• Budget: The best solution would be to have a different jacket for every kind of riding you do and every kind of weather pattern you experience, but that would cost a lot of dough. Most of us can’t afford that luxury, therefore we need a jacket that can transition to fit all of our specific needs. We’re gonna give it to you straight and let you know right now that if you are looking for a less costly alternative, textile will always be cheaper. Whichever material you choose, just remember that they all come in high quality and low quality versions. When it comes to riding, you need the best, and it’s definitely worth the cost when you think about it in terms of your safety. Remember, you get the quality you pay for, if you purchase gear cheap, you have to expect cheap gear.
• Protection: When it comes to leather, there’s no comparison to the protection. Leather offers you better impact protection and abrasion resistance. That doesn’t mean that textile won’t protect you too, it will, just not as well as leather can. While textile materials have advanced, leather still takes the gold. Make sure to check the thickness of your leather. In order to properly protect, leather should be at least 1.2 mm thick. Leather jackets have been a staple piece in the fashion world for decades, but you need proper motorcycle leather, and not the cheap knock-off you’d find at the local mall.
• Weather: When it comes to varying weather conditions, textile may be the best way to go. Leather material is heavy and does not offer as much ventilation as textile jackets, making it not as practical for summer riding. If you will be riding in the heat and still want leather, most manufacturers do offer perforated options. In the cold, leather will keep you warm as it retains body heat and is wind resistant, while textile may require additional layering. In rain, leather can leave you soaking wet and your jacket ruined. Leather jackets can shrink and color bleed when in contact with water, while textiles are often waterproof. Most riders who prefer leather, carry a rain suit. Staying dry, warm, or cool, effects the comfort of your ride. Remember that discomfort on your motorcycle is a safety hazard and nothing, especially your jacket, should distract you on the road.
• Comfort & Fit: Whether you choose leather or textile, your jacket needs a snug fit. Leather sport jackets are more fitted to your body. This will keep your armor in place, which is extremely important in the event of a crash. Leather is also a softer material, which can prove to be more comfortable on your ride. Textile tends to be more bulky, but is a lighter in weight. Due to their lightweight properties, textile may offer you greater flexibility than leather. In this area each material has strong pros and cons so it will really come down to your personal preferences.
• Durability: With textile jackets, it’s usually one and done, meaning that you will still be protected for your first crash, but will probably need to replace it before your second. Leather is much more durable. You may have a few scuffs here and there, but after a crash, if cared for properly, leather jackets can actually last a lifetime. You may pay more up front, but in the end you will actually save money because it’s a one time purchase vs. paying for multiple textile jackets throughout your lifetime.
• Care: While dirt is much more apparent on textile jackets than it is on leather, textile is much easier to clean. Most textile jackets can be thrown into the washer, while leather usually needs to be dry cleaned. Textile colors fade more quickly, but leather needs a lot of care to make it last. Leather needs to be properly cleaned and conditioned, but is easier to patch and repair. If a textile jacket develops holes or is damaged, it typically requires replacement. Therefore even with proper care, the lifespan of a textile jacket is generally much shorter than that of a leather jacket.
• Speed: How fast you go can be the determining factor in the leather vs. textile debate. The higher your speed, the more we recommend leather. Textile jackets are usually better for commuters while leather is better for performance riding, it’s all about what style of riding you do, and what exactly you want and need from your jacket. Leather jackets cut the wind better, keeping you warm at top speeds, while textile jackets are better for transitioning to the needs of the daily commuter or adventure rider.
• Style: Your jacket shows off your individuality as a rider, so shop for a jacket that fits your style, and has the features you want and need. If you want to look vintage and classic, leather would be the choice for you, while textile offers a more modern look. Both materials are available in a variety of different colors with high-visibility reflective qualities to further protect you. Remember, the right jacket for you will offer proper protection and show off your personal sense of style.

For the most part, any motorcycle jacket you purchase will be a compromise and you have to choose which features are most important. In order to be comfortable on your ride you might be giving up some protection. No one jacket will be perfect for every rider and style of riding.

Think you’ve made your choice? You can find the lowest prices on the perfect motorcycle jacket with Riders Discount. Going with textile? Check out all the latest features by shopping the selection of textile motorcycle jackets at Riders Discount. Decided on classic leather? Shop the highest quality leather motorcycle jackets at the cheapest prices on the web with Riders Discount.

Remember, leather vs. textile is not the only factor to consider when purchasing a motorcycle jacket. If you require additional help choosing the right jacket contact our expert sales team at 1-866-931-6644. And ladies, feel free to review our guide to female specific motorcycle jackets, 10 Tips to Choosing a Women’s Motorcycle Jacket.

Products pictured are Alpinestars Bogota Drystar Textile Jacket and Alpinestars Jaws Perforated Leather Jacket.

The post The Great Debate: Leather vs. Textile Jackets appeared first on Riders Discount.

1. Buy new. When it comes to protective gear, new is always ideal. Previous owners may not have properly cared for the jacket, decreasing the quality and protection. So really the question is, what price would you put on your safety? You can pay a hefty price for a new motorcycle jacket, but consider its actual value: your life. You may not want to be a “label snob,” but in this case, it’s good to trust reputable brands. When it comes to your gear, quality is always worth the price.

