Speaking of motorcycle jackets, the first thing that comes to mind is the world famous Perfecto Motorcycle Jacket, or, as we are used to, the leather jacket. The first motorcycle jacket saw the light of day in 1928 at the Schott brothers' factory in the USA. It was a leather blouse made of thick bovine leather with a slanting zipper, pockets with zippers, shoulder straps with buttons and a belt. In the forties, 613 and 618 models of leather jackets were released, which became a symbol of an entire era.
How are things in motorcycle fashion now? Has the leather jacket remained in trend or has it been replaced by modern models? Let's try to understand the modern variety of motorcycle jackets and highlight the best of them.
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All equipment for motorcyclists, depending on the material used, is divided into leather and textile. It is impossible to say for sure which of them is better. Each species has a number of advantages and disadvantages, which are described in more detail below.
A leather motorcycle jacket is a win-win. She, first of all, has such qualities as wear resistance and strength, but first things first.
Thick leather, like the material for motorcycle jackets, was not chosen in vain. The most commonly used is cowhide. It is quite durable and resistant to scuffs and tears. If you fall on the asphalt in a leather product, you can be sure that it is intact. Combined with the built-in protection, the leather jacket provides a sufficiently high level of safety, even with repeated falls. In addition, they have excellent wind and moisture protection, excellent weather protection and warmth at low temperatures. However, a significant disadvantage is the inability to use them in hot weather. After all, the skin does not breathe enough to provide comfort to the body. Another feature of leather jackets is their weight. They are heavier than textile ones, which should be considered when choosing equipment for a long motorcycle trip.
All leather motorcycle jackets can be divided into two types: classic and sporty. Classic - these are the time-tested leather jackets and jackets with a straight cut, more suitable for city riding. Sports jackets have a specific cut. They have curved sleeves and may have an aerodynamic hump on the back. They are designed and sewn especially for riding a motorcycle and are inconvenient to use in everyday life.
Textile equipment is made of modern materials that can compete with leather in their properties. Textile equipment is more functional, easier to clean and can be presented in different colors.Thanks to various options for warm linings, waterproof or mesh membranes, perforations, the textile jacket can be used both in bad weather and in summer on hot days. In addition, textile equipment is lighter and has a large number of different pockets (internal and external). It is easier to care for textiles: they tolerate washing better and do not require additional maintenance.
Textile equipment is as good as leather in terms of impact protection, but it is not as resistant to sliding on asphalt. There are models of textile jackets made of high-strength Cordura and Kevlar fibers, which are as strong as leather ones. However, if only abrasions remain on leather products after a strong fall, then textile, even the most durable, are unsuitable for further use.
The division of motorcycle jackets according to the road conditions of their use is extremely conditional, but not unreasonable. So, let's figure out how the above types differ, and what are their features:
The sports motorcycle jacket is designed for use in sports and solo track riding at high speeds. Most often it is an integral part of a jumpsuit. Almost always, this equipment is made of thick leather and equipped with a developed protection system. The jacket was sewn directly for fit on a sports motorcycle and is not suitable for everyday wear.
Enduro equipment must protect from impacts when falling or from falling soil and stones from under the wheels of rivals when moving. In addition, equipment for off-road driving must protect from wind, moisture, but at the same time ensure maximum rider mobility. You can read about the best enduro motorcycles here.
An urban motorcycle jacket can be either textile or leather. Due to the fact that it is designed for city trips in which the speed of movement is limited, the degree of protection in it is much lower than in a sports one. Its main difference is that it fits perfectly into everyday life. This is especially convenient for those motorists who prefer to come to work by bike. An urban motorcycle jacket does not shock others with its appearance and does not raise unnecessary questions, especially if there is no motorcycle nearby.
The basic travel outfit is the city jacket. But there are also significant differences. First, it must be suitable for all weather: it must have a clip-on warm lining for cold weather, ventilation holes and breathable membranes for hot weather, a wind and moisture protection layer in case of rain. Secondly, it is more elongated, which protects the lower back from the wind. Thirdly, a travel jacket is characterized by a large number of pockets, both external and internal. Reflective inserts are required.
The purchase of motorcycle equipment should be approached with great care, because how easily you can handle falling and sliding on asphalt depends on it. When buying a motorcycle jacket as a piece of equipment, you should pay attention to the following points:
Here you need to take into account, first of all, the protection from shocks and falls. The level of protection is selected depending on the place of use of the equipment. Most often, protective inserts are located on the elbows, forearm, shoulders, back, chest. So an urban jacket has a minimal degree of protection compared to the rest, but it can have additional pockets for inserts, which makes it possible to make protection stronger. Sports jackets have the highest degree of protection, because they are used in motorcycle racing at high speeds or in dangerous maneuvers.
