Motorcycle Jacket Brands Riders Actually Trust
Evan Rally
Updated: June 5, 2025
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A friend of mine wiped out doing 30. Nothing wild, but enough to tear up his gear. His jacket didn’t hold, armor shifted, stitching blew out. He got lucky. Next day, he was shopping for something better.
That’s the main reason why the brand on your jacket matters: it can save your life. Just like you wouldn’t skimp on your helmet, you shouldn’t settle for a jacket that only looks the part. When things go sideways, it’s your last line of defense. Some jackets just don’t cut it.
This guide’s about the brands that do the job consistently. The brands that actually protect you, hold up over time, and get recommended by riders who’ve been through it.
We’ve grouped the most trusted brands into three tiers based on performance, design focus, and overall value:
Tier 1 – Premium Performance & Innovation
Klim jackets are built for hardcore adventure and touring riders who demand rugged durability, technical performance, and all-weather reliability.
Alpinestars is legendary gear for riders who push limits—on the track or the street—offering race-proven protection, ergonomic design, and all-out performance.
Dainese blends Italian design with cutting-edge safety, delivering sleek, high-performance gear trusted by pros and everyday riders alike.
Tier 2 – High-Quality Versatility
Versatile, well-designed gear that balances protection, style, and value. Great fit, smart features, and options for every riding style.
Pando Moto fuses everyday style with serious protection, creating sleek, minimalist gear that looks as good off the bike as it performs on it.
Bowtex creates protective base layers that let you ride safely in your favorite clothes—blending comfort, safety, and European craftsmanship.
Spidi combines Italian craftsmanship with advanced tech to deliver stylish, high-performance jackets built for both city rides and long-distance tours.
American-made leather with timeless fit and iconic heritage. The original moto jacket, built to outlast everything else.
Tier 3 – Budget-Friendly Options
Sedici delivers European-inspired design and performance at an affordable price—offering solid quality and style without the premium cost.
Street & Steel brings rugged, cruiser-inspired gear with real protection and streetwise style—built for everyday riders who value toughness over trends.
First Manufacturing delivers classic American leather gear made to last—combining timeless style, solid protection, and decades of rider-focused craftsmanship.
Quick Picks: Moto Jacket Brands
Best Overall
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Best for Touring
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Best Classic
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Versatile, well-designed gear that balances protection, style, and value. Great fit, smart features, and options for every riding style. | Top-shelf materials and weatherproofing built for serious distance. Adventure-grade jackets trusted by riders who don’t turn back. | American-made leather with timeless fit and iconic heritage. The original moto jacket, built to outlast everything else. |
Best Overall
Versatile, well-designed gear that balances protection, style, and value. Great fit, smart features, and options for every riding style.
Best for Touring
Top-shelf materials and weatherproofing built for serious distance. Adventure-grade jackets trusted by riders who don’t turn back.
Best Classic
American-made leather with timeless fit and iconic heritage. The original moto jacket, built to outlast everything else.
Common Myths About Motorcycle Jacket Brands
“Big brands are always better.” Not always. Some of the smaller or house-label brands are putting out gear that outperforms the big names—often with better fit, better features, and better value. Recognition doesn’t always equal quality.
“You have to pick one brand and stick with it.” Wrong. Most riders mix and match. Klim for the jacket, Alpinestars for the gloves, maybe Pando Moto jeans. Good gear is good gear, don’t box yourself in.
“If it’s not made in Europe, it’s not premium.” Plenty of excellent gear is designed in the U.S. or Asia and made in places like Pakistan or Vietnam. What matters is quality control and design, not the flag on the tag. We break this down further in our guide to the best motorcycle gear brands.
“House brands are just budget knockoffs.” Some used to be. But brands like Sedici and Street & Steel have evolved into serious contenders by offering well-built, well-priced gear that actually holds up. Don’t sleep on them.
“Heritage brands don’t innovate.” Legacy doesn’t mean outdated. Schott still makes jackets that can outlast your bike, and Dainese continues to push tech like airbags and race-grade armor. The key is knowing which models carry the torch, and which just carry the name.
Now that we’ve cleared up the common myths, let’s dive into the brands that actually matter. These are the names riders trust. Here’s what makes each of them worth your attention.
Tier 1 – Premium Performance & Innovation
These are the apex brands. Expect top-shelf materials, technical innovation, and gear that performs in extreme conditions. If you’re riding hard, far, or fast, this is your shortlist.
Klim: Built for the Wild
Klim doesn’t build jackets for the urban poser or the weekend canyon scratcher. This is gear for the backcountry, the borderless, the battered but still rolling. Based out of Rigby, Idaho, Klim has become synonymous with serious adventure and long-haul touring. Whether you’re threading your GS through sand in Baja or hammering frost-covered trails in British Columbia, Klim jackets are engineered to survive, and keep you sane. Their reputation is built on high-performance fabrics, overbuilt construction, and obsessive attention to functional detail. If the phrase “no such thing as bad weather” sounds like your idea of a good time, Klim has your back.
- Year Founded: 1999
- Designed In: Rigby, Idaho, USA
- Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
- Styles: Adventure, touring, off