Though many think of leather jackets with lots of snaps and zippers like the Fonz once wore, these jackets now come in a variety of different styles. Some feature bright colors and extra padding, while others come with zippered pockets and more traditional materials.
The first and most important purpose of a motorcycle jacket is for protection. That’s why realized that there was no one perfect jacket.
There simply wasn’t one jacket that was right for all riders. That is why we divided our list into the top leather, textile, mesh, 4-season and adventure jackets. View our list on Amazon.com to see top brands like Alpinestars, Spidi, Klim and even BMW represented.
Best Motorcycle Jacket: Leather
| Rank | Product | Review Score | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  |
Alpinestars GP Plus Leather Jacket | 9.7 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |  |
Dainese Super Speed D1 Leather Motorcycle Jacket | 9.6 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |  |
Spidi Warrior Pro Leather Jacket | 9.2 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |  |
Xelement B7496 Bandit Mens Retro Brown Motorcycle Jacket | 9 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |  |
Hot Leathers Classic Motorcycle Jacket with Zip Out Lining | 8.9 | Buy on Amazon |
Best Motorcycle Jacket: Textile
| Rank | Product | Review Score | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  |
Alpinestars Tech ST Gore-Tex Men’s Jacket | 9.8 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |  |
Firstgear Kathmandu Motorcycle Jacket | 9.6 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |  |
Klim 4052-000-160-000 Badlands Jacket | 9.4 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |  |
Richa Spirit C-Change Motorcycle Jacket | 8.9 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |  |
Scorpion XDR Yukon – Mens Touring Motorcycle Jacket | 8.6 | Buy on Amazon |
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Jacket
Type
The first thing you want to look for is a motorcycle jacket built around how you ride. Adventure jackets, also known as off-road jackets, are perfect for those who spend a lot of time off the beaten track, while a textile jacket won’t weigh you down. Leather jackets let you rock a classic look, but you may want a lightweight mesh jacket for riding in the summer or a 4-season jacket for using all year long.
Fit
The best Motorcycle jacket tend to fit a little tighter than traditional jackets do, which offers protection when you skid or slide off your bike. It’s important that you look at how the jacket fits you though. It should fit tightly but offer enough freedom of movement that you don’t feel pinned down.
Air Flow System
Those who ride their bikes in areas where the temperatures are high should invest in a jacket that comes with a built-in air flow system. This allows more air to flow over your body and helps you stay cooler. Many jackets include mesh panels and panels made from other lighter materials.
Padding
The best motorcycle jackets are jackets designed for one thing: protection. They will have padding on the upper back or shoulders and around the elbows. These are the more sensitive parts of your body and the parts that need additional protection.
Some jackets come with even more padding that acts like body armor during an accident. Armor is super important against road rashes and injuries from falls. You can never be too safe!
Number of Pockets
Anything you carry in your pants pockets can get in your way while riding a bike, which is why you need a jacket that has two or more pockets. Most feature pockets on the front, but others come with more pockets along the sides. This gives you more room to store your wallet, keys and phone.
Location of Pockets
The location of those pockets is just as important as the number of pockets on the jacket. A zippered pocket on the shoulder or arm ensures that your belongings don’t pick you as you ride. You’ll also find jackets with pockets near the hem.
Construction
When you wipe out on your motorcycle, you want a jacket that offers protection, which will include seams that don’t split or break. The jacket should have strong seams on all impact points, including the elbows, back and shoulders. Those are the points that will hit the ground the hardest.
Color
Though you may not think color is important, it becomes important when others cannot see you on the road. Wearing primarily neutral colors that blend into the surrounding environment can cause accidents because other drivers do not notice you. Wearing darker or brighter colors that stand out from the environment can help prevent those incidents.
Lining
Another helpful feature to look for is the lining used in the jacket. Some of the best coats come with a removable lining that you can take out and put back in later. That liner will help you stay comfortable when riding in both cooler and warmer weather.
Reflective Areas
Consider choosing a jacket that comes with one or more reflective areas or patches too. Those patches will catch the headlights of cars passing by and help drivers clearly see you, another important feature for protection.
