A motorcycle vest is a starting point, not a finished product. Most riders customize their vests over time with accessories that improve fit, add function, or complete the visual look. This guide covers the most important vest accessories for riders wearing American-made leather vests from the Legendary USA lineup. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money Side Lace Extenders: When You Need More Adjustment All Legendary USA leather vests include side lacing that provides 1-2 inches of torso adjustment. For riders who need more — due to layering under the vest, a larger torso, or seasonal weight variation — lace extenders are the solution. Extenders are short leather or lace inserts that attach to the existing lace grommets and widen the vest by an additional 1-3 inches per side. They are available in matching leather grades and should be selected to match the original lacing material as closely as possible. Patch Backing and Twill: Getting Patches to Stay Patches on a leather vest require sewing. Iron-on adhesive does not bond reliably to leather surfaces. For best results, use a backing material behind embroidered patches before sewing — twill backing prevents the patch edges from curling and gives the thread more material to anchor into. A curved needle is essential for sewing through both patch and thick leather. Waxed thread holds better than standard thread on leather. Snap Hardware Replacement Metal snap hardware on American-made vests holds up considerably better than the plastic-composite snaps found on import vests. When snaps do wear out — typically after several years of daily use — replacement is straightforward. Hardware stores and leather supply shops carry snap setter kits and replacement snaps in standard sizes. Match the finish — antique nickel, brass, or chrome — to the existing hardware for a consistent appearance. Neck Snaps and Collar Extensions Some riders add collar snap closures to a vest that does not include them. This allows the collar to close tightly in cold weather or wind without requiring a separate layer. Leather workers can add snaps to existing collar edges without compromising the vest’s structure. This is a particularly useful modification for riders in four-season climates who want to extend the vest into cooler months. Holster Inserts and Carry Pocket Accessories Legendary USA carry vests include built-in gun pockets, but riders who carry specific firearms may want to add a snap-in holster insert to the pocket. These holster inserts are available for common carry pistol sizes and snap into the vest pocket lining to provide a more secure hold and better draw angle. Ensure any insert is compatible with the specific vest model pocket dimensions before purchasing. See the full vest lineup at the Legendary USA motorcycle vests collection or read the best motorcycle vests guide for detailed model specs. FAQ: Motorcycle Vest Accessories How do lace extenders attach to a motorcycle vest? Lace extenders use the same grommets as the original lacing. The extender inserts into the grommet and adds length to the available lacing span. Can you add snaps to a leather vest that does not have them? Yes. A leather worker with a snap setting tool can add snaps to any leather edge. This is a common modification for collar closures. What is the best way to attach patches to a leather motorcycle vest? Sewing with waxed thread and a curved needle is the most durable method. Use a twill backing behind the patch before sewing to prevent edge curl. What size are standard motorcycle vest snaps? Most motorcycle vest snaps are line 24 (15mm) or line 20 (12.5mm) snaps. Check the snap size on your vest before purchasing replacements. Do holster inserts work in the Legendary USA carry vest pockets? Snap-in holster inserts are compatible with vest gun pockets when sized to match the pocket dimensions. Contact Legendary USA with your specific firearm model for guidance on compatible inserts. See the Legendary USA Reaper vest as the baseline carry vest for accessory compatibility reference.

Not every rider wants leather. Some ride in heat that makes cowhide impractical. Some prefer the look of denim. Some want the most affordable American-made vest available. The Legendary USA Revolution Denim Vest exists for all three of those riders. Here is a full look at what it delivers. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money What Makes This Denim Vest Different from Fashion Denim The Revolution uses heavy black denim, not the thin 8-oz or lighter fabric used in fashion-grade denim jackets. Heavier denim holds its structure over extended wear, does not fade as quickly, resists tearing at pocket edges and stress points, and takes patches with more backbone behind them. This is a motorcycle vest built from heavy denim, not a fashion vest that someone called a motorcycle vest. Hot Weather Performance In temperatures above 85 degrees, any leather vest becomes a heat-trapping layer. The Revolution Denim breathes considerably better than even mid-weight cowhide. The denim weave allows more air circulation against the torso. For riders in the South, Southwest, or anywhere with sustained summer heat, the Revolution extends the number of months per year you can comfortably wear a vest. Patch Compatibility The Revolution is one of the best patch-display vests in the lineup for iron-on patches. Denim accepts iron-on adhesive more reliably than leather. For sewn patches, denim is also easier to stitch through by hand than thick cowhide. The back panel on the Revolution is sized appropriately for a full patch set. The snap front and overall cut match the standard biker vest silhouette. Durability and Longevity Heavy denim vests do not last as long as leather vests under equivalent riding conditions. The denim will fade, thin at stress points over years, and eventually wear through at high-friction areas. With proper care and moderate riding frequency, a quality denim vest can last five to eight years. That is less than a well-maintained leather vest, but acceptable for a vest at this price point. Who Should Buy the Revolution Denim Vest Riders who live in hot climates and want a vest for summer months. Riders who prefer the denim aesthetic over leather. Riders who want an affordable American-made vest without the higher leather price tag. Riders who want better iron-on patch adhesion than leather allows. The Revolution Denim covers all four. See the Revolution alongside the full denim and leather lineup at the Legendary USA motorcycle vests collection or review the best motorcycle vests guide. FAQ: Legendary USA Revolution Denim Vest Is the Revolution Denim Vest American-made? Yes. It is manufactured to the same American-made standard as the leather vests in the Legendary USA lineup. How do you wash the Revolution Denim Vest? Spot-clean or hand-wash in cold water. Machine washing is not recommended as it can weaken the denim structure and affect patch adhesion. Does the Revolution Denim Vest have concealed carry pockets? No. The Revolution does not include the carry pocket configuration. For a denim vest with carry features, a leather carry vest is the better option. Will the black denim fade over time? Heavy black denim will lighten slightly with washing and extended UV exposure. Washing in cold water and limiting direct sun exposure when stored slows fading. Does the Revolution have side lacing? Check current product specs on the Legendary USA website. Denim vest construction typically differs from leather vest construction in this regard. See the Legendary USA Revolution Denim vest for current sizing and availability.

