Winter motorcycle gear: tips for military surplus

With current sales, there is a prospect of getting less than usual. But besides the motorcycle or scooter specialist, there are other ways to economically prepare for long walks or daily life, not just winter ...

Let's start by wringing our necks with a preconceived notion... How many of us actually ride every day with famous motorcycle equipment? How many of us use "real" motorcycle boots, a reinforced and omnidirectionally fitted jacket/pants set, or even a pair of high-tech motorcycle gloves? We know, like riding a motorcycle, to be well equipped is expensive, very expensive, definitely too expensive for many of us. It must be recognized that between the "right" helmets, boots without special protection or even jackets that are not waterproof or even reinforced, but from well-known brands, the stigma of "motorcycle" or "scooter" often sells for a high price. Not forgetting that the scooter rider or biker who uses his two wheels for only one useful purpose and for short trips, for example, does not have the same equipment expectations as long course hikers and other pure athletes. In short, according to their own needs and the minimum important for sacred security, each sets his own requirements. Let's understand well: far from us is the idea of ​​defending the practice of motorcycles without protection... In the best of worlds, everyone should be able to afford at least 1 euro of equipment and light clothing! But let's forget science fiction. Our goal here is to offer, for less money, "tracks" of equipment that, if not originally intended for motorcycles or manufactured by motorcycle companies, can nonetheless be suitable for that use and at a reasonable price.

Thrifty Biker Cave

If there is a type of "equipment supplier" that everyone knows and that is usually found in most cities, then it is indeed the famous military surplus. Aside from the derogatory image that this kind of trade can bring back, we must also agree that the army's production standards remain some of the most demanding, the reserves are very generous and therefore the availability is sometimes just as interesting ... Sebastian Satora opened his "camouflage" military surplus in Gera (23) in 2003. He worked in the sector for almost 10 years and expanded his capabilities to about twenty departments in the Southwest. He buys equipment (in tons!) During the sale of Domains, that is, an organization that very officially distributes the reformed materials of the state to civilians, professionals and individuals. Therefore, it is necessary to know this environment well in order to be able to regularly stock up, of course, in France, but also abroad, as Sebastien explains to us: “I also ride in the Nordic countries, in Belgium, Germany, Holland, etc. Military equipment is designed for their climate, and therefore of high quality. Also for this reason, I do this job to sell beautiful cameras not made in China. There are many bikers in my clientele. I sell them German boots, "warm effects", duvets, gloves, bomber jackets, etc. ATV riders also appreciate waterproof clothing. As for the price, it varies depending on the stock of the army and the quantity available, but in any case, the prices are always much lower than those found in other places with comparable production quality. “

Our selection of "motorcycle" military equipment.

Among the nearly 200 items available on Camouflage, we have selected a material here that we believe can be adapted for use on motorcycles. Their main quality: their strength, of course, at a very attractive price. The fact that most of the equipment is not new, but in very good condition (often almost new) has a positive effect on the price. On the other hand, one cannot but take into account the absence of shells and other shock-absorbing materials in jackets and trousers. In that case, feel free to invest in motorcycle safety vests for the most demanding.

Boots and rangers

Rangers

The Army Rangers are a great surplus classic, designed to withstand impact, last a long time, and provide some protection from the cold. It is usually a very beautiful production, with a choice of rubber and thick leather (triple thickness at the end of the shoe), soles sewn, screwed, glued, etc. The best value for money is to go to see elephants, penguins, marmots… or make your own garden! Prices from 20 euros for a used model to 90 euros for a new one (in smooth or rough black leather). A more discreet model with a soft leather lining, priced at 69 euros. Light brown model at the price of 39 € new

German boots

These beautiful boots with guaranteed large leather are renowned for their durability. At the end, they have a triple layer of skin that forms a protective shell (like the Rangers). Their outsole is stitched / glued. There are very beautiful replicas of Trabert Knobelbecher for several hundred euros. For used military models, price from 20 €.

