Every year, many motorcyclists become involved in road accidents. Over 50% of accidents tragically end lives, about 30% turn people into disabled people, and only in 20% do riders escape with fear and the ability to draw conclusions from the situation. Wearing motorcycle equipment allows you to increase your survivability on the road. For most, it is limited to just one helmet. This decision is fundamentally wrong.

A motorcycle jacket is the main component of equipment, as it covers the maximum area of ​​the body. The safety of the rider depends on its quality.

What should a motorcycle jacket be like?

Based on the main task of protection, certain requirements are imposed on it:

• the presence of protection for the back, chest, elbows, and shoulders. They are located in strictly designated areas and do not slide when moving;
• resistance to abrasion when sliding on asphalt;
• waterproof and windproof;
• stylish, convenient and comfortable.

Regardless of the price and quality of equipment, leather and textile jackets stand out. For several decades, there has been a debate among adherents of the groups as to which is better. There is no definite answer today. Each has its own irrefutable advantages and disadvantages.

Leather motorcycle jackets

Classic option. They have existed almost since the advent of motorcycles. It is characterized by such qualities as high wear resistance and strength. Cow leather is used as raw material. It is durable and will withstand abrasions and tears. A high level of protection is achieved not only due to the thickness of the raw materials. The cut and quality of stitches play an important role. This is due to the fact that to ensure safety, it is necessary that not only the material itself, but also the seams themselves, withstand the impact.

Leather allows you to start the motorcycle season earlier than the rest and end it when textile adherents have long ago put their iron horses into hibernation. They will warm you on a cold day when moving in the off-season and protect you from headwinds.

But it is necessary to remember that movement on a hot summer day will be significantly complicated. Compared to textiles, leather does not breathe. As a result, a comfortable ride is impossible. If you don't get rid of your jacket in such weather, the motorcyclist may even become ill.

There are two types:

• classic. With a straight cut and biker jackets for moving around the city. Well known to all fans of feature films, it is this kind of jacket that bikers are depicted wearing, riding around the city on majestic choppers and cruisers;
• sports. Specific products not intended for everyday use. They have special curved sleeves and in some cases an aerodynamic hump on the back.

Advantages:

• wide selection of styles and colors;
• repairable;
• soft and comfortable with good safety indicators;
• have proven themselves well when worn in the cold off-season;
• resistant to abrasive substances;
• create the image of a classic biker.

Flaws:

• the product is noticeably heavier than textile;
• moisture getting on the jacket is critical. The material shrinks, which makes subsequent wear less comfortable;
• Over time, the color is washed off and fades under the influence of ultraviolet radiation.

Textile motorcycle jackets

For its manufacture, modern materials are used that compete with leather and in certain moments even surpass it. These include: Kevlar, ballistic nylon, carbon, etc. Natural materials are practically not used. Despite this, all products are waterproof and well breathable. Thanks to special ventilation channels, they will be comfortable not only on a hot sunny day, but also in bad weather. Removable linings allow you to use the jacket in the cold season. They have bright and original colors. Protection and foam are placed in critical areas without losing design. Manufacturers do not stop there and improve their products every year, making them less bulky and more secure.

They share:

• Autumn. Equipped with a special thermostat. The equipment is reinforced in vulnerable places and can withstand falls on ice and more. This jacket has many pockets and special inserts on the elbows.
• Summer. They are characterized by a lightweight design, mesh inserts and ventilation channels. Due to this, the motorcyclist feels comfortable on a hot summer day. Many models are additionally equipped with rain covers.

Advantages:

• affordable price;
• it is allowed to integrate other types of protection into the product without compromising the attractive appearance;
• color and design variability;
• protection from wind and heavy rain;
• wet textiles do not shrink compared to leather;
• thanks to the ventilation channels, it seems that the jacket is made of natural material;
• abrasion and puncture resistance.

Flaws:

• bulky compared to leather jackets;
• repairing holes and damage is more difficult and reduces the service life of the product;
• When exposed to rain for a long time, the threads on the seams and lines become wet, and water penetrates inside.

Manufacturers place protective inserts on the shoulders and elbows to preserve joints, and in some cases on the chest and back. The material used can be plastic, film and metal inserts, as well as modern materials such as D30. An innovative development that is flexible and flexible at low speeds, without restricting movement. The situation changes dramatically at the moment of impact, the molecular structure becomes denser and absorbs the kinetic energy released at the moment of collision. The D30 can withstand multiple accidents, is waterproof and does not burn. Must be replaced every 3 years.

Textile

Textile products are clear proof that technology is moving forward. Every year, dozens of updated models of fabric motorcycle equipment appear on the markets, equipped with newly developed protective functions. The material itself is being reformed and is becoming cheaper, stronger and more comfortable every year.

Types of textiles

The materials from which fabric elements of motorcycle equipment can be made are no less numerous than the types of leather.