In this case, you need to consider your personal preferences. If you want to start the motorcycle season earlier, then in this case, leather equipment is perfect, which keeps heat well and reliably protects from the wind. Textile jackets, which are equipped with breathable membranes and ventilation pockets, are more suitable for trips in the warm season. For trips in the autumn-spring period, it is important to use equipment that is resistant to wind and precipitation. To do this, manufacturers use a water-repellent coating or a moisture-proof membrane, or both. Travel jackets do the best for driving in heavy rain.
A very important point, because the aerodynamic properties and, accordingly, the safety of the motorcyclist depend on this. The correct position of the protective inserts also depends on the tightness of the fit of the equipment. Also, a correct fit protects against wind blowing, which is especially important in cold weather. Therefore, it is important to carefully try on a motorcycle jacket before buying, ideally to sit at your bike and feel all the comfort or discomfort before buying. It is worth noting that travel jackets have a looser fit. At the same time, they are equipped with special ties, which allow excluding air blowing.
This point applies to those for whom a motorcycle is not just a vehicle, but a lifestyle. Motorcycle sports equipment often has a bright design, city and travel jackets are made in more relaxed colors. However, the variety of motorcycle equipment currently offered allows you to create any image: from urban macho to brutal biker.
Based on the features described above for each type of motorcycle jacket, here are the best motorcycle jackets of 2024.
Alpinestars is a manufacturer whose equipment is one of the most preferred among motorcycle enthusiasts. This jacket is for women. The cut and bright colors, coupled with quality materials, make the product indispensable for riding. Distinctive features - the presence of protective embedded parts, resistance to tears, the ability to use at different times of the year, thanks to the presence of a removable insulated lining.
The cost of Alpinestars Stella Solaris textile is 11,300 rubles.
In addition to durable textile jackets, the Italian brand also produces leather motorcycle equipment. Among them is the ATEM jacket. For its sewing, leather, 1.3 cm thick, was used. The material used is not homogeneous in its structure, there are many perforated leather inserts, and a corrugated material is used for greater comfort.
The jacket comes with straps for fixing. Pants can be attached to the jacket using the provided zipper.
The cost of an ATEM jacket is from 26,000 rubles.
By the way! In most Alpinestars jackets, including these models, the standard chest and back protector can be replaced by a Level 2 CE certified Alpinestars Bionic.
The men's jacket from the 2017 collection continues to be popular thanks to its distinctive color scheme, and this is the jacket that was introduced in limited editions in the early years of BMW Motorrad. The product combines leather, fabric and elastic inserts. It is originally intended for the enduro bike enthusiast. The product uses NLP protection.
The cost of Venture Neon BMW Motorrad - from 46,000 rubles.
A bright yellow jacket with gray and black inserts is available for both men and women. Refers to the 2017 collection, although similar models were sewn before. Designed for driving in summer and off-season. The material used is two-layer - a combination of polyamide and polyester. This provides increased durability and color brightness of the jacket. By the way, the signal colors are bright - this is a huge plus of the product. A motorcyclist wearing such equipment is clearly visible on the road, which increases the level of passive safety.
The cost of the AirShell BMW Motorrad jacket is from 31,500 rubles.
A budget model of a winter waterproof textile motorcycle jacket. It is made of durable 450D polyester with Hydroguard rain protection. A moisture-resistant membrane protects from the headwind, for the same purpose the zipper is closed with a fabric lining. Comfortable body temperature in cold weather is maintained by a heat-insulating microfiber lining. Logos act as reflectors.
Price: from 3850 rubles.
Lightweight textile motorcycle jacket for summer. Cuffs on sleeves and waist allow for a snug fit and improve aerodynamic performance.
Price: from 3990 rubles.
Ideal for driving in rainy weather. The material of the equipment is treated with waterproof impregnation, which gives 100% protection from moisture. Elasticated cuffs and a long elasticated bottom of the raincoat keep water out, even at high speeds. Side straps adjust the waist. Large reflectors at the front and rear will make the rider visible even in difficult weather conditions.
Price: from 4820 rubles.
Bright sports textile motorcycle jacket. The model is equipped with certified shoulder and elbow protectors.There is a possibility of installing protection on the back. The breathable waterproof membrane allows the jacket to be used in rainy weather, while the removable thermal insulation lining keeps the cold out.
Price: from 12,300 rubles.
