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The Best Cruiser-Style Motorcycle Jackets for 2024

We'd know - we've hands-on tested 200+ jackets since 2000!

Our picks are based on jackets that offer the best blend of safety/performance, function/features, and price.

Last updated October 2023 by Jared Northcott.

Entry-Level

Priced under $300.

Best Cruiser Jacket

Mid-Range

Priced $300 - $500.

Best Cruiser Jacket

High-End

Priced $500+.

About Our Motorcycle Jackets Recommendations

Founded in 2000, our team at wBW has collectively tested more than 2,500 helmets, jackets, boots, gloves, accessories, and more. We do not fluff reviews. A riders safety is heavily dictated by how they ride and what they wear while doing so. Our goal is to help riders make informed decisions about the gear they invest in to protect themselves.

wBW is funded by our audience. Our recommendations and reviews may contain affiliate links that earn us a small comission if you make a purchase after clicking them. This is the primary way we fund our website and pay our review team (and comes at no additional cost to you). We disclose our relationship with brands or manufacturers for transparency. For more information about our extensive review process, see our review policies.

Best Entry-Level Cruiser Motorcycle Jackets

Priced under $300.

REV'IT! Eclipse 2 jacket

REV’IT! Eclipse 2 Jacket

Why?

The REV'IT! Eclipse 2 Jacket builds on its predecessor's already stellar reputation as one of the most sought-after lightweight summer jackets, designed for superior airflow and comfort in hot weather. With huge mesh panels and CE certified armor at the shoulders and elbows, you can be sure to stay cool and protected on your ride - with an option to add a back protector (sold separately) for extra security.

Key Specs

• Fit: Slim/Tapered European cut

• Construction: Abrasion-resistant 600-denier polyester construction. Mesh lining

• Ventilation: Polyester mesh panels at the front, back and inner arms

• Comfort: Adjustment tabs at the cuffs, upper arms and waist. Wind catcher behind front zipper

• Pockets: Inner pocket, Two slit pockets on front

• Other Features: Jeans loop, V-flap at cuff

Protection & Safety

• SEESMART CE Level 1 elbow and shoulder armor included

• Pocket for SEESOFT CE Level 2 back protector (sold separately)

• CE approved to EN17092 as a Class A garment

Dainese Denim Tex Jacket

Why?

The Denim Tex Jacket from Dainese is the perfect combination of casual style and maximum protection. Crafted from stretch denim fabric, it provides superior comfort and allows for full range of motion. With soft pro-shape protectors on the shoulders and elbows to safeguard against impacts, plus a pocket for an optional back protector, you can be sure your safety won't be compromised when on the go. Plus, with five pockets to store all your essential belongings, this jacket is ready for a good ride.

Key Specs

• Construction: Elasticated denim

• Comfort: Waist adjustment

• Pockets: One inner pocket and four outer pockets

Protection & Safety

• Soft Pro-Shape Level 1 protectors on shoulders and elbows

• Pocket for optional G1 or G2 back protector

• EN 17092 A certified motorbike garment

Street & Steel Lane Splitter 2

Street & Steel Lane Splitter 2 Jacket

Why?

This vest and hoodie combo looks great and saves money buying them separately. Can be worn on its own. Stylish and comfortable.

Key Specs

• Combined 120z denim vest and heavy cotton hoodie

• Zippered front with full YKK zippers

• Two chest and two lower pockets

• Back panel for adding patches

Protection & Safety

• CE level 2 elbow and shoulder armor

• Pocket for optional AXIAL back protector (sold separately)

• Black reflective accents on shoulders

Best Mid-Range Cruiser Motorcycle Jackets

Priced $300 - $500.

First Manufacturing Top Performer Jacket

Why?

Classic cruiser styling with fantastic reviews from real riders and industry professionals alike. Note: “generous” cut means extremely generous—size down one level (example: from Large to Medium) from your normal jacket/shirt size.

Key Specs

• Generous American cut

• Single snap mandarin collar

• Padded shoulder detail

• Two vented chest pockets

• Two lower zip pockets

• Zipper vent on each sleeve

• Padded elbow and kidney area

• Zippered cuff

• Two inner pockets

• Grommets under each arm

• Snap side tab adjustment

• Full sleeve zip out liner

• Pockets for optional armor (sold separately)

Protection & Safety

• Leather chassis lends itself to the best abrasion resistance you can get and increased durability for everyday use

• Padded shoulders, elbows, and kidneys

• CE rated armor is not included—so you’ll need to upgrade if you want exceptional impact protection

• Mandarin style collar is comfortable for all-day wear and keeps you focused on the road ahead

• Removable full sleeve liner included to keep you warm in cooler weather and allow some versatility when the temps increase


REV'IT! Trucker Jacket

REV’IT! Trucker Jacket

Why?

