When it comes to motorcycle jackets, there are two main options: leather and textile. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it can be difficult to decide which one is the best option for you. This article will discuss the pros and cons of both leather and textile motorcycle jackets so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you!
Main Features of Motorcycle Jackets
Motorcycle jackets are important gear for every motorcyclist. Not only do they protect against the elements, but they also help protect against injuries in the event of an accident. These jackets are produced in different styles and from different materials. The most common materials used in construction are leather and textile.
The history of motorcycle jackets is as interesting as the jackets themselves. The first motorcycle jackets were adapted from other garments such as dusters and aviation suits. It was not until the 1950s that purpose-built motorcycle jackets began to appear on the market. Then the main purpose of these jackets was to protect the rider from the elements, not necessarily from injury.
The design of motorcycle jackets has come a long way since the early days of motorcycling. At first, they were little more than modified dusters with a few extra pockets. Today, there are many different styles of motorcycle jackets to choose from, each designed with a specific purpose in mind.
The most common materials used in construction are leather and textile. Leather has been the traditional material of choice for motorcycle jackets for many years. It is strong and durable, and it provides good protection against the elements. Textile is a newer material that is becoming increasingly popular for motorcycle jackets. It is lighter and more comfortable than leather, and it is also less expensive [1].
Pros and Cons of Leather Motorcycle Jackets
Leather motorcycle jackets have been around for as long as motorcycles themselves. They offer a classic look and are often associated with a “tough” image. But what are the actual benefits and drawbacks of leather jackets?
Benefits of Leather Motorcycle Jackets:
- Abrasion resistance: Leather is naturally resistant to abrasion, meaning it will help protect your skin in the event of a fall or slide;
- Protection from the elements: Leather is also fairly good at repelling water and wind, keeping you comfortable in all kinds of weather;
- Breathability: Despite its reputation for being heavy and hot, leather is actually quite breathable. This is because leather is a natural material that allows your skin to “breathe”;
- Style: Leather jackets have a classic, timeless look that never goes out of style;
- Durability: With proper care, a leather jacket can last for decades;
- Safety features: Leather motorcycle jackets often come with built-in safety features like reflective panels and armor, making them a safer choice for riding;
Drawbacks of Leather Motorcycle Jackets:
- Cost: Leather jackets are typically more expensive than textile jackets;
- Maintenance: Leather requires more maintenance than textile, including regular cleaning and conditioning;
- Weight: Leather is a heavier material than textile, which can make it feel bulky and uncomfortable in warm weather;
- Limited color options: Leather is only available in a limited range of colors, usually dark shades like black, brown, and gray [2];
Pros and Cons of Textile Motorcycle Jackets
Textile motorcycle jackets are a relatively new invention, but they’ve quickly become popular for their many benefits. Here are some of the pros and cons of textile jackets.
Benefits of Textile Motorcycle Jackets:
- Abrasion resistance: Like leather, textile is resistant to abrasion and will help protect your skin in the event of a fall or slide;
- Protection from the elements: Textile is also waterproof and windproof, making it an ideal choice for riders who need protection from the elements;
- Breathability: Textile is much more breathable than leather, making it a better choice for riders who live in warm climates or who want to stay cool while riding;
- Style: Textile motorcycle jackets come in a variety of styles, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste. It can be such styles as cafe racer jackets;
Drawbacks of Textile Motorcycle Jackets:
- Less protection in a crash: While the textile is abrasion-resistant, it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as leather in the event of a serious crash;
- Less comfortable in cold and windy weather: Textile is not as good at insulating as leather, so it’s not the best choice for riding in cold or windy weather;
- Not as durable: Textile is not as durable as leather and will show wear and tear more easily;
- Safety features: Textile jackets are not as widely available with integrated safety features as leather jackets;
So, which is better? Leather or textile motorcycle jackets? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you want the most protection possible, then leather is the way to go. But if you prioritize comfort and breathability, then textile is the better choice. Whichever material you choose, make sure to get a jacket that fits well and has all the features you need to stay safe on the road [3].
