The number of women on two wheels is growing, and with that comes a wider range of gear designed with the female rider in mind. Gone are the days of having to settle for a men's jacket in a smaller size, or a helmet that doesn't quite fit your head shape. Modern motorcycle gear for women is designed to provide protection and comfort without compromising on style. Finding the right gear is a step towards riding confidently and safely, whether you're commuting through Vancouver or enjoying a weekend trip in the Fraser Valley.
This guide is here to help navigate the world of motorcycle gear and find what works best for every rider.
The Foundation - Essential Gear
Helmets: A helmet is the single most important piece of safety equipment you will buy and it's an item that riders shouldn’t have to compromise on. It’s important to focus on fit, as a proper helmet should feel snug all around the head, with the cheek pads pressing firmly against your cheeks. It should not move around when you shake your head! A new helmet will feel tight at first, but the padding will compress over time. Pay attention to your head shape—some brands cater to rounder heads while others are better for oval shapes. Always look for a helmet that meets Canadian safety standards, such as DOT, ECE, or Snell.
Jackets: A good motorcycle jacket serves a dual purpose: it protects you from the elements and provides a layer of defence against abrasion and impact in a slide or fall. When trying on a jacket, make sure it fits snugly but allows for a full range of motion, especially when you are in a riding position. The armour, which is typically found at the shoulders, elbows, and back, should stay in place. Many jackets for women include adjustable straps at the waist and arms to help you achieve a more tailored fit. You can choose between leather, which offers excellent abrasion resistance, or textile materials like Cordura, which often provide better weather protection and breathability.
Pants: Protecting your lower body is just as important as protecting your upper body. Motorcycle pants come in many styles, including riding jeans with Kevlar lining, and textile or leather pants with integrated armour. Your pants should fit comfortably while you are on the bike, without bunching or being too tight at the knees. The knee and hip armour should sit correctly in place when you are seated.
Gloves: Your hands are often the first thing to hit the ground in a fall, so wearing the right gloves is a must. They should be snug but not restrictive, and you should have full dexterity to operate your controls. Look for gloves with reinforced knuckles, padded palms, and a secure closure at the wrist. Many modern gloves also have touchscreen-compatible fingertips, which is a convenient feature for using a GPS or phone when you’re stopped for a break but don’t want to remove your gloves!
Boots: Proper motorcycle boots provide ankle protection and a non-slip sole for a firm grip on the foot pegs and the ground. The boots should cover ankles and have a solid construction, and should also be comfortable enough to walk in but not so bulky that they interfere with your ability to shift gears or use the rear brake. Street shoes or hiking boots do not offer the same level of protection so make sure you invest in something made for riding!
Base Layers: While not a protective piece of gear in the traditional sense, a good base layer gives any rider increased comfort and can significantly enhance your riding experience, especially in BC’s varying climate. A moisture-wicking base layer made from materials like synthetics or merino wool will help regulate your body temperature. In hot weather, it pulls sweat away from your skin, helping you stay cool and dry. In cooler conditions, it provides a non-bulky insulating layer that traps warmth. Avoid wearing cotton as the first layer, as it absorbs moisture and can leave you feeling cold and clammy once it gets wet.
The Right Fit - Key Considerations for Women
Motorcycle gear designed specifically for women is not just a marketing gimmick. It is engineered to accommodate the anatomical differences that improve both comfort and the effectiveness of the protective features. Women's gear often has a tailored cut at the chest, a more tapered waist, and a different hip-to-waist ratio. This shaping ensures that the armour stays where it needs to be, providing maximum protection.
Don't rely solely on the small, medium, and large labels because sizing can vary between brands. The most reliable method is to take accurate body measurements (bust, waist, hips, inseam, and sleeve length) and compare them to the brand's specific size chart. Women’s gear does tend to “fit small”, with many riders reporting that a women’s XL often fits more like a women’s Medium in street clothes.
For riders who need a plus-size fit, it's worth noting that many brands now offer extended sizing, but the principles of fit remain the same. The armour should still sit correctly, and the garment should be snug without being restrictive to ensure the best possible protection and comfort. Seek out a genuine fit, rather than just a larger version of a standard cut. There are some brands that have dedicated plus-size lines, as well as brands and shops that specialize specifically in plus size such as PeakMoto and SportBike Chic.
The best way to ensure a good fit is to visit a local retailer. You can try on different brands and styles to find what works best for your body type. Ask if you can sit on a demo bike to see how the gear feels in a riding position. This step can help you identify any areas of discomfort or restricted movement that you might not notice while just standing up.
Popular Gear Options & Shopping Tips
Many well-known and top-quality brands have recognized the need for quality women's gear. Canadian-based companies like Joe Rocket Canada and Gryphon Moto offer solid options, while international brands like Klim provide rugged adventure gear designed for women. Doing a bit of research on these brands can help you narrow down your choices before you shop.
When you're ready to make a purchase, approach the process knowing that motorcycle gear is safety equipment, not just clothing, and it must fit snugly to work correctly. A common mistake is buying gear that feels comfortable when you're standing up straight, only to find it bunches, pinches, or restricts movement once you're on the bike. To avoid this, try on jackets and pants in a riding position—find a demo bike or at least sit in a riding crouch to see how the gear feels. You want the armour to stay firmly in place at your shoulders, elbows, and knees without shifting. Also, resist the urge to buy gear that feels slightly too big, thinking you'll "grow into it" or that it will be more comfortable; it won't offer the necessary protection in a slide.
Try to find gear that is CE-rated, which means it has been tested and certified to meet specific safety standards. Consider the type of riding you do and the local weather. A ventilated mesh jacket is great for hot summer days, but you might want a waterproof and insulated jacket for cooler weather or for riding in the rain that is common in the Lower Mainland. Many jackets and pants come with removable thermal liners, which can add to their versatility. While it might be tempting to save money by buying gear online, visiting a local retailer is invaluable. You'll not only be able to try on different brands and styles to find the best fit for your body but also get expert advice from staff who are knowledgeable about sizing and materials.
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Finding the right gear can feel like a process, but the time you invest in finding well-fitting, comfortable, and safe equipment is worth it. When you feel confident and secure in your gear, you can focus on the ride itself and truly enjoy your time on the road.
For more helpful advice on getting started, feel free to check out our other guides, including Valley's Picks: Motorcycles for New Riders, as well as Motorcycle Riding Tips for Beginners.