Gear Guide for Touring

Long-distance touring is all about unpredictability, freedom and the sheer joy of being on the saddle for hours! But unlike city rides or trail days, touring demands gear that can handle long hauls, changing climates, varying road conditions, and most importantly fatigue. Comfort becomes survival, storage becomes strategy, and protection? NON-NEGOTIABLE! Here is the guide to what you really need for a touring setup that can go the distance - day after day, mile after mile.

Jackets That Work Across Weather Zones

Your touring jacket needs to adapt - from chill high-altitude passes to the dry heat of the plains. Hence, you need to think multi-season, modular, and fatigue-reducing!

What To Look For?

  • Removable thermal or rain liners – adaptable to changing weather for all-day comfort and protection.
  • CE Level 2 armour at chest, shoulders, elbows, and back
  • Ventilated outer shell with abrasion resistance (Cordura or high-denier textile)
  • Ergonomic fit such as FocusFit Adjustments (incase of ViaTerra jackets) for long hours in the saddle
  • Reflective panels for night-time visibility
Top Picks!
Kruger Air Touring Jacket

Kruger Air Touring Jacket

Kruger Pro Touring Jacket

Kruger Pro Touring Jacket

Pants That Stay Comfortable and Safe - All Day Long!

Your lower half takes more stress on longer rides than you expect. Touring pants need to be breathable, protective, and flexible enough to move easily through long riding stretches, fuel stops, or even quick trail detours. 

What To Look For?

  • Textile construction with mesh panels for airflow
  • CE-rated knee and hip armour
  • Pant-jacket connectors for a seamless fit
  • Pre-curved knees and stretch panels for added comfort on long-rides
  • Waterproof and thermal liners if you are doing cross-country or all-season touring
Top Picks!
Kruger Air Touring Pants

Kruger Air Touring Pants

Kruger Pro Touring Pants

Kruger Pro Touring Pants

Comfort Meets Control with Touring Gloves

Touring gloves need to balance protection with a tactile feel. You will be gripping for hours, so choose gloves that prevent fatigue, offer protection and allow smooth throttle control. 

What To Look For?

  • Vented zones or perforations for breathability
  • Abrasion-resistant leather or textile with knuckle protection
  • Pre-curved fingers and soft inner lining for comfort
  • Touchscreen compatibility
  • Pinky-finger bridge as in case of ViaTerra Gloves
  • Double-closure wrist system for a snug fit
Top Picks!
KRUGER – MOTORCYCLE TOURING RIDING GLOVES

KRUGER – MOTORCYCLE TOURING RIDING GLOVES

Storage Gear: Saddle-up Without Overpacking

Carrying your world with you does not mean strapping bricks to your bike. You need modular, waterproof, balanced storage solutions that won’t mess with handling or comfort. 

What To Look For?

  • Waterproof construction or dry bag system
  • Easy-access compartments for essentials
  • Tool organisation and hydration access when needed
  • Roll-top design and rain covers for weather protection
  • Balanced weight distribution - tank, tail and saddle bags
Top Picks!
MARINE NEO HYDRATION PACK WITH INCL. HYDRAPAK 2L BLADDER (BLACK)

MARINE NEO HYDRATION PACK WITH INCL. HYDRAPAK 2L BLADDER (BLACK)

ViaTerra DryBag 40L - 100% Waterproof Motorcycle Tailbag (Universal)

ViaTerra DryBag 40L - 100% Waterproof Motorcycle Tailbag (Universal)

VIATERRA POD - 100% WATERPROOF MOTORCYCLE TAIL BAG

VIATERRA POD - 100% WATERPROOF MOTORCYCLE TAIL BAG

VIATERRA CONDOR SOLO - 100% WATERPROOF MOTORCYCLE SADDLEBAGS

VIATERRA CONDOR SOLO - 100% WATERPROOF MOTORCYCLE SADDLEBAGS

Rain Gear That Packs Small and Protects Big!

Touring often means surprising weather. Compact rain suits that are faster to wear and do not flap in high winds are a must! Don't rely on makeshift ponchos or wait it out under a flyover. 

What To Look For?

  • Waterproof and breathable material
  • Lightweight and easy to fold into tank bag
  • Heat-resistant panels near the exhaust area
  • Reflective stripes for visibility in heavy rain
  • Long zippers for easy on and off before boots
Top Picks!
RANDY SUN – MERINO WOOL WATERPROOF KNEE HIGH SOCKS

RANDY SUN – MERINO WOOL WATERPROOF KNEE HIGH SOCKS

M200 - Rain Jacket

M200 - Rain Jacket

M200 - Rain Pants

M200 - Rain Pants

Non-negotiable Gear: Helmets & Boots

Optional additions for those who want extra comfort and protection on long rides.

Helmets

A good touring helmet reduces wind buffeting, noise, and fatigue on long rides.

  • Ideally: ISI + ECE/DOT certification, good ventilation, anti-fog visor, aerodynamic shape, comfort liner.
  • Example: MT Blade 2 SV Helmet - protection, comfort, visor options.

Boots

Protect while riding, comfortable enough for walking when stopping or light trekking.

  • Look for ankle protection, heel reinforcement, shift-panel toe box, waterproof/breathable membrane, good sole grip, secure closures (zip + Velcro).

Bonus: Touring Essentials Checklist!

  • Hydration pack
  • Tool kit + puncture repair kit
  • First aid kit
  • Powerbank
  • Phone mount and waterproof case
  • Chain lube or cleaner (mini size)
  • Earplugs - trust us, they help on highway stretches

In Conclusion

Touring isn’t just about the destination - it's about getting there right. Your gear needs to work with you, not against you. When you're logging 500+ kms a day, small discomforts can become big problems fast. So choose gear that’s built for long-haul riding: comfortable, protective, weather-ready, and fatigue-resistant.

Cut the fluff. Go for what works. And make every ride count!

Frequently
Asked Questions

Do I need special gear for touring even though I ride daily?

Yes. Touring gear is built for comfort and endurance over long hours - your daily city gear won't hold up the same way.

Are hydration packs worth it for touring?

Absolutely. Staying hydrated without having to stop frequently keeps your focus sharp and body relaxed. 

Can I use off-road gear for touring?

Not ideal. Off-road gear is definitely the most flexible and super comfortable for long hours, so riders love using it for touring. But the big catch is protection - off-road gear is made for impact protection, not abrasion, which is what you need on road surfaces.

How much storage do I require for a 7-day tour?

30-40L across tank, tail, and saddle bags usually covers most needs without overpacking.