Differences between Motorcycle Leather and Textile Jackets in details
Comfort and Fit
The motorcycle jackets must be comfortable enough to wear for long periods and it doesn’t matter if there are hot or cold weather conditions. At the same time, they must be tight enough to prevent wind flapping while riding at high speeds. This is why many riders consider motorcycle leather jackets to be more comfortable than textile jackets.
Leather jackets are usually made of soft and supple lambskin or cowhide, which molds to the rider’s body shape after some wear. Textile jackets are usually made of stiffer synthetic fibers such as nylon or polyester. As a result, they do not conform as well to the rider’s body and can feel less comfortable, especially in hot weather conditions.
Protection capabilities
In terms of protection, both motorcycle leather and textile jackets offer good levels of abrasion resistance. This is the ability of the material to resist being worn away by friction. When riding a motorcycle, abrasion resistance is important because it helps to prevent road rash in the event of a crash. In general, leather is more abrasion resistant than textile fabrics. This is because leather is a natural material that is tough and durable.
Textile fabrics are usually made of synthetic fibers that are weaker than leather. As a result, they are not as abrasion-resistant. However, textile jackets have other advantages in terms of protection. They are often equipped with removable padding that can help to protect the rider’s body from impact injuries in a crash. This padding is usually not present in motorcycle leather jackets. In addition, textile jackets are often equipped with waterproof and windproof liners. These liners can help to keep the rider dry and warm in bad weather conditions. Leather jackets do not usually have these features [4].
Durability
Leather is a durable material that will last you longer than textiles. Leather has natural strength and durability, while textile fabrics are usually made of synthetic fibers which aren’t as tough or strong on their own so they wear down quicker in comparison to real animal hides like those found on motorcycle jackets. Synthetic fibers can’t stand up under pressure so easily which means they’re often replaced after just several journeys on the bike!
Weather Resistance and Temperature Regulation
Leather is not a good material for regulating temperature. It can be too hot in summer and too cold in winter. This is because leather does not breathe well and it does not insulate against the cold as well as textile fabrics. As a result, leather jackets are not suitable for all weather conditions. However, you can regulate the temperature by choosing different underwear to wear under your jacket.
On the other hand, textile jackets are usually designed to be more versatile in terms of weather resistance. Many textile jackets come with removable liners that can be used to keep the rider warm in cold weather conditions. In addition, some textile jackets have vents that can be opened to allow airflow and help keep the rider cool in hot weather conditions. As a result, textile jackets are generally more suitable for use in all weather conditions.
In terms of weather resistance, motorcycle textile jackets are not as waterproof as leather jackets. This is because the synthetic fibers that textile jackets are made of do not repel water as well as leather. As a result, textile jackets will usually become soaked in heavy rain. However, many textile jackets come with waterproof liners that can be used to keep the rider dry in bad weather conditions.
Style and design
Leather jackets are usually more stylish and better-looking than textile jackets. This is because leather is a natural material that has a timeless appeal. In addition, leather jackets can be designed in many different styles. As a result, there is a leather jacket to suit every taste. Textile jackets are also available in a wide range of styles. However, they are not usually as stylish or good-looking as leather jackets.
Price
Leather jackets are usually more expensive than textile jackets. This is because leather is a natural material that is more expensive to produce than synthetic fibers. In addition, leather jackets often last longer than textile jackets. As a result, they represent a better value for money in the long run. The average leather motorcycle jacket for a man can cost anywhere from 200 dollars to over 1000 dollars. The average textile motorcycle jacket for a man can cost anywhere from 100 dollars to 500 dollars.
Other Important Gear Types for Motorcycle Touring
When kitting yourself out for a motorcycle tour, there are a few key gear items that you need to have to stay safe and comfortable on the road. A good quality motorcycle jacket is one of those essential pieces of gear, and it’s important to choose the right type of jacket for your needs.
Another gear item that is essential for motorcycle touring is a good pair of boots. Motorcycle boots are designed to protect your feet and ankles in the event of a crash, and they also provide good grip and support when riding. The last piece of essential gear for motorcycle touring is a good set of gloves. Motorcycle gloves help to protect your hands from the elements and from injuries in the event of a fall.
Don’t forget about motorcycle pants! Motorcycle pants are an important piece of gear for two reasons. First, they protect your legs from the elements and from injuries in the event of a fall. Second, they help to keep you comfortable on long rides by providing padding and support. As well as jackets, pants can also be made of leather or textile materials.