Top Leather Motorcycle Jackets
1. Milwaukee Leather Men’s Classic Police Style Motorcycle Jacket
When you think about motorcycle jackets, you immediately think of the classic police style leather jackets. Leather jackets have been seen as the best motorbike jackets for the longest time, as leather provides excellent protection against abrasions.
One leather jacket that could meet your requirements is the Milwaukee leather jackets. The leather jacket is made from the finest premium milled cowhide, which makes it look and feel considerably different from the average textile motorcycle jacket.
The Milwaukee leather motorcycle jacket also has a bunch of functional pockets. When you choose this leather motorcycle jacket, you can count on a concealed gun and ammo pocket, electronic media pocket, zippered pockets and more.
2. HWK Men’s Leather Motorcycle Jacket In Café Racer Style
HWK does not solely provide textile motorcycle jackets, as they also have a range of leather motorcycle jackets as well. One beloved leather jacket from their range is the Men’s Leather Motorcycle Jacket in Café Racer style.
The Men’s Leather Motorcycle Jacket is made from 100% genuine leather and also comes with a lifetime warranty. Since a leather jacket can require more of an investment, this is quite the interesting property indeed. Still, always make sure you get this warranty from the seller you purchase from.
Another interesting feature of the Men’s Leather Motorcycle Jacket from HWK are the rust-free zippers and the buttons. Since the buttons and the zippers must meet the durability of the leather as well, HWK has made the right decision.
Evidently, the leather jacket has a reputation of being less than breathable. Fortunately, HW catered for that and ensured that their jacket could be worn in hot weather too. They did this by adding a removable thermal lining and attached micro mesh. In other words, the motorcycle jacket is suitable for both winter and summer.
3. Viking Cycle Angel Fire Premium Grade Cowhide Leather Motorcycle Jacket
When you want value for money where your motorcycle jacket is concerned, then you should look in the Angel Fire Jacket from the Viking Cycle brand. Made from a high-quality leather that is somehow smooth as well as thick and sturdy, you will not get more comfortable than this motorcycle jacket.
One of the interesting features about this jacket is that you can ride with headphones easier, as it comes with its own headphone wire system. It also comes with a sturdy zipper, which means this option is made to stand the test of time, even though it is one of the more affordable jacket options out there.
When you decide to choose the Angel Fire Jacket, please note that customers have reported that this jacket can be rather on the small size. To make sure it fits you properly, it is recommended to choose a jacket one size bigger than your regular size.
4. AXE Leather Motorcycle Jacket
If you like to try something different than the established brands we mentioned earlier, we recommend looking into the AXE Leather Motorcycle Jacket. The jacket is made from genuine cowhide leather, which provides excellent properties such as durability and safety.
Despite being a newcomer on the market, the AXE jacket does come with some brilliant safety features most motorcyclists will appreciate greatly. The jacket has reflective stripes on the arm and the back, ensuring you remain visible at all times. AXE has also made sure that there is armor in the shoulder with some additional ventilation, ensuring this option remains comfortable in fluctuating temperatures.
One of the downside to this particular jacket is that it does not come with a removable lining. Since leather can already be warm, being able to remove lining can be quite beneficial. Nevertheless, many bikers like this option for their rides throughout the year.
5. Viking Cycle Biker BloodAxe Armor Protection
When you are looking for a combination of style and functionality, you could consider the BloodAxe jacket from Viking Cycle. The jacket provides outstanding durability and added protection, so it is an option to look into.
Interestingly, the BloodAxe Armor Protection Jacket is made from 100% Buffalo Leather. This kind of leather has some amazing features; this includes weather and wrinkle resistance. The manufacturer has also managed to deliver an outstanding style with this one, so you can go on a bike ride where you keep on looking stylish.
Finally, Viking Cycle has contributed to the overall functionality of this jacket by choosing multiple pockets; this includes four external and two internal pockets. So, no matter which personal items you need to keep on your person, there will be enough space!
Top Textile Motorcycle Jackets
Alpinestars Tech ST Gore-Tex Men’s Jacket
Many men and women consider textile jackets to be the best motorcycle jacket ratehr than leather jackets because models like this Alpinestars Tech ST Gore-Tex Jacket offers more freedom of movement and a more lightweight design. When you first see this jacket, you might notice that it looks more like a skiing jacket than a motorcycle jacket, but it offers all the protection that you need while being more flexible.