Swedish boots

These Swedish boots are one of the most beautiful products in this collection, providing protection from the cold down to -40°! They use a rubber coating and an insulated inner liner. Their ends are reinforced. Price € 34

Winter boots for alpine hunters

Made from 100% rubber from Hutchinson, these boots are durable, waterproof and warm thanks to the insulated outsole. Price from 15 to 30 € depending on the state

Hot equipment

Balaclavas and scarves for cold weather

These balaclavas and scarves, made from polar fiber and available in a variety of colors, are also some good suggestions. The price is 5 euros for a balaclava and 9 euros for a new scarf.

Alpine hunter balaclava

These silk and wool balaclavas are tested and approved by alpine hunters. Price € 5

Monkey skin

Wearing this thick chlorofiber fleece-type jersey under a motorcycle jacket is one of the “hot things” of the army. Price 10 € used and 20 € new

Neck warmers

These fleece neck warmers are available in a variety of colors to help protect yourself from the cold on the motorcycle and avoid excessive thickening of scarves. Price € 9; Also available in wool for 2 €

Fleece vest

Used in Legion, this fleece jacket is designed to be worn underneath a Gore-tex kit. Made of dense and thick fleece (400 g), with drawstrings and pockets. Price from 20 €, new 45 €

Swedish F1 T-shirt

Thin but warm, the Swedish F1 T-shirt is one of the surplus bestsellers. Price € 10

Long boxers

In chlorofiber price from 10 €

French weather jacket

Available in a jacket or parka, durable, waterproof and warm clothing thanks to the removable fleece lining. Price € 90

Waterproof equipment

Gore-Tex Aviation outfit

This premium aviation jumpsuit and jacket set is especially popular with riders who are waterproof thanks to its durable Gore-Tex material. Made by VTM, in solid or camouflage color, with leg closure, ankle brace, waterproof bellows, and more. Price € 30 jumpsuit, € 60 used jacket

Army waterproof kit

This French Army KWay style jacket / pants set will not withstand heavy highway downpours, but will be sufficient for short-distance scooter operation. Price 20 € new

Leather equipment

Firefighter's Leather Jacket

Perhaps one of the best deals in this range, this heavy leather firefighter jacket. It has already proven itself well, but it is in very good condition and is fitted with reflective Velcro strips. Bikers should appreciate this. Price from 30 € to 100 € depending on the condition

Army Motorcycle Gloves

Excellent classic of the genre, full leather gloves with cuff and lining. Certainly not upright in very cold weather and not waterproof, but good enough for mid-season. Price € 10

F1 leather gloves with lining

These are mid-season or summer gloves. Regular fit, but guaranteed genuine leather. Price € 10

GK intervention gloves

Mittens are also available (not recommended ...), these gloves can be used mid-season and summer. Originally designed for police, GIGN, etc., they are greatly enhanced. Price € 39

As well as …

Scarf

A scarf of the "Africa" ​​type, made of cotton or mesh, in different colors, can be worn under a jacket or motorcycle jacket in summer and in the middle of the season. Price € 5 used, € 12 new

Quilted backpack

Very nice quilted F2 backpack, durable and not too bulky. Price 25 €; traditional army model F1 from 10 €

Belt bag

Backpack bag made of large durable canvas, compact and equipped with many pockets. Price € 29

Other traditional surplus products include sarcophagus-type down sleeping bags priced at €31, Gore-Tex waterproof sleeping bags priced at €60 (+10°), tents, shovels, flashlights, etc.

Finally, this time in the motorcycle equipment category, Francesco tells us that there are good plans in Dusseldorf: every Friday afternoon and Saturday morning, Polo and Hein Gericke biker outlets open their doors. There are great discounts here ... for local bikers!

Finally, note the open topic on the ms forum about the best sales so far.

Thanks to Sebastian Satora of www.surpluscamouflage.com for his help with this article and also to Alexander for his modeling services 😉