Textile motorcycle jackets have gained immense popularity due to their versatility, durability, and often more affordable prices compared to leather jackets.
With advancements in technology and design, today’s textile jackets offer a superb blend of protection, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. If you’re in the market for a new textile motorcycle jacket, here are what I think are the best options for 2024.
Why Choose Textile Motorcycle Jackets?
Textile motorcycle jackets have become a preferred motorcycle jacket choice for many riders for several reasons:
- Versatility: Unlike leather jackets, textile motorcycle jackets are often designed to be versatile, featuring removable liners, adjustable vents, and multiple pockets.
- Weather Resistance: Many textile jackets offer waterproof and windproof features, making them suitable for various weather conditions.
- Breathability: Textile materials typically provide better ventilation and breathability compared to leather, enhancing rider comfort in different climates.
- Affordability: Textile jackets are generally more affordable than their leather counterparts, providing excellent value for money.
5 Best Textile Motorcycle Jackets to Buy
1. REV’IT! Sand 4 H2O Jacket
The REV’IT! Sand 4 H2O is an advanced textile jacket tailored for adventure touring and off-road riding. It combines rugged construction with innovative features, making it a reliable option for riders who face diverse conditions. Whether you’re tackling challenging trails or cruising long stretches of highway, the Sand 4 H2O aims to provide top-notch protection and comfort.
Key Features
Weather Protection:
- Hydratex®|G-liner: The jacket is equipped with a Hydratex®|G-liner waterproof membrane, which ensures you stay dry even in heavy rain. This technology also provides windproof capabilities, making it suitable for various weather conditions.
- Removable Thermal Liner: For cooler climates, the removable thermal liner adds an extra layer of warmth. This liner can be easily detached when the temperature rises, enhancing the jacket’s versatility.
Ventilation:
- VCS|Zipper Ventilation: One of the standout features of the Sand 4 H2O is its VCS|Zipper ventilation system. Large zippered vents on the chest and back provide excellent airflow, allowing you to regulate your body temperature during warm rides. The ventilation system is designed to be easy to use, even with gloves on.
Protection:
- CE-Level 2 Armor: Safety is a top priority with the Sand 4 H2O. It comes with SEEFLEX™ CE-level 2 armor in the shoulders and elbows, providing superior impact protection. There is also a pocket for a SEESOFT™ CE-level 2 back protector, which can be purchased separately for enhanced protection.
- Abrasion-Resistant Materials: The jacket’s outer shell is constructed from durable materials that offer excellent abrasion resistance, adding an extra layer of safety in the event of a fall.
Fit and Adjustability:
- Customizable Fit: The Sand 4 H2O features adjustable straps at the waist, cuffs, and collar, allowing you to achieve a personalized fit. This adjustability ensures the jacket remains comfortable and secure, reducing flapping and improving aerodynamic performance.
- Pre-Curved Sleeves: The jacket is designed with pre-curved sleeves, which enhance comfort and mobility while riding. This ergonomic design helps reduce fatigue on long trips.
Storage:
- Multiple Pockets: For practicality, the Sand 4 H2O includes multiple pockets, both internal and external. These pockets are designed to securely store your essentials, such as a wallet, phone, or maps, making it convenient for longer journeys.
Visibility:
- Reflective Elements: Safety is further enhanced with reflective elements strategically placed on the jacket. These features improve visibility in low-light conditions, helping you stay seen by other road users.
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2. REV’IT! Eclipse 2 Jacket
The REV’IT! Eclipse 2 is a textile jacket tailored for summer riding and warm climates. Its design emphasizes airflow and comfort while maintaining essential safety features. Ideal for both urban commutes and casual weekend rides, the Eclipse 2 aims to deliver a balance of protection, breathability, and style.
Key Features
Breathability and Ventilation:
- Mesh Construction: The Eclipse 2 features a durable mesh outer shell that provides excellent airflow. This design is crucial for hot weather riding, allowing for maximum ventilation and cooling.
- Airflow Panels: Strategically placed mesh panels enhance airflow, helping to regulate body temperature during long rides or in stop-and-go traffic.
Protection:
- CE-Level 1 Armor: The jacket is equipped with SEESMART™ CE-level 1 protectors in the shoulders and elbows. While CE-level 1 armor offers reliable protection, it is lighter and more flexible compared to higher-level armor, which suits the jacket’s primary focus on comfort.
- Reinforced Areas: Reinforced shoulders and elbows provide additional protection against abrasion without compromising the jacket’s lightweight nature.
Comfort and Fit:
- Adjustable Fit: The Eclipse 2 comes with adjustable straps at the waist and arms, allowing for a customizable fit. This adjustability ensures the jacket remains snug and comfortable while riding, reducing wind flap and improving aerodynamic performance.
