The Best Women's 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 Milica Jokanovic.
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 Women's Motorcycle Jackets
Priced under $250.
First Manufacturing Holli Women’s Jacket
Price: $240-$260
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Holli is a classic style with some sass! Designed using a rough neck raw denim body, a leather hood, and full-grain leather sleeves, it gives the illusion of wearing a leather jacket under a denim vest without the extra bulk.
First Manufacturing has a great size range from XS to 5XL plus a lifetime warranty.
Key Specs
• Raw denim and full grain leather construction
• Leather hood
• Inner pockets
• Side zipper reliefs
• Armor pockets (armor sold separately)
Protection & Safety
Full-grain leather provides excellent abrasion resistance in this garment. There is also an optional CE-2 Armor Pad Set available, consisting of one center-back pad, two shoulders pads, and two elbow pads.
Additionally, first Manufacturing Co offers a lifetime warranty against defects in material and workmanship of leather products from the original date of purchase for the life of the item.
REV’IT Eclipse Textile Jacket
Price: $190
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
REV’IT! Eclipse Women’s Jacket is a solid, classic-cut selection for hot weather, hotter babes, and an absolute MUST on quality protection. It’s a bit more relaxed than some racing style jackets, and could even be considered for longer touring rides, thanks to its breathability rating.
Featuring US Women’s sizes 34-46, offered in five colors: black, silver, blue, burgundy and brown.
Key Specs
• Outer Shell: Mesh, polyester 600D
• Protection:
• Knox Flexiform CE protection at shoulders and elbows
• Back Protector (sold separately):
• Seesoft Back Protector—Type RV
• Type RV / Size 03 fits 34-36
• Type RV / Size 04 fits 38-44
• Type RV / Size 05 fits 46
• Visibility: Laminated reflective logo
Ergonomic Features:
• Fit: tour fit, regular
• Adjustability: adjustment straps
• Ventilation: ventilation panels
• Features: double jeans loop
• Pockets: slit pockets, inner pocket
Protection & Safety
The construction of the Eclipse definitely puts safety first; that being said, the Eclipse does not include any back armor - rather, it’s designed to accommodate the Seesoft Back Protector Type RV (an additional $50).
The size of the back protector is determined by the size of the jacket that you purchase, so be certain to select the correct size to ensure full back protection.
• Elbows, shoulders, and other high impact areas are reinforced with polyester 600D (Knox Flexiform CE-rated armor is included)
• Two hinge points in armor for increased range of motion
• 12 air holes for breathability and airflow
At a cost of only $190, the Eclipse is a very reasonably priced jacket, and even when the back protection is added, the total investment remains just under $250. This makes the Eclipse a great selection for a quality mesh jacket for warm weather rides.
Joe Rocket Majestic Women’s Jacket
Why?
Modern, sleek, mesh, and armored—darn right, it’s Majestic! Joe Rocket designed this one for maximum airflow and protection.
Full Free Air™ mesh keeps you cool on hot days, and lightweight CE armor with a ventilated honeycomb design in the shoulders & elbows—plus a CE-rated spine pad—takes care of full protection. There are 4 great colors to choose from, and sizing runs from XS thru 3XL.
Key Specs
• Full Free Air mesh like the original Phoenix for maximum air flow on hot days
• YKK zippers throughout
• Removable waterproof liner
• Adjustable sleeves and waist to customize the fit
• Zippered hip gussets to customize the fit
• 8” zipper for pant attachment
Protection & Safety
This jacket features New lightweight CE armor with full ventilation honeycomb design in the shoulders & elbows. It also comes with a CE-rated spine pad for maximum protection, and a reflective stripe on the sleeves and back.
Olympia Eve 2 Women’s Jacket
Price: $200-$220
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Olympia Eve 2 is well-tailored with slimming lines and a versatile 2 layer design for excellent airflow and amazing abrasion resistance.
Along with the abrasion protection of the jacket’s outer shell, CE Level 2 armor is included to protect the elbows, shoulders, and back.
Sizes range from XS-3XL.