Cold-weather riding is a different challenge than summer riding. When temperatures drop below 40°F, your hands become one of the first things to suffer. Exposed fingers lose dexterity fast, and a cold hand on the throttle or brake lever is a safety problem, not just a comfort issue. The right winter motorcycle glove needs to provide genuine insulation, block wind from entering at the wrist, and still allow enough dexterity to operate the controls confidently. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money What Cold Weather Does to Your Hands on a Motorcycle Wind chill at highway speed is severe. At 60 mph with a 35°F ambient temperature, the effective wind chill on your hands is well below freezing. Hands lose fine motor control at around 54°F skin temperature. That means without proper insulation, you're losing throttle feel and brake sensitivity within minutes of hitting the highway in cold conditions. A thin leather glove or synthetic summer glove offers essentially no protection in these conditions. Why Deerskin Stays Flexible in Cold One of the underappreciated properties of deerskin is that it remains pliable in cold temperatures better than cowhide. Cowhide can stiffen significantly in cold weather, which reduces hand feel and requires more grip force on the controls. Deerskin maintains its natural flexibility even when temperatures drop, which means you don't have to fight the leather to maintain proper throttle and brake control. For winter riding, this matters as much as the insulation inside the glove. Best Insulated Option: Legendary Fleece Lined Deerskin Gloves For riders who need warmth without going to a full gauntlet, the Legendary Fleece Lined Deerskin Short Wrist Gloves are the go-to choice. They combine the flexibility and grip of American deerskin on the exterior with a fleece lining that provides meaningful warmth without adding so much bulk that dexterity suffers. The short wrist profile means they work well under jacket cuffs and don't create a gap that lets cold air in at the wrist. These are the right glove for cold-weather riding in the 30°F to 50°F range. Best Extended-Coverage Option: Legendary Deerskin Gauntlets When temperatures drop further or you're doing long highway stretches in cold conditions, the Legendary Classic American Whitetail Deerskin Gauntlets provide superior coverage. The extended gauntlet cuff goes up over the jacket sleeve, eliminating the wrist gap that lets cold air channel directly to your hands at speed. American whitetail deerskin is thick enough to block wind on its own and still maintains the flexibility deerskin is known for. Gauntlets are the right choice for serious cold-weather riding below 30°F. Insulation vs Bulk: Finding the Right Balance The trade-off in winter gloves is always warmth versus dexterity. A heavily insulated glove that makes your hand feel like it's wrapped in a pillow is not safe for operating a motorcycle. You need to feel the throttle, modulate the brake lever with precision, and work the clutch through long rides. The fleece-lined deerskin gloves strike this balance well because the lining adds warmth without forcing the leather shell to be overbuilt. The outer layer stays thin and responsive. Layering Strategies for Extreme Cold Below 20°F, a single glove often isn't enough for long rides. Some cold-weather riders use a thin liner glove inside their fleece-lined leather gloves for added warmth without going to a bulkier outer glove. Thin silk or wool liner gloves add several degrees of warmth and can be removed at stops if you need better dexterity. This layering approach works well with both the fleece-lined short wrist gloves and the gauntlets. Browse Winter and Cold-Weather Gloves The full Legendary USA motorcycle gloves collection includes the fleece-lined short wrist option, the gauntlets, and additional models suited for transitional seasons. All are built from American deerskin with the same quality standard. Frequently Asked Questions At what temperature do I need insulated motorcycle gloves? Most riders start feeling significant hand cold above 50°F at highway speeds due to wind chill. Insulated gloves become important below 50°F ambient and essential below 40°F. Below 30°F, gauntlets or heated gloves are the safer choice. Does deerskin stay flexible in cold temperatures? Yes. Deerskin is more cold-resistant than cowhide in terms of flexibility. It stays pliable at lower temperatures, which is why it's the preferred leather for winter riding gloves that need to maintain dexterity. Do I need gauntlets or are fleece-lined short wrist gloves enough? For temperatures above 35°F, fleece-lined short wrist gloves are usually sufficient. For sustained riding below 35°F or highway speeds in cold conditions, gauntlets provide the wrist coverage needed to block wind channeling. Can I use liner gloves inside my leather motorcycle gloves? Yes, thin silk or wool liner gloves can be used inside leather motorcycle gloves for added warmth in extreme cold. Choose a thin liner that doesn't add significant bulk, which would reduce your feel on the controls. How do I keep leather gloves in good condition through a cold wet winter? Allow leather gloves to dry naturally after exposure to rain or snow — never use a heat source like a radiator or hair dryer. Once dry, apply a leather conditioner to restore moisture that water exposure removes. Store in a dry environment away from direct sunlight.

