Remember This Odd-Looking Gear? Here’s Why People Loved It
November 15, 2024
Source: Reddit
Picture it: a crisp winter morning, the sun barely peeking over the horizon, frost glistening on the grass. You’ve just layered up, buttoned your coat, and pulled on a thick wool hat. For many of us, the sensation of our fingers freezing to the handlebars was a rite of passage. But for those lucky enough to have a pair of motorbike mitts in the ’70s, winter rides had a little extra warmth—and a whole lot of character.
In those days, motorbike mitts were more than just functional; they were a beloved accessory, a practical innovation that made every cold-weather ride just a bit more bearable. Often made of thick leather or durable, weatherproof fabric, these mitts slipped right over the handlebars, creating a cocoon of warmth around the hands without hindering movement. Unlike gloves, which could restrict finger flexibility and still left hands vulnerable to wind, motorbike mitts were stationary, allowing riders to slip their hands in and out easily, no matter the weather.
While motorbike mitts aren’t as common today, they were once a staple for anyone who relied on their bike year-round. Farmers, like your uncle, delivery drivers, and everyday commuters found these mitts essential. Motorbikes and mopeds were popular modes of transport across farms and cities alike. In many rural areas, they were the most practical way to get around, especially on farms where the terrain could be rough and the tasks many. For a farmer starting his day early in the winter, motorbike mitts were a lifesaver, keeping hands warm for morning rounds and feeding chores, all without the hassle of repeatedly putting on and taking off gloves.
During the ’60s and ’70s, these mitts became a familiar sight, especially in colder regions. Made to withstand the elements, they were sturdy enough to last several seasons, often passing from one family member to another as children grew up and took on riding duties themselves. Generations of riders remember reaching into those thick leather pockets, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort as they gripped the throttle, ready to start the day.
Motorbike mitts are a small but telling piece of history. They speak to a time when people valued durability and practicality, when items were built to last and serve a purpose beyond fashion. Back then, the focus was on making products that worked and kept you comfortable. This was an era when people fixed things rather than replaced them, and a good pair of motorbike mitts, patched and worn, was something to be proud of.
Moreover, they reflect a culture that embraced independence and self-sufficiency. Riders didn’t let the weather dictate their routines; they simply adapted. A little snow or frost wasn’t going to stop someone from getting where they needed to go, whether it was the corner store, the workplace, or across the farm. Motorbike mitts, like so many inventions of the time, were born from necessity and served as a reminder that sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best.
While today’s bikers have access to heated grips and other modern conveniences, there’s a nostalgia tied to the humble motorbike mitt. They remind us of a time when winter rides were about more than just getting from point A to B; they were small adventures, braving the elements with just a coat, a hat, and those beloved mitts. The sensation of slipping your hands into that warm leather pocket, feeling the bike’s vibrations through the lining, was a unique pleasure—one that riders still remember fondly.
Motorbike mitts continue to hold a special place in the hearts of those who remember them. For many, they’re a symbol of resilience, of finding comfort in the simplest innovations. Today, seeing a pair might bring back memories of frosty mornings, long rides, and the satisfaction of simple, rugged gear that did exactly what it was supposed to do: keep you warm and keep you going.
So, next time you see a pair of well-worn motorbike mitts, maybe in a vintage shop or hanging in a barn, take a moment to appreciate their story. They’re a relic from a time when life moved at a slower pace, and a little warmth on a cold morning was all you needed to start the day right.