Key Specs
• Outer shell constructed in 600D abrasion-resistant EVO Thread fabric with ballistic poly mesh airflow panels
• Cool mesh airflow lining
• Comfort Neoprene framed collar
• Two side zipper pockets plus large interior storage pocket
• Custom fit detailing at collar, cuffs, elbows, waist and bottom
• Reflective piping at front, sides and back
• 8” connecting zipper for pants
• Quality YKK zippers
• Removable CE Level 2 armor at elbows and shoulders
• Removable CE Level 2 back protector
• Over or under rain jacket includes interior storage pocket
Protection & Safety
• The Eve 2 has lots of reflective piping at the chest and back yoke for increased visibility in low light situations.
• There is removable CE Level 2 armor at elbows and shoulders, plus a back protector.
• The jacket is available in Black or the Grey/Black/Hi Viz shown above.
Best Mid-Range Women's Motorcycle Jackets
Priced $250 - $500.
Klim Avalon Mesh Jacket
Price: $399
Where to Buy: RevZilla | J&P Cycles
Why?
The Klim Avalon Women’s Jacket features Karbonite Mesh to provide massive airflow but is also 750 times stronger than the traditional polyester mesh used in most riding jackets.
From a comfort and feature perspective, the articulated fit and gender-specific cut means that ladies will find this jacket very comfortable when in a riding position. Stretch material runs inside the elbows, and quick-adjust forearm straps make this jacket very customizable and roomy, if needed.
The hip expansion gusset accommodates hourglass figures, and shows off 3 external pockets with zipper closures, two internal pockets and an emergency ID pocket located on the forearm.
Sizing is available in US Women’s XS-2XL.
Key Specs
• Massive mesh coverage
• Heavy abrasion- and tear-resistant military-spec-derived Klim Karbonite nylon mesh
• Built with Klim Rhino-Stitch construction technology
• Abrasion zones at elbows, and shoulders: 840D high tenacity 6.6 nylon for outstanding abrasion resistance and durability
• UV-resistant treatment on main mesh material
• Fleece-lined soft collar
• Adjustable D3O EVO XT Level 1 armor at elbows
• D3O EVO level 1 shoulder pads
• D3O level 1 back pad
• Klimate cooling stretch mesh in elbow and shoulder pad pockets
• 3M Scotchlite reflective on upper and lower arms and upper back
• Reflective positioning designed for maximum biomotion perception
• Articulated fit
• Hip expansion gusset
• Slightly longer body length
• Stretch material inside elbows
• 2 quick-adjust forearm straps
• Breathable moisture-wicking internal mesh comfort liner
• 1 external upper chest pocket, 2 lower zippered hand pockets
• 1 inner chest pocket, 1 inside front pocket
• 1 forearm emergency id pocket
• Hypalon zipper pullers
• YKK zippers throughout
Protection & Safety
Reinforcements are added at the Avalon’s elbows and shoulders, as well as other high impact areas for the highest quality abrasion protection. A heads up; this jacket is cut slightly longer than most to provide increased coverage for the lower back and hip area in the event of an accident.
• Heavy abrasion/tear-resistant, military-spec mesh
• 840D heavy-duty textile/Klim Rhino-Stitch construction technology adds amazing durability
• Adjustable D3O EVO XT Level 1 armor at the elbows
• D3O EVO level 1 shoulder pads / back pad
Priced at $380, the Klim Avalon offers exceptional protection and comfort in a very versatile jacket. The latest technology in mesh fabrics is worth paying a little bit more for so that you know you are well protected from abrasion and from the hazards of overheating when riding in hot climates.
Alpinestars Stella T-GP Plus R v3 Air Jacket
Price: $270
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Alpinestars Stella T-GP Textile Jacket is a great choice for gals who want all the protection of a race-style jacket, with the help of hot temp climates. The comfort of the Alpinestars Stella T-GP comes from the attention to detail that Alpinestars has become known over the years.
With a base cost of just under $300 and an all-in cost of just under $400 with the Nucleon armor, the Alpinestars Stella T-GP Plus Air Textile Jacket is a great selection for ladies who want to go fast…with the right protective gear.
