Motorcycle Jackets – What to Wear & Why

Not all jackets are built to save your skin. Some look the part but fall apart the second you hit the road. Visit MotoCAP to compare the performance of your next jacket. Look for a minimum 3-star rating and at least four seconds of abrasion resistance. That’s the kind of protection that buys you time if you are skin side down.

Look for 2-3 rows of stitching to provide you the best protection from seams bursting if you hit the ground. At the elbows, shoulders, back and wrists, make sure there are at least two or three rows of stitching, with one hidden under a protective layer. And skip anything with mesh or stretch in these high-impact zones. That stuff’s built for style, not survival.

Good gear is designed to keep vulnerable areas safe. That means no zips, studs or straps over your spine, elbows, or shoulders. A decent jacket hides the hardware under proper flaps, so it doesn’t dig in or shred you if you slide. Wrist straps should keep your sleeves in place, not flap in the wind.

Your elbows and shoulders need protection. Whether it comes with the jacket or fitted separately, make sure they fit snug – no shifting. Loose armour won’t help when you hit the deck. Look for protectors labelled EN 1621-1 or EN 1621-2, and aim for CE Level 2 if you’re upgrading. Some jackets come with basic foam fillers. Ditch them for something better.

Test the fit by sitting in your riding position for several minutes, wearing typical clothes underneath. It should be snug at the wrists and across the arms. Make sure it covers your hips, unless you’re buying a suit that zips together. Baggy gear will feel a bit breezy in cold weather and expose your skin in a crash. For women: don’t compromise on fit. A men’s cut that leaves gaps around the hips or shoulders won’t protect you properly. Rider forums and women’s groups are great for finding gear that fits right.

A jacket’s job isn’t just to protect you, it should help others see you too. Mix light colours or reflective panels into your gear so you stand out in traffic, especially in low light. And if the weather’s against you, layer up. Stay warm, dry, and focused.

Jersey fabrics are great for airflow, but they’re designed for road-abrasion protection. If you’re riding dual purpose, have on-road gear available for your journey home. Look for clean designs with hidden zips and strong seams. The fewer the joins, the better it’ll hold up when things get rough.

One piece race style suits offer an all-in-one abrasion and impact protection solution. A lightweight undersuit can provide comfort in either hot or cold weather. A jacket and pants combo that zips together could be considered a more practical alternative for everyday riding.