Adjustable straps on the back, upper arms and lower arms of the jacket let you adjust those straps for a more comfortable fit.
Made from Gore-Tex, this jacket helps regulate your temperature with an internal thermal liner that you can take out whenever you want. Built-in protectors on both the elbows and shoulders absorb some of the shock you might feel during a crash and help prevent injuries. The jacket even has a unique profile that lets you feel comfortable while riding.
View The Alpinestars Tech ST Gore-Tex Men’s Jacket on Amazon.com
Firstgear Kathmandu Motorcycle Jacket
Another suitable option for riders looking for a textile jacket is the Firstgear Kathmandu Motorcycle Jacket. Firstgear offers this jacket in sizes up to XXXL and offers a tall version in various sizes for riders who are taller than average. It comes with snaps at the top of the collar and near the hem that keep the jacket firmly closed when riding in windy conditions, and the closure on the collar adjusts to fit the exact size of your neck.
Adjustable straps on the lower sleeves, waist and near the armpits allow for a more comfortable and custom fit too. EVA foam padding comes with the jacket, and this type of foam is a little more flexible than other types as well as removable.
The jacket also comes with a rain hood hidden inside the collar and a removable backpack with a hydration bladder.
View The Firstgear Kathmandu Motorcycle Jacket on Amazon.com
Klim 4052-000-160-000 Badlands Jacket
Fans of the leather jackets made by Klim will appreciate this Badlands jacket, which users softer and more lighter weight materials, making it a great choice for those who ride in warmer climates.
The Gore-Tex jacket includes an impressive three layers of materials that keep water and moisture away from your body while regulating your body temperature to keep you from overheating. Klim added yellow accents on the zippered pocket on the arm, on the upper torso and on the jacket’s back to add to your visibility on the road.
Thanks to specially designed panels on the elbows and shoulders, you’ll stay safer too. Klim designed those panels from a material that is resistant to the abrasive materials used on the roads today. Even if you slide or skid across the road, you’ll walk away with minimal injuries and less road rash than you would otherwise have.
View The Klim Badlands Jacket on Amazon.com
Richa Spirit C-Change Motorcycle Jacket
Richa makes our list of the top textile motorcycle jackets again with its Spirit C-Change jacket, which comes in a fluorescent design made to keep you safe. Patches and panels of a neon yellow material across the front, arms and back ensure that everyone on the street will see you, but you can also select from gray and black designs. The C-Change membrane inside repels water to keep you dry and cuts back on wind resistance, and that membrane is resistant to stains too.
A removable shoft-shell liner on the inside comes out for wearing this jacket on warmer days, and you can also wear that shell as a separate lightweight jacket.
Armored panels on the elbows, back and shoulders absorb impacts, and reflective patches on the back and elbows increase your visibility and overall safety on the road. It even comes with double-sided zippers along the hem for attaching to motorcycle pants from Richa and other manufacturers. You can find the C-Change on Amazon here.
Scorpion XDR Yukon – Mens Touring Motorcycle Jacket
Touring jackets like the Scorpion XDR Yukon are great for those who like taking long and leisurely rides as well as those who like racing down the open highway. Available in sizes from small to XXXL, you can easily pick a size that fits you like a glove or provides you with enough space for wearing multiple layers on a cold day.
Made from three different layers, this jacket comes with a nylon interior that the manufacturer steam seals for extra security that is both breathable and waterproof.
A built-in kidney belt and matching straps on the elbows and upper arms give you the freedom to cinch the jacket tighter or loosen it to give you a wider range of motion. Reflective materials used on multiple areas of the jacket catch the light to increase your safety while riding at night. Scorpion even used corrosion-resistant zippers on each pocket.
View The Scorpion XDR Yukon – Mens Touring on Amazon.com
Top Mesh Motorcycle Jackets
BMW Genuine Motorcycle Riding Men’S Airflow Jacket
Suitable for wearing alone or with a pair of matching motorcycle pants, this BMW Genuine Motorcycle Riding Airflow Jacket helps you stay cool and refreshed on the track or on the open road.