Available in US Women’s XS-2XL.
Key Specs
• Composition: Abrasion-resistant 600D polyester fabric
• Extended mesh panels on the torso and arms
• Full mesh lining boosts for improved airflow and breathability
• Nucleon Flex Plus CE Level 1 elbow and shoulder protectors
• Pockets for optional Nucleon KR-Ci chest and back protection (sold separately)
• GP Lite shoulders with dynamic friction shield for enhanced abrasion resistance
• Sport fit with pre-curved sleeve construction for reduced fatigue and enhanced riding comfort
• Poly-fabric stretch insert on shoulders
• 3D mesh collar construction for improved comfort and breathability
• VELCRO® brand fastener and D-ring waist adjustment
• VELCRO® brand wrist cuff closures
• Convenient waterproof internal pocket
• External, large-opening front hand pockets
• Multiple internal compartment pockets feature VELCRO® brand fasteners for additional security
• Reflective details for improved rider visibility
• Two external zippered pockets
Protection & Safety
• Meets CE Category II PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 – A class certification for protective garments
• $60 will get you the CE-certified Alpinestars Nucleon back protector, which is not included with the initial purchase
• $40 will get you the CE-certified Alpinestars Nucleon chest protector, which is not included with the initial purchase
• Nucleon CE Level 1 Flex Plus Removable protectors for the shoulders and elbows
• Velcro-and-snap system to integrate back protector into pocket
• Additional padding is added to both the back and chest areas in the event that back and chest protectors are not purchased
First Manufacturing The Sexy Biker Women's Jacket
Price: $290-$310
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
Constructed from beautiful buttery leather this naturally abrasion-resistant cowhide, the tailored lines of First Manufactoring jacket help you feel safe and sexy. This jacket is cut for a woman and made with relief zippers for ventilation and thermal liners for the warmth it’s ready for any ride.
Available in US Women’s XS-5XL.
Key Specs
• 0.8-0.9mm Sheep Diamond
•Scooter style w/ double snap banded collar, epaulets and center zipper
•Two shoulder vents
•Two zippered slash pockets
•Two interior pockets
•Zippered sleeves w/ gussets
•Perforated action back
•Side relief zippers
•Action back
•Vertical back vents
•Insulated zip-out thermal liner
•Elbow, shoulder and back armored pockets for CE rated armor (sold separately)
Protection & Safety
•Pockets to fit approved shoulder and elbow protectors
•Pocket to fit approved back protector]
•Perforated abrasion resistant Sheep Diamond leather
REV’IT! Torque 2 H2O Women's Jacket
Price: $280
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The REV’IT! Torque 2 H2O women's jacket offers ladies all of the versatility needed for year-round enjoyment while also providing the fit and comfort that can only be found in a ladies cut jacket.
Don’t believe us? Just ask our gal Mika, who reviewed this jacket back in August of 2022.
Mesh panels let in air to keep you cool, a removable Hydratex liner keeps you dry when the weather doesn't cooperate, and CE-certified Levels 1&2 pads do the duties of protection at the back, elbows and shoulders.
Key Specs
Features:
• Outer Shell: Polyester 600D, mesh
• Waterproofing & Breathability: Detachable Hydratex G-liner
• Composition: 100% Polyester
Ergonomics:
• Fit: Tour fit, regular
• Adjustability: Adjustment strap, adjustment tab
• Ventilation: Ventilation panels
• Perks: Wind catcher behind zipper, jeans loop, soft edge at collar, v-flap
• Pockets: Inner pocket, stash pockets
Protection & Safety
Elbow and shoulder SeeSmart CE level 1 armor is included with the purchase of the REV’IT! Torque 2 H2O women's jacket, made all the more relevant by a pocket for the Seesoft CE level 2 Type RV back protector, which can be purchased separately. The cost of the back protector is $50.
• Seesmart CE level 1 protection at shoulder and elbows
• Pocket for optional Seesoft CE level 2 Type RV back protector (sold separately, in three different sizes)
• Laminated reflection, for better visibility
At under $300, the REV’IT! Torque 2 H2O women's jacket offers riders a single garment to meet their total riding needs (minus waterproof pockets - you’ve been warned!).