2. Stay visible. While you may think you look cool in your all black gear, there’s one huge problem: you’re nearly impossible to see, especially at night. High visibility while riding can actually save your life. Look for jackets with hi-vis properties that are reflective when met with headlights. Take a look for yourself, next time you are out driving look at the various bikers on the road and take notice to how much easier it is to see riders in bright or contrasting gear colors. Remember in the motorcycle world, staying safe is always fashionable.

3. Make it fit. Just like with clothing, when gear fits you better, it looks better, but it’s not just about the looks, it’s about your safety. You want your jacket to be form fitting, so it doesn’t move around in the event of an accident. If your jacket feels a little tight at first, don’t worry, it will loosen up over time. Make sure your sleeves go all the way to your wrists and that your jacket is long enough to cover your lower back in any riding position so it offers you the best protection. Take the time to do your measurements to ensure you are purchasing the correct size, which just like your clothes, may vary among different brands. Trouble with sizing? Just give us a call at 1-866-931-6644. Our expert sales team is happy to help determine your best fit.

4. Go with leather or textile. This is one of the most personal pieces of deciding on a motorcycle jacket. Both materials have their pros and cons, so you’ll have to determine which is best for your specific needs. Where you live can be a big factor. Textile jackets are typically more breathable and water resistant which may be better if you live in a hotter climate. However, they wear out more quickly than leather. Some jackets combine both materials to incorporate better protection, ventilation, and durability. Textile works as a perfect starter jacket, especially if you’re on a tight budget, but if you’re looking for a long-term investment with the best protection, leather is the choice for you.

5. Look for armor protection. No need to hit the gym, your armor should bulk you right up. All jokes aside, you’ll want armor protection for your elbows, shoulders, and back. Look for armor that has a “CE rating” as it is both strong and lightweight. Most riders feel jackets don’t provide as much back armor as they prefer, in this case you can purchase a back protector that replaces the sub-par padding. If you find yourself in the majority on this point, take a look at the many back protectors offered for you by Riders Discount.

6. Check the stitching. Just like the rest of your gear, and probably clothing, quality is everything. When you first receive your jacket, you should always look over the stitching to make sure there are no dropped stitches. If your seams bust on impact your jacket can’t properly protect you. Look for jackets that make a point to note that their seams are multi stitch, double stitched, or safety stitched for maximum tear resistance.

7. Consider your elements. Depending on where you live and how you ride, you’re going to have personal features you want and need from your jacket. Every piece of gear you purchase should adhere to your chosen style of riding and regional weather patterns. Some jackets offer removable waterproof and cold weather liners. So think about where and how you ride. Touring vs. canyons, SoCal vs. Michigan, you’re going to need different features or liners from your jacket.

8. Ventilate. When the sun is beaming down and you have an engine between your legs, you can trust one thing, it’s going to get hot. While textile jackets are known for better airflow, leather jackets also offer ventilated options. If you go leather, look for jackets that offer perforated panels for increased ventilation when you ride. Airflow is key, because no matter how fast or slow you choose to ride, your skin needs to breath.

9. Check for internal pockets. As a woman, you may be used to tiny pockets that can barely fit your phone, but on your motorcycle, pockets are a necessity. You may typically throw all your prized possessions in your favorite bag that follows you wherever you go, but on your bike, your pockets are your purse. When you’re riding you’re going to need a place to store your wallet, phone, keys, and any other necessities. Internal pockets offer you the most convenient placing and are not only safer for you but they better protect your stuff as well. Some even offer the option of including an internal waterproof pocket, even if the jacket itself is not considered waterproof.

10. Adhere to your own style. Every woman has her own personal taste and flare for fashion. If you are worried about losing your own personal sense of style in your gear, don’t be! Whether you choose leather or a textile material, there are tons different styles, colors, and designs, to fit the taste of every woman. The perfect jacket will not only protect you, but also will fit your personal preferences and display your personality as a rider.

The choice of a motorcycle jacket can take a lot of consideration, but by following these helpful tips you can make the first decision the right decision. The final decision on what’s best for you and your personal needs will always be up to you, when it doubt, just remember, a woman is always right.

At Riders Discount you’ll find the lowest prices on name brand motorcycle gear. We offer you the best women’s motorcycle jackets for the best protection on every ride. 

Still having trouble choosing the best motorcycle jacket for your personal needs? No problem. Our expert sales team is happy to coach you through to the right decision just give us a call at 1-866-931-6644 or send us a message at support@ridersdiscount.com.

Product photo is Alpinestars Stella GP-Plus R Leather Jacket.

The post Buyer’s Guide: 10 Tips to Choosing a Women’s Motorcycle Jacket appeared first on Riders Discount.

Be sure to contact us if you’re interested in any of these specials by calling 866.931.6644. You can also get in touch by sending an email to FORUM at RIDERSDISCOUNT dot COM and we’ll get back to you right away!

All prices include free shipping within the lower 48 states.

Tech-1R Jacket – On Sale for $495 (Regularly $699.95)
Available in:
Black/White – 42 US/52 EU
Black/White/Red – 42 US/52 EU

Alpinestars Monster Scream Leather Jacket – On Sale for $315
Available in 40 US/50 EU

Alpinestars Monster Chase Waterproof Textile Jacket – On Sale for $189
Available in Small and Medium

Alpinestars Alloy Leather/Mesh Textile Hybrid Jacket – On Sale for $155
Available in sizes 48 US/58 EU, 50 US/60 EU, and 52 US/62 EU

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