Comfortable textile jacket for city driving or tourist trips. The model is equipped with certified shoulder and elbow protection, in the back area - a protective foam element. Designed for use in the off-season as well as rainy weather. The jacket is protected from moisture penetration by a waterproof membrane, and a removable thermal lining and adjustable ventilation valves are responsible for maintaining a comfortable temperature. The model is made in two colors: graphite and black.
Price: from 13,860 rubles.
Summer motorcycle jacket made of lightweight mesh material. Suitable for travel even in hot weather. In addition to comfort, this motorcycle jacket provides complete protection, which includes removable protectors on the back, chest, shoulders and elbows. All protection elements are certified. Side ties allow for adjustable fit at the waist. Velcro ties on the sleeves adjust their width.
Cost from 15300 rubles.
Textile motorcycle jacket with certified shoulder and elbow protection. Moreover, the model is equipped with a compartment for back protection. Additional protection against abrasion and tearing is provided by the water-repellent D-Synth 350 fabric, which is locally distributed throughout the product. The jacket has ventilation slots on the chest and back to ensure comfort and an acceptable temperature. There are 2 outside and 3 inside pockets. Reflective elements on the front and back.
Cost: from 17220 rubles.
Robust and functional model for extreme off-road driving and motocross. The jacket is made of waterproof and dirt-resistant material. Five of the nine pockets are waterproof. The sleeves are made of wear-resistant material, if desired, they can be unfastened, and the girth of the wrist can also be adjusted. The detachable collar can be worn over the neck protection. In addition, the model is equipped with a well-thought-out ventilation system that can be adjusted to create a comfortable environment.
Cost: from 17,990 rubles.
A leather motorcycle jacket that is suitable both for city driving and for high-speed driving on the track or during racing. The basis of this model is perforated cowhide leather with a thickness of more than 1 mm, reinforced material on the sides and in the region of the collarbones. In the area of the shoulder blades and sleeves, there is an elastic fabric that does not restrict movement. A large number of internal pockets of various sizes will allow you to place all the necessary little things. Available in red, green and gray.
Price: from 27,760 rubles.
A bright and stylish motorcycle jacket. The model is made of coarse-grained leather with a thickness of 1.2-1.4 mm. Extensive perforations, mesh inserts and ventilation panels save from overheating. A removable textile heat-insulating lining is provided for travel in cool weather. Elasticated sleeves provide comfort and freedom of movement. Available in white, black, red, blue, green and gray.
Price: from 26800 rubles.
Stylish motorcycle jacket made of high quality calfskin leather. Skin thickness 1.2-1.3 mm. The model is equipped with certified shoulder and elbow protectors. There is a pocket on the back for protection. Side ties at the waist allow you to customize the jacket to fit. Elasticated shoulder panels provide freedom of movement.
Cost: from 31,200 rubles.
Stylish leather motorcycle jacket will become an indispensable element of your style. D-skin 2.0 genuine leather is used for its sewing. Model equipped with certified composite shoulder and elbow protectors. There are carbon elastomer protection pockets as well as back protection pockets.
Cost: from 31,520 rubles.
Perforated cowhide branded motorcycle jacket. This model is a modern interpretation of the once most popular jacket from the American manufacturer. Anatomical cut provides the most comfortable fit. The back and shoulder area is protected by external titanium plates. Additional safety is provided by internal inserts made of elastic and resilient d30 material. The thermoregulation function is provided by a removable lining.
Price: from 42,390 rubles.
Summing up, I would like to say that modern manufacturers really take into account the needs of motorcycle racers and just motorists as much as possible. Nowadays, every motorcycle owner can choose equipment that matches the style not only for his motorcycle, but also reflects his own ideas about the appearance of a motorcyclist. Modern motorcycle jackets are not only protective, but also allow you to express your individuality on the road.
We reviewed the most popular motorcycle jackets from the respective consumer segment. It is very difficult to single out the best one among them. Each has a certain set of parameters that makes it the best in its direction. We have ranked all models in ascending order of value. This is due to the fact that in the case of motorcycle jackets, the most expensive is not equally the best. The budget variants also provide adequate protection for the rider in the event of a fall, but they still belong to a lesser known brand.
Finally, I would like to reiterate the main points that, first of all, should be taken into account when buying. First you need to decide on the riding style (urban, sports, motocross, enduro, long journeys) and, in accordance with it, select the level of protection and the quality of the material from which the jacket will be sewn. The second most important point is fitting - the jacket should fit snugly on you and not rotate. And only then you should think about beauty and self-expression, because motorcycle equipment is safety first, and only then style.