You should also consider the helmet you wear when touring on a motorcycle. A full-face helmet offers the best protection in the event of a crash, and it also helps to keep you comfortable in all weather conditions.
When choosing gear for motorcycle touring, it’s important to consider the type of riding you’ll be doing. If you’re planning on doing some off-road riding, you’ll need different gear than if you’re sticking to paved roads. Make sure to choose gear that is appropriate for the type of riding you’ll be doing [5].
How to take care of leather and textile motorcycle jackets?
Both leather and textile motorcycle jackets should be maintained correctly to prolong their lifespan. Here are some tips on how to wear and take care of leather motorcycle jackets.
If your leather jacket is new, it likely came with a protective coating. This needs to be broken in before you can apply leather conditioner. The best way to do this is to wear the jacket around the house for a few hours. Once the coating has been removed, you can then treat the leather with a conditioner.
It’s important to avoid getting your leather motorcycle jacket wet. If it does get wet, you need to dry it off as soon as possible. Wet leather can shrink, discolor, and become stiff. You should also avoid exposing your leather motorcycle jacket to direct sunlight for extended periods. Too much sun exposure can cause the leather to fade and crack. If you have frequent motorcycle touring trips, it’s a good idea to treat the leather jacket with a waterproofing spray before each trip.
When storing your leather motorcycle jacket, you should hang it up on a wide hanger. Avoid hanging it by the shoulders, as this can cause the jacket to lose its shape. You should also avoid storing your leather motorcycle jacket in a plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and cause the leather to mildew.
Textile motorcycle jackets are much easier to care for than leather ones. Most can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. You should avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as these can damage the jacket’s waterproofing. You can also spot-clean textile motorcycle jackets with a mild soap and water solution.
After washing, you should hang your textile motorcycle jacket to dry. Avoid putting it in the dryer, as this can damage the fabric. Once it’s dry, you can apply a waterproofing spray to help repel water and stains.
It is also important to store the textile motorcycle jacket in a cool, dry place when you’re not wearing it. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or high temperatures, as this can cause the fabric to fade or become brittle.
Where else can you wear leather and textile motorcycle jackets?
Motorcycle jackets are not just for motorcycle riders. In fact, many people who don’t even ride motorcycles enjoy wearing them as a fashion statement. Leather and textile motorcycle jackets can be worn while riding a motorcycle, of course. But they can also be worn while driving a car, or even just walking down the street.
There are several occasions when you might want to wear a motorcycle jacket:
- If you’re going to be riding your motorcycle, obviously you’ll need a jacket. But even if you’re not planning on riding, a motorcycle jacket can still be a good choice for a night out or another special occasion;
- If you live in an area with cold weather, a motorcycle jacket can help keep you warm while driving or walking around;
- Motorcycle jackets can also be a good choice for safety reasons. If you’re going to be in an accident, a motorcycle jacket will offer more protection than most other types of clothing;
You should also know that men, women, and even teenagers and kids prefer to wear these motorcycle jackets. However, there can be different styles and models for the different genders. But in general, both men and women can wear either leather or textile motorcycle jackets.
The colors can also be different, with black, brown, white, and even pink or yellow being popular choices. Leather and textile motorcycle jackets help to stylize the everyday look and add a touch of romanticism to it.
So, both leather and textile motorcycle jackets have their unique benefits. It really depends on your personal preference as to which one you choose. But either way, you’re sure to look stylish and feel comfortable no matter what you’re doing.
FAQ
What material is best for motorcycle riding clothes?
The answer to this question is hotly debated in the motorcycle community. Some people swear by leather, while others prefer textiles. Leather jackets have been around the longest, but textiles are slowly gaining popularity. Leather jackets have been the traditional choice for motorcycle riders for many years.
Leather is a durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Textile jackets are becoming more popular in recent years. They’re usually cheaper than leather jackets, and they’re often more comfortable in warm weather thanks to their breathability. Textile jackets also tend to be lighter than leather jackets, which can be a big advantage on long rides.
Which leather is best for a biker jacket?