If you ride enough, you ride in the rain. Weather windows close without warning, routes don't always offer cover, and some riders simply don't stop for weather. Riding in wet conditions requires gear that performs differently than on a dry day — and gloves are one of the most critical pieces. Wet hands lose grip. Soaked wrist cuffs channel water down your sleeve. A glove that stiffens in the cold leaves you fighting the throttle when precision matters most. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money This guide covers what makes a glove effective in rain, why gauntlet cuffs outperform short-wrist designs in wet conditions, and the top picks from Legendary USA that hold up when the weather doesn't cooperate. What Makes a Motorcycle Glove Rain-Capable? Three factors matter in rain: grip when wet, moisture control at the wrist, and leather durability under repeated wet exposure. Grip comes from natural leather grain, not a rubberized coating that wets out and becomes slick. Quality deerskin and goatskin maintain real friction against bar grips even when soaked. Moisture control is almost entirely solved by cuff length — a gauntlet extending over your jacket sleeve redirects runoff away from your wrist instead of funneling it in. Leather durability depends on hide quality. Premium deerskin softens temporarily when wet and returns to full suppleness once dried and conditioned. Cheap bonded leather or synthetics crack or deform after repeated wet exposure. Top Pick: Legendary USA Deerskin Gauntlets The Legendary USA Classic American Whitetail Deerskin Gauntlets are the right call for rain riding. Shop the gauntlets here. The gauntlet cuff extends past the wrist and laps over the jacket sleeve, closing the gap that short-wrist gloves leave open. American whitetail deerskin maintains grip and structural integrity when wet. The extended cuff also protects your wrist joint from wind and spray during highway rain riding — an area that gets cold fast and stays cold once soaked. Secondary Pick: Aramid Lined Touchscreen Gloves For riders caught in unexpected weather who need touchscreen function, the Legendary USA Aramid Lined Deerskin Short Wrist Touchscreen Gloves handle light rain well. The aramid liner adds cut and abrasion resistance while deerskin holds grip in wet conditions. Touchscreen fingertips let you adjust navigation without removing the glove — practical when rerouting mid-ride in changing weather. Sizing, Fit, and Post-Ride Care Size up one if you plan to layer a liner glove underneath. For bare-hand rain riding, use your true size — snug at the palm, fingers reaching the fingertip without bunching. A loose glove shifts under emergency braking, exactly when you need maximum grip. After a wet ride, dry gloves slowly at room temperature. Never use direct heat. Condition the leather once dry. Quality deerskin and goatskin recover fully from rain exposure with proper care. Browse the full Legendary USA motorcycle gloves collection for all options. Frequently Asked Questions Can you ride in the rain with leather motorcycle gloves? Yes. Quality leather gloves hold up well in rain. Deerskin and goatskin maintain grip when wet and return to their original condition with proper post-ride conditioning. Gauntlet-style gloves are preferred for sustained rain because the longer cuff eliminates the wrist gap. Are gauntlet gloves better than short-wrist for rain? Yes. Gauntlets extend over the jacket sleeve cuff, preventing water from channeling into the wrist. Short-wrist gloves leave a gap that water exploits at highway speeds. For casual or light rain, short-wrist is acceptable. For sustained heavy rain, gauntlets are significantly more effective. Will rain ruin leather motorcycle gloves? Not with proper care. Dry them slowly at room temperature, then condition once dry. Rapid heat drying causes cracking. Repeated soaking without conditioning shortens glove life. One exception: very cheap bonded leather or synthetic-leather gloves that aren't built for wet conditions — those can deform permanently. Do motorcycle gloves lose grip when wet? Quality natural leather maintains grip because the grain structure provides friction. Gloves relying on a rubberized coating can become slippery once the coating wets out. Real deerskin and goatskin are inherently more reliable in wet conditions than coated synthetics. Should I buy a separate pair of gloves for rainy weather? If you ride regularly in variable conditions, yes. Gauntlet gloves serve double duty as cool-weather and rain gloves — the extended cuff and heavier leather provide both coverage and wind protection. Having a dedicated pair of rain-capable gauntlets and keeping your shorter warm-weather gloves dry is the practical approach for serious riders.