The jacket actually consists of both an outer cover that is waterproof and an inner shell that you can wear separately or together. Mesh inserts across the front of the jacket increase the circulation and flow of air on hot days.
With two built-in straps, this jacket lets you wear it as a backpack to enjoy a nice day without leaving your jacket behind. Some of the other great features of this jacket include padded protectors that easily come out, five pockets on the interior and exterior and reflective patches for increased visibility.
View The BMW Genuine Motorcycle Riding Men’S Airflow on Amazon.com
Hit Air MX7 Airbag Mesh Jacket
The Hit Air MX7 Airbag Mesh Jacket is one of the few mesh jackets we came across that works just as well in spring or summer as it does in fall and winter. Hit Air guarantees that this jacket can keep you cool at temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but you can also wear it on cooler days because of the optional B-liner that fits comfortably underneath the outer shell.
Extra padding added to the shoulders and elbows features a honeycomb design that absorbs more of the hits and impacts you take to further reduce injuries.
The inflatable airbag inside the jacket actually identifies any extra pressure and will automatically inflate to protect your head, neck and torso, making for a lifesaving safety feature.
View The Hit Air MX7 Airbag Mesh Jacket on Amazon.com
MotoAir R-970 Motorcycle Airbag Jacket
Thanks to sections of neon yellow running across the chest and torso of this MotoAir R-970 Motorcycle Airbag Jacket, everyone you pass on the street can see you coming. This jacket is one of the more unique mesh jackets we came across because it comes with a built-in airbag that works with the included CO2 cartridge.
If you’re in an accident or fall off your bike, that airbag will automatically inflate to protect your torso, head, neck and shoulders.
This jacket actually consists of two different pieces. The first is an outer shell made from a polyester material that is both water-resistant and wind-resistant, and the second is an inner liner that is removable. You’ll also find adjustable straps on the waist, chest, sleeves and arms.
View The MotoAir R-970 Motorcycle Airbag Jacket on Amazon.com
Joe Rocket Velocity Men’s Mesh Riding Jacket
Joe Rocket gets some great reviews from motorcycle enthusiasts, but we ranked its Mesh Riding Jacket at the bottom of our list of the top mesh jackets because it doesn’t offer nearly as much protection as other jackets do.
Available in multiple colors and sizes up to XXXL, it features two exterior pockets and a smaller pocket on the inside. It also comes with fasteners along the hem for attaching to motorcycle pants.
The mesh shell on the outside allows for improved air circulation, while the removable liner on the inside comes off easily and is waterproof to help you stay dry. A removable spine pad adds extra padding to your back, which is helpful on longer rides. The jacket also comes with high-density padding along the ribs and more padding on the elbows and shoulders.
View The Joe Rocket Velocity Men’s Mesh Riding Jacket on Amazon.com
Xelement CF-6019-60 Invasion Neon Green Mesh Armored Motorcycle Jacket
If you need a lightweight motorcycle jacket that still offers a high level of protection, you’ll like the Invasion Neon Green Mesh Armored Motorcycle Jacket from Xelement, which gives you a full range of motion while still keeping you protected.
Level-3 armor on the shoulders, back and elbows passed a number of tests and absorbs more of the impacts that you take. Xelement also lets you remove those armored pads when needed.
Thanks to its neon green color, this jacket offers the ultimate in visibility. A removable liner inside helps you stay warmer, and that liner comes out when you release the snaps and remove the zipper. The jacket comes with adjustable straps on the arms and waist and multiple exterior pockets.
View The Xelement CF-6019-60 Invasion Neon Green Mesh Armored on Amazon.com
Top 4-Season Motorcycle Jackets
Rev’it Sand 2 Textile Motorcycle Jacket
With a lightweight design and three layers of protection, it’s no wonder why we picked the Rev’it Sand 2 as the top 4-season motorcycle jacket. Each of those layers weighs much less than you would expect, and even if you use all the layers together, you’ll still have a greater range of motion than you would in other jackets. You can use all the layers together or separately and with additional accessories from Rev’it.
