That's awesome you actually got a thanks for setting a good example!
I'm ATGATT too and I mostly get "aren't you hot?" comments. For those people I usually just tell them it's not that bad with the perforated leather. That and I'd rather sweat than bleed.
Unfortunately for some people they'll never realize the need for good gear until they get into an accident. A speech from the local safety officer doesn't quite reach home as much as seeing your leg bone sticking out.
