If you are shopping for a motorcycle jacket, you may be wondering which motorcycle jacket is the safest. There are thousands of biker safety jackets on the market, and they are constructed with a variety of safety features. Of course, one of the most important factors to keep in mind is if you are going to actually wear the jacket. The safest motorcycle jacket in the world is of no help if you choose not to wear it. Therefore it’s important to try before you buy, and make sure the jacket fits you well and is something you will choose to wear.
A biker safety jacket should be made with rugged materials. Heavy leather is a great, traditional choice, but newer synthetic fabrics can be tough and more lightweight. Some of the newer jackets are breathable and allow water vapor to permeate the fabric, leaving you warm and dry on the inside, even when it’s wet out.
How to pick a safe Motorcycle Jacket
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Ventilation is important in any jacket that you plan on wearing on your bike. We’ve all experienced days that start brisk, only to turn hot and steamy when the sun hits towards midday. On cold mornings, you will appreciate the warmth of a waterproof, windproof jacket. But when the sun is beating down, you might be cursing it as the sweat drips down your back. Fortunately, some jackets come with zip-closure vents or zip-out liners. These allow for ventilation, so that the jacket breathes. This means warmth when it’s cool outside, but breathability and the ability to chill even on hot days.
Visibility is critical. Modern biker safety jackets come in a wide variety of colors. Yes, you can opt for traditional biker black leather, but there are plenty of colorful alternatives, as well. Bright colored fabrics or jackets with built-in reflective piping help prevent crashes by making you visible to drivers when you are on your bike. These will mean that drivers are more likely to see you, even in foggy or low-light conditions. Bright colors and reflectors are an excellent safety feature for any motorcycle jacket.
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Impact protectors are not nearly as bulky as you might expect. Many jackets come with removable impact protectors, and although they are not guaranteed to prevent injury, they provide an extra barrier on areas where you need it most. Impact protectors cover your chest, shoulders, elbows, and back with an extra layer of protection which would serve to lessen friction and impact injuries that might occur in a crash. They are meant to allow to flexibility and freedom of movement, too. Even if you think you might not like this feature, it’s worth trying one of these jackets on. You might be surprised by how lightweight and unobtrusive these extra motorcycle jacket impact protectors are.
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Soft collars and cuffs are an important feature for a motorcycle jacket from a comfort point of view. Remember- the safest motorcycle jacket won’t do you any good if you aren’t wearing it. Thick, stand-up collars with little give can rub against your neck and cause chafing and irritation. During a short ride, this probably is not much of an issue. But if you enjoy long rides (and who doesn’t!), this can really be a pain in the neck – literally. Opt for a jacket with a soft collar with some give to it. The same is true for cuffs. Knit or adjustable cuffs are not only more comfortable; they also prevent irritation and wind making the sleeves of your jacket flap against you. They also keep the wind from blowing up your sleeve. These may seem like minor issues, but you will thank me in the long run when you are comfortable and cozy.
Heavy duty closures are important on any jacket. Let’s face it- motorcycle jackets aren’t cheap. And a jacket with a busted zipper is only going to cause aggravation. Opt for a jacket with a heavy-duty zipper and solid fasteners. Steer clear of plastic zippers and fasteners, as these may not hold up to wear. Snaps should fasten securely and tightly, and zippers should stay in place when they are fastened.
Although pockets are not an important feature for the safety of motorcycle jackets, they are important nonetheless. Frankly, I can never have enough pockets when I am on my bike. Extra pockets, especially pockets on the internal portion of the jacket, allow a handy and secure means of holding your cell phone, wallet, cash, maps, and anything else you may need on the road. This is a definite must for any jacket.
One last word of warning – be sure to take the time to try your jacket on, and really get to know its features. A motorcycle jacket presents an extra line of protection between you and the asphalt. It can mean the difference between a hellacious case of road rash and walking away from a crash without even a scuff. Don’t chintz out on the cheapest jacket, or the one that looks the coolest but perhaps doesn’t offer much in the way of protection. Find a solid jacket with safety features that will keep you comfortable and secure. And remember – it should be a jacket you feel comfortable wearing in all different weather conditions. The nicest jacket in the world does you no good if you leave it at home.
At Kass & Moses, we believe in motorcycle safety first. We have seen the results of motorcycle crashes far too often in our careers- and we know that protective measures like a quality motorcycle jacket with safety features can help prevent injuries in the event of a motorcycle crash. We urge all bikers to find a good, solid motorcycle jacket with great safety features, and wear it. Remember – all the gear, all the time. Ride safe, and if you are involved in a motorcycle crash, call the team of experienced lawyers who put bikers first. Call Kass & Moses at 1-800-MOTORCYCLE.
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