There are many different types of leather, and each has its pros and cons. The most important thing to look for in a motorcycle jacket is high-quality leather that is thick enough to protect you in the event of a crash. Leather jackets can be made from cowhide, buffalo hide, or even deer skin. Buffalo hide is the strongest and most durable type of leather, but it is also the heaviest and most expensive.
Cowhide is the most common type of leather used in motorcycle jackets. It’s strong and abrasion-resistant, but not as heavy as buffalo hide. Deerskin is the lightest and softest type of leather, making it more comfortable to wear for long periods. However, it’s not as durable as cowhide or buffalo hide.
Which material is best for a textile motorcycle jacket?
Textile jackets come in a variety of different materials, such as nylon, Kevlar, and Cordura. Nylon is the most common type of textile used in motorcycle jackets. It’s strong and abrasion-resistant, but not as heavy as Kevlar. Kevlar is even stronger and more abrasion-resistant than nylon, but it’s also much heavier. Cordura is a lightweight and breathable textile that is often used in racing jackets. It’s not as strong or abrasion-resistant as nylon or Kevlar, but it’s much lighter and more comfortable to wear in warm weather.
What is warmer leather or textile?
Leather is generally warmer than textiles, but there are a few factors to consider. Leather is not as breathable as textiles, so it can trap heat and make you sweat in warm weather. Textiles are usually more comfortable in warm weather thanks to their breathability. Leather is also heavier than textiles, so it can be more cumbersome to wear in hot weather.
What is the most waterproof motorcycle jacket?
The most waterproof motorcycle jacket is made from Gore-Tex or another type of waterproof and breathable membrane. Gore-Tex jackets are expensive, but they’re worth the investment if you ride in wet weather frequently. Waterproof and breathable membranes allow your body to breathe while keeping out water. This means that you’ll stay dry and comfortable in wet weather.
How do you waterproof a textile motorcycle jacket?
Textile motorcycle jackets can be waterproofed with a variety of different products. The most common way to waterproof a textile jacket is to use a spray-on waterproofing agent. These agents are easy to apply and usually last for several rides. Another option is to use a wax-based waterproofing agent. Waxes provide longer-lasting protection than sprays, but they’re more difficult to apply.
How to choose the leather motorcycle jacket?
When choosing a leather motorcycle jacket, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the jacket is made from high-quality leather. Second, choose a jacket that is thick enough to protect you in the event of a crash. Third, consider the type of leather that the jacket is made from. Additionally, keep in mind that leather jackets are generally more expensive than textile jackets.
How tight should a textile motorcycle jacket fit?
Textile motorcycle jackets should fit snugly, but not too tight. They should be tight enough to stay in place during a crash, but not so tight that they restrict your movement. Additionally, textile jackets should be breathable to keep you cool and comfortable in warm weather.
What is the difference between men’s and women’s motorcycle jackets?
Men’s and women’s motorcycle jackets differ in a few ways. First, women’s jackets are usually shorter than men’s jackets to account for their different body proportions. Second, women’s jackets often have narrower shoulders and waistbands to provide a more tailored fit. Finally, some women’s jackets have additional padding in the chest area to provide extra protection.
Useful Video: Leather Jackets vs Textile Jackets | Versus
Conclusion
There is no clear winner when it comes to the debate between leather and textile motorcycle jackets. It really depends on your personal preferences and what you value most in a jacket. If you prioritize protection above all else, then leather is probably the way to go. Leather jackets also tend to be more stylish and last longer than textile jackets. On the other hand, textile jackets tend to be more comfortable and breathable, making them a good choice for warmer climates. Ultimately, the choice is up to you. Whichever type of jacket you choose, make sure it fits well and provides the level of protection you need.
References:
- https://ultimatemotorcycling.com/2014/12/13/top-10-features-look-motorcycle-jackets/
- https://www.motosport.com/blog/pros-and-cons-leather-vs-textile-riding-gear-for-motorcycles
- https://merlamoto.com/blogs/muse/textile-motorcycle-jacket-vs-leather
- https://www.revzilla.com/common-tread/leather-jackets-versus-textile-jackets
- https://www.elkriverhd.com/6-most-important-pieces-of-motorcycle-riding-gear/