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“Dress for the slide, not the ride” is a phrase that’s been uttered by motorcyclists for decades. But I’d argue no one says it more than motorcycle instructors, the people whose job it is to keep riders like you and me safe. It’s no coincidence that these are also the people I’ve seen wearing some of the most protective jackets on the market. The right motorcycle jacket inspires the confidence to hunt apex after apex, throw a leg over when dark clouds loom, or hit the road when the sun is beating down. Get the best jacket for the occasion, and give yourself the confidence to tackle any adventure.
Summary List
- Best Overall: Dainese Super Rider D-Dry
- Best Value: Scorpion EXO Optima Jacket
- Honorable Mention: Alpinestars T-GP Plus R v3 Air
- Best Adventure: Rev’it! Sand 4 H20
- Best Leather: Scorpion EXO 1909 Leather Jacket
- Best Summer: Rev’it! Eclipse Jacket
- Best Women’s Jacket: Icon Contra 2
Our Methodology
I used the construction material, features, and rider’s reported experiences to narrow down the list to the best motorcycle jackets. That way, I stayed true to The Drive’s methodology of finding the best products for motorcycle enthusiasts.
My broad personal experience with various types of motorcycle jackets helped me to analyze each jacket option for its best qualities. When choosing this list of the best motorcycle jackets, I considered more than just the basics of size. I wanted to create a comprehensive list that addressed beginners and experienced riders, warm and cold weather riders, and riders on a variety of bike styles.
Best Motorcycle Jackets: Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
Dainese Super Rider D-Dry
Best Motorcycle Jacket Value
Scorpion EXO Optima Jacket
Honorable Mention
Alpinestars T-GP Plus R v3 Air Jacket
Best Adventure Jacket
Rev'it! Sand 4 H20
Best Leather Motorcycle Jacket
Scorpion EXO 1909 Leather Jacket
Best Summer Motorcycle Jacket
REV'IT! Eclipse Jacket
Best Women’s Motorcycle Jacket
Icon Contra 2 Women's Jacket
Our Verdict on the Best Motorcycle Jackets
I’ve chosen the Dainese Super Rider D-Dry as the best overall motorcycle jacket. Its removable thermal liner makes it a great three-season option, and while it looks sporty, it’s plenty durable and stretchy. For a more affordable option, the Scorpion EXO Optima Jacket has an impressive amount of waterproofing and armor.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
A: Do you enjoy your skin? Are you averse to skin grafts and multi-hundred-thousand-dollar doctor bills? Yes, you need a motorcycle jacket. Not only does it protect you in the event of a crash, but it also protects you while you’re riding. Your jacket protects you from the elements and airborne road debris. Plus it gives you pockets, which are convenient for carrying your stuff.
A: They are expensive because you aren’t buying a fashion piece; you’re buying a piece of safety gear. You’re paying for the research and development that went into the production of that jacket. You’re also paying for all of the innovative materials and extra bits that go into the jacket. Think of it this way — that $500 for the jacket is way cheaper than a hospital bill or funeral service.
A: CE refers to the armor being CE-certified, which stands for Conformité Européene. The only time you’re required to wear CE-rated gear is when you’re on a track. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear it when casually riding. There’s Level 1 and 2 armor, with Level 2 offering you better impact protection.
A: If there’s a local motorcycle gear shop that stocks the jacket you’re interested in, go and try it on. Otherwise, read through the reviews and see if buyers say it fits true to size, is too tight, or is too loose.