Riding in Alaska is not casual motorcycling. The Dalton Highway runs 414 miles to Deadhorse on the North Slope. The Richardson Highway cuts through terrain that sees genuine summer temperatures and genuine cold in the same week. The Denali Highway covers remote gravel for 135 miles with no services. Alaska riding is big, remote, cold, wet — and among the most rewarding motorcycle experiences in the world. Your hands need to be ready for all of it. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money Alaska Riding: The Cold Math Even in Alaska's 'summer' riding season — late May through August — temperatures can drop below 40°F without much warning. Fairbanks sees warm summers but cold nights year-round. Southeast Alaska around Juneau is wet and cool most of the time. Southcentral Alaska around Anchorage has the best riding conditions in the state, but 'best' still means 50–65°F on a good day. Riders need to think cold-first and work their way toward warmer options, not the other way around. The Insulated Mittens: Alaska's Most Practical Glove For extended cold riding in Alaska — the Dalton, the Denali Highway, any high-altitude or high-latitude route — the Legendary USA Insulated Deerskin Mittens are the most practical choice. They provide maximum thermal protection in a package that handles the cold, wind, and occasional rain that define most Alaska riding days. Yes, you lose individual finger control in mittens — but at 45°F with rain and 60 mph wind chill, your hands staying functional is the priority. Shop Legendary USA Insulated Deerskin Mittens — maximum warmth for Alaska's most demanding riding conditions. When Gauntlets Work Better For Alaska's shoulder conditions — milder summer days in Anchorage or along the Kenai Peninsula, or Southcentral Alaska in the 50–65°F range — gauntlets give you more control than mittens while still providing serious protection. The Legendary USA Classic American Whitetail Deerskin Gauntlets cover the forearm and seal the wrist gap, which is critical in Alaska's persistent wind and drizzle. Legendary USA Deerskin Gauntlets — serious cold and wind protection for Alaska's shoulder-season riding. The Dalton Highway: Glove Requirements The Dalton is not a pleasure cruise. It's 414 miles of gravel, dust, and truck traffic, running above the Arctic Circle. Summer temperatures can range from the low 40s to the low 70s in the same week. Rain and cold fog are common above the Brooks Range. If you're doing the Dalton — and it's an incredible achievement if you do — pack both mittens and gauntlets and be prepared to use both. Browse all American-made motorcycle gloves at Legendary USA — built for riders who take on real challenges. Summer Riding in Southcentral Alaska The Kenai Peninsula, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and the Parks Highway toward Denali are legitimate warm-weather riding on Alaska's best summer days. For 60–70°F conditions on a calm sunny day, the Fleece Lined Deerskin Gloves are the right choice — warm enough for the Alaska morning chill, not overwhelming on the warmer afternoon stretches. FAQ: Motorcycle Gloves for Alaska Riders Q: What gloves do I need for the Dalton Highway? A: At minimum, insulated mittens and gauntlets. The Dalton sees temperatures ranging from the 40s to low 70s in summer, with rain and cold fog above the Brooks Range. Bring both and be ready to switch. Q: Can I ride Alaska in summer with regular gloves? A: In Southcentral Alaska in July and August, fleece-lined or gauntlet gloves handle most days. For the Dalton, Richardson, or any ride above 3,000 feet, insulated gloves are needed. Q: What's the riding season in Alaska? A: Late May through August for most of Alaska. Fairbanks has a longer season in terms of daylight and temperature. Southeast Alaska can be ridden in shoulder months with appropriate gear. Q: Why are mittens better than gloves for extreme cold riding? A: In extreme cold, mittens keep fingers together for shared warmth. Your fingers lose heat faster individually than collectively. For temperatures below 40°F with wind chill, mittens are warmer than any conventional glove. Q: Are Legendary USA gloves durable enough for Alaska's rough roads? A: Yes. American whitetail deerskin is one of the toughest natural leathers available. It handles abrasion, moisture, and temperature cycling well — exactly what Alaska riding demands.

Colorado is a motorcycle paradise — and a cold one. The state has more paved roads above 10,000 feet than any other state in the lower 48. Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park reaches 12,183 feet. Independence Pass climbs to 12,095 feet. Mount Evans Road reaches 14,130 feet — the highest paved road in North America. These routes are spectacular, and they're cold. Even in July, temperatures at altitude can drop into the 30s and 40s. Glove choice in Colorado is not a casual decision. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money Colorado's Altitude Problem for Gloves Temperature drops roughly 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain. If it's 80°F in Denver at 5,280 feet and you're riding to the top of Trail Ridge Road at 12,183 feet, the theoretical temperature differential is about 24°F — meaning the top might be in the mid-50s while the city was pleasant. Add wind chill at motorcycle highway speeds and you're looking at conditions that feel genuinely cold. Gauntlets: The Colorado High-Altitude Essential For Colorado pass riding, the Legendary USA Classic American Whitetail Deerskin Gauntlets are the practical choice. The extended cuff seals the gap between jacket sleeve and glove at wrist level — a gap that becomes significant when you're riding at 12,000 feet in 45°F conditions with wind. Gauntlets provide the coverage that short-wrist gloves don't at altitude, without the complete restriction of heavy winter gloves. Shop Legendary USA Classic American Whitetail Deerskin Gauntlets — for Colorado's high-altitude riding. Colorado Valley and Front Range Riding Not all Colorado riding is at altitude. Denver, Colorado Springs, and the Front Range run at 5,000–6,000 feet — warm enough in summer for ventilated gloves. The Eastern Plains of Colorado are basically Great Plains riding conditions — hot, flat, and windy. For Front Range and plains riding in summer, the Short Wrist Ventilated Touchscreen Gloves are the right call. The touchscreen capability is practically useful in urban and suburban Front Range riding. Legendary USA Short Wrist