to Wear Winter Gloves
Wear insulated gloves when temperatures drop below 10°C to keep your hands warm and maintain dexterity.
Look for gloves with thermal lining and windproof, waterproof membranes.
Consider gloves with extra grip for wet or icy conditions.
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