The addition of back protection will take the final cost to just over $350 with taxes, but that is still a very fair price for year-round comfort and protection in a jacket cut to fit ladies like us, who love to ride.
Firstgear Kilimanjaro™ 2.0 Women's Jacket
Price: $440
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Firstgear Kilimanjaro™ 2.0 Women's Jacket is a top-tier, waterproof, breathable shell that creates the optimum micro-climate for you.
Remember, the body and sleeves of Firstgear’s jackets are 1.5”-2” taller than the ‘standard-cut jackets, so expect roomy fitment, size down if you’re between options, and let’s hear three cheers from the tall gal crowd!!
It’s me. I’m the tall gal.
Available in US Women’s sizes SM-3XL.
Key Specs
• Removable waterproof liner
• Adjustable pockets
• Adjustable collar
• Two-position magnetic collar closure
• Intake and exhaust zip vents to regulate body temperature
• Ergonomic jacket to pant zipper interface
• Two-way CNTB YKK zipper gauntlet closure with garage
• Interior drawstring waist pull
• Adjustable hook-and-loop attachments on waist, forearm and biceps for secure fit
• Two interior chest pockets and four exterior pockets
• Pass through grommet in left hand pocket for heated gear controller
• Protection on the shoulders, elbow and back
• Internal construction and loops to accommodate the use of Firstgear heated gear
• Constructed from 100% waterproof materials
Protection & Safety
Per the original Kilimanjaro™ jacket, the 2.0 is designed to handle the harshest conditions that riders will encounter, while still providing the great women in our industry with comfort and safety.
• SAS-TEC CE Level 2 protection on the shoulders, elbow and back, complete with adjustable pockets for fine-tuning of armor placement
• Reflective panels at both front and back
Performance and protection merges with lightweight flexibility in the very best the industry’s $250-$500 range of jackets can afford…and lucky you, this one just squeaked under the bar at $499.95.
Four Season Features
Waterproof membrane materials for the wetter seasons, a breathable performance shell for the hotter environs and and an optimum micro-climate guarantee for the chillier months; add to all this the SAS-TEC CE Level 2 protection and the versatile flexibility of the jacket herself, and suddenly you’ve found that one jacket that accompanies every ride, come rain or shine.
Best High-End Women's Motorcycle Jackets
Priced over $500.
Dainese Racing 3 D-Air Women’s Leather Jacket
Price: $1000
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
For ladies who are looking for a top of the line leather race jacket that will work on the street or at the track, the Dainese Valorosa is definitely the jacket to select. Iconically nicknamed the “Irridescent Speed Demon. This jacket has Tutu cowhide with perforated panels lay the foundation of the jacket, with 2 outer zipper pockets and a nifty jacket to pants attachment zipper provides extra security and protection and of course aerodynamic speed.
At $1,000, the Dainese Valorosa is certainly one of the most expensive leather jackets that ladies can buy. The benefit matches the pricepoint, though; having a potentially life-saving, automatically deployed airbag is something you want in your back pocket if the twisties go sideways.
Available in US Women’s sizes 40-52.
Key Specs
• Composition: Tutu cowhide leather
•Inner liner with Quickdry Frame ™ technology keeps you dry and comfortable
•Dainese-patented 3D structure airbag
•Composite protectors certified to EN 1621.1 Level 2 standard on elbows
•Soft protectors certified to EN 1621.1 Level 2 on shoulders
•Thermoformed small shoulders with interchangeable aluminum plates
•S1 bielastic fabric stretch inserts on the hips and inner arms
•Jacket-to-pants fastening system
•Waist adjustment
•Pockets: 1 inner pocket and 2 outer pockets on front
•Reflective inserts
Protection & Safety
•Composite protectors certified to EN 1621.1 Level 2 standard are located at the elbows, with similarly rated soft protectors and aluminum plates at the shoulders for added safety.
