THE 5 BEST MATERIALS FOR MOTORCYCLE JACKETS

Q: WHICH FABRIC PROVIDES THE BEST PROTECTION FOR MOTORCYCLE RIDERS?

Leather provides the best abrasion resistance and overall protection for motorcycle riders - there's a reason why it's a classic. In saying that, the latest composite fibers are still impressive and the gap between the two has decreased over time. Space-age denim made from Dyneema, for example, still gives riders unreal levels of crash protection. You'd be selling it short to call it a leather jacket substitute. Cotton biking jackets generally have the lowest rated safety features compared to leather and textiles. You can always check the safety ratings of a jacket you're interested in, which should as a minimum be CE certified and include armor pockets. For an explanation of safety ratings, we cover it in our article 6 Things You Need to Know When Buying a motorcycle Jacket.

Q: WHAT FABRIC DO BIKERS USE?

Bikers use a variety of fabric when riding their motorbikes. The beauty of motorcycling is that every rider can express their individuality in their own way. For some, this means throwing on a vintage leather jacket and tearing up the road like there's no tomorrow. For others, a casual denim jacket is all they need to kick their riding weekend off in style. It's a cop-out but there really is no one stand-out material. As a motorcyclist, you have the freedom to choose the gear you feel at home with. It's going to take some time and research to figure out what that is, but sometimes it's as simple as following your heart.

Q: WHAT ARE SOME HIGH VISIBILITY OPTIONS?

Let's face it, most drivers aren't looking out for oncoming motorcycles in their side mirrors. Bikers have always faced a lack of respect on the road, which we all know is because everyone else is just jealous. In one case study, it was found that high-visibility clothing reduced accidents by 37%. By making yourself as clear and visible as possible, you're putting the odds in your favor of other drivers spotting you before they decide to do something stupid. You won't have any issues finding a high-visibility motorcycle jacket, but the problem is they often look a bit tacky. Most jackets immediately lose their cool factor if they're reflective, but thankfully you can find plenty of ways around this issue. The most popular method is to throw a high-vis vest on top of your riding jacket. It's an inexpensive, practical solution that can easily fit into the boot of your bike.

Q: ARE TEXTILE MOTORCYCLE JACKETS WARM?

Textiles are incredibly versatile, so you can find a motorcycle jacket that's suitable for just about any condition. Denim jackets keep you nice and warm without feeling like you're getting suffocated and can include extra jacket features like removable thermal liners to keep you extra toasty. One step further would be a water-resistant option like our Armored Puffer Jacket. It has a water-shedding DWR coating, a waterproof/windproof internal membrane, and synthetic filling for warmth. An added bonus is that puffers go with just about everything.

Q: DO YOU NEED TO WEAR BODY ARMOR ON A MOTORCYCLE?

Body armor is one of the most essential components of rider protection. Whether you're riding all day or just driving up to the shops, you should never get on a motorcycle without some armor. When things go random on the road, your bones and joints are at serious risk of injury. You would never think to jump on your bike without a helmet, so does it make sense to keep the rest of your body safe as well? A good biking jacket should always include armor pockets on the shoulders, elbows, and along the back. If it doesn't have any of these you should move on. The latest armor technology is slim so it won't feel bulky underneath your jacket. D30 Ghost Armor has a lightweight design that's so comfortable you might even forget it's there. For a deeper dive, you can check out our detailed Guide to Motorcycle Armor.

Q: WHICH JACKET IS BEST FOR BIKE RIDING?

As stated further above, we rate the Unbreakable Denim Jacket as the best overall jacket for bike riding. However, motorcyclists are a fiercely independent group who might choose to do things their own way. Some riders buck the trend of jackets entirely and rock a Denim Moto Vest instead. Riding vests are great because they can be worn in any weather. Hot summer day? You'll be cool as a cucumber. Middle of winter? Layer some clothes underneath and you're good to go. There's never been a more exciting time to own a motorcycle. The insane range of gear at our fingertips makes it easier than ever to strike that ultimate balance between chaos and control.

Q: WHY CAN'T I JUST WEAR A THICK JACKET?

There's no substitute for real motorcycle gear. It's a cliché, but your clothing is the only thing between you and the road in a crash, so you want to be damn sure it's up to the job. In an accident at 60km/h, a highly rated motorcycle jacket will protect you for 2.37 seconds while a casual hoodie lasts just 0.03 seconds before it bursts open according to the TAC. If you need further proof, feel free to read some crash stories from riders who walked away in one piece thanks to our gear. Motorcyclists are risk-takers at heart, and the best riders can flirt with danger while still being masters of their own destiny. Riding gear is your way of taking the reins and staring chaos right in the eye. Check out our range of Tough Motorcycle Jackets to find out best what suits your style.

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