Motorcycle jackets serve as your first line of defense on the road. The material you choose affects not just your safety but also your comfort, style, and riding experience. I’ve spent years testing different jackets across various riding conditions, and I’m here to break down everything you need to know about motorcycle jacket materials.
Leather > Protection and Durability
Leather jackets provide exceptional abrasion resistance and durability for motorcycle riders. Full-grain leather offers the best protection, making it less likely to tear or rip during a crash12. A high-quality leather jacket should be at least 1.2mm thick to provide proper impact and abrasion resistance1.
“I went down going at least 50 in my leathers and escaped unscathed except for a small patch of road rash on my butt cheek,” one rider shared on Reddit9.
Leather jackets typically feature:
- Classic, timeless appearance
- Excellent abrasion resistance
- Long-lasting durability
- Weather-resistant properties when properly treated
However, leather jackets can be heavy and uncomfortably hot during summer months2. They’re also typically more expensive than textile alternatives.
Textile > Versatility and Innovation
Textile jackets have evolved significantly, with modern materials offering protection comparable to leather while providing better versatility.
Kevlar (Para-Aramid)
Kevlar is a synthetic fiber that strengthens fabrics against wear, abrasion, and tears12. It’s typically mixed with other fibers because it tends to be inflexible and doesn’t stretch well on its own2. Kevlar provides excellent protection but is usually more expensive than other textile options.
Cordura (Nylon 6,6)
Cordura is one of the most versatile fabrics for motorcycle jackets. Originally developed for military use, Cordura offers:
- Lighter weight than leather
- Excellent airflow
- High abrasion resistance
- Superior water resistance
- Lower cost than Kevlar12
Many racing suits use Cordura for its combination of protection and comfort. The Alpinestars AMT-10R Drystar XF Jacket, for example, uses Cordura with a laminated waterproof-breathable membrane for all-weather riding6.
Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWP)
This “space age” fabric is 15 times stronger than steel while remaining flexible and lightweight2. It’s not quite as heat resistant as Cordura or Kevlar, but when woven into a textile jacket (50% or more), it makes the jacket almost impossible to cut or rip during a fall2.
Mesh
Mesh jackets are designed specifically for hot weather riding. They feature mesh panels (clusters of tiny holes) strategically placed to increase airflow1.
“The ICON Upstate Mesh CE is an accessibly priced textile riding jacket that offers a truly unparalleled combination of comfort, airflow, and protection,” according to a recent review11.
While mesh jackets provide maximum breathability, they offer less protection than leather or solid textiles1. Good mesh jackets combine mesh panels with more protective materials at impact zones like shoulders and elbows13.
Cotton > Comfort and Style
Cotton motorcycle jackets offer comfort and versatility but less protection than leather or technical textiles. They’re usually light and breathable with excellent water resistance when layered with waterproof material1.
SA1NT’s Unbreakable Jacket combines cotton denim with Dyneema fibers to create a jacket that looks like normal denim but offers “ultra-robust levels of protection”11. This innovative approach gives riders the casual look of denim with much better crash protection.
Protection Features > Beyond Materials
Armor and Impact Protection
Regardless of the outer material, effective motorcycle jackets include:
- CE-rated armor at shoulders and elbows
- Back protector (or pocket for one)
- Reinforced stitching at seams
- Additional padding at impact zones79
The best jackets feature CE Level 2 armor, which provides superior impact absorption compared to Level 16.
Weather Protection
Modern motorcycle jackets often include:
- Removable thermal liners for cold weather
- Waterproof membranes or treatments
- Ventilation systems for temperature regulation
- Adjustable features for changing conditions23
“Goretex is worth every penny to get home and be dry,” one rider commented on Reddit12.
Jacket Types > Purpose-Built Design
Sport/Racing Jackets
Sport jackets feature:
- Snug, aerodynamic fit
- Pre-curved sleeves for aggressive riding positions
- Premium protection at slide zones
- Minimal bulk for speed-focused riding3
The Dainese Super Speed 4 Leather Jacket represents the pinnacle of sport jacket design, offering exceptional protection for track and aggressive street riding11.
Touring/Adventure Jackets
Touring jackets prioritize:
- Relaxed fit for long-distance comfort
- Multiple pockets for storage
- Adjustable features for layering
- All-weather versatility3
The RST Pro Series Adventure III jacket has been popular with dual-sport riders, incorporating customer feedback to improve with each iteration5.
Cruiser Jackets
Cruiser jackets focus on:
- Roomier fit for upright riding positions
- Classic styling
- Comfort for leisurely rides
- Often leather construction3
Fit > Safety Through Proper Sizing
A properly fitting motorcycle jacket is crucial for safety. The jacket should:
- Fit snugly without restricting movement
- Have sleeves that reach your wrists when arms are extended
- Include adjustment points at waist, cuffs, and sometimes torso
- Allow for layering underneath in cold weather8
“Ultimately whatever you choose should fit you best. If it doesn’t fit well, it won’t protect you well,” advised one experienced rider4.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcycle_personal_protective_equipment