How to stay cool riding motocross in the summer
STAY COOL AND COMFORTABLE RIDING MX THROUGH THE SUMMER WITH THE RIGHT SET UP.
Summer riding is what most of us train all winter for. Longer days, harder pack, better conditions, but the heat brings its own challenges. Overheating on the bike is not just uncomfortable, it affects your concentration, your reactions and your riding. Getting your kit setup right before you head out can make the difference between a great day at the track and one you have to cut short.
Start Off The Bike
Keeping cool is not just about what happens on the track. How you manage yourself between sessions matters just as much.
When you come off the bike, get your kit off. Sitting in full MX kit in the sun between sessions is one of the quickest ways to overheat before you even get back on the track. Find some shade, sit down and let your body temperature drop properly before your next session.
One thing people often forget, put your bike in the shade too (or put an umbrella over it). A bike that has been sitting in direct sun for 30 minutes will have a scorching hot seat and frame when you go back to it. It sounds obvious but it makes a real difference to staying cool and comfortable when you're back out on track.
Ride Efficiently
When it's hot, your riding style matters more than you might think. The harder you work, the more heat your body generates. Focus on smooth, efficient lines rather than aggressive, physical riding. Flow around the track, take the smoother lines where you can and try to conserve energy. You will be faster for longer and feel significantly better by the end of the session.
Don't Ignore Your Hands
Sweaty hands are one of the most overlooked heat problems in MX. If your hands are sweating heavily, your grip can suffer as this is the perfect condition for blisters to form.
If you have a spare pair of motocross gloves, swap them out between sessions and let the wet pair dry properly. It sounds like a small thing but the difference in grip and comfort is noticeable.
Think About Colour
It sounds simple but the colour of your kit genuinely affects how hot you feel. Darker colours like black and indigo absorb heat, while lighter colours reflect it. If you naturally run hot, opting for lighter colourways on hot days is a straightforward way to stay a little cooler without changing anything else about your setup.
Choose The Right Top For The Conditions
This is where your setup makes the biggest difference.
Bib & Compression Top
If you usually ride in a bib and compression top, switching to one of our Summer Compression Tops is the most straightforward upgrade you can make for hot weather. They feature laser-cut ventilation holes through the arms and mesh panelling across the torso to maximise airflow and help your body regulate its temperature. The difference compared to a standard compression top on a hot day is significant.
All our Summer Compression Tops are available in Youth and Adult sizes.
Jersey
If it is really hot — 30 degrees or above — or you naturally run hot regardless of the temperature, we recommend switching to a jersey. Jerseys are super lightweight with ventilation across the chest, sides, upper arms and underarms to get as much airflow around your body as possible. On a really hot day, a jersey will keep you noticeably cooler than even a summer compression top.
All our Summer Jerseys are available in Youth and Adult sizes.
The Cold Water Trick
Whether you are in a bib and compression top or a jersey, if you are really struggling in the heat, try soaking your top in cold water before you go out for your session. It sounds extreme but it works. Once you are out on the track, the airflow through the fabric keeps the cooling effect going for a solid chunk of your session.
Want To Go Further?
If you really want to maximise cooling, look into vented body armour. Some options are designed specifically for hot weather riding with airflow built into the protection, giving you the safety without the heat retention of a traditional chest protector.
Summer Riding Should Be Enjoyable
Heat does not have to be the enemy. With the right kit, a bit of planning in the pits and a smooth approach on the track, you can ride comfortably through even the hottest days of the UK summer.
Ready to sort your summer setup? Browse our full range including Summer Compression Tops, Jerseys and Motocross Gloves — all available in Youth and Adult sizes with same day UK dispatch.