What to Wear on a Motorcycle Date: 11 Cute & Practical Outfits

Co-authored by Lisa Shield and Madeleine Criglow

Last Updated: December 21, 2022 References

If your date is picking you up on a motorcycle, you're probably pretty excited (and a little nervous). A motorcycle date can be the thrill of a lifetime, and one way to make sure that you're prepared is by picking the perfect outfit. This article is here to help, with a complete list of everything you need to wear for a comfortable and safe ride. We've also got tips on what not to wear and how to keep your hair in place. Read on so that you can stay safe, look cute, and have fun!

1

Wear a helmet no matter what.

Your safety is the top priority on a motorcycle date. Since you might not have a motorcycle helmet lying around, ask your date first if they have a spare. They'll likely have one you can borrow. If they don't, buy an affordable helmet online or at a local motorcycle shop.^{[1]
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- Make sure the helmet fits you correctly. It should be snug on your head so that it doesn't move around, but not so tight that it hurts.
- Some motorcycle shops may allow you to rent a helmet for the day. Consider asking if the shop you visit offers this service before buying one.

2

Wear a jacket regardless of the weather.

This will keep you warm and give you added protection. If the weather is cold or moderate, you'll need a heavier jacket to protect you from the weather and winds. Try a motorcycle jacket or a heavy leather jacket, preferably. This will also protect you in case you encounter any flying rocks on your ride.^{[2]
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- When the weather is warmer out, it's still a good idea to wear a motorcycle jacket or a leather jacket. If it's absolutely sweltering, try a denim jacket as a cooler alternative.
- A cool leather jacket is always a really classic look.^{[3]
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  Expert Source
  
  Lisa Shield
  Dating Coach
  Expert Interview. 13 December 2018.}

3

Sport a pair of leather pants or jeans.

Make sure your legs are covered no matter what the weather is. Leather pants are the perfect choice for a motorcycle date, and they're both durable and cute. They'll keep you warm in the winter, while also being thick enough to shield your legs from dust, flying objects, and any potential impact in the case of an accident. If you don't have a pair of leather pants, go for a pair of jeans.^{[4]
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- Even when it's hot out, avoid wearing dresses, skirts, or shorts.
- If you plan on going on motorcycle dates regularly, consider buying a pair of motorcycle pants. These are made with more durable materials to protect you in a crash and keep you extra warm in cold weather conditions.

4

Opt for shoes that cover your ankles.

These will offer you the protection you need to ride comfortably. Choose a pair of motorcycle boots or leather boots that cover your ankles. These will protect your ankles from the motorcycle's exhaust pipes, keep your feet and ankles warm in cold weather, and give you some protection in the case of a crash.^{[5]
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- Avoid wearing heels or open-toed shoes. These won't be comfortable on a motorcycle, and they don't offer the same protection.

5

Don a pair of leather gloves.

Gloves give your hands the protection they need. Opt for a pair of motorcycle gloves if you have them. Otherwise, a pair of thick leather gloves will work well, too. These will cover your hands if they get cold in the winter, and they'll also give you some added protective coverage in the case of injury or impact in a crash.^{[6]
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- In the warm summer months, opt for a pair of fingerless gloves. Just make sure that they cover your knuckles.^{[7]
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6

Keep your hair tied back in a braid.

A braid is the best style to keep your hair out of the way. The wind might make your hair blow every which way on a motorcycle ride, even when you're wearing a helmet. Tie your hair back in a braid to keep things under control (and avoid helmet hair).
- Use a sturdy, tight hair tie to make sure your hair stays put.
- Though a ponytail might seem like a good idea, this style doesn't actually help your hair stay in place as well as a braid.

7

Wear a bandana to keep your hairstyle in place.

This is also a great alternative if your hair is too short for a braid. Tying a bandana around your hair will make your braid stay put. It'll also help your hair stay flat underneath your helmet.

8

Bring some sunglasses to protect your eyes.

These offer extra protection, even if it's an overcast day. Sunglasses will shield your eyes from the sun, and they'll also give you additional protection from any dust or flying objects. That's why it's a good idea to wear them no matter what the weather's like outside.^{[8]
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- If you wear glasses, these can also offer protective coverage for your eyes (though you may want to wear a spare pair just in case).
- You don't need to wear glasses if you're wearing a full-face helmet.

9

Use your jacket pocket to store your things.

You won't be able to carry a purse while riding a motorcycle. If your jacket has a pocket you can zip shut or safely close, store essentials like your keys, phone, and wallet there. That way, you'll have your hands and arms free during the ride.
- As an alternative, ask your date where they keep their things on their usual rides and see if you can keep your things there, too. They might carry a motorcycle backpack when they ride, for example.

10

Wear minimal makeup.

The windy conditions might mess up heavy eye makeup. Even if you want to look glamorous on your date, opt for a more natural look.^{[9]
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Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach
Expert Interview. 13 December 2018.} Heavy winds can make thick mascara and eyeliner run, and it might blow off false eyelashes. If you want to wear makeup, try lipstick, lipgloss, or tinted chapstick and a flattering highlighter for a glowing, natural look.
- If you're not into makeup, don't feel pressure to wear any on your date. You'll look your best if you wear what makes you comfortable.

11

Keep the jewelry to a minimum.

Even the sturdiest jewelry might not be secure in the wind. To make sure you keep your favorite earrings and necklaces safe, save your nicer jewelry for another date.^{[10]
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Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach
Expert Interview. 13 December 2018.} If you'd still like to accessorize, try some stud earrings or a choker.
- It's best to take off your rings before riding a motorcycle as well. These might be uncomfortable under a tight-fitting pair of gloves.