The VCS zips and straps on this jacket gives you the custom fit that you’ll find with more expensive jackets, and protectors added to the pockets on the shoulders and elbows offer more protection in accidents.
Its taller collar blocks the wind off your face, and zippered pockets keep your belongings secure. Rev’it designed this jacket for wearing on its own or with motorcycle pants, which you can zip right to the hem of the jacket.
View The Rev’it Sand 2 Textile Motorcycle Jacket on Amazon.com
Joe Rocket Classic ’92 Men’s Leather Motorcycle Jacket
The next time you watch films set in the 1990s, don’t be surprised if you see a few guys walking around in jackets that look just like this Joe Rocket Classic ’92 Leather Motorcycle Jacket.
This jacket features a rich and deep shade of chocolate brown leather and cream stripes on one arm that act as reflective elements to help other riders and drivers see you. Joe Rocket uses real cowhide leather that it dyes to that dark color.
Though this jacket lacks any armor, it comes with pockets on the back, shoulders and elbows that you can use for adding your own padding. Four pockets on the outside and two additional pockets on the inside give you more storage. The jacket also comes with an interior lining that helps you stay warm, but this liner is completely removable for wearing on warmer days.
View The Joe Rocket Classic ’92 Men’s Leather on Amazon.com
Tourmaster Transition Series 4 Men’s Textile Motorcycle Touring Jacket
Tourmaster created its Transition Series 4 Textile Motorcycle Touring Jacket for those who like taking casual rides on their bikes in all types of climates and weather conditions. A ballistics-grade material used in the elbows can withstand any type of accident or fall you experience without leaving you bleeding or in pain. It also comes with a thick yet lightweight outer shell that has padding along the sensitive areas of your body.
Many of the top features of this jacket will help you relax and feel comfortable, regardless of the weather outside, like vent panels that you can open to increase air flow and close to make the jacket waterproof.
A unique panel on the back of the jacket expands and stretches to help the jacket move with you. You’ll also love the attached hood, which you can wear under your helmet to keep rain off your face and neck.
View The Tourmaster Transition Series 4 Men’s Textile on Amazon.com
Olympia Moto Sports MJ222 Men’s Dakar Dual Sport Mesh Tech Jacket
Many riders swear by Olympia Moto Sports, and one of the top 4-season jackets available from that company is this Dakar Dual Sport Mesh Tech Jacket that you can wear while riding a motorcycle, riding your motocross bike or doing other favorite activities.
Available in multiple color combinations, this jacket has a mesh air flow lining inside that helps you stay cool and dry as well as a mesh inserts on the exterior that pushes cool air in and around your body.
This makes it especially useful as a motorcycle jacket for hot weather.
We recommend the neon yellow and black model for those concerned with visibility on the road.
Custom detailing on areas of the jacket like the collar, elbows, arms and shoulder allow for a more custom fit. You can pull up on those straps to loosen or tighten the jacket based on your other clothing. The jacket also functions like a two-stage rain jacket and comes with both removable and flexible armored padding.
View The Olympia Moto Sports MJ222 Men’s Dakar on Amazon.com
Dainese Hydra Flux D-Dry Jacket
The Dainese Hydra Flux D-Dry Jacket is great for wearing in all types of weather conditions and on every day of the year. Not only does it comes with a waterproof D-Dry membrane inside that wicks away moisture and ensures that rain doesn’t stand in your way, but that membrane is completely removable for wearing the jacket on warmer or nicer days. As it weighs just three pounds, you won’t feel like the jacket is weighing you down either.
Made from a type of quick dry fabric, this jacket will dry in an hour or less after riding through a storm, and it comes with adjustable straps and pieces on the shoulders, elbows, waist and other parts of the jacket.
Lots of exterior pockets provide you with all the storage that you need, and you’ll find padded areas across the jacket that protect your body and reflective inserts that you can add and remove.
