Motorcycle jackets are one of the most important pieces of riding gear just second to helmets. A leather jacket is a wonderful additional wardrobe staple. However, when shopping for a motorcycle jacket, it is important to remember that it is not only about fashion and aesthetics alone. Most importantly, your safety should always be your main priority.
The purpose of a motorcycle jacket is to offer you protection from road rash and other serious bodily injuries. As far as riding jackets are concerned, it is all about protection and looks. Before you decide to splurge, it is best to arm yourself with some tips for finding the best riding jacket for ladies that strikes the perfect balance of protection and fashion.
Follow Your Style
Every lady has her own personal flare and taste for fashion. Don’t worry about losing your sense of style the moment you wear your gear.
It doesn’t matter if you choose a jacket made from textile or leather material, there are plenty of different designs, colors, and styles to choose from to suit every woman’s unique taste and preferences.
The best motorcycle jackets will not just offer protection but will also showcase your personal preferences while displaying your distinct personality as a rider.
Buy New
New will always be your best option as far as protective gear is concerned. If you buy a used piece of gear, there is always the possibility that the previous owner didn’t look after the jacket properly which can decrease its protection and quality.
Can you compromise your safety just to save a few bucks? Of course, not! Even if you will pay a hefty price upfront for new motorcycle jackets, consider the actual value you will get from it: your life.
Also, while you wouldn’t want to be regarded as a label snob, in cases like this, it will be better to choose reputably and trusted brands. As far as your riding gear is concerned, quality will always be worth every dollar you pay.
Look for Internal Pockets
Being a woman, you are probably used to small pockets that don’t even fit your phone. However, pockets are a must when you are out riding. You might often put all of your valuables inside your favorite bag that you bring with you anywhere you go. But if you are out on your bike, the pockets on your jacket serve as your purse.
Every time you go for a ride, you will need a place where you can put your phone, wallet, keys, and other necessities. The internal pockets on your jacket give you the most convenient storage spot that not only protects your valuables but also makes things safer for you.
Some riding jackets also provide the option where you can include an internal waterproof pocket even though the jacket itself might not be waterproof.
Inspect the Stitching
- Just like other gear and clothing pieces, quality matters the most.
- When shopping for a jacket, make sure you check the stitching to ensure that there are no dropped stitches.
- When the seams bust during impact, for example, your jacket won’t be able to offer you protection.
- Make sure you choose jackets with seams that are either double-stitched, safety stitched, or multi-stitched to ensure maximum resistance to tears.
Consider the Elements
You will also need and want some personal features from your jacket depending on how you ride and where you live. Every piece of gear you buy should be suitable for your regional weather patterns and riding style.
Some motorcycle jackets provide removable cold-weather waterproof liners. Thus, always consider how and where you ride. Every weather condition will require different liners or features from your jacket.
Choose between Textile or Leather
This next point is probably one of the most personal choices you need to make when shopping for your riding jacket. These materials both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. It means you have to determine what best suits your specific needs.
The area or region where you live is a big factor here.
- Textile jackets are often more water-resistant and breathable which might be a better option if you are living in a place with a hotter climate.
- But the only downside is that they have the tendency to wear out faster than leather.
- You can also find jackets combining leather and textile to incorporate better durability, ventilation, and protection.
- The textile material can work as an ideal starter jacket, particularly if your budget is a bit limited.
- However, if you are willing to make a long-term investment that offers the best protection, your best option is leather.
Check for Armor Protection
Your armor can bulk you up with no need for you to go to the gym. You will need armor protection for your shoulders, back, and elbows. Check for armor with a CE rating because it is both lightweight and strong.
Many riders seem to think that jackets don’t offer as much back armor as they like. If this is the case, you can buy a back protector that can serve as a replacement for the sub-par padding.
Consider Ventilation
As the hot sun beams down on you from the sky and there is a hot engine roaring between your legs, one thing is for sure: things will get hotter than you want to. Even if textile motorcycle jackets can provide better airflow, ventilated options are also available in leather jackets.
When you choose leather, opt for jackets that provide perforated panels for better ventilation every time you ride. The key here is airflow because no matter how slow or fast you ride, your skin always needs to breathe.
Your choice of motorcycle jacket requires a lot of important considerations. However, by following the helpful tips above, you will be able to ensure that your first decision will be the right decision. Your final decision on what will be best for you and your personal needs is still going to be up to you, lady.