Buying a motorcycle is a big deal. If you do it right, it involves a lot of research, discussion and test rides. But once you've purchased the perfect motorcycle, you will still need to equip yourself with one more very important item: a motorcycle jacket. This motorcycle jacket buying guide will show you how to buy motorcycle jackets that are right for you, whether you are a sports rider, recreational rider or long-distance cruiser.
Many products can make your life safer and more enjoyable when riding ATVs and motorcycles. The most important piece of motorcycle gear, of course, is a motorcycle helmet. This buying guide will show you what to look for when selecting the next most important item: a motorcycle jacket. After your helmet, a high-quality motorcycle jacket may be the most important accessory you buy. A good jacket not only makes a statement of the wearer's individuality; it also provides protection against the elements and offers crucial reinforcement for the body in the case of a crash. When you shop for motorcycle jackets and vests that will be with you for many years to come, you'll want to consider the material, the fit, the padding, the pockets and a few more details.
Jacket material basically comes in two categories: leather and non-leather. While non-leather motorcycle jackets have come a long way in recent years, a good leather motorcycle jacket is hard to beat. Keep in mind, though, that all leather jackets are not created equal; look for jackets made from high-grade leather, such as cowhide, and avoid split leather, which provides less protection than other types. A good leather motorcycle jacket should be made from leather that is at least one millimeter thick.
Modern non-leather motorcycle jackets made from high-density ballistic nylon or Kevlar and featuring waterproof liners also provide essential protection. Some of the advantages of non-leather jackets are being lighter in weight and drying more quickly than leathers.
If your jacket doesn't fit you properly, you aren't going to wear it as much, so make sure the jacket is comfortable in the riding position. For a jacket to be comfortable while you're on your bike, it will need to have slightly longer sleeves, have extra shoulder room and come down far enough in the back to cover the top of your pants.
To find the right size of motorcycle jacket when you are online shopping, be sure to refer to the sizing guide and always measure yourself to find the right size. (For more infomration on measuring yourself, read Overstock.com's Men's Measurement Guide and the Women's Measurement Guide.) Remember that you'll want your jacket to have enough room to comfortably wear a bulky layer, like a sweater, underneath, so you may want to take your measurements while wearing a sweater.
Wearing your jacket for protection is important, even when it's hot outside. If you'll be riding in a hot climate, you may want to look for a motorcycle jacket with vents. Vents usually have zipper closures. They are often placed in the front and back of the jacket as well as in the sleeves to allow a little breeze to cool you down while you ride.
The more padding your jacket has, the more protected you are. Look for reinforced elbows, shoulders and backs. Padding can consist of anything from extra layers of material to high-tech plastic composites, often called "armor," sewn into the jacket. The armor also needs to be in the right places; for example, shoulder armor should fit over your shoulders, not your biceps, which is another good reason to make sure you select a jacket with the proper fit.
Pockets: Obviously, pockets are a good idea, but making sure they're in the right places is important. Make sure that you have at least one pocket on the inside of the jacket to hold your wallet and other valuables. Outside pockets should have sturdy zippers to secure your items; flaps over the outside zippered pockets are even better. Buying a jacket with waterproof pockets is also a smart idea.
Lining: If you plan on using your jacket year-round, look for one with a removable liner and vents that can be opened and closed. The same jacket that keeps you comfortable in cold weather can bake you like a potato in hot weather, so the more adjustable it is, the better.
Refelctive material: In addition, it's a good idea to select a jacket with some reflective material sewn onto it. While you may look great in solid black, it makes you almost invisible at night. Many jackets feature thin white piping down the sleeves and across the back, providing the reflective properties you need without making your jacket look too flashy.
Other things to look for are seams, stitching and zippers that are heavy-duty, reinforced and sealed against water.
My leather motorcycle jacket gets really hot in the summertime, even with the vents open. Are there motorcycle jackets designed for warm weather use?
Yes. While leather jackets offer maximum road protection, there are many lightweight motorcycle jackets available for summer use. Look for jackets made from a breathable material with a thin, removable liner and air vents. Popular summer motorcycle jackets come in a windbreaker style and are often made of synthetic materials with mesh incorporated into the design.
I ride in the sun a lot, and I notice that my jacket seems to be drying out. Is there anything I can do?
Even the highest quality leather motorcycle jackets are subject to damage from exposure to the elements. Before your leather jacket starts to deteriorate, invest in a good leather conditioner. Leather conditioners are easy to apply, and you only have to do it about once per year. Spending a little time and money on your expensive leather motorcycle jacket will prolong its life dramatically.
Since motorcycle jackets are the second most important piece of gear after my helmet, where can I learn more about hemlmets?
Read the Overstock.com Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide to find out everything you need to know about choosing a helmet. And while you're at it, be sure to read our Motorcycle Gear Buying Guide, so you'll know how to choose everything else you'll need, too.
Motorcycle jackets to match the weather conditions and your mood
While motorcycle jackets are very personal items to many riders, there's no reason to limit yourself to one discount motorcycle jacket. As the conditions change, why not have a jacket for each season or weather situation? Motorcycle jackets also come in a wide variety of colors, so having a few different options on-hand when it's time for a little cruising is always a good idea.
Stock up on motorcycle gear
If you go riding with only your helmet and motorcycle jacket on, you'll probably get arrested, so stock up on the rest of your gear, such as motorcycle pants, motorcycle boots and motorcycle gloves. With Overstock.com's deeply discounted prices, you'll save enough to get all of your riding gear plus the rest of the camping and outdoor gear on your dream list.
Treat your bike to a few goodies, too
Once you've decked yourself out in primo motorcycle style, why not get your bike a few presents, too? Overstock.com carries everything from motorcycle covers to first-quality leather saddle bags to turn your ride into a head-turning machine worthy of carrying its precious cargo.
