Best Motorcycle Jacket – Top 5 Choices On The Market [2022 Updated]

There are a few key pieces of kit required when riding a motorcycle. Number one – a motorbike (obviously!) Number two – a helmet. Number three – protective clothing.

Whilst you may see a number of motorcyclists riding with just shorts and t-shirts, you should always be prepared in case of an accident. Therefore, motorcycle glasses, helmets and protective motorcycle jacket are essential in keeping you safe on a bike.

Of course, motorcycle training and experience help to mitigate the risk of an accident, but there is no doubt that riding motorcycles always comes with a chance of a crash.

Unlike a car, you have nothing to separate your body from the road or other vehicles on the road when you’re on a motorcycle. So, shorts and t-shirts just won’t cut it.

You must be protected against all eventualities. And, that’s not just the risk of a crash. Motorcycle jackets can protect you from the elements, such as heat, wind, rain, and snow.

After your helmet, a motorcycle jacket should be considered your best friend on a bike.

The only issue is that there are so many styles on the market to choose from. Searching through this seemingly endless wardrobe of jackets can get pretty disorientating.

And, even if a jacket looks great, it may not be as protective as you would like. So, trying to get both in one bundle can be pretty tough.

That is where we step in! In today’s guide, we have pulled together our choice of the 5 best motorcycle jackets.

We have considered their style, protective levels, and a whole range of further features so you can consider each one. You can also check out our buyer’s guide and FAQs to help you make an educated decision on what is the best motorcycle jacket for your needs. 

Best Motorcycle Jackets – Reviews 

ScorpionExo 1909 Men’s Leather Motorcycle Jacket

First up, we have the ScorpionExo 1909 motorcycle jacket. This is a truly beautiful leather jacket, suitable for both cruisers and café racers

Some of the jacket’s most important features can be found beneath its smooth exterior. It has a removable liner, underarm panels, and a perforated torso to make it a more comfortable ride in moderate heat. Moreover, Sas-Tec Level 2 armor is present at the shoulders and elbows.

There is also the option of a back pocket for additional Sas-Tec back protection. However, this back protector is not included, so you will have to pay more for this feature.

Several riders have complained that the leather can be excessively dry. Others experienced trouble with a few of the 1909 snaps, too, particularly when they were wearing gloves.

But, aside from these complaints, the ScorpionExo 1909 Men’s Leather Motorcycle Jacket is a very stylish and, most important, protective piece of clothing to keep you safe, and looking good as you ride.

Pros

• Includes armor – good amount of protection if you fall from your motorcycle
• Super-stylish – with its soft-distressed appearance and YKK zippers, this is a very good-looking jacket, even for casual wear
• Includes vents and a removable thermal liner – helps riders manage their body heat in different conditions

Cons

• Back protector not included – need to spend extra for this feature, if required 
• Distressed leather can look quite dry – may look and feel too old, according to some customers 

Also available here

Speed and Strength Off the Chain 2.0 Men’s Textile Jacket

Next up, we have a jacket from a well-respected brand, Speed And Strength. This company offers a range of multifunctional jackets at affordable prices for new riders. And, this Speed and Strength Off the Chain 2.0 Men’s Textile Jacket is no different.

The Off The Chain 2.0 is made with a water-resistant nylon-cotton combination, so you can remain dry in wet weather conditions. A

lso included are removable guards on the elbows, shoulders, and spinal region for full protection. The fact they can be removed means you can choose whether you want to keep them for extra protection when riding, or wear the jacket casually, out and about.

In addition to these features, this jacket also comes with a removable hooded liner that you can wear in chilly weather. Just be warned as many customers have recommended that you should size up  because this jacket typically runs quite small.

Stylish, with a reflective trim, the Speed and Strength Off the Chain 2.0 textile jacket is perfect for new riders looking for their first motorcycle jacket. 

Pros

• Affordable – cheaper than many of its competitors
• Versatile – removable parts of the jacket make it ideal for all weather conditions, hot or cold
• Water-resistant – made with a nylon-cotton blend that resist water, so you can stay dry in wet weather conditions

Cons

• Sizes tend to run a bit small – may need to order a larger size than you would normally get 
• Material feels a little tough on some parts – may experience rubbing in certain areas

Also available here

ALPINESTARS OSCAR CHARLIE (TECH-AIR) JACKET

Many believe that AlpineStars’ Oscar Charlie jacket is the greatest café racer jacket currently on the market. And, we would have to agree. 