View The Dainese Hydra Flux D-Dry Jacket on Amazon.com
Top Adventure Motorcycle Jackets
Klim 2016 Adventure Rally Men’s Motocross Motorcycle Jacket
Klim has a strong reputation for making some of the best motocross jackets around, which is why we picked this Adventure Rally jacket as the best option for those who race. Even if your races take place with a group of friends, you’ll like having adjustable straps on the torso and arms for creating a comfortable fit. There are even hidden straps inside the collar that you can use for getting the collar away from your face.
A microfiber lining inside that collar reduces the risk of the collar rubbing uncomfortably against your neck as you race. Designed for use in both warmer and colder climates, the jacket comes with four intake vents on each arm that allow in more air.
You’ll also find vents on the torso, back and armpit areas that keep you from overheating(making it a great jacket for hot weather) and zippered pockets on both the front and arms for convenient storage while on the go.
View The Klim 2016 Adventure Rally Men’s Motocross on Amazon.com
Klim Badlands Men’s Dirt Bike Motorcycle Jacket
Also from Klim is this Badlands Men’s Dirt Bike Motorcycle Jacket that is perfect for any dirt bike racer or motorcycle adventure enthusiast.
If you haven’t gotten into adventure riding, consider trying it out!
This Gore-Tex jacket features three impressive layers that can keep you warm in colder climates and keep you comfortable in warmer climates. Its Hi-Vis design will keep you safe too because it comes with bright panels of yellow that are visible at all times of the day and night.
Armored panels around the waist, back and chest save on wear and tear and reduce the risk of injuries during an accident. Flat pockets on the jacket won’t get in your way and offer quite a bit of storage, and each pocket has zippered pulls that let you easily get your items out. Though Klim releases a new Badlands design every year, this 2015 model is just as effective at keeping you safe on your bike as newer models are.
View The Klim Badlands Men’s Dirt Bike on Amazon.com
Hit-Air EU6 Ultimate Airbag Jacket
For the ultimate in protection and security, try this Hit-Air EU6 Ultimate Airbag Jacket on for size. Suitable for adventure seekers of all sizes, this jacket comes in sizes small through 2XL, and you can check the sizing details to find the size that is right for your frame. A removable polyester lining inside is waterproof and can keep moisture away from your skin.
One of the more unique features of this jacket is that it comes with a hidden airbags that actually inflates during accidents and falls. This airbag pops up on the front of the jacket and sends extra air around your neck, sides, hip and chest to absorb some of the shock that you experience. That airbag doesn’t add to the jacket’s weight or look.
Suitable for daily rides and races, this jacket comes in a lighter shade of gray with a few black panels that help you stand out in any environment.
Klim 4052-000-130-500 Badlands Jacket
When your next adventure takes you to a busy recreational area or a crowded city street, you’ll love having the bright colors of this Klim jacket on your back. The Badlands model comes in a Hi-Vis design that ensures everyone can see you coming. It features bold areas made from a bright color of neon yellow that helps others see you in the middle of the day or night.
This Gore-Tex jacket comes with three layers of protection that included armor areas that keep your skin and body safe in an accident. The outer shell is waterproof and keeps snow and rain off you. Despite having so many layers, this jacket is incredibly breathable and gives you complete freedom of motion.
You’ll also like the adjustable straps on the arms that let you tighten the jacket as well as the zippered pockets on the arms and other pockets on the front for convenient storage.
View The Klim 4052-000-130-500 Badlands Jacket on Amazon.com
ScorpionExo Ravin Men’s Leather Sport Motorcycle Jacket
This ScorpionExo Ravin Men’s Leather Sport Motorcycle Jacket is perfect for adventure seekers because it has hidden pockets of padding that protect your chest, back and other sensitive spots during falls. Made from real leather, it isn’t as thick or as heavy as other leather jackets are. Perforated panels of leather along the top and front allow air to circulate around your body and keeps the weight of the jacket down.
Available in sizes ranging from small up to XXL, the jacket comes with heavy-duty reinforced stitching along the critical parts of the coat that ensure the seams don’t split. The manufacturer added a type of hard aluminum along the shoulders that add extra protection without adding weight to the jacket.
With the removable fasteners in the elbow, you can adjust the length of the sleeves for a better fit. The jacket comes with adjustable front panels too.
View The ScorpionExo Ravin Men’s Leather Sport on Amazon.com