Ventilated Touchscreen Gloves — for Colorado Front Range and summer riding. Colorado Fleece-Lined Gloves: The In-Between Solution For Colorado's shoulder seasons — spring and fall — and for mid-altitude riding between 7,000 and 9,000 feet in summer, the Legendary USA Fleece Lined Deerskin Gloves cover the 40–65°F range that defines most Colorado non-extreme riding. They're warm enough for the cool Colorado mornings that persist even through the summer at elevation, without being overwhelming on warmer valley afternoons. Legendary USA Fleece Lined Short Wrist Deerskin Gloves — for Colorado's mid-altitude and shoulder season riding. Browse all American-made motorcycle gloves at Legendary USA — built for Colorado's altitude demands. Colorado's Legendary Riding Routes Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. Independence Pass on CO-82. The Million Dollar Highway (US-550) through the San Juans. Guanella Pass. Mount Evans Road. These are some of the most spectacular motorcycle roads in North America. They all require gloves appropriate for altitude and rapidly changing conditions. FAQ: Motorcycle Gloves for Colorado High-Altitude Riding Q: What gloves do I need for Trail Ridge Road? A: At minimum, lined gloves or gauntlets. The summit is above 12,000 feet and can be in the 40s even in July. Don't ride Trail Ridge Road in ventilated summer gloves without a backup pair. Q: How cold does it get on Colorado mountain passes? A: In summer, passes above 11,000 feet can be in the 40s and 50s. Add wind chill at motorcycle speed and it feels significantly colder. Spring and fall passes can see temperatures in the 20s and 30s. Q: Can I ride Colorado year-round? A: The Front Range and southern Colorado valleys can be ridden most of the year. Mountain passes are typically closed from November through May. Some passes have earlier and later closures depending on snowpack. Q: What's the most versatile glove for a Colorado mountain riding trip? A: If you're doing a mix of valley and pass riding, bring the ventilated short wrist gloves for warm sections and the gauntlets for passes. Two pairs covers the full Colorado range. Q: Are Legendary USA gloves good for high-altitude UV exposure? A: Yes. American deerskin handles UV exposure well. Condition the leather regularly and it maintains its integrity under the intense mountain UV that Colorado riding delivers.

The Southwest desert is one of the great American riding environments. New Mexico's Turquoise Trail. The Jemez Mountains. Utah's Canyonlands routes. Nevada's desert highways. The emptiness is the point — you can ride for hours without seeing another vehicle, through landscapes that are genuinely otherworldly. The challenge is that the Southwest combines extreme heat at low elevation with genuine cold at altitude, sometimes within 50 miles of each other. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money Southwest Desert Heat: The Primary Challenge In the lower Southwest — the Chihuahuan Desert in New Mexico, the Mojave fringe, the Colorado River basin — summer temperatures regularly hit 105–115°F. At these temperatures, every glove choice is a compromise between protection and heat management. The honest answer for extreme Southwest desert heat is fingered ventilated deerskin or fingerless deerskin — both provide palm and wrist protection while maximizing airflow. Best for Southwest Desert Heat: Fingerless Deerskin The Legendary USA Fingerless Deerskin Motorcycle Gloves are the go-to for extreme Southwest desert heat. In 110°F conditions, keeping fingers uncovered reduces heat accumulation dramatically. Palm and wrist protection remains in place for fall protection. The American deerskin construction breathes naturally — it doesn't trap heat the way synthetic materials do in hot, dry conditions. Shop Legendary USA Fingerless Deerskin Motorcycle Gloves — for Southwest desert heat riding. Shoulder Season and High Desert Riding New Mexico, Utah, and northern Arizona high desert — elevations of 5,000–7,000 feet — run significantly cooler than the low desert. The Turquoise Trail through the Sandia Mountains. The Jemez Scenic Byway. Route 12 through Utah's Grand Staircase. These routes at elevation offer summer temperatures in the 70–85°F range — ideal conditions for the Short Wrist Ventilated Touchscreen Gloves, which provide both airflow and touchscreen access for navigation. Legendary USA Short Wrist Ventilated Touchscreen Gloves — for Southwest high desert riding. Southwest Fall and Spring: The Best Riding Seasons October and March are arguably the best riding months in the Southwest — temperatures in the 60–75°F range at low elevation, comfortable at altitude, and spectacular light. The Short Wrist Ventilated Touchscreen Gloves handle this range comfortably. For cool early mornings or late October evening rides, the Fleece Lined Deerskin Gloves add warmth without bulk. Browse all American-made motorcycle gloves at Legendary USA — designed for the Southwest's full riding range. Southwest Routes Worth the Heat Route 66 through New Mexico. The Turquoise Trail between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Utah's Scenic Byway 12 — arguably the most beautiful road in America. US-191 through the Coronado Trail in Arizona. Nevada's US-50, the Loneliest Road in America. These roads demand your full attention and appropriate gear. FAQ: Motorcycle Gloves for Southwest Desert Riding Q: What's the best motorcycle glove for Southwest desert heat? A: Fingerless deerskin for extreme heat (105°F+). Ventilated short wrist deerskin for high desert conditions in the 70–90°F range. Q: Does deerskin hold up in dry desert conditions? A: Yes. Deerskin doesn't dry out as quickly as some leathers in low humidity. Condition it regularly with leather conditioner and it handles desert conditions well. Q: What gloves are right for the Turquoise Trail in New Mexico? A: The high desert elevation runs 6,000–7,500 feet — significantly cooler than Albuquerque's valley. Ventilated short wrist gloves handle the summer day range. Fleece-lined for fall and spring mornings. Q: Is Utah's Scenic Byway 12 worth the elevation challenges? A: Absolutely. It's one of the most spectacular motorcycle roads in the country. The elevation range (6,000–9,600 feet) means having both ventilated and lined gloves available is the smart approach. Q: Where are Legendary USA gloves made? A: All Legendary USA motorcycle gloves are American-made from deerskin. Built for riders who take on serious desert riding.

