Waterproof motorcycle jackets are a great way to enjoy your time on two wheels, without having to worry about the weather. Inclement weather can ruin a good ride, but with a waterproof jacket, you can keep on going, no matter what the weather throws at you. One of the best things about riding a motorcycle is that you get to experience nature at its finest. But when it rains, a waterproof jacket is a must-have. So don’t let the weather stop you from enjoying the great outdoors – get a waterproof motorcycle jacket and enjoy nature, rain or shine.
For some manufacturers, it simply means that the garment will keep out the odd spot of rain. For others, it means that it will keep you dry in a prolonged downpour. So, what is the difference and how can you tell which is which? Waterproof motorcycle jackets are designed to keep you dry in a downpour. However, there are different degrees of waterproofing, so you should always check the label before you buy. Some manufacturers simply mean that the garment will keep out the odd spot of rain, while others mean that it will keep you dry in a prolonged downpour.
Some jackets can resist a summer shower, and others are ready for 8 hours in a storm, but manufacturers label them both as ‘waterproof’. Don’t worry, I have found some of the best waterproof motorcycle jackets on the market, with all the information you need to determine just how waterproof they are.
Sedici Marco Mesh Waterproof Jacket
The Sedici Marco Jacket is perfect for summer adventure riding. Its large panels of ultra-flow mesh provide excellent ventilation, while the 450D reinforced fabric increases abrasion resistance in key areas. The jacket also features chest vents for additional cooling, multiple adjustment points on the arms and waist for a personalized fit, and a waterproof and windproof liner for inclement weather.
Shop here: Sedici Marco Mesh Waterproof Jacket
Alpinestars Hyper Drystar Jacket
The Alpinestars Hyper Drystar Jacket is perfect for commuting or touring in cold weather. It has a multi-panel construction that is durable and doesn’t add bulk. The Drystar technology keeps the water out, and the removable thermal lining and zippered vents allow you to control the temperature.
It is a great choice for those looking for a durable and comfortable option. The outer material is made of ultra-flow mesh for comfort and protection, while the inner lining is made of airflow mesh for improved climate control and comfort. The jacket also features a removable waterproof and windproof liner for protection from the elements, as well as reflective details for safety. The air control system ventilation and zippered dual-purpose chest pockets/vents are also great features, while the multi-point sleeve adjustment tabs and pocket for optional back protector (sold separately) make this jacket a great choice for those looking for a versatile and protective option.
Shop here: Alpinestars Hyper Drystar Jacket
REV’IT! Airwave 3 Jacket
If you’re looking for a motorcycle jacket that will keep you cool and protected in hot weather, the Revit Airwave 3 Jacket is a great option. It’s made with PWR|mesh panels that allow air to circulate, as well as Seesmart CE level 1 armor at the elbows and shoulders for added protection against abrasions and impacts. You can also add a Seesoft back protector and chest protector (sold separately) for even more protection. The Airwave 3 Jacket is comfortable to wear and provides excellent safety features – perfect for anyone who wants to stay cool and safe while riding in hot weather conditions.
The REV’IT! Airwave 3 Jacket is a high-performance piece of outerwear that offers excellent protection against the elements. The jacket is made from a high density polyester 600D fabric, which is both durable and comfortable. The jacket also features PWR|shell mesh and Lorica for added protection. The jacket is available in sizes SM-MD, LG-2XL, and 3XL-4XL.
Shop here: REV’IT! Airwave 3 Jacket
Scorpion EXO 1909 Leather Jacket
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been a legendary site of motorsports history for over 100 years, and it is this heritage that Scorpion salutes with the Scorpion 1909 Jacket. This soft, distressed leather jacket features Sas-Tec Level 2 armor at the elbows and shoulders, as well as a pocket at the back for an optional Sas-Tec back protector (sold separately). Additionally, the perforated panels under the arms and sides of the torso provide ventilation, while the two zippered rear vents allow for adjustability. Finally, the leather overlays at the elbows and four external pockets complete this stylish and functional jacket.
Shop here: Scorpion EXO 1909 Leather Jacket
Roland Sands Jagger Jacket
For a motorcycle jacket that’s both lightweight and supple, look no further than the Roland Sands Design Jagger Jacket. It’s made from oiled buffalo leather and features quilt stitching at the shoulders for a modern twist on a classic look. Plus, it comes with a removable seam sealed hoodie liner that’ll keep you warm on colder rides. And when the weather heats up, simply remove the liner and zip open the shoulder vents for a leather jacket that allows airflow. Plus, it features CE level 1 Knox armor at the elbows and shoulders to protect you in case of an accident. And for even more protection, add on the optional Knox back protector (sold separately).
The Roland Sands Design Jagger Jacket is made of premium oiled buffalo leather 1.0 mm – 1.3mm for an aggressive riding fit. It features zippered shoulder vents, a cool core mesh liner with moisture wicking properties, rotated pre-curved sleeves, and a back gusset with zippered vents for breathability. Additionally, this jacket has quilt stitch accent at shoulder and back, a cafe style collar with snap back feature, and waterproof interior device pocket. For protection, it is equipped with CE Level 1 Knox Microlock elbow and shoulder armor, as well as a pocket for optional back protector (sold separately).