•EN 17092 AA certified motorbike garment
•The Pro-Armor back protector also houses the D-Air System - a nifty piece of tech that deploys an airbag designed to protect the rider’s chest/neck when activated.
Heads up, this high-tech safety system must be registered with Dainese and will also require regular care and maintenance to remain functional. Expect little tasks like charging the battery packs and a quinquennial overhaul of the system (every five years) by Dainese herself.
Klim Artemis Women’s Waterproof Jacket
Price: $770
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Klim Artemis Women’s jacket is designed to be the only jacket that ladies need to purchase - and it totally fits the bill, down to its plethora of pockets.
The Gore-Tex shell and reinforced Karbonite Ripstop material at the elbows and shoulders will handle anything that you come into contact with in any climate, on any given day.
The Artemis is currently available in sizes XS-2XL, in ‘Grey,’ ‘Hi-Viz,’ and ‘Potter’s Clay’ color schemes.
Key Specs
• Gore-Tex Performance shell, guaranteed to keep you dry
• Karbonite ripstop overlays in elbows and shoulders
• Adjustable VELCRO® brand cuff closures
• Comfort-mapped ventilation for women
• Klimatek cooling mesh in the pad pockets
• POCKETS! 2 chest vent pockets, 2 cross-core vents, 2 articulated forearm vents, 2 bicep vents, 2 zippered hand pockets, 1 rear large pocket, 1 upper arm stash pocket, 2 lower internal zippered stash pockets, 1 vertical inside stash pocket, 1 concealed document pocket behind back pad
• 2 vertical back exhaust vents
• Integrated D3O Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor, Viper 1 back pad
• Improved ventilation through the back pad
• Action back for comfort and mobility
• Upgraded polygiene anti-odor liner
• Soft collar liner
• Collar tab back for improved ventilation
• 2 quick-adjust bicep straps and 2 quick adjust forearm straps, as well as 2 quick-adjust waist adjusters and 2 zippered hip gussets
Protection & Safety
The impact protection in the Artemis includes integrated D3O Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor as well as a Viper 1 back pad - all of which is removable and can be replaced.
Four Season Features
Venting is critical to comfort in a four-season jacket, and KLIM didn’t go halfsies on the ventilation. Additional breathability is represented in the chest ventilation pockets and the 2 vertical back exhaust vents, with vents at the forearm and biceps - even the armor pockets promote ventilation using a durable (but very breathable) mesh so that hot spots can’t develop.
Other comfort features include the soft collar liner, adjustment straps at the bicep and forearm and the 2 waist quick-adjust straps. Zippered hip gussets also allow for more adjustment in the fit of the jacket and the airflow in warmer climates.
It’s reasonable to spend $350 for a summer-weight model, and that much (or more) for a jacket that handles cold and wet weather. At a cost of just over $700, the Klim Artemis might seem to be a little bit high, but you’re not factoring in the money saved in going for a does-it-all jacket purchase.
Bottom line, we recommend the KLIM if only for the simple fact that it’s one of those jackets that seems to fit everybody, regardless of the body type…and we do love versatility, don’t we gals?
Roland Sands Maywood CE Women’s Leather Jacket
Price: $725
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
Roland Sands Design has an elevated sense of style with its leather jackets. Constructed using an ultra-premium, water-resistant treated leather quality that is soft and buttery to the touch. Maywood will keep you dry in most light to moderate raining conditions.
Like many RSD designs, this leans more to the Cafe Racer look, and the details are everywhere. Beautiful stitching forms quilted panels and tailors nicely around the CE-level armor. On the inside, you will find brushed suede and a satin poly quilted internal lining, this jacket feels luxurious when you pull it on.
If a premium garment is what you are after, you have found it.
Key Specs
• Winchester full grain 1.1mm thick cowhide
• Water repellent finish
• Critical seams sealed
• Satin poly quilted internal liner with heat embossed graphics
• Waterproof internal chest pockets and mesh lower pockets
• YKK Zippers
• Waterproof cuff, sleeve and hand pocket zippers
• Café collar
• Quilt stitch details on chest, shoulders and upper sleeves
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 Women's Motorcycle Jackets
What defines a motorcycle jacket as specifically for women?