Nylon

Cordura

Jeans

Kevlar

Polyester

Motor turtle

Many riders use a tortoiseshell as an additional element of protection worn under their jacket. It represents comprehensive protection of all vulnerable points on the body, including the neck and collarbones, which is secured to elastic fabric. Combination allows you to achieve maximum security.

Can be used alone in combination with jersey and light mesh jackets in extreme heat. You should take care of your safety when riding in a jacket is unbearable.

Wearing a turtle under regular outerwear is contraindicated. The equipment has a special design and was cut using special wear-resistant materials that can withstand sliding on asphalt with minimal damage.

How to choose?

The purchase should not be treated with disdain; survival after an accident depends on how correctly the choice is made. Regardless of price, there are a number of factors to consider.

1. Under what conditions will it be used? It is necessary to focus on the degree of protection against impacts. The city jacket is not very protected, but due to the abundant number of pockets, it is possible to insert additional elements. For those who cannot imagine their life without traveling, it is necessary to pay attention to the appropriate products. Textile ones are more suitable here. This is due to the fact that such driving is fraught with frequent exposure to rain. The skin cannot withstand high humidity. The water-resistant membrane and water-repellent coating make textile jackets the best in this field. Sportswear has the highest degree of protection. Since their owners mostly drive at top speeds.
2. Climate features and personal preferences in the opening of the season. Those who hit the road in early spring should give preference to leather jackets. This is due to the fact that the skin retains heat and protects from the wind. Those living in warm regions, which are characterized by hot and sunny summers, will appreciate textile products. For the autumn-spring period, high resistance to winds and precipitation is relevant.
3. Planting density. It is as dense as possible. The aerodynamic properties, which play a decisive role for safe movement, depend on this. The jacket fits tightly on the rider, but does not restrict movement. It's comfortable. Protective elements are located strictly in appropriate places. The jacket is purchased only after detailed fitting. For travel they have a loose fit, but due to special drawstrings, air does not get inside during high-speed driving. Zippers on the sleeves and waist make it easy for the motorcyclist to remove them independently.
4. Determination of size. To do this, you need to measure your waist, chest and sleeve length. To obtain data, the breasts are wrapped with a tape at the widest point. The tape lies flat, parallel to the floor, distortions are strictly excluded. The posture is straight, the rider from whom the indicators are taken is as relaxed as possible. The waist is measured in the same way. To obtain the necessary data about the sleeve, you need to apply the tape to the collarbone and run it along the shoulder to the lower part of the wrist. The arm is slightly bent. Based on the results obtained, check the size table.

Types of motorcycle jackets according to road conditions

The division of motorcycle jackets according to the road conditions of their use is extremely arbitrary, but not unreasonable. So, let’s figure out how the above types differ, and what are their features:

• sports – used for track riding, motocross or enduro (off-road riding).

The sports motorcycle jacket is designed for use in sports and independent riding on the track at high speeds. Most often it is a component of overalls. Almost always this equipment is made of thick leather and equipped with a developed protection system. The jacket is made specifically for riding a sports motorcycle and is not suitable as casual wear.

Enduro equipment should protect against impacts when falling or from getting soil and stones from under the wheels of opponents when moving. In addition, equipment for off-road driving must protect from wind and moisture, but at the same time ensure maximum mobility for the rider. You can read about the best enduro motorcycles here.

• urban – used for traveling around the city.

An urban motorcycle jacket can be either textile or leather. Due to the fact that it is intended for travel around the city, where the speed is limited, the degree of protection in it is significantly lower than in a sports car. Its main difference is that it fits perfectly into everyday life. This is especially convenient for those motorcyclists who prefer to come to work on a bike. A city motorcycle jacket does not shock others with its appearance and does not raise unnecessary questions, especially if there is no motorcycle nearby.

• travel jacket – used on long trips.

The basis of travel equipment is a city jacket. But there are also significant differences. First, it should be suitable for any weather: it should have a snap-on warm lining for cold weather, ventilation holes and breathable membranes for hot weather, and a wind and waterproof layer for 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 best motorcycle jackets for the city and travel in 2022

Fly Racing Aurora

A bright and stylish representative of the budget line. The winter waterproof textile jacket is designed for use within the city and beyond. The material is wear-resistant polyester with a density of 450D and Hydroguard rain protection. The moisture-resistant membrane protects against oncoming wind currents. The fabric cover covering the zipper serves the same purpose. The insulating microfiber lining ensures a comfortable temperature. Logos serve as reflectors.

Fly Racing Aurora jacket

Advantages:

• waterproof pocket for gadgets;
• pockets with fleece;
• ventilation ducts for temperature regulation;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• low impact resistance.