Shop here: Roland Sands Jagger Jacket
Street & Steel Blade Jacket
The Street & Steel Blade Jacket is a motorcycle jacket with a contoured mandarin collar and perforated sides for breathability. It is made of natural drum-dyed leather and comes with CE-rated protectors at the shoulders and elbows. A back protector (sold separately) can be added to the rear pocket. The jacket has adjustable waist straps and internal pockets for carrying your CCW and extra ammo.
Looking for a motorcycle jacket that will provide you with the protection you need? Look no further than the Street & Steel Blade Jacket. This jacket features natural drum dyed leather, CE-rated protectors on the shoulders and elbows, and a pocket for an optional AXIAL back protector (sold separately). The VAX variable air exchange system ensures you’ll stay cool and comfortable while riding, while the reflective stripe increases your visibility to other motorists. Plus, the loop’d pant attachment system makes it easy to connect your pants to the jacket, keeping you fully covered when you’re on the road.
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Street & Steel Athena Women’s Jacket
If you’re looking for a classic motorcycle jacket with a bit of an edge, the Street & Steel Athena Women’s Leather Jacket is perfect for you. Made from natural drum dyed leather, it features quilted panels and perforated details that set it apart from the rest. It also has CE rated armor at the elbows and shoulders, as well as a pocket that can accommodate CE rated back protection. Plus, the perforated panels on the torso help regulate body temperature, while the waist adjusters ensure a perfect fit. And for extra warmth, the jacket includes a removable thermal vest liner.
Street & Steel Athena Women’s Leather Jacket is perfect for anyone looking for a little extra protection on the road. This stylish jacket comes equipped with CE-rated protectors on the shoulders and elbows, as well as a pocket for an optional AXIAL back protector (sold separately). Additionally, our size MD AXIAL AX1 and AX2 back protectors fit all sizes of our Athena Women’s Jackets – so you can be sure you’re getting the perfect fit. And for increased breathability, this jacket also features a mesh air-flow lining. Plus, it comes with a concealed weapon and ammo pocket, expansion zippers at the waist, and reflective stripe – making it easy to stay visible in low-light conditions.
Shop here:Street & Steel Athena Women’s Jacket
Roland Sands Ronin Leather Jacket
Roland Sands Design Ronin Leather Jacket is a perfect combination of classic design and modern functionality. The RSD Limited Set hand finished and waxed 0.9mm-1mm thick cowhide construction gives the Ronin a tough yet supple feel that ages as you wear it. Pre-curved arms and pockets for RSD x Forcefield armor turn the Ronin from just another leather jacket to a motorcycle jacket you can trust when things go wrong. Roland’s many custom bikes are the inspiration for this jacket, giving you everything you love about the days of yesteryear along with the convenience of today.
The Roland Sands Design Ronin Leather Jacket is a café-style jacket with a shorty snap collar and front zip pockets. It’s made from RSD Limited Set hand-finished washed and waxed cowhide, and has a performance riding fit with rotated, pre-curved sleeves, dropped back length, and relaxed collar opening. Other features include perforated leather interior trims, perforated sleeve venting, sleeve zip pocket, side zipper waist adjust, zip close cuffs, satin poly lining with custom RSD repeat “numbers” heat emboss, soft lined electronics security pocket, and stretch mesh cargo stuff pockets.
Shop here: Roland Sands Ronin Leather Jacket
Roland Sands Clash CE Leather Jacket
If you’re looking for a stylish and versatile leather jacket that’s both comfortable and functional, the Roland Sands Clash CE Leather Jacket is a great choice. This jacket is inspired by classic 1950s style, but with modern updates that make it even more stylish and functional. The Clash is made from a specially developed GT Racer leather that looks and feels great, and each jacket is unique. Whether you’re on the bike or off, this jacket is sure to turn heads.
The Roland Sands Clash CE Leather Jacket is the perfect choice for those who want to look good and stay safe while on the road. The asymmetrical front zipper keeps the rocker look front and center, while the quilted stitched accents and infamous coffin stitched elbow round out the design. The Clash CE looks great, but it also offers top-level protection with its SAS-TEC CE level 1 armor and double- or triple-stitched seams that meet CE level safety standards.
The Roland Sands Clash CE Leather Jacket is made of premium full grain cowhide leather for durability and features quilted shoulder and lower back accents, reinforced riveted elbows, and perforated leather interior trims for a stylish look. It also has a zip sleeve pocket, side waist adjusters, front pockets, and an interior chest pocket for convenient storage, while the satin poly lining with custom RSD repeat “numbers” heat embossed branding provides a cool and comfortable feel. Plus, the soft lined electronics security pocket and stretch mesh cargo stuff pockets make this jacket perfect for storing all your essential items while on the go.
