Motorcycle rain jackets are the difference between a miserable ride and a dry one. Shark Leathers carries waterproof over-jackets and full rain shells from Nelson-Rigg, Oxford, Macna, Leatt, Merlin, Motodry and more, covering road, adventure and hi-vis commuter applications in laminated and textile constructions.
Oxford Rainseal Over Jacket - Black
Oxford Rainseal Over Jacket - Black
Nelson-Rigg Rain Jacket SR6000 Black
MOTODRY LIGHTNING (RAIN) JACKET BLACK
Leatt RaceCover - Translucent Clear
Macna Rainwear Spray Jacket Fluro
Macna Rainwear Spray Jacket Black
How to Choose a Motorcycle Rain Jacket
A waterproof riding jacket earns its place when sealed seams, laminated membranes or hi-vis panels do what a regular textile jacket cannot. The choice is between a standalone shell worn over armoured kit, a 4-season jacket with a removable liner, or a hi-vis over-jacket for commuter visibility.
Waterproofing Standards and Visibility
Laminated membranes bond directly to the outer fabric; taped or welded seams prevent water ingress at needle holes. Hi-vis rain jackets certified to EN ISO 20471 require a minimum 0.5 m² of fluorescent background material and 0.13 m² of retroreflective tape. Nelson-Rigg's Solo Storm Hi-Viz meets this standard with 360-degree retroreflective striping for genuine low-light safety.
Rain Shell vs. Waterproof Textile Jacket
| Feature | Rain Shell | Waterproof Textile Jacket |
|---|---|---|
| Armour standard | None (layer over CE-rated kit) | EN 17092 AA or AAA rated |
| CE armour grade | Relies on underlayer | CE Level 1 or CE Level 2 |
| Seam sealing | Full seam-seal standard | Varies by model |
| Breathability | RET low to moderate | RET moderate to high |
| Pack size | Fits a tail bag | Full jacket size |
Fit and Buying Guidance
An over-jacket must fit over a full armoured jacket without restricting movement. Size up at least one full size from your normal measurement; wrist cuffs must seal over gloves to prevent sleeve ingress. Macna and Merlin engineer extended cuffs with velcro wrist seals for this overlap. Motodry's 4-season shells use a zip-out liner to cover variable-weather days without carrying a separate over-jacket. For tourers needing combined protection, choose a CE Level 2 back protector pocket and CE Level 1 shoulder armour as a minimum.
Frequently asked questions
Do motorcycle rain jackets include armour?
Most dedicated rain over-jackets do not include armour as they are designed to layer over an existing armoured jacket. Waterproof textile jackets from brands like Macna and Merlin typically include CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armour, with a pocket for an optional CE Level 2 back protector.
What is the difference between a laminated and a coated waterproof jacket?
A laminated membrane is bonded directly to the face fabric, creating a single unified layer that resists delamination and maintains breathability over time. A coated jacket applies a DWR or PU coating to the outer fabric, which is lighter but can wash out or abrade away after extended use. Laminated construction is the preferred choice for sustained heavy rain.
How do I size a rain over-jacket to fit over my riding gear?
Measure your chest over your existing armoured jacket, not over street clothing. Most manufacturers recommend sizing up one to two full sizes compared to your regular jacket. Check that wrist cuffs seal over your gloves and that the hem reaches below your waist when seated in a riding position to prevent water ingress at the hip.