- Ergonomic Design: The jacket features pre-curved sleeves and a tailored fit that enhances mobility and reduces fatigue on longer rides.
Design and Aesthetics:
- Sleek Appearance: The REV’IT! Eclipse 2 boasts a modern, stylish design that appeals to riders looking for a jacket that looks as good as it performs. Available in a range of colors, it complements various motorcycle styles and personal preferences.
- Reflective Elements: For added safety, the jacket includes reflective strips that enhance visibility in low-light conditions, helping riders stay seen by others on the road.
Practicality and Storage:
- Pockets: The Eclipse 2 is equipped with multiple pockets, including internal and external options. These pockets provide convenient storage for essential items such as a phone, wallet, or keys, making it practical for daily use.
Check it out at Amazon
Check it out at Revzilla
3. Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar Jacket
The Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar jacket is engineered for adventure and touring enthusiasts who need reliable gear for both on-road and off-road excursions. It combines advanced materials, effective weather protection, and adjustable features to ensure riders remain comfortable and safe throughout their journeys.
Key Features
Weather Protection:
- Drystar® Membrane: The Andes V3 is equipped with Alpinestars’ proprietary Drystar® membrane, which provides exceptional waterproofing while maintaining breathability. This feature ensures that you stay dry in wet conditions without sacrificing comfort.
- Removable Thermal Liner: The jacket includes a removable thermal liner that adds warmth in colder weather. This liner is easily detachable, allowing you to adapt to changing temperatures.
Ventilation:
- Vented Design: The Andes V3 features large zippered vents on the chest and back, allowing for adjustable airflow. These vents can be opened or closed as needed to regulate temperature and enhance comfort during warmer rides.
Protection:
- CE Protection: Safety is a major focus with the Andes V3. It comes with Bio-Armor CE-certified protectors in the shoulders and elbows, offering reliable impact protection. The jacket is also compatible with Alpinestars’ Nucleon back protector, which is sold separately but provides additional safety.
- Abrasion-Resistant Materials: The jacket’s outer shell is constructed from abrasion-resistant materials, ensuring durability and protection against the elements and impacts.
Fit and Adjustability:
- Adjustable Features: The Andes V3 includes adjustable straps at the waist and cuffs, allowing for a customizable fit. This adjustability ensures the jacket remains comfortable and secure, reducing wind flap and improving aerodynamic performance.
- Pre-Curved Sleeves: Designed with pre-curved sleeves, the jacket enhances comfort and mobility while riding, reducing fatigue on long journeys.
Design and Aesthetics:
- Stylish Appearance: The Andes V3 has a modern and sleek design that blends functionality with style. It is available in various color options, catering to different rider preferences.
- Reflective Details: Reflective elements are incorporated into the jacket to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, contributing to rider safety.
Storage:
- Multiple Pockets: The Andes V3 includes several pockets, both internal and external, providing ample storage space for essential items like a phone, wallet, or keys. The pockets are designed for easy access and secure storage.
Check it out at Amazon
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4. Klim Carlsbad Jacket
The Klim Carlsbad jacket is engineered to excel in adventure and off-road riding. It is built to handle a wide range of weather conditions and terrains, providing riders with a combination of waterproof protection, breathability, and rugged durability. With its focus on performance and functionality, the Carlsbad is designed for serious adventure riders who need reliable gear for extended journeys.
Key Features
Weather Protection:
- GORE-TEX® 3-Layer Construction: The Carlsbad jacket utilizes a GORE-TEX® 3-layer shell, offering superior waterproofing and breathability. This technology ensures that riders stay dry in wet conditions while allowing sweat and moisture to escape, maintaining comfort during long rides.
- Waterproof Zippers and Taped Seams: Additional waterproofing is provided by waterproof zippers and fully taped seams, which prevent water ingress and ensure comprehensive protection against rain.
Ventilation:
- Large Vents: The Carlsbad jacket features large, strategically placed vents on the chest, back, and underarms. These vents can be opened to enhance airflow and help regulate body temperature during warmer weather or strenuous riding.
- Mesh Liner: The jacket includes a mesh liner that further aids in ventilation and moisture management, contributing to a comfortable riding experience.
Protection:
- CE Armor: The Carlsbad comes equipped with D3O® CE Level 1 armor in the shoulders and elbows, providing high-impact protection while maintaining flexibility. The jacket also has a pocket for an optional D3O® CE Level 2 back protector, which can be purchased separately for enhanced safety.
- Abrasion-Resistant Materials: Constructed from durable, abrasion-resistant materials, the jacket offers excellent protection against wear and tear, making it suitable for rugged adventure riding.