The REV'IT Trucker Jacket is the perfect combination of fashion and function, offering timeless style with remarkable comfort. Crafted from 15.5oz Cordura denim with a hint of stretch for enhanced mobility, this jacket will become your go-to garment for everyday wear. It features protective armor at the elbows and shoulders, and there's even room to add an optional back protector (sold separately). Once you slip into this stylishly versatile jacket, you won't want to take it off!

Key Specs

• 15.5oz Cordura stretch denim with integrated Coolmax and Thermolite elements

• Connection zipper for the Safeway 2 belt

• Reflective tab on back below neck

• Prepared for SEESOFT TYPE RV back protector (sold separately)

Protection & Safety

• CE level 1 shoulder and elbow armor

• CE certified to EN 17092-3:2020

Merlin Shenstone Air D3O Jacket

Merlin Shenstone Air D30 Jacket

Why?

With large panels of air-permeable, perforated mesh for breathability and genuine Halley Stevensons Cotec fabric for abrasion resistance, this jacket truly takes traditional biker fashion to the next level. The D30 LP1 shoulder and elbow armor feature their own perforations to help regulate heat during rides, while the included D30 Viper Stealth back protector provides additional coverage without sacrificing style. And when temperatures begin to drop or rain showers appear, simply slip on the Reissa liner for extra water and wind protection. When you’re riding an air cooled bike, stay cool with the Merlin Shenstone Air D3O Jacket.

Key Specs

• Halley Stevensons 8oz Cotec fabric

• Large ventilation panels at torso and inner arm

• Reissa Active® waterproof / breathable removable liner

• Quilted shoulders

• Hook and loop sleeve adjusters at biceps

• YKK / Max zippers

• Merlin branded snaps at pockets and wrist closures

• YKK jacket to pants connection zipper

Protection & Safety

• D30 LP1 shoulder and elbow armor included

• Included D30 Viper Stealth back protector

Icon Stormhawk Waterproof Jacket

Icon Stormhawk Waterproof Jacket

Why?

This is a simple, sleek, and extremely comfortable 3-season waterproof jacket. The included D30 (Level 1) shoulder and elbow impact protection keep you safe along with the D30 Viper back protector.

Key Specs

• ICON® Relaxed Fit

• Hycor Membrane Waterproof/Breathable Chassis

• Jacket Tested and Certified According to FprEN 17092-4:2018 Class A

• D30® LP1 Removable Shoulder, Elbow, and Back Impact Protectors – EN 1621-2:2014 / EN 1621-1:2012, Level 1, T-, T+

• Full Length Removable Liner, YKK® Matte Finish Waterproof Zippers, Front and Back Zipper Vents, Jacket/Pant Interlock System

Protection & Safety

The Stormhawk jacket is weatherproof with the essential breathable waterproof membrane riders demand, keeping the jacket lightweight and reducing fatigue.

• Internal abrasion resistance from unique 600 Denier polyester

• Comes standard with the newest in armor advancements, D3O CE-Certified LP1 impact protectors, in the shoulders and elbows—more breathable and flexible than previous generations of impact protectors, improving the jacket’s overall comfort without sacrificing protection

• A D3O CE Level 1 Viper back protector is also included, rounding out the full impact suite

For warmth in chilly conditions during Spring and Fall, a full-length insulated liner is also included. For warmer conditions, large exterior front & back vents, sealed with YKK® Aquagard™ zippers, provide significant airflow.

The Stormhawk jacket can be worn alone or can be zipped directly to the Icon Stormhawk pants, assisting further with abrasion resistance and creating a slick touring suit.

Best High-End Cruiser Motorcycle Jackets

Priced over $500.

Scorpion EXO 1909 Jacket

Scorpion EXO 1909 Jacket

Why?

A sleek leather jacket with tons of functionality and major projection.

Key Specs

• Soft distressed leather

• Sas-Tec Level 2 armor at elbows and shoulders

• Pocket at back for optional Sas-Tec back protector (sold separately)

• Perforated panels underarms and sides of torso

• Two zippered rear vents

• Leather overlays at elbows

• 4 external pockets

• Rib stretch panels as side hems

• Rear waist adjustment tabs

• Zipper closures at wrists

• Antique Brass YKK zippers throughout

• Padded comfort collar

• Two internal mesh pockets

• Removable EverHeat jacket liner with Kwikwick panels

• 8” jacket to pant zipper and rear belt loop attachment tab

Protection & Safety

Scorpion’s nod to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the legends that were born there on two wheels, the 1909 Jacket seamlessly combines nostalgia with modern technology.