INFERNO DARK INFLAME

The jacket from the domestic manufacturer INFLAME is aimed at consumers primarily moving around the city in the summer. Comfortable fit, impeccable design with leather inserts. The updated DARK model received a water-repellent WATERPROOF MESH. Due to zero surface tension, when caught in the rain, a motorcyclist has time to find shelter before getting wet.

The Inferno's ventilated polyconstruction will protect you from moderate impacts. The protective inserts, manufactured in South Korea by HEX, have European certification EN 1621-1. They are flexible and weightless, and are practically not felt when worn. Adjustable to fit.

INFERNO DARK INFLAME jacket

Advantages:

• reasonable price;
• reflective elements will make the motorcyclist visible at any time of the day;
• convenient pocket at the bottom of the sleeve;
• loop for attaching to motorcycle pants;
• waterproof internal pocket for storing gadgets;
• The delivery set includes additional protection elements.

Flaws:

• textile;
• not intended for driving in early spring and late autumn.

First FRM214

One of the best solutions for summer. Light, breathable material was used in its manufacture. Due to special tightening, it sits tightly on the rider and improves aerodynamic performance.

First FRM214 jacket

Advantages:

• additional protection on the shoulders;
• there are zippers and Velcro on the sleeves;
• breathable material will ensure optimal body temperature.

Flaws:

• height not less than 175 cm;
• insufficient level of protection;
• Riding in the cold season will require purchasing another jacket.

Joe Rocket Atomic 4.0

The main material for production was Rock Tex 600 (grain fabric). It is resistant to abrasion and tearing. The fabric is completely waterproof. The innovative VariableFlow ventilation system will maintain air circulation and comfortable temperatures even on the hottest days. In rainy or windy weather they close tightly. Integrated protection will take the blow if necessary.

Joe Rocket Atomic 4.0 jacket

Advantages:

• attractive price;
• stylish design;
• American brand;
• reflective elements;
• does not get wet;
• universal model;
• removable insulating lining on the sleeves.

Flaws:

• The quality of the zippers is questionable.

Kawasaki Leather Jacket

A leather motorcycle jacket from an Italian manufacturer combines sophisticated design and modern technicality. The protective role was taken on by natural cow leather with a thickness of 1.2 - 1.3 mm. The built-in protectors on the shoulders and elbows have quality certificates. The possibility of installing additional protection on the back is taken into account. The inner removable lining allows you to wear it in cold weather.

Kawasaki Leather Jacket

Advantages:

• shock-resistant;
• aggressive design;
• side ties for adjusting to size;
• elastic inserts that do not restrict movement.

Flaws:

• high price;
• Back protection must be purchased separately.

DAINESE 8-TRACK LEATHER JACKET

Comfort, high safety performance and timeless classic design are successfully intertwined in this universal jacket. Made from genuine cowhide leather. In it, the rider feels comfortable not only on country roads, but also within the city. The removable lining allows you to wear it at any time of the year. Composite protectors are EN 1621.1 certified.

DAINESE 8-TRACK LEATHER JACKET jacket

Advantages:

• vintage design;
• removable liner that can be used separately;
• pocket for back protection G1 and G2;
• reflective elements;
• neck and wrist adjustment.

Flaws:

• high price;
• in the summer, discomfort is possible due to the fact that the skin does not breathe.

Roland Sands Ronin

Timeless classic. It will not lose its relevance even after decades. The basis of the jacket was 1.2 mm cowhide. To achieve maximum strength and efficiency, it was first thoroughly washed and waxed. The extended back area allows you to look good even when sitting low on the bike.

Roland Sands Ronin jacket

Advantages:

• reinforcement of elbows, back and shoulders;
• stylish design;
• short collar and two zippered pockets on the sides;
• elongated back part for comfort on any type of motorcycle;
• internal pocket for gadgets;
• possibility of installing additional protection on the elbows, shoulders and back.

Flaws:

• unusual size chart, which differs from the generally accepted one;
• no chest protection;
• high price.

MOTEQ Bro

The model is a successful combination of strict lines with a classic cut. Cowhide was used for tailoring. The motorcycle jacket is compatible with many items of clothing. The removable thermal vest and mesh lining will keep you warm even on the coldest days.

MOTEQ Bro jacket

Advantages:

• fastening of back protection with Velcro;
• clasp in combination with two buttons on the collar;
• YKK zippers;
• Convenient external pockets.

Flaws:

• Back protection sold separately.

Moto equipment. Which is better: leather or textiles

Leather and fabric are two eternal opponents in the struggle for the best material for motorcycle equipment. Half of the bikers say they wear only leather, the other half prefer textiles. Each manufacturer is trying to prove that they have revealed the secret of ideal clothing and know what material is suitable for all motorcyclists without exception. Stores are filled with equipment made from both materials, so it can be difficult for a newbie to understand this eternal battle and take one side. Before you declare yourself a supporter of the leather or textile camp, read this article, which will prove that such a fight is pointless.

