When it comes to motorcycle riding, a jacket serves as more than a fashion statement—it’s a crucial component of your safety gear. From offering protection against the elements to enhancing your visibility on the road, a good jacket can be a lifesaver—quite literally—in the event of an accident. With so many options available, the choices can be overwhelming. Material, fit, ventilation, and additional safety features are all elements that need to be weighed carefully. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the process of choosing the right motorcycle jacket.

 

Material Matters: Leather vs. Textile vs. Kevlar®
 

Leather

Leather has been the quintessential material for motorcycle jackets for decades. Its high resistance to abrasion provides unparalleled protection against road rash and skidding incidents. The jacket's leather exterior serves as a second skin, offering a natural defense mechanism. Moreover, leather tends to mold to your body shape over time, offering a custom fit that gets better with each wear. However, one downside to leather is its weight and lack of breathability, which may make it less ideal for hot weather. Browse our extensive leather jacket collection to explore various designs and fits.
 

Textile

Textile jackets are constructed from synthetic materials like nylon or polyester. They're extremely versatile, often water-resistant, and can offer excellent protection in varied weather conditions. Modern textile jackets are engineered to provide respectable abrasion resistance without sacrificing comfort. The lightweight and breathable nature of textile jackets make them ideal for hot and humid climates. Don't forget to check out our innovative textile jackets which blend protection with comfort.
 

Kevlar®

Kevlar® is the new kid on the block when it comes to motorcycle jacket materials. The synthetic fiber is incredibly strong, offering excellent abrasion and tear resistance. Because of its properties, Kevlar® is often used in bulletproof vests and similar protective gear. When used in motorcycle jackets, it's usually incorporated into high-impact zones like shoulders, elbows, and back. Kevlar is also lightweight, providing a comfortable and less bulky alternative to leather and textile. For those who seek a blend of modern technology and protection, explore our Kevlar® motorcycle jacket range.

 

Types of Motorcycle Jackets

Cruiser

Designed for long, relaxed rides, cruiser jackets are all about comfort and style. The fit is generally more loose compared to racing jackets, allowing for greater freedom of movement. Pockets are usually abundant, providing ample space for essentials like wallets, smartphones, and perhaps a snack for the road. We offer a wide range of cruiser jackets that balance comfort with undeniable style.
 

Racing

Built for speed, racing jackets are form-fitting to reduce drag, and they are often made from materials that can withstand high-speed abrasions. The snug fit ensures that the built-in armour stays in place during a fall, offering maximum protection. These jackets are most suited for aggressive riding styles and often come in vibrant colors for better visibility. Our racing jacket collection offers cutting-edge technology built for speed and safety.
 

Adventure/Touring

Adventure jackets are the multitaskers of the motorcycle jacket world. They offer a mix of weather protection, ventilation, and storage options, making them ideal for long journeys across varied terrains. These jackets often come with multiple layers, including a water-resistant outer layer and a thermal inner layer, each removable to adapt to changing conditions. Visit our Adventure/Touring Jackets section to find gear that can adapt to your adventurous spirit.

 

What to Look for in a Jacket
 

Fitment

A proper fit is crucial in ensuring that your jacket’s safety features function correctly. A jacket that's too loose may lead to armour shifting during a fall, while a too-tight jacket can restrict your range of motion. Always try jackets with the kind of innerwear you'll typically sport while riding. For more information on sizing, see our fitting guide.

Ventilation

Riding in warm or tropical climates can quickly turn into an uncomfortable and tiring experience without the right jacket ventilation. To tackle this issue, many modern jackets come equipped with zippered air vents, offering a balanced combination of airflow and safety. In climates characterized by high temperatures or humidity, choosing a well-ventilated jacket becomes a crucial part of your riding gear.

Protection

Safety should always be at the forefront of your decision-making process when choosing a motorcycle jacket. While CE-rated armour is generally considered the industry benchmark for impact protection, it's essential to ensure your jacket features adequate padding or armour, especially in critical zones like the shoulders, elbows, and back. Most jackets are designed with pockets specifically for CE armour inserts, making it easy to remove, replace, or even upgrade the armour. While many jackets come standard with level 1 armour, some offer the premium option of level 2 armour for enhanced protection. If your jacket comes with level 1, remember that you can always upgrade to level 2 armour for increased safety. For a comprehensive look at armour options, please refer to our Protective Gear section.

Now you know

Selecting the ideal motorcycle jacket requires a thoughtful analysis of several elements, such as your specific riding habits, the weather conditions you usually encounter, and your own sartorial tastes. Investing time into this choice will not only elevate your overall riding experience but also contribute to your road safety. At Shark Leathers, we offer a handpicked range of jackets designed to meet the diverse needs of every rider. Additionally, we understand that off-the-shelf options may not suit everyone; that's why we specialize in crafting custom gear. Whether you struggle with finding the right fit or have a specific design in mind, our custom solutions ensure that you don't have to compromise on style or safety. If you'd like to know more about our custom gear or have any questions, feel free to contact us