Buying second hand jackets/ trousers possible?

[guitarjon]

If I walk into a clothes shop I have to try things on as I'm 2xl in one shop and 3/4/5 in others.

Is this the same with biker clothes?

I'm a bit of an odd shape, quite broad and a big chest but not particulary tall so often off the peg stuff is too long in the arm.

Is it not even worth looking at second hand? I've found a guy not too far away seller some leathers which are supposed to be my size. He said I could try them on. Ideally I don't want to spend a fortune on jacket and trousers. I'd rather put the money into a helmet and boots and of course the bike.

[Tango]

Secondhand is OK if you know your size in bike gear....... so, trying stuff on is best until you get a handle on what size fits you best. Some of the cheaper brands tend to come up a bit smaller......

[guitarjon]

Thanks tango. I've been in contact with a guy but just realised my work pattern is rubbish for the next few weeks (build up till Christmas) mainly consisting of 10-10 shifts or late shifts.

[Wynne G Oldman]

I find that you really have to try everything on. You're usually in the ball park with standard sizes, but I have a bit of an unusual body shape too (long spine, short legs) so one piece suits don't usually fit me that well. My bottom half is L, and my top half is XL, which I overcome with 2 piece suits. If you are buying over the internet, go for a company that doesn't mind you returning stuff because it doesn't fit. I find that The SportsBikeShop are very good for this sort of thing, and would recommend them.

[Arwen]

Biker clothes sizing I have found to be all over the place. It is best you try then on, especially gloves. If you are short in the leg, you may find you need to go for the short version of trousers, which there are not many of 2nd hand. Sometimes you can get away with wearing "standered " length trousers, but make sure the armour is in the right place.

EBay and Gumtree tend to be good for 2nd hand gear. If the seller has not specified sizes in inches, I tend to message them and ask. J&S are good to go visit to try on a load of different brands. Their prices are pretty good too. Bear in mind that bike trousers tend to sit a little higher than normal trousers too.

Helmet is pretty much the only think I would not buy second hand. You don't know if someone has dropped it previously. Also best to go to a shop for this, as different helmets fit different shaped heads better.

[NeilM]

Agree with the above.

I'd buy a second hand helmet off somebody I trusted.

R lass got a second hand helmet off Stu. Cock on.

But wouldn't buy off e bay etc.

[guitarjon]

Thanks all, confirmed my suspicions. I'll be buying a new helmet for sure. Just had a guy interested in buying my car. Havnt really put it up for sale either. I'll be selling the car to fund direct access course, clothing, helmet and eventually bike but I'll leave that till last.