This jacket, made by the world-renowned brand AlpineStars, is part of their esteemed, and retro Oscar lineup.

Wonderfully blending the vintage style of jackets, loved by many around the world, with the most modern safety standards, this jacket sports a full-grain leather outer shell for style and protection.

It also includes a pre-curved build that hides AlpineStars’ Bio Light elbow, which is removable, and its shoulder armor. There is also space for a back protector from Astar.

Compatible with the state-of-the-art Tech-Air wireless smart airbag system from AlpineStars, the protection this jacket offers is one of the best on the market.

However, you will have to purchase this separately, but it can be switched for any kind of Tech-Air garment that is compatible with the jacket.

With an adjustable waist zipper, this jacket can fit most body shapes. And, once you wear it, you can be assured that you are well protected and looking smart.

Pros

• Premium full-grain leather – top-quality leather jacket for long-lasting use
• Ventilation – built-in perforated leather zones to keep you ventilated in hot weather
• Removable shoulder and elbow protectors – can wear the jacket casually if you liked

Cons

• Tech-Air wireless smart airbag system not included – need to pay extra for this feature 

Also available here

DUCHINNI Unisex-Child JAGO Youth Motorcycle Jacket

This one is a little different as it is designed for younger motorcycle passengers. Safety is essential for all motorcycle riders, but especially for children. 

The Duchinni Jago jacket incorporates numerous characteristics found in adult jackets, including liners that are waterproof and insulated, vents for comfort in hot weather conditions, and removable shoulder and elbow protection armor.

This jacket is also safe for machine washing and handwashing, so keeping it clean should be no trouble. And, if a sudden downpour occurs whilst out on the bike, its waterproof material will keep the little rider dry and comfortable. 

As with any example of children’s apparel, size matters greatly. Thankfully, the Jago has adjustable sleeves to accommodate a developing rider. However, ordering the right size can be somewhat difficult at first.

Overall, though, this Duchinni Jago youth motorcycle jacket is an affordable, yet high-quality piece of equipment to keep young riders as safe as possible on the bike. 

Pros

• Waterproof – keeps the rider warm and dry in wet conditions 
• Good amount of armor – provides a good amount of protection for young riders
• Insulated liners – versatile jacket that can keep riders warm in cold climates but, its built-in vents also help them cool off on hot rides 

Also available here

Joe Rocket Atomic Men’s 5.0 Textile Motorcycle Jacket

Our final choice today for the best motorcycle jacket is one of Amazon’s best-sellers. And, when you start to inspect its safety features, and price tag, this is no surprise.

The Joe Rocket Atomic 5.0 Textile Motorcycle Jacket combined a Hitena outer shell with a waterproof treated Rock Tex to provide maximum resistance to impacts on the road.

It also comes with a very accessible C.R. approved shoulder and elbow armor for full protection to these areas of the body. You can even remove certain parts of the armor, such as the spinal component.

You can also opt for an optional C.E. spine protector, but this will cost extra.

It’s important to keep your body temperature at a healthy level when riding. This is why so many jackets come fitted with ventilation systems. And, this Joe Rocket jacket is no exception.

It has a variable flow ventilation system, as well as waterproof zippers, to help you maintain a healthy body temperature in different weather conditions. It also has cross-linked ventilation combined with a wind tunnel cooling feature that is state-of-the-art. 

Waterproof, protective, and comfortable. There’s not much more you want from a motorcycle jacket. Oh, and it’s affordable too. What’s not to like?

Pros

• Waterproof – keep you dry in wet conditions
• Removal spine armor – can wear this jacket casually without the discomfort of the spine armor
• Flow ventilation system – helps you maintain a healthy body temperature in hot and cold conditions 

Cons

• Need to buy sine protector separately – the spine protector is not included with the price of the jacket

Also available here

Buyer’s Guide

Now we have taken a look at the best motorcycle jackets on the market today, you’ve probably already seen one you like the look of. But, before you put your money on the table, there are a few factors to consider first.

Below are the most important features to look out for in a the best motorcycle jacket. Keep these in mind when buying your next jacket, whether that is online or in store.

