Waterproof for Riding & What to Expect
Waterproof motorcycle apparel is designed to keep you dry in moderate rain for a limited time. Just how long depends on things like:
- How hard it’s raining
- Your speed on the bike
- Whether you have a windscreen
- How many zippers and vents are on your gear
Here’s what makes gear “motorcycle waterproof”:
Waterproof fabrics with taped seams
Adjustable openings at the wrists, waist, legs, and neck
Water-resistant zippers (like YKK AquaGuard)
But unlike a scuba or kayak drysuit, your riding gear isn’t 100% sealed. That’s on purpose—because those kinds of zippers are stiff, bulky, and high-maintenance. They just wouldn’t work well for ADV riding.
What About the Zippers?
We use water-resistant zippers because they’re:
Flexible and easy to use
Durable in dirt, mud, sand, and sun
Tuck under storm flaps for added protection
These zippers do a great job shedding water, but if you’re riding for a long time in heavy rain, some water may still sneak in through zippers or garment openings (neck, waist, cuffs, etc.).
Why You Might Still Feel Wet
Even a small amount of water sneaking in can wick through your base layers and make you feel wet, even if your jacket is still doing its job on the outside. That’s why we recommend wearing moisture-wicking, synthetic, or wool underlayers and treating your gear with DWR (Durable Water Repellent).
Waterproof vs. Ventilation
Waterproofing and venting work against each other:
Waterproofing = sealing things up
Venting = opening things up
Every vent or zipper you add is a potential entry point for water. So if waterproofing is your #1 priority, look for gear with minimal vents and zippers, like our RAK Pullover and Composite Jacket.
If you want a balance of waterproofing and airflow, the Basilisk may be a better fit. Or consider a two-layer approach:
Your normal ADV kit for most rides
A lightweight rain shell for major storms
This combo is trusted by long-distance riders worldwide.
We want you to be totally stoked with your Mosko gear. If you ever feel like it’s not performing how you expected, especially when it comes to waterproofing, please reach out.