Why Vietnam's street ninjas ride scooters fully covered

If you’ve ever watched traffic in Vietnam, you’ve likely noticed a striking scene: a scooter zips by, and at the handlebars is someone covered head to toe—long jacket, gloves, a face mask, sunglasses, sometimes even a wide-brimmed hat. That’s how many women ride, and locals jokingly call them street ninjas.

It’s neither a trend nor a costume. It’s daily routine, especially for the many women who rely on motorbikes. The question is why they dress this way.

Sun, dust, and urban reality

Vietnam is hot almost year-round, and the sun can be relentless. Riding a bike through the city means full exposure to sunlight, wind, and dust. To shield themselves, women began covering their faces, arms, and legs—first with simple cloth, then with purpose-made clothing.

So an entire riding outfit took shape: a face mask, gloves, long sleeves, a cover for the legs, and sometimes a hat or hood. It guards not only against heat, but also against dirt and exhaust fumes.

Beauty, Vietnamese-style

In Vietnam, a tan isn’t in fashion. Fair skin is considered attractive, associated with cleanliness and good grooming. So women try to avoid the sun whenever possible.

The street-ninja wardrobe is a way to keep skin fair and smooth. It’s not a whim; this look is valued both at home and at work.

What the bike ninja wears

Women tend to put on:

a mask (sometimes even a double one),

sunglasses,

gloves,

a light jacket with long sleeves,

a lap cover or skirt that shields the legs,

sometimes a hat or hood.

These “costumes” are sold everywhere—at markets, in shops, and online. You’ll find plain, solid options as well as bright florals, patterns, and imitations of fashion brands.

Safety in question

There are drawbacks. A tight mask combined with sunglasses can narrow the field of view; some riders say it makes it tougher to monitor the road. Layers can also get in the way in the heat or during an emergency.

At times, women skip sturdier helmets in favor of lighter ones that don’t protect as well.

Why it stirs debate

Online, this look is often scrutinized—and even mocked. It has turned into a meme. Some think it’s “too wrapped up,” others simply find it odd. Yet behind it is a practical focus on health, appearance, and safety.

A Yale University study notes that these women have adapted to demanding conditions—sun, dust, and heavy traffic. There’s a quiet boldness in that.

What does it say about Vietnam?

The street-ninja phenomenon isn’t just a curious detail. It reveals a lot about life in Vietnam—from the climate to everyday habits and how people look after themselves. It’s a vivid example of practicality evolving into culture.

To a visitor, the outfit may look unusual. To a local rider, it’s convenient, familiar, and perfectly logical. As long as the sun blazes and scooters thread through the streets, these street ninjas will keep masking up—not for mystery, but for everyday comfort.