Size Guide: How Should Motorcycle Leather Jackets Fit
Motorcycle jackets are one of the most important pieces of gear for bikers, as they provide protection against abrasion, impacts, and inclement weather. jackets that fit well offer the best protection, so it’s important to take the time to find a jacket that fits well and is comfortable to wear. In addition to helmets and race suits, motorcycle jackets are an essential piece of gear for any biker.
Check our motorcycle leather jackets reviews in 2022
So, you’re on the hunt for a new motorcycle jacket. Great! Here’s a breakdown of the different types of jackets available to help you make the best decision for your needs. Moto jackets are typically made from either textile or leather materials. Depending on your riding style, one material may be more ideal than the other. For example, if you frequently ride in hot weather, a textile jacket will likely be more comfortable than a leather one. If you’re looking for maximum protection, however, leather is the way to go.
Today we’ve summarised 5 tips for you to help you pick up your motorcycle leather jackets
- Find leather jackets that meet your riding needs
- The best among American, European, or Race jackets
- Get your jacket size
- Order your jacket but don’t forget about reading reviews
Find leather jackets that meet your riding needs
Textile is a great choice for many riders, especially because there are so many different types of textile jackets available on the market today that are designed for specific purposes – from waxed-canvas jackets to highly technical touring pieces. However, one thing you won’t see very often on the race track is a textile sport jacket being worn by any of the competitors. Some track day organizations may allow those in the beginner group to wear textiles, but when it comes to actual competition, it’s usually leather jackets only. This isn’t because textile jackets are second-rate in any way – In fact, they can be a great choice for most riders. Personally, I have more textile jackets in my closet than leather ones!
Check our motorcycle leather jackets reviews in 2022
The motorcycle riding shirt is a shirt with extra features for protection while riding. Moto features and protection are hidden inside the casual styling of the shirt. A riding shirt might look like a flannel, a work shirt, a hoodie, or a denim jacket on the outside, but inside they could have armor, aramid fibers, or helpful liners. For riders who are frequently on and off the bike, these pieces are ideal for around-town riding. Riding shirts fit right in with street clothes, so you don’t have to change once you arrive at your destination.
The mesh jacket offers more protection than the riding shirt, making it a better choice for riders who are looking for a more casual style. These jackets are perfect for hot summer months because of their huge mesh panels, which allow plenty of air to flow to the rider. Most mesh jackets also come with armor in the shoulders and elbows, as well as a pocket for a back protector. In addition, some mesh jackets also have liners to protect against wind and rain.
Most full textile jackets offer features such as vents that can be opened to let air in on hot days, wind and waterproofing, as well as a thermal liner to keep riders warm in cold weather conditions. However, they don’t usually flow as much air as mesh jackets. Full textile jackets are a good choice for riders who want to be able to conquer any type of weather, and they offer the best protection out of any textile option. Adventurers, tourers, and hardcore commuters typically prefer full textile jackets.
Check our motorcycle textile jackets reviews in 2022
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Leather motorcycle jackets are still the best choice for many riders, even though textile jackets have come a long way. Leather is more durable than textile and can often survive a crash or slide, while gaining some character in the process. Leather is also more resistant to sliding. Of course, there’s also that timeless style. Just don’t forget leather’s weaknesses. Leather jackets will need a waterproof outer layer for riding in heavy rain.
Casual leather jackets come in many different styles – the most popular being the “biker jacket”. They not only look good on the motorcycle, but also look great when you’re not riding as well. Leather jackets will provide you with more protection than other materials and are typically perforated for more comfort in warmer weather. Although, you might want to avoid wearing them in extreme heat or cold and if it’s raining heavily.
The best among American, European, or Race jackets
There are three main types of jacket fitment that you’ll come across while shopping for your perfect one. The first is an American cut. Jackets with an American cut will usually have a more relaxed fit, offering more room in the waist, shoulders, and arms area. American fit jackets might also be called “regular” or “touring” fit. On the other hand, jackets with a European cut will have a closer fit, with a more tapered silhouette. This sort of fit might also be called “slim” or “sport cut” and is often favored by riders who don’t need extra space in their jacket.
The race fit is for the all-out sport rider. Race jackets will offer a snug fit with pre-curved arms for comfort and flexibility in a three-quarter to full-tuck riding position. By now, you should have a good idea of which fit works best for you.
Measure your jacket size
To find a jacket that fits you correctly, grab a soft tape measure and ask a friend to help you out. With three numbers, you should be able to find the right size. First, have your friend wrap the tape measure around your chest and around your back. Don’t take any deep breaths to upset the measurement. Just breathe normally. Also, don’t add any extra to this measurement to compensate for a back protector. They almost never affect the fit so much that you need to size up.
Next, take a look at the product page for the jacket you want to order. Make sure to refer to the size chart to get the perfect fit, paying close attention to the arm measurements. If they’re listed in the 20-inch range, that measurement is from the shoulder, past the elbow and ending at the wrist. If they’re in the 30-inch range, that means you should start measuring from your spine at the base of your neck instead.
There are two ways to measure your arm length for a race jacket – from the shoulder to the wrist, or from the shoulder to the elbow. Keep in mind that some race jackets are intended to be worn with long gloves, so they may have shorter sleeves than a standard street jacket.
To measure your waist,run the tape around your torso, about an inch above your belly button. Your waist measurement is not the same as your pants size, which can be confusing to some. Waist measurements are the least important of the three here, since they can really vary. Also, many jackets feature some adjustability at the waist, so you can usually get the fit where you want it.
When choosing a jacket, you need to be aware of the sizing system that it uses. Some jackets use alpha sizing (small, medium, etc.), while others use numeric sizing (48, 50, etc.). Make sure to consult the size chart for the specific jacket you’re interested in. Additionally, pay attention to any fitment notes that may be included on the jacket’s product page. If a jacket has an unusual fit, this will be noted so that you can order the correct size.
Order your jacket but don’t forget about reading reviews
After you have decided on the style, fit, and measurements of your desired jacket, all that is left to do is wait for it to arrive. Once it does, try it on around the house to make sure it is everything you wanted (but don’t take it out for a spin on your bike just yet! We can’t accept returns on anything that has been worn while riding).
When you’re trying on a motorcycle jacket, sit on your bike in your usual riding position to make sure the jacket is comfortable and won’t impede your movement. The jacket should be snug but not too tight, and the armor should sit over your elbows and shoulders. If it doesn’t, see if it can be adjusted. A motorcycle jacket can only protect you if it stays in place, so make sure it fits well before you buy it.
Conclusion
When you’re looking for a new jacket, it’s important to read the reviews before you make your purchase. You want to make sure that you’re getting a quality product that will last you a long time. Checking the reviews can also give you an idea of what size to order. If you’re looking for a warm, waterproof jacket, make sure to read the reviews to see which ones will meet your needs.