• Chassis made from soft distressed leather, which lends itself to the abrasion resistance you deserve on the street

• Fantastic impact protection in the form of CE Level 2 SAS-Tec armor comes standard in the elbows and shoulders

• A back protector pocket is included, but the armor itself will need to be purchased separately

• Adjustability in the waist—as well as ribbed side panels—allows for a custom fit and will keep you comfortable and focused on the road ahead

• Full removable insulated liner also included that will keep you warm in the colder temps

• Perforated panels under the arms and zippered vents help keep you cool in the warmer temps

• Jacket-to-pants connection zipper will keep the jacket in place during a slide, adding to the already high-level of abrasion resistance

Belstaff Brooklands 2.0 Jacket

Why?

A classy, high-end feel that mixes vintage-inspired style with modern waterproof technology and a handcrafted look.

Key Specs

• UK-sourced 10oz waxed cotton construction

• Bonded waterproof membrane with sealed seams

• Abrasion resistant Cordura panels at shoulders and elbows

• Zip-in quilted thermal liner

• Corduroy-lined collar with buckle closure

• Corduroy-lined adjustable cuffs and inner waist

• Two patch pockets at chest

• Two zippered handwarmer pockets

• Vented underarms

• Quilted reinforcements on shoulders and elbows

• Buckle waist adjustment with cover to protect paint

• Rubberized bottom snap

• Removable D30 T5 EVO X armor at the shoulders and elbows

• Logo patch on left sleeve

• CE rated class A riding garment

Protection & Safety

Cleverly crafted from 10 ounce waxed cotton for a retro look, the Brooklands 2.0 Jacket unites the vintage racer style with modern technology. The shell is a classic silhouette, but secretly hides a seam-sealed, waterproof internal membrane underneath, which guarantees dryness in even the harshest conditions.

• High-tenacity Cordura panels for fantastic abrasion protection in major impact zones

• Diamond-stitched exterior panels are located above the internal D3O T5 EVO X armor in both the shoulders and elbows

• A pocket is included for a back protector, but that will need to be purchased separately

For cooler temperatures, the Belstaff Brooklands 2.0 jacket includes a detachable heavy (150 gram) thermal liner. Cozy corduroy detailing at the inner cuffs, collar and waist help to keep your core temperature up as comfortably as possible, and these fine finishes don’t hurt the look or high-end feel, either.

Also included are adjustable neck and cuff openings, as well as vented underarms—all with durable and upscale brass hardware. Race-inspired tailoring has the Brooklands 2.0 Jacket fall higher on the hip, keeping the jacket in place when seated on a long ride or on a spin to the local coffee shop.

Roland Sands Clash CE Jacket

Why?

The RSD Clash CE Leather Jacket is an icon of classic '50s style, re-imagined with premium materials and motorcycle functionality. Crafted from a unique, exclusive GT Racer leather with a luxurious feel and smell, each jacket has its own character. An asymmetrical front zipper and quilted accents give it a stylish rocker look, while underneath lies technical protection technology so you can ride in safety and comfort. Double or triple stitching on all seams meets high CE level safety standards, plus there's low profile CE level 1 armor by SAS-TEC for added protection. The Clash CE is the perfect blend of style and performance - on and off the bike.

Key Specs

• GT Racer premium full grain cowhide leather (1-1.2mm thickness)

• Detailed rocker style with shorty snap collar and offset zipper

• Aggressive riding fit with rotated, pre-curved sleeves

• Dropped back length and relaxed collar opening

• Quilted shoulder and lower back accents

• Reinforced riveted elbows

• Perforated leather interior trims

• Zip sleeve pocket, side waist adjust, front pockets and interior chest pocket

• Satin poly lining with custom RSD repeat “numbers” heat embossed branding

• Soft lined electronics security pocket

• Stretch mesh cargo stuff pockets

Protection & Safety

• Includes CE EN 1621:2021-1 certified SAS-TEC flex elbow and shoulder armor

• Armor ready back protector pocket (back protector sold separately)

• CE approved to CE EN 17092:2020 as a Class AA garment

Frequently Asked Questions About Cruiser Jackets

What is a “Cruiser style” motorcycle jacket?

The term actually originates from early 20th century lumberjacking, when men would do a “Timber cruise” down a line of trees on a motorcycle to determine the average marketable value of the raw materials. They needed rugged jackets that were windproof and waterproof, that had waist pockets that closed to hold their notepads and pens, and were often made of leather for those reasons. When cruisers as a style of motorcycle emerged in force after World War II, the jackets were adopted by the cruiser crowd for their “Rebellious” look, and the rest is history.

What materials make the best cruiser jacket?

