How to Keep Your Face Warm While Riding

Cover your face and you won't get cold when you're on the open road.

It might get your blood pumping to ride a motorcycle, scooter or bicycle in the winter months or on a frosty fall day, but your face is going to be red and chapped when you hop off. Don't just take off down the trail; prepare by getting the right gear. Your toasty, pain-free face will thank you when you're on your feet again.

Things You'll Need

• Balaclava or ski mask
• Helmet

Instructions

1. Slather an oil-based sunscreen onto your face. The oil will set up a barrier against the cold and act as a great base for the layers that come next.

2. Put on a ski mask or balaclava before you slip your helmet over your head. Helmets have a lot of padding and can protect against exposure to the cold, but a ski mask or balaclava makes an excellent base.

3. Choose a full-head helmet. Even if you only need your skull covered, something that shields your cheeks, chin, nose and lips will help your face retain its warmth.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to find a ski mask or balaclava that's thick enough to protect you from the chill, but thin enough to fit comfortably under your protective headgear. Nylon and neoprene help retain heat and are very thin. Find a balaclava that protects your throat, too.

• Buy closable vents, especially if you're riding in winter. Even if they fog up, you can pop a breath mint in your mouth and blow to keep the steam off the window so you can see your way down the road.

• Consider looking at snowmobile helmets to see if any would suit your needs. They come with heated visors to keep your face warm.

References

• Outtakes Winter Wonders: Keep Warm
• Street Directory: Winter Motorcycle Riding Gear Options
• Back to Basics: Cold Weather Riding
• Sqream Scooter Club: Never Lick a Frozen Fender and Other Tips for Winter Scooter Riding