From waxed cotton, textiles, leather to denim and everything in between, we've nailed down the top features to consider for the best type of motorcycle jacket for your ride. When it comes to riding gear, our focus is riding in style and protection. If yours is too, this will make your life easier and ride better when deciding between leather or textile motorcycle jackets.

THE MATERIALS

Leather Motorcycle Jackets	Textile Motorcycle Jackets

Leather Motorcycle Jackets:

There’s something to be said about the everlasting partnership of motorbikes and leather. A timeless item that has made its way throughout the decades. The eternal cool-factor of leather jackets never seems to go out of style. Iconic Hollywood actors, musicians, motorcyclists and rebels alike have repped the leather biker jacket for fashionable reasons. However, there’s a reason it’s remained a staple wardrobe essential for men and women. Two of our signature leather styles which are now also AAA-Rated with an EU Certification, The Isla and the Fly By Night, have even been recognised as “revolutionising the biking community” by Vogue Australia!

Pros: Leather comes in various hides and thickness, and not only does it form to fit the wearer with age, it is naturally abrasion resistant if using appropriate hides. It is used for racing suits for riders who crash regularly at high speeds and is considered the toughest material for riders. If you look after your leather jacket, it can last a lifetime.

Waxed Cotton Motorcycle Jackets:

Waxed cotton jackets have had a recent resurgence in popularity following the rise of retro motorcycle styles. It was originally introduced to motorcycle riders as a suitable material for weather conditions, ie. its wind and water repellency. Not all waxed cotton is the same however, and varying thicknesses will give different abrasion resistance levels. Waxed cotton is a thinner fabric than leather, and so easy to add layers of technical features, such as protective and thermal liners.

Our waxed cotton range including our women’s Aspendale Motorcycle Jacket and our men’s Carrera Jacket all come with full DuPont™ Kevlar® fibers Lining, CE-approved removable armour, Reissa® waterproof liner and removable liners for extra insulation.

Shop Women’s Waxed Cotton Jackets

Shop Men’s Waxed Cotton Jackets

Textile Motorcycle Jackets

If you’re after a lightweight and comfortable motorcycle jacket that’s about as versatile as it is practical, textile motorcycle jackets are hard to beat. Most textile jackets (all of ours do at least!) come with abrasion resistance and water repellent layers. You can feel confident wearing them throughout the seasons and various terrain. Textile jackets are easily worn all year round with their breathable, versatile features, and can be tailored to suit various climates.

Pros: Textile moto jackets usually feature removable thermal layers and air venting to allow for air flow and mobility. This results in a jacket that can suit both cooler and warmer weather conditions. They’re lightweight, easy to wear, versatile and breathable. Some textile jackets such as our The Sahara Jacket and the Savanna Jacket are ultra lightweight, crafted with a single layer Aramid  Shop Women’s Textile Cotton Jackets

Cons: Textile jackets although versatile, aren’t naturally abrasion resistant, and require more layers for protection and waterproofing – qualities that naturally occur in leather. Although these are versatile pieces that can be customised to suit your needs, these jackets will require more additional materials and features to compare with leather jackets. Shop Men’s Textile Cotton Jackets

Best Value For Your Money?

Textile and waxed cotton motorbike jackets are usually cheaper than leather motorbike jackets. Unlike leather jackets, textile jackets are more adaptive to different climate conditions. You’ll most likely receive a lower priced jacket with all the qualities and features you need in textile jackets, but don’t forget about the timeless quality of fine leather, and their extensive lifetime.

Some motorcyclists keep leather jackets for 20 years, so perhaps long-lasting materials may end up more affordable in the long run.

The Comfort Levels

Depending on the type and quality, leather will soften and mould to the rider’s body. They say leather ages like a fine wine, and the better the quality, the longer your leather jacket will last. 

However, depending on the climate, leather can feel heavy on the bike and retain heat. Textile jackets are often better for warmer conditions, as they are more lightweight, breathable and as man-made materials, have features to increase air flow when riding.