At Moto Central, we’re committed to bringing you the best in motorcycle clothing, helmets, and accessories. One of the most important factors in rider comfort is Resistance to Evaporative Heat Transfer (RET). This measure of breathability ensures that your gear keeps you comfortable, no matter the conditions. Let’s delve deeper into which motorcycle brands incorporate RET, why they use it, its benefits, and its limitations.
What is RET and Why Does it Matter?
RET measures how well a fabric allows moisture vapour to pass through it. Lower RET values indicate higher breathability, which is crucial for keeping riders dry and comfortable. When riding, sweat generated by your body can lead to discomfort if it’s trapped against your skin. Breathable fabrics with low RET ratings wick away this moisture, improving temperature regulation and overall comfort.
Brands That Prioritise RET
At Moto Central, we stock some of the most advanced brands in the industry, many of which incorporate RET as part of their design process:
- GORE-TEX (used by Rukka, Klim, Dainese, and Alpinestars): Known for exceptional waterproofing and breathability, with RET values as low as 6.
- Sympatex (used by Held and Revit): Fully recyclable membranes offering competitive RET performance.
- D-Dry (exclusive to Dainese): A proprietary membrane balancing affordability and performance.
- Laminated Gear (from Rukka and Klim): Combines the breathable membrane directly with the outer fabric for reduced bulk and excellent breathability.
Why Do Brands Use RET in Their Gear?
Motorcycle gear manufacturers utilise RET to address a core challenge: balancing comfort, protection, and performance. Whether it’s a high-performance adventure suit or an urban commuting jacket, RET allows brands to tailor their gear for specific rider needs.
Comfort on Long Rides: Low RET values keep you comfortable by wicking sweat away during hours of riding.
Versatility in Weather Conditions: Breathable gear performs well in warm climates without compromising waterproofing for wet or cold conditions.
Enhanced Safety: Comfortable riders are more focused and less fatigued, which directly contributes to safer riding.
Benefits of RET in Motorcycle Gear
- Optimised Moisture Management: Low RET gear efficiently transfers sweat vapour, keeping riders dry and reducing the risk of chills.
- Temperature Regulation: RET ensures that gear remains breathable, preventing overheating in warm weather and retaining warmth in the cold.
- Extended Comfort: Breathable fabrics reduce skin irritation and discomfort during long journeys.
Downfalls of RET
Despite its advantages, RET isn’t without its limitations:
- Cost: Low RET gear, such as GORE-TEX Pro, tends to be more expensive.
- Compromises in Extreme Cold: Highly breathable gear can let heat escape too quickly in freezing conditions.
- Durability of Breathability: Over time, wear and environmental factors can reduce the effectiveness of breathable membranes.
How to Choose RET-Optimised Gear at Moto Central
As one of the UK’s leading retailers for motorcycle clothing and accessories, Moto Central offers a wide range of RET-optimised gear. Here’s what to consider when selecting your next piece of kit:
- Climate: For hot climates, opt for gear with low RET values and additional venting for airflow.
- Riding Style: Adventure and touring riders benefit most from low RET gear for varying conditions.
- Budget: Mid-range options like Dainese’s D-Dry or Held Sympatex offer good breathability at a reasonable cost.
The Moto Central Advantage
At our Midlands showroom, conveniently located near the A5, A444, M6, and M69, we have a dedicated space for touring, adventure, and premium motorcycle gear. Our range includes top brands like Rukka, Klim, Dainese, and Revit, each offering options tailored to different RET requirements.
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you find gear that meets your specific needs. Plus, we offer free UK delivery on orders over £25 and a 365-day return policy, giving you complete confidence in your purchase.
Conclusion
RET is more than just a technical measure—it’s a key factor in ensuring rider comfort and safety. By understanding the brands, benefits, and limitations of RET, you can make an informed choice when selecting your next piece of motorcycle gear. At Moto Central, we’re proud to stock a diverse range of RET-optimised options, so you can ride in comfort, no matter where the road takes you.
Explore RET-optimised motorcycle gear at Moto Central and enjoy free UK delivery on orders over £25 and a 365-day return policy for complete satisfaction.