It used to be that leather was the be all, end all of cruiser jackets. In modern times, you can now get a cruiser jacket that is made from synthetic materials like polyester, or a combination of organic and synthetic materials like Cordura, but more often than not, leather is the preferred material for those that ride cruisers. You want to look for leather that is at least 1.0 mm thick or thicker, and for the synthetic or combination materials a rating of at least 450D, for the best abrasion resistance.

Is the biker-style jacket I bought from the leather store a good cruiser jacket?

Absolutely, unequivocally NO. A “biker-style” jacket is made to look like a proper cruiser jacket, but does not have the correct materials, nor the protection features, that a proper cruiser jacket has. They may look stylish and there’s nothing wrong with that, but do not use a non-motorcycle certicfied leather jacket on a motorcycle!!

How safe are riding shirts and riding hoodies?

These styles of riding gear are relatively new on the market, yet many offer the same level of protection that a jacket would provide. They feature the same type of armor, and many are at least 450D in abrasion resistance or have kevlar backing underneath a natural material on the exterior. The most important bit is that they are CE EN17092 certified, with many receiving an A or AA grade (good and very good), meaning that they have passed the minimum durability and abrasion tests to be qualified as personal protective equipment for motorcycles

What should I look for in a good cruiser jacket?

Nowadays, a good cruiser jacket should at the very least have elbow and shoulder armor, have a pocket for a back protector, and be weather- and water-proof. For leather jackets, some form of ventilation, either through micro-perforation or zippered vents, is also necessary as leather does not breathe as well as textiles do. For riding shirts and hoodies, you want to look for at least 400D abrasion resistance, and they should be armored with either non-Newtonian impact foam or TPU armor like D3O.

Are the expensive cruiser jackets actually worth it?

That depends on your definition of “Worth it.” The more expensive jackets often have additional features such as CE Level 2 armor and/or use premium grade materials, such as racing-grade leather at 1.2 mm to offer extra abrasion resistance. If you want the absolute best of the best materials and protection, then yes, they are worth it, otherwise any of the jackets in the entry level or mid-range recommendations will still give you excellent protection.

How safe are cruiser jackets?

Seeing as at least 60% of the jackets in this market are made of, or have parts that are leather, cruiser jackets are astoundingly safe. Leather is used for motorcycle gear for the simple fact that it has some of the best abrasion resistance available, as well as is durable and naturally water- and weatherproof. With proper care and maintenance, they can quite literally last decades.

Can cruiser jackets be used for any other type of riding?

Absolutely. Most riding gear is “cross-compatible” with riding styles not in their niche, for example a sportbike jacket being used on a cruiser and vice versa. The most common crossover is with the neo-retro crowd, as many cruiser jackets have a 1950s/1960s classic look as part of their design.

What To Look For In A Cruiser Motorcycle Jacket

Cruiser jackets are made for corner-carving, canyon-careening, fast turns, and aggressive riding. They are formed to a riding position that is ideal when leaning over the tank of your machine. They are going to be down on functionality – pockets/storage, etc. – but up on protection and style.

As With Any Jacket, Look For

  • Material – Cowhide. Buffalo. Goatskin. Mesh. Textile. There are a lot of types of leather, each with their own perks and quirks in terms of look and feel, and the same is true for textile fabrics. While leather is generally accepted to have the best abrasion resistance, textile jackets often have more utility and comfort options – pockets, vents, etc. – and cost less.

  • Use case – A jacket that you intend to wear in the spring or fall is going to need to be warm, while the inverse is true if you spent your seat time underneath the hot Arizona sun. If you are going to be hot when riding, make sure you have adequate venting. Consider when you’ll be wearing it and make sure it’s prepared to meet the need.

  • Protection – Most jackets come with elbow and shoulder armor, but not all do. Conversely, most jackets will come with a foam back pad but not proper back armor. Make sure the jacket you’re considering packs enough armor to keep you safe.

At WBW, “Best” Actually Means Something

Remember when you could open up a review of something, and when the publication—magazine, car show, whatever—said “best” they stood behind it? Yea, we remember, and we’re bringing it back.

Here’s how we do things:

  • We disclose our affiliate relationships—We make money via advertising and affiliate relationships on our website. It’s how we pay our team and invest in things like sending Jim to Italy. And Japan. And France… wait… why do we always send Jim places?

  • We obsessively hands-on test—We wear and ride with gear before reviewing it, and we update reviews down the line if our opinions change. We look at real-world situations because that’s the world we live in.

  • We’re objective—Good gear is good gear, regardless of who made it.

  • We’re value-focused—Why pay $500 if something for $250 is just as good? Our review scores and recommendations reflect best value. Brand only goes so far—the gear has to stand on its own.

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