Materials 

The material of a jacket is crucial to its overall quality. Breathability, weather, durability, and resistance to abrasion are all determined by the type of material used to make the jacket.

High-tech materials, such as Dyneema, Cordura, GORE-TEX membranes, and Kevlar have all worked their way into the construction of biker jackets.

The procedures utilized in the manufacture of a jacket can have a significant impact on its overall quality, so ensure yours is made with the best-quality materials out there. 

Armor 

Integrated armor is essentially interior cushioning that provides adequate impact protection in the event of an accident. While any type of armor is preferable to no armor, there are various brands and varieties available, such as SAS-TEC, and D30.

These are graded using a unique level numbering system, which you must study before purchasing a motorbike jacket.

In the event of falling off a motorcycle, your shoulders and elbows are most likely to come into contact with the ground. This is why motorbike jacket armor typically protects the shoulders and elbows.

But, make sure you find a jacket that includes armor that also protects the spine and/or chest. If not, the injuries could be catastrophic.

Type of Riding (Application)

We are not here to tell you what the best motorcycle jacket is, overall. This is because the best does not exist! Instead, there are motorcycle jackets that specialize in certain situations.

Obviously, a piece of equipment that lends itself to track use is unlikely to be suitable for off-road use, and vice versa. Consider the type of motorcycle you ride or will be riding, your riding application and your riding style to determine which jacket style is best for you.

Versatility 

By utilizing certain liner and modular shell systems, various motorcycle jackets can be tailored to a wide range of riding circumstances. This includes different weather conditions, such as rain, wind, and snow, and different climates.

Many modern motorcycle jackets come with removable liners. In fact, these are now typical on the majority of mid to high-end riding jackets, so bikers can cool down in hot climates or stay warm in colder conditions. 

Ventilation 

The elements that help protect riders from impacts, and abrasions, by the armored tend to come with layered features. These elements, although essential, can also make for a hot and uncomfortable piece of apparel. This is why proper ventilation is essential.

The utilization of open and closable flaps, as well as perforated or mesh parts, all create ventilation, which helps to maintain a cool temperature. You may come across exhaust ports in some high-end jackets, too.

These are an important consideration, as having one or more of them will enable for improved breathability, especially when compared to jackets with simple ventilation intakes.

Amenities And Features

In recent years, a host of revolutionary innovations in the motor jacket sector have expanded utility. This has led to vastly improved safety features in some areas. Certain examples are removable liners, hydration reservoirs, sections to attach additional pieces of protection, loops and/or zippers for attachment to biking pants, and interchangeable sliders. 

Perhaps the biggest breakthrough, so far, though, is the smart wireless airbag system.

This provides the best protection ever experienced in the motorcycling industry and is sure to save many lives in years to come. Although this feature usually comes with an additional cost, you can not put a price on your safety. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are Men’s Motorcycle Jacket Models Available For Women, Too? 

The majority of motorcycle jackets are labeled unisex, but there are others that come in men’s and women’s models. When looking for a woman’s jacket, it’s essential to conduct a little more research to see if the jacket is designed exclusively for women or not. When you find the perfect women jacket for yourself you can match it with women’s motorcycle boots.

Fittings are different for men and women and a man’s jacket may be too large for some women and, therefore, its protective qualities may be weakened.

And, it may also be less comfortable. Take some extra care and attention. It will matter in the end.

Are There Cheap Motorcycle Jackets Available On The Market?

That depends on how you define cheap or pricey. Even relatively low-quality jackets, such as those with fewer amenities and less protection, can cost upwards of $100.

In light of this, and given the necessity of motorcycle safety gear, you shouldn’t go for a safety jacket, or safety helmet, just because it’s cheap. Look for the one with the best protection.

Even if it’s a bit too pricey, it is better to spend now than pay later. 

Do I Really Need a Motorcycle Jacket? 

The short answer is – yes. You should have a motorcycle jacket, at least as an option, for when you’re going riding. And, it’s not all to do with protection against crashes.

Riders in hotter climates can benefit from vented jackets, but they can also opt for a motorcycle vest or padded shirt, if they prefer.

For their lightness and flexibility, most dirt and motocross riders tend to favor armored mesh shirts. But, the more protection you have, the safer you will be.