The Legendary Black Hills Leather Motorcycle Jacket is Legendary USA's premium cowhide entry — a serious rider jacket built for people who want American craftsmanship, genuine leather quality, and a classic look without compromises. It is more immediately wearable than the horsehide Black Stallion and brings its own set of strengths to the table. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money Full-Grain Cowhide Construction The Black Hills uses full-grain cowhide — not corrected-grain, not split leather. Full-grain retains the natural surface of the hide, including the tight outer layer that provides the most abrasion resistance and durability. The leather is heavy-gauge, giving the jacket substantial hand feel and meaningful protection. Fit and Cut The Black Hills fits more generously than the Black Stallion because cowhide has more natural give — which means comfort right away without a demanding break-in period. The shoulder cut is designed for the riding position, so it does not pull across the back when reaching for the bars. The waist is adjustable, useful for layering across seasons. Styling and Versatility Clean silhouette, traditional biker aesthetic, no overstyled hardware. It looks right on a Harley, an Indian, or a vintage Triumph. Pockets are functional rather than decorative. The collar sits properly without bunching. Durability Over Time Full-grain cowhide at this construction quality will last fifteen to twenty years with proper care. Conditioning two to three times per year, avoiding prolonged UV exposure, and drying correctly when wet are the key maintenance steps. Get full specs and sizing at the Legendary Black Hills Jacket page. How It Compares to the Black Stallion The Black Hills wins on immediate comfort and accessibility. The Black Stallion wins on maximum abrasion resistance and the unique horsehide break-in experience. Browse both at the Legendary USA motorcycle jackets collection. Frequently Asked Questions Is the Black Hills made from real cowhide? Yes — full-grain cowhide. The natural surface of the hide is retained, which is what provides genuine abrasion resistance and long-term durability. How long is the break-in period? Cowhide breaks in faster than horsehide. The Black Hills will feel noticeably more comfortable within two to four weeks of regular wear. Is this jacket suitable for daily riding? Yes. The leather weight and construction are appropriate for daily commuting and touring. Many riders choose the Black Hills as their primary jacket. How does the Black Hills compare to imported jackets? The Black Hills uses heavier-gauge, higher-grade leather than most imports at comparable price points, with more consistent seam quality and better hardware. Can I wear the Black Hills off the bike? Yes. The classic styling works as an everyday leather jacket. Many riders wear it daily because it does not look like costume motorcycle gear.

Riding in the Deep South is a year-round proposition — but it's not the same as riding in dry Texas heat. The combination of 90°F temperatures and 80–90% humidity in places like New Orleans, Atlanta, Savannah, and Mobile creates a riding environment where sweat management and breathability are not optional features. They're the whole point. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money The Southern Heat and Humidity Reality From May through September, the Deep South is essentially a steam bath at riding temperature. Natchez, Biloxi, Savannah, Charleston — regularly combine 90°F+ temperatures with humidity that makes sweat evaporation nearly impossible. A glove that traps heat and moisture in these conditions becomes genuinely uncomfortable within miles of the first stoplight. Best for Southern Summer: Fingerless Deerskin Gloves In the Deep South's peak summer months, fingerless deerskin gloves are the most practical choice. The Legendary USA Fingerless Deerskin Motorcycle Gloves give you palm and wrist protection while letting unrestricted airflow across your fingers. In Mississippi in August, that open finger design is the difference between manageable and miserable. Shop Legendary USA Fingerless Deerskin Motorcycle Gloves — built for Southern heat and humidity. Shoulder Season: Ventilated Short Wrist Gloves Spring and fall in the South bring some of the best riding in the country. Georgia in October, the North Georgia mountains, the Cohutta Wilderness — spectacular. For these months, the Short Wrist Ventilated Touchscreen Gloves hit the right balance: cool enough for warm days, structured enough for real protection. Legendary USA Short Wrist Ventilated Touchscreen Gloves — perfect for Southern spring and fall riding. Southern Winter Riding New Orleans in January averages highs in the low 60s — fine for riding, but chilly enough that an unlined glove can leave your hands cold on a damp morning. The Legendary USA Fleece Lined Deerskin Gloves handle the 45–65°F range that defines Southern winter riding without overpowering. Browse all American-made motorcycle gloves at Legendary USA — designed for riders who ride year-round. Great Southern Riding Roads The Natchez Trace Parkway. The Cherohala Skyway. The Blue Ridge Parkway's southern reaches. The roads through Arkansas's Ozarks. The South has exceptional riding — much of it in climates demanding ventilated, moisture-managing gloves. FAQ: Motorcycle Gloves for Southern Riders Q: What's the best glove material for Southern heat and humidity? A: Deerskin, either perforated or fingerless. It breathes better than cowhide and manages sweat more effectively in humid conditions. Q: Can I ride the Deep South year-round? A: Yes. The Deep South is one of the most accessible year-round riding regions in the country. Winter riding requires a light liner but not full cold-weather kit. Q: Are fingerless gloves safe for highway riding? A: They protect the palm, wrist, and thumb web — the primary contact points in a fall. For Southern highway cruising at moderate speeds, fingerless deerskin is a legitimate safety choice. Q: Do I need different gloves for mountain vs. coastal riding in the South? A: Yes. North Georgia and the Carolinas mountains are significantly cooler than the Gulf Coast. A lined or gauntlet glove is appropriate for mountain routes. Q: Where are Legendary USA gloves made? A: All Legendary USA gloves are American-made from deerskin. Built for riders, not display cases.