Shop here: Roland Sands Clash CE Leather Jacket
REV’IT! Glide Jacket
Looking for a stylish and protective jacket for your daily street riding? Look no further than the Revit Glide Jacket. This jacket has all the benefits of a race-focused jacket without the aggressive fit and styling. The longer style torso is more suited for everyday street riding, and the leather selected has a slight retro finishing, making it perfect for both style and protection. Seeflex CE rated armor covers the elbows and shoulders, and you can upgrade the chest and back protection by slipping in Seesoft inserts (sold separately). So whether you’re hitting the streets or the race track, the Revit Glide Jacket has you covered.
The REV’IT! Glide Jacket is perfect for those who want to stay protected without sacrificing style. This slim-fit jacket is made of cowhide and PWR|shell stretch fabric, with artificial leather accents. It comes with removable thermal body warmer insulation, and features TPU protectors at the shoulders and elbows, as well as Seeflex CE protection at the shoulders and elbows. You can also add a Seesoft back protector (sold separately) for even more protection. This jacket also has jeans loop, short connection zipper, and stretch fabric for added comfort and convenience.
Shop here: REV’IT! Glide Jacket
Types of Waterproofing Motorcycle Jackets
Waterproof/Drop Liners
For many years, the only way to make a motorcycle jacket waterproof was to use a waterproof liner. This liner would be placed between the outer layer of the jacket and the inner thermal/comfort liner, in order to keep water from getting through to the under layers. However, this method has its flaws; water can still penetrate the jacket, your outer pockets can still get wet, and inevitably water will find its way into one of the crevices or even through the front zip.
A drop liner jacket may keep you dry during a rain shower, but you’ll find the jacket gets damp and as a result, quite heavy. Another downside to a drop liner is that there is no ventilation or moisture wicking properties. The waterproof liner keeps your body dry, but you get warm and the sweat has nowhere to go, which can lead to an unpleasant experience.
I had a cheap waterproof jacket with a drop liner when I started biking, and after a few hours of riding and a small rain shower, when I took my jacket off, I was hot and wet, but not from the rain. Safe to say I binned that jacket pretty quickly.
Gore-Tex Liners
The Gore-Tex difference is in how it works to keep you both dry and comfortable.
Gore-Tex fabric is made up of microscopic pores that are too small for water droplets to penetrate but large enough for water vapor to pass through.
So, while a Gore-Tex jacket will keep you dry in the rain, it also allows your body to breathe, making it an ideal choice for high-energy activities like cycling or running.
As someone who used to work in a motorcycle store, I can attest to the fact that Gore-Tex is one of the few materials that lives up to its waterproof claims. Not only does it repel water, but it’s also windproof, making it a great option for motorcyclists.
Laminate Jackets
Most waterproof clothing is made with a laminate waterproof membrane, which is a layer of material that prevents water from penetrating any further. Jackets from brands like Klim Kodiak and Oxford Mondial use this type of construction, and as a result, they’re 100% waterproof. Laminated jackets used to only be seen in high-end brands, but now they’re becoming more popular.
Considerations of Waterproof Motorcycle Jackets
Waterproofing your jacket should be a priority, but you shouldn’t forget about making sure it’s protective, too. Here are some tips to help you pick a jacket that will safeguard you while you’re on the road:
-Check for a CE Rating (with A being the lowest and AAA being the highest)
-Opt for a jacket with CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow protection as a minimum
-Make sure there’s space for a back protector, which you should also pick up at the same time
-Check the material the jacket is made of – it should be constructed of Aramid fibres, Cordura or similar materials to ensure it will provide abrasion resistance.
Choose Your Riding Style
Your riding style and how often you’ll be caught in the rain are both important factors to consider when deciding if you need a waterproof jacket. If you’re commuting year-round, something like the Rukka Nivala jacket would be a wise investment. On the other hand, if you mainly ride during the summer and only occasionally get caught in the rain, a jacket with a drop liner may suffice.
How much You should pay for one?
When it comes to waterproof motorcycle jackets, the old saying goes “you get what you pay for.” In terms of quality, paying for a cheaper jacket will likely only give you a level of water resistance rather than true waterproofing. The jacket may protect you from a light rain shower, but if you’re caught in a downpour or ride for an extended period of time, you’re going to end up getting wet. Gore-Tex and laminate jackets may cost more upfront, but they’re worth the investment because they’ll last longer and keep you dry and warm for many miles. With cheaper jackets, you’ll probably have to replace them more often, so in the long run you’ll end up spending more money.
Conclusion
There are a lot of great waterproof motorcycle jackets on the market, but these are my two favorites.
The Klim Kodiak is my top pick. It’s waterproof and protective, and it looks great too. It’s a bit of an investment, but it’s definitely worth it.
The Sedici Marco Mesh Waterproof Jacket is a great budget option. It’s a laminate waterproof jacket that’s very affordable, and it outperforms any other jacket in its price range.
