Lauren HollandBy Lauren Holland

Updated November 2026

Gerbing heated riding gear uses resistance wiring woven into jackets, gloves, pants and socks to keep you warm when temperatures drop. This guide walks you through choosing the right pieces, sizing them correctly, connecting the power system safely, and caring for the gear so it lasts through a riding season. Whether you ride ATVs, dirt bikes or a side-by-side, the same principles apply.

Step 1: Decide Which Pieces You Actually Need

Start with the body areas that lose the most heat on your machine. Hands and feet are usually the first to get cold because they sit in airflow and have less muscle to generate warmth. Core heat matters too, since a warm torso keeps blood flowing to your extremities. Many riders begin with heated gloves and a heated vest or jacket liner, then add socks or pants once they know how much warmth they need.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Riding Gear Motorcycles: Top Picks for Safer Rides (2026).

Step 2: Size the Gear for Layering

Heated pieces work best when they fit snugly against the skin without restricting movement. Measure your chest, waist and hand circumference, then compare those numbers to the manufacturer’s size chart. Leave room for a base layer but avoid bulky outer layers that compress the heating elements. If you ride in off-road gear, check that the heated liner still fits under your jersey and chest protector.

Step 3: Plan the Power Source

Most Gerbing systems connect to your machine’s battery through a harness, and the controller lets you adjust heat levels. Confirm that your ATV, UTV or dirt bike has a charging system that can handle the added load, especially if you plan to run multiple pieces at once. Use the included fuse and mount the controller where you can reach it while riding. Refer to the manufacturer’s wiring diagram, and consult a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about tapping into your electrical system.

Step 4: Set Up a Pre-Ride Checklist

Run through these items before each cold-weather outing:

  • Check that all connectors are clean, dry and fully seated.
  • Inspect heating elements and wires for cuts, kinks or flattened sections.
  • Test each piece on low heat for about a minute to confirm it warms evenly.
  • Verify that the controller displays the expected settings.
  • Confirm your battery has enough charge for the planned ride length.

Step 5: Use Heat Settings Wisely

Start on a moderate setting and adjust as you ride. Overheating can make you sweat, and damp layers chill quickly once you stop. Turn the heat down during hard climbs or when the trail warms up in the afternoon. Keep an eye on battery voltage during long rides, particularly on machines with older batteries.

Step 6: Care for the Gear After Every Ride

Unplug all pieces, let them dry completely, and store them flat or loosely hung rather than tightly folded. Wipe off mud and salt residue with a damp cloth, and avoid submerging the wiring unless the manufacturer says the piece is washable. Store connectors with their caps on to keep out moisture and grit.

Common Mistakes

  • Wearing heated pieces over bulky layers that crush the elements and reduce warmth.
  • Running several heated items on a weak battery, which can drain it quickly.
  • Leaving the controller on high while stopped, leading to overheating.
  • Folding wiring sharply, which can break internal conductors over time.
  • Skipping pre-ride checks, so a failed glove or loose connector shows up mid-trail.
  • Gerbing heated gloves: Provide direct warmth to fingers, which are often the first body part to lose feeling on cold rides. View on Amazon
  • Gerbing heated vest liner: Keeps the core warm, which helps the rest of the body stay comfortable. View on Amazon
  • Gerbing heated socks: Addresses cold feet inside boots, a common complaint on long winter rides. View on Amazon

For more cold-weather planning, see Heated Riding Gear Harley-Davidson: 6 Essentials for Cold-Weather Rides (2026) and Warm Motorcycle Riding Gear: 7 Essentials for Cold-Weather Rides. Riders heading into the colder months may also find Winter Equestrian Riding Gear: 8 Essentials for Cold-Weather Riding useful for layering ideas that transfer to other activities.

FAQ

Can I run Gerbing heated gear on any ATV or dirt bike?

Most machines with a standard 12-volt system can support heated gear, but the charging system must provide enough output for the load. Check your machine’s charging specifications and the Gerbing compatibility guidance before installing.

How long does a battery last with heated gear?

Runtime depends on battery capacity, heat setting and how many pieces you run. Owners often report better results when the battery is healthy and the charging system is working correctly.

Should I wash heated riding gear?

Follow the care label and manufacturer instructions. Many pieces should be wiped clean rather than machine washed, since water and wiring do not mix well.

Conclusion

Gerbing heated riding gear can make cold rides far more comfortable when you choose the right pieces, size them to fit, and wire them properly. Run a pre-ride check, use heat settings sensibly, and store everything carefully after each outing. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your hands, feet and core warm all season.

Ready to choose one?

Lauren Holland

About Lauren Holland

Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our ATV, UTV/side-by-side & dirt bikes guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.