Arizona is a state where you can ride in 40°F conditions in Flagstaff and 110°F conditions in Phoenix on the same day. The elevation difference between the Colorado Plateau and the Sonoran Desert floor is over 6,000 feet — and that elevation difference corresponds to a roughly 40-degree temperature difference. Arizona riders have to think in terms of altitude and route, not just month and season. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money The Two Arizonas for Riders Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma — the low desert. Temperature in July regularly hits 110–115°F. Riding here in summer requires maximum ventilation, and even then it's a challenging environment. Flagstaff, Prescott, Sedona at elevation — daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s in summer, cold mornings and genuine winter weather from November through March. Two completely different riding environments within 150 miles of each other. Low Desert Arizona: Fingerless and Ventilated Gloves For Phoenix valley riding in summer, fingerless deerskin is the most practical answer. In 110°F heat, any covered finger is a hot finger. The Legendary USA Fingerless Deerskin Motorcycle Gloves provide palm and wrist protection while letting maximum airflow across your fingers. This is the glove for early-morning desert rides before the heat becomes genuinely dangerous — which, in Phoenix July, means being back before 10 AM. Shop Legendary USA Fingerless Deerskin Motorcycle Gloves — for Arizona's extreme desert heat. Sedona and Northern Arizona: Year-Round Ventilated Gloves Sedona at 4,500 feet is a different planet from Phoenix at 1,100 feet. Summers are warm but not extreme. Spring and fall are spectacular. The Short Wrist Ventilated Touchscreen Gloves are the right choice for Sedona riding most of the year — perforated enough for warm days, structured enough for real protection, and practical for the navigation demands of Sedona's complex red rock road network. Legendary USA Short Wrist Ventilated Touchscreen Gloves — for Sedona and northern Arizona year-round riding. Flagstaff and the Mogollon Rim Flagstaff at 7,000 feet is genuine mountain riding. The Mogollon Rim, the San Francisco Peaks, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest — Arizona has some remarkable high-altitude road riding that most people don't know exists. For this terrain, especially in spring and fall, gauntlets or fleece-lined gloves are appropriate. Arizona's mountain areas see significant temperature range even in peak summer. Browse all American-made motorcycle gloves at Legendary USA — designed for the full Arizona elevation range. Arizona Monsoon Season Arizona's monsoon season runs July through mid-September. Afternoon storms roll in fast, drop heavy rain for 30–60 minutes, then clear out. Riding in monsoon conditions is inadvisable for many reasons, but if you're caught by a fast-moving storm, deerskin handles light rain better than synthetic alternatives and dries quickly in Arizona's heat. FAQ: Motorcycle Gloves for Arizona Desert Riders Q: What's the best glove for riding in 110°F Phoenix heat? A: Fingerless deerskin. In extreme desert heat, maximum finger airflow is the priority. Palm and wrist protection remains essential regardless of temperature. Q: Can I ride Phoenix in summer? A: Yes, but time your ride carefully. Early morning before 9 AM and evening after 7 PM are the practical windows. Midday 110°F with asphalt radiant heat is not a safe riding environment for long stretches. Q: What gloves work for the Sedona area? A: Short wrist ventilated touchscreen gloves work for most of the year. Add a fleece-lined pair for winter morning rides, which can be in the 40s and 50s even in Sedona. Q: Does Arizona really need cold-weather gloves? A: Flagstaff and the Mogollon Rim do. Mountain Arizona in winter is legitimately cold. If your rides include any route above 6,000 feet in the cool months, bring appropriate warm gloves. Q: Why deerskin for desert riding? A: Deerskin breathes naturally and maintains grip even when hands are warm and slightly damp from sweat. It doesn't stiffen in heat the way some cowhide does.

