The most important piece of motorcycle gear is the helmet. In addition to that, the jacket is an essential accessory. Jackets are crucial for protecting our bodies from harsh weather and dust while riding a motorcycle. It is very important to wear a jacket to shield ourselves from adverse conditions. Furthermore, there is no substitute for a jacket when it comes to enhancing your appearance while riding. Motorcycle jackets usually come in different types. Let’s learn about the characteristics of a few types of jackets.
How Many Types of Motorcycle Jackets Are There?
Motorcycle jackets are commonly worn to protect our bodies from various adverse environments and to enhance our appearance. Jackets come in many different designs and fabrics. Today, we will explore different types of motorcycle jackets. Hopefully, you will gain a good understanding of the options available.
Leather Motorcycle Jacket
A popular choice among motorcyclists is the leather jacket, designed with an aesthetic shell made of horse leather. Around 1920, Irving Schott designed the first dedicated motorcycle jacket to meet the needs of motorcyclists with the latest clothing technology of the time. Since then, riders have become accustomed to using motorcycle jackets. Today, jackets made of various animal skins are available and remain in high demand.
Textile Jacket
Another popular option is the textile jacket. Textile jackets are often more abrasion-resistant than leather jackets. They are usually assessed against specific criteria. In Europe, there is a standard that measures the friction resistance of the outer chassis of a motorcycle jacket, known as EN 17092. Contrary to some beliefs, this is not a safety standard but a measure of the strength of the outer shell of a jacket or pants. Garments are awarded an A, AA, or AAA rating, with A being the minimum and AAA the highest.
EN 17092 Label:
All modern motorcycle clothing is now designed to resist abrasion. Textile jackets, available in various sizes and configurations, include non-waterproof, waxed cotton, removable waterproof, and laminated jackets.
Drop-Liner Jacket
A drop-liner jacket features a fixed, non-removable waterproof membrane. This membrane serves two primary purposes: protecting the rider from getting wet and shielding against the harmful effects of cold air. The faster you ride, the colder you feel due to air chill, which affects how your body perceives temperature.
Membranes usually consist of polyethylene sheets or millions of tiny pores. These pores are small enough to prevent water from penetrating from the outside, keeping the rider dry. However, they are large enough to allow sweat particles to escape from the inside to the atmosphere, preventing the wearer from getting soaked with sweat.
Laminated Jacket
The laminated jacket has a membrane bonded or heat-sealed to the inside of the chassis. With a laminated jacket, water cannot seep through the outer fabric, so it doesn’t absorb as much water and dries quickly. This design helps keep the jacket dry even in prolonged rain. Additionally, laminated jackets offer better airflow because when you open the zipper, the air can flow directly to your body. In contrast, in a drop-liner jacket, incoming air has to pass through the separate membrane.
Cons of Laminated Jackets:
While laminated jackets have many advantages, they also have some drawbacks. They are not as comfortable as drop-liner jackets because the glued membrane makes the fabric less flexible and stiffer. Additionally, they don’t keep you as warm because there is no space for insulating air to flow between the outer chassis and the membrane. Laminated jackets are also more prone to leaks compared to drop-liners.
Cheap Laminated Motorcycle Jackets:
Cheap laminated jackets are often poorly taped and do not last long. Most of these jackets are not particularly strong or reliable. They might work if you are rarely out in the rain, but if you spend a lot of time in wet conditions, they will likely disappoint. Manufacturers often estimate a certain period after which these jackets will deteriorate. Therefore, cheap jackets are not recommended for long-term use.
Premium Laminated Motorcycle Jacket:
Premium laminated jackets, such as those made with Gore-Tex, require many hours to apply the taping and are guaranteed to keep you protected. Gore-Tex jackets, known for their high quality, allow air to move easily and keep you dry. They are designed to last for years, providing protection even in heavy rain. These jackets can last up to 5 or 6 years without any significant damage, although they are more expensive. Wearing a premium laminated jacket offers both comfort and a stylish appearance.
Removable Membrane:
Some waterproof motorcycle jackets come with a removable membrane that can be attached with snaps or a zipper. When attached, these jackets function similarly to drop-liner jackets, keeping you dry, although the jacket may get wet in prolonged rain. However, they are not as waterproof as drop-liners, as rain can still find its way over or under the waterproof interior.
Jacket Without Membrane:
Jackets without a membrane are commonly used by bikers in hot weather. Known as mesh jackets, they typically feature large mesh panels that allow air to flow freely, providing comfort in warm conditions.
Waxed Cotton Jacket:
Waxed cotton jackets are somewhat different from other types of jackets. They come in various styles and usually include a drop-liner waterproof membrane. The wax coating provides additional protection against wet conditions.
To enjoy motorcycle riding in any environment, there is no substitute for a good jacket. Different types of jackets are available on the market to meet various needs. Depending on your preferences, needs, and budget, you can choose the jacket that best suits your riding style and comfort.
