John Brown writes:

Subject: winter riding gear

The U.S. military Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) is a perfect model for winter motorcycle riding gear or anyone outside for long periods in the cold. Most everything can be duplicated through discount mass retailers, sporting goods, or military surplus stores. I did some looking on the internet trying to gear up for a trip to Minnesota with Boy Scouts in January several years ago. -18F they day we arrived and -32F the night we camped out in quinzeys. Polypropelne glove liners dramatically improve any decent wind proof/waterproof glove. Try to keep your outer layers breathable/windproof/waterproof. Frog Toggs are inexpensive and meet all of the above recommendations, and they make them for motorcycle riders. Usually under $60 for a complete set of rain gear (your choice of color for the fashion conciouse). High bulk light weight moisture wicking fleece over your street cloths with the windproof/waterproof breathable layer over this and silk weights as a base layer will be more than adequate for most but extreme climates. I was dressed similarly in Minnesota along with a parka from a major outfitter and had to have the parka unzipped during the daytime to keep from sweating.