The fact is that there is no clear answer to the question of the best material. Leather and textiles perform different tasks and pursue different goals, so it is unreasonable to compare them with each other. The same person buys both leather and fabric products, it all depends on the situation. So, in order to make the right choice and not regret it in the future, find out about the features of each of these materials.

Leather goods are the eternal ideal of masculinity and style. The first examples of motorcycle equipment that appeared in stores decades ago were made of leather. But even years later, when technology has made great strides forward, leather protection does not lose popularity and remains an essential wardrobe item for many motorsports enthusiasts.

Types of leather

Leather is used as the basis for leather motorcycle clothing:

Basically, there are no differences between different types of skin, but some animals have distinctive skin features. Kangaroo leather is highly wear-resistant and at the same time lighter compared to other materials. Cattle leather (cows, buffalos) is one of the most elastic materials, which attracts lovers of comfort. Pigskin is inferior in strength to other types of leather, so it is more often used in additional elements of equipment, for example, in linings. Foal skin is considered an elite material for privileged protection products.

Over the past 5 years, artificial synthetic leather has become widespread and is used in some items of equipment. In addition to the obvious advantage that the use of artificial leather is much more humane, synthetics bypass natural materials in other respects. Synthetic leather is stronger than natural leather and has better wear resistance. And besides this, synthetics are cheaper, since production requires less time and money. Most leather protective products use faux leather in the form of inserts in areas of the greatest wear. Synthetics protect better and save on clothing production.

Advantages

The main advantage of leather, which is why it is still so popular, is its style. Black leather looks impressive both in winter and summer

, regardless of the brand of motorcycle or the professionalism of the rider. Leather motorcycle gear is a tribute to tradition and time, and is also a great way to create the image of a “cool biker.”

Leather is stronger than fabric.

It is wear-resistant and resistant to friction on asphalt. This means that if you fall at a speed of up to 120 km/h - the speed bikers reach while riding around the city - the leather equipment will not be worn through to holes, but will remain suitable for further use. Of course, it all depends on the conditions in which the fall occurred, but more often than not, leather products remain intact and do not fall apart.

During serious accidents, it happens that the motorcyclist slides on the asphalt for a long time, and the number of injuries received by the driver depends on how quickly the protection wears out. Leather takes longer to rub than fabric

, that’s why overalls for motorcycle tracks are made from it. So, if a biker is likely to slip on uneven roads, he is more likely to vote for leather.

Unlike textiles, leather tends to stretch.

Therefore, for example, if you bought a leather jacket that is the wrong size, you will not have to hem it like a fabric one - over time, the leather itself will stretch to the desired size. In addition, due to its density, leather is more elastic than textiles, so during windy weather it will not develop and annoy the driver.

Flaws

Despite its popularity and mass love, leather has a long list of disadvantages.

The skin is uncomfortable.

Elasticity, which is listed as an advantage, also has a downside. The skin fits the body too tightly, new equipment made from this material sticks to the arms and legs and restricts movement. It takes time for the leather to break in and fit on the driver's figure. Until that time comes, the skin will chafe and cause discomfort. Then there will be a blissful period when leather clothes fit perfectly, and then the skin will begin to sag. With prolonged use, natural leather stretches and sag, and then you have to monitor whether the protection has moved out of the right places. If the protective inserts begin to dangle and are not in the right places, hem them or make an external tightening. It is dangerous to use equipment with loose inserts.

Leather is expensive.

Since to obtain natural leather it is necessary to raise and fatten an animal, the price of leather products exceeds the cost of fabric protection. Synthetically created leather is cheaper, but still not as cheap as, for example, Kevlar or Cordura. If you find a model whose cost is lower than average prices on the market, check whether it complies with GOST standards.

How to care for your skin

Before you buy leather gear, remember the rule: do not wash leather in the washing machine. If this arrangement does not suit you, choose a different material for clothing. Machine washing has a destructive effect on the leather: it becomes fragile, cracks, and loses color. Jackets and pants that are washed by hand last 2-3 times longer than products that have been washed by washing machines. The only part of leather gear that doesn't suffer from machine washing is the fabric lining. Regular washing will not harm the lining unless the manufacturer indicates otherwise on the label.

Instead of washing, clean the leather with special foam cleaners that destroy dust and dirt without harming the material. Such cleaners are sold in shoe stores and cost no more than 500 rubles. When purchasing, please note that different types of foam cleaners are used for colored and black leather.

If your skin gets wet during the rain, and it gets wet in 15-30 minutes, under no circumstances dry it with a hairdryer, radiator or heater. This type of treatment will cause the skin to crack and become rougher. Instead, hang your wet gear on a hanger in a dry place and leave it there until completely dry. If the leather does not have moisture protection, try to wet it as little as possible. To keep sweat out of your jacket, place a long-sleeve T-shirt under it to wick moisture.