Types of Leather Motorcycle Jackets

Motorcycle riders generally like to make a statement with their choice of motorcycle gear. As riding a motorcycle can be dangerous it is important to choose gear that also protects the rider. The different types of leather motorcycle jackets available today are perfect for riding a bike since they are not just protective, they also make the rider look good.

Street Bike Jackets

The right street bike leather jacket protects the driver from the weather and from minor injury in case of an accident. A basic street bike jacket is made from high quality, full-grain leather and has a good lining, which can be quilted and removable for extra comfort and protection. The stitching should be nylon for extra durability. Most street bike jackets are waist-length and have long, fitted sleeves. The waist and sleeves can have adjustable tabs for comfort and ventilation. It is usually zippered and can have a belt. Many different versions of street bike jackets are available for men, women and children.

Cruiser Motorcycle Jackets

The cruiser motorcycle jacket is designed to keep the rider comfortable and safe while riding long distances. A cruiser jacket should have a good ventilation system to keep air flowing around the rider's body. For the summer, thinner leather jackets with perforations all over it are available. For the winter, a thickly lined cruising jacket is perfect. The ideal combination is a jacket that combines air vents with an insulated lining that can be removed. Cruiser jackets are available in many colors and in sizes for men, women and children.

Dirt Motorcycle Jackets

A good dirt motorcycle leather jacket complements the dirt bike armor. It is designed for aggressive driving, with flex zones for ease of movement and pre-curved arms. A dirt motorcycle jacket should have plastic armor at the shoulders and elbows to protect the rider as he makes contact with the ground. Mesh panels in the lining and air vents are important, so the rider can enjoy this sport any time of the year. Many of the dirt cycle jackets have a removable wind-resistant vest for even more comfort.

ATV Motorcycle Jackets

ATV motorcycle jackets have plastic protection at the elbows. At the shoulders, some ATV jackets sport protectors with integrated ventilation intake vents, which make the jacket very comfortable to wear in any weather. When choosing this type of jacket it is advisable to look for one with a foam-padded collarbone protective panel and extra plastic shoulder protection. In addition, many ATV motorcycle jackets have back protection comprised of an extra triple-density panel. Flexibility, like accordion-style expansion panels at shoulders and elbows, is of great advantage for the rider providing ease of movement. Snaps or zippers to tighten the cuffs will eliminate flapping. Some ATV jackets come with a removable vest, and some have a jacket-to-pants attachment zipper with can turn such a jacket into full body armor with the right pair of pants.

Casual Motorcycle Jackets

Casual motorcycle leather jackets come in all sizes and a variety of colors for men, women and children. Not only are they perfect for bike riders, they can be worn for other occasions. Casual leather jackets come in many different leathers, from cowhide to sheep leather. Buffed leather jackets, suede jackets and full grain leather jackets are popular. Casual jackets can be zippered, belted or a combination of both.