Fit and Adjustability:
- Adjustable Features: The Carlsbad jacket includes adjustable straps at the waist, cuffs, and collar, allowing for a customizable fit. This adjustability helps to ensure that the jacket stays secure and comfortable, reducing wind flap and enhancing overall performance.
- Pre-Curved Sleeves: The pre-curved sleeves are designed to improve comfort and mobility, reducing rider fatigue and providing a better riding posture.
Design and Aesthetics:
- Modern and Functional Design: The Carlsbad jacket features a sleek and functional design that blends with its high-performance features. Available in various colors, it caters to different rider preferences.
- Reflective Details: Reflective elements are incorporated into the jacket to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, improving safety during night rides or low-light situations.
Storage:
- Practical Pockets: The Carlsbad jacket includes multiple pockets, both internal and external, for convenient storage of essentials. These pockets are designed to be easily accessible while riding, providing secure storage for items like a phone, wallet, or keys.
Check it out at Amazon
Check it out at Revzilla
5. Joe Rocket Turbulent Jacket
The Joe Rocket Turbulent jacket is designed for riders who demand robust protection and versatile functionality. Its construction focuses on providing a balance between durability, weather resistance, and comfort, making it suitable for various riding conditions. With its blend of advanced materials and practical features, the Turbulent aims to deliver a reliable riding experience.
Key Features
Weather Protection:
- Rock Tex™ 600 and 1000 Denier Materials: The jacket is made from Joe Rocket’s proprietary Rock Tex™ materials, which are designed to offer high abrasion resistance. This construction provides good protection against the elements while maintaining durability.
- Waterproof and Windproof Liner: The Turbulent jacket includes a waterproof and windproof liner to keep riders dry in adverse weather conditions. This liner can be removed when not needed, adding to the jacket’s versatility.
Ventilation:
- Adjustable Vents: The jacket features large zippered vents on the chest, back, and arms, allowing for adjustable airflow. These vents help regulate temperature and improve comfort during warmer weather or high-intensity rides.
- Mesh Panels: In addition to the adjustable vents, the jacket includes mesh panels that further enhance ventilation, promoting better airflow and cooling.
Protection:
- CE Armor: The Turbulent jacket comes with CE-approved armor in the shoulders and elbows, offering reliable impact protection. The jacket also features a pocket for a back protector, which can be purchased separately for added safety.
- Abrasion-Resistant Materials: The combination of Rock Tex™ 600 and 1000 Denier materials provides a high level of abrasion resistance, contributing to overall rider safety.
Fit and Adjustability:
- Adjustable Features: The jacket includes adjustable straps at the waist, arms, and cuffs, allowing for a customizable fit. This adjustability helps to ensure the jacket remains secure and comfortable, minimizing wind flap and improving aerodynamic performance.
- Pre-Curved Sleeves: The pre-curved sleeves are designed to enhance comfort and mobility, reducing rider fatigue and providing a better riding posture.
Design and Aesthetics:
- Modern and Stylish Design: The Turbulent jacket features a sleek and modern design with various color options. Its aesthetic appeal is complemented by practical functionality, making it suitable for both sport and touring riders.
- Reflective Accents: Reflective accents are incorporated into the jacket to improve visibility in low-light conditions, enhancing rider safety during night rides or in dimly lit environments.
Storage:
- Multiple Pockets: The jacket includes several pockets, both internal and external, providing ample storage for essentials such as a phone, wallet, or keys. These pockets are designed for easy access and secure storage.
Check it out at Amazon
Check it out at Revzilla
Choosing the Right Textile Motorcycle Jacket
When selecting from the slew of textile motorcycle jackets, consider the following factors to ensure you get the best fit for your needs:
Protection
Safety should be your top priority. Look for jackets with CE-certified armor in key areas such as the shoulders, elbows, and back. Some jackets also include additional features like abrasion-resistant materials.
Weather Resistance
Evaluate the jacket’s ability to handle various weather conditions. Jackets with waterproof membranes, removable liners, and adjustable ventilation will offer greater versatility.
Comfort and Fit
A well-fitting jacket enhances both safety and comfort. Choose a jacket with adjustable features such as waist, cuffs, and collar. Ensure it allows for a full range of motion while riding.
Features and Functionality
Consider additional features that may enhance your riding experience, such as multiple pockets, reflective elements for visibility, and easy-to-use zippers and closures.
Budget
Textile motorcycle jackets are available in a wide range of prices. Determine your budget and balance it against the features and protection levels you need.
Get the Right Jacket for You
The options highlighted above represent some of the best textile motorcycle jackets on sale today, catering to various riding styles and budgets. Whether you’re an adventure rider, a daily commuter, or a sport enthusiast, there’s a textile jacket out there that fits your needs perfectly. Invest in a high-quality jacket, and you’ll be well-equipped for countless enjoyable and safe rides.
