Jackets for motorbikers can be broken down to 4 primary categories, which include cruiser, street or sport, racing, dual sport and adventure touring. The jackets of every category are tailored to fit the particular needs of each riding style. There are both textile and leather options for every style, providing riders the choice of their preferred materials in jacket’s style that best fits their style of riding. While a lot of jackets adhere to a certain style, there’s a growing number of jackets, which blur the lines between the styles to accommodate the riders who like the best of each.
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Sport or Street Jackets
Oftentimes, sport jackets are seen as a more relaxed or casual version of racing jackets with some features. The cut is similar to meet the needs of sport biking riding position, yet fit is a little more relaxed and loose. When compared to racing jackets, street jackets are made with textiles. There are some leather options and combinations of both. For seasonal versatility, removable and venting liners are frequently included in jackets for motorbikers. Pockets are minimal. However, there are more on sport jackets in comparison to race jackets. In majority of sport bike jackets, armor is common.
Cruiser Jackets
The classic style of a motorcycle jacket that is synonymous with motorcycling fall under the category of cruiser jacket. Leather is away and far from the most common material used for constructing cruiser jackets. With that said, cotton and synthetic textiles grow in popularity. Comfort and fashion are the biggest driving factors behind the cruiser jackets. Generally, the fit is on the looser side to give more room for one’s comfort. Usually, armor is little to none even if more offerings start to come with the jacket as armor technology improves as well as becomes less intrusive.
Adventure or Dual Sport Jackets
As the niche of adventure or dual sporting continues to grow, so the gear is tailored specifically for it. These jackets have to accommodate the variety of several riding situations that you might come across. They’re almost always made with durable textiles, which are breathable or waterproof. Armor is also included or an option. You’ll find lots of venting and frequently an insulated liner so you’re prepared for every temperature.
Racing
Jackets for motorbikers should be constructed with high abrasion resistant material because of the risks of high speed offs. Oftentimes, thick cowhide is the most common and best material used for the main chassis of the jacket because of its exceptional abrasion resistance. Synthetic stretch panels are placed in the key areas to help in the mobility of the rider. External TPU sliders and internal armor are common to give protection against high speed slides and impacts. Pocket is minimal to none. Jackets for motorbikers have a tight fit to be aerodynamic. Such sleeves are pre-curved to fit tucked riding position that helps reduce the fatigue of the rider. Zippers are frequently included on the jacket’s bottom hem to attach it to racing pants. It will prevent jackets from sliding up during slides.