In the most basic of terms, women’s motorcycle jackets are shaped to give extra room in the chest and hip areas, due to the base biology difference between men and women. As well, as on average women are slightly smaller than men, the fitment for women’s motorcycle gear is adjusted to meet those different sizing needs.
What should I look for in a good women’s motorcycle jacket?
As with any other motorcycle jacket, the main things to look for are the features you want. If you are looking at an ADV jacket, for example, you’ll want just as many pockets and ventilation options as any other jacket. If you’re looking for a leather cruiser jacket, you’ll want to match aesthetic and style with protection and armor, just like you would for a unisex cruiser jacket.
Women have different heat areas compared to men in their torso, do women’s jackets address this?
Women’s jackets for the most part share the same types of ventilation options as men’s and unisex jackets. A select few from brands such as Rev’It and Alpinestars change the shape and placement of some ventilation mesh or perforated panels to offer increased airflow across the upper and lower chest, with increased ventilation intakes under the armpits as women generate more heat in the upper torso on average than men (See: Thermohuman average body heat zones)
Are women’s motorcycle jackets as safe as the unisex or men’s jackets?
Absolutely. In terms of safety and protection, all motorcycle jackets, women’s, men’s, and unisex all need to meet the same standard of protection to be approved for use. You will find that the only difference is that a men’s or unisex jacket may feel tight around your chest and hips, while a women’s jacket should fit snugly but not overly tight.
What materials are women’s motorcycle jackets commonly made from?
The most common materials used in motorcycle jackets these days, in general for both men and women, are polyester rip-stop fabric, microfiber synthetic leather, Cordura, spandura, and full-grain leather. All have excellent abrasion resistance, with leather still taking the top spot for the best abrasion resistance, despite some synthetics like Cordura getting very close to being on par.
If a unisex or men’s jacket fits me, do I really need a women-specific motorcycle jacket?
Not at all. The biggest thing about motorcycle safety gear is that it fits well enough to not ride up or move around during a slide or accident. If a unisex or men’s jacket fits you perfectly, and a women’s jacket feels loose, then by all means wear the one that fits better as it will afford a higher level of protection by nature of its fitment.
What To Look For In A Women's Motorcycle Jacket
One of the first pieces of gear that most riders purchase is a bike specific jacket. The goal is to protect your body from abrasion related injuries as well as impact injuries, so most riders focus on the armor and density or durability of the shell of the jacket.
However, in many cases, after several rides in that first jacket, riders learn a great deal about what they didn’t know about motorcycle jackets and what they didn’t know about their own priorities and preferences. And that learning curve is often far more steep for ladies as they are often forced to make do with a men’s jacket rather than a gender-specific ladies jacket.
Differences Between Ladies & Men’s Gear
In general, a men’s jacket will offer longer sleeves, more roomy shoulders, and a more narrow waist than a women’s jacket. And then there is the obvious difference in the chest area. Some ladies will find that they are able to substitute a men’s jacket and get by with the fit and level of comfort, but once they find a ladies cut jacket that fits properly, they will never settle for even a fairly well-fitting men’s jacket again.
On a hanger or laying on a flat surface, it is very easy to see the hourglass shape of a well-cut ladies jacket. These jackets not only allow for the smaller waist but larger hips of female riders but they also offer a far better fit in the chest and shoulder area. The larger shoulders of men’s jackets can help to accommodate the space needed in the bust area but it often means that the shoulders and sleeves are ill-fitting.
Finding The Ideal Fit
In the case of non-riding jackets, a perfect fit is not always a big deal. But when you are buying a purpose-built piece of gear to protect your body, the fit is everything. A jacket that is too tight in some areas will restrict your movement and can be very dangerous. And a jacket that is too large can allow armor to shift and fail to provide protection at the elbows, shoulders and even along the spine.
In the event of a slide, a large jacket can roll or slide up leaving your skin completely unprotected. It can be a bit more time consuming to find a women’s jacket, but the time that you invest in the process will be rewarded with a far better fit and protection.
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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