New England riders have a compressed but spectacular riding season. Vermont's Green Mountains, Maine's coastal roads, New Hampshire's White Mountains, and the Berkshires in Massachusetts pack some of the best motorcycle roads in the country into roughly May through October. Cold mornings at both ends and unpredictable weather throughout demand gear that adapts fast. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money Fall Foliage Riding: New England's Peak Season September and October in New England are bucket-list motorcycle riding. Fall foliage transforms the region into one of the most visually stunning places to ride in the world. Temperatures run 45-65°F — prime leather jacket weather. A horsehide jacket on New England's back roads in October is about as good as American motorcycling gets. The Right Jacket for New England Conditions New England's coastal humidity, mountain cold, and unpredictable rain call for a jacket with real weight and structure. The Legendary Black Stallion Horsehide jacket is ideal here. Horsehide's dense grain provides wind resistance and light water repellency. It also ages beautifully — fitting for a region that appreciates gear that earns its character over time. Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine Mountain Roads Vermont's Route 100, New Hampshire's Kancamagus Highway, and Maine's coastal Route 1 are three of the most distinctive routes in America. The Kancamagus involves real elevation change and fast weather shifts. Vermont mountain roads get cold fast. Maine's coast is persistently windy. A mid-weight leather jacket with thermal liner handles all three. Spring Riding in New England: Cold and Wet Spring means cold mornings, frequent rain, and possible May frosts. A leather jacket with a waterproof shell over the top is the most practical system for early season riding. The Legendary Black Hills jacket works well as the base layer — structured enough on its own in dry weather, solid under a rain shell when it turns wet. Coastal New England: Wind, Salt, and Scenery Cape Cod, the Maine coast, Newport, and Connecticut shoreline offer stunning coastal riding with persistent wind and salt air. Leather holds up to coastal conditions well — but regular conditioning counters the drying effect of salt air. A snug collar and close fit matter more on coastal New England routes than almost anywhere else. Gear Up for New England Riding Browse the Legendary USA motorcycle jacket collection for American-made leather options built for demanding New England riding conditions. Frequently Asked Questions When is the best time to ride in New England? June through October is the main riding window. Fall foliage from mid-September through mid-October is the peak season and some of the most spectacular riding in North America. What jacket is best for New England fall foliage riding? A horsehide or mid-weight cowhide leather jacket with a thermal liner handles fall conditions well. Temperatures vary widely and the jacket needs to manage both cool mornings and warm afternoons. What are the best motorcycle roads in New England? Vermont's Route 100, New Hampshire's Kancamagus Highway, and Maine's coastal Route 1 are consistently top-ranked. Each offers something different — mountains, forests, or coastline. Do New England riders need rain gear? Yes. New England weather is famously unpredictable. A compact rain suit is essential for any multi-day tour, especially spring and early fall. Is horsehide better for wet New England conditions? Horsehide's tighter grain makes it more naturally water-resistant than cowhide — a real advantage for New England riding. Keep it conditioned and it sheds light rain well.

The Legendary Black Hills Leather Motorcycle Jacket is Legendary USA's premium cowhide entry — a serious rider jacket for people who want American craftsmanship, genuine leather quality, and a classic look that doesn't announce itself as a costume. More immediately wearable than the horsehide Black Stallion, it brings its own set of strengths. Disclosure: MotoGearRater and Legendary USA have the same owner. Links to legendaryusa.com in this article go to our owner’s store, and are marked as sponsored. How we make money The Leather: Full-Grain Cowhide Done Right The Black Hills uses full-grain cowhide — not corrected-grain, not split leather. Full-grain retains the natural surface of the hide, including the tight outer layer that provides the most abrasion resistance and durability. Corrected-grain has that outer layer buffed away and replaced with a coating, which is why it looks uniform in photos but fails faster in use. The cowhide is heavy-gauge, giving the jacket substantial hand feel. Meaningfully thicker and more protective than what you'd find on a fashion leather jacket or an import at a similar price point. How It Fits The Black Hills fits more generously than the Black Stallion because cowhide has more natural give — an advantage for riders who want comfort right away. The shoulder cut is designed for the bike, not for standing upright, so it doesn't pull across the back when reaching for the bars. The waist is adjustable, which is genuinely useful for layering. Classic American Styling The Black Hills has the clean silhouette of a traditional American biker jacket without overstyled hardware or fashion details that date quickly. It looks right on a Harley, an Indian, or a vintage Triumph. Pockets are functional rather than decorative. Long-Term Durability Full-grain cowhide jackets at this construction quality will last fifteen to twenty years with proper care. Key variables: conditioning two to three times per year, avoiding prolonged UV exposure, and drying properly when wet. The stitching is reinforced at stress points, which is where lower-quality jackets fail first. See current availability and sizing at the Legendary Black Hills Jacket page. Black Hills vs Black Stallion Want immediate comfort and a jacket ready to ride from day one? Black Hills cowhide. Want maximum abrasion resistance and a jacket that molds specifically to your body over years? Black Stallion horsehide. Both are American-made and both will outlast anything in this price range from an import manufacturer. Browse both at the Legendary USA motorcycle jackets collection. Frequently Asked Questions Is the Black Hills made from real cowhide? Yes — full-grain cowhide. The full-grain designation means the natural surface of the hide is retained, which is what provides genuine abrasion resistance and long-term durability. Does the Black Hills need a break-in period? Cowhide breaks in faster than horsehide. The Black Hills will feel noticeably more comfortable within two to four weeks of regular wear and continue to conform over the first riding season. Is this jacket suitable for daily riding? Yes. The leather weight and construction are appropriate for daily use. Many riders choose the Black Hills as their primary jacket because it's comfortable enough for commuting and protective enough for touring. How does the Black Hills compare to imports at the same price? The Black Hills uses heavier-gauge, higher-grade leather than most imports at comparable price points. American manufacturing standards also produce more consistent seam quality and hardware. Can I wear the Black Hills off the bike? Yes. The classic styling works as a regular leather jacket. Many riders wear their Black Hills daily because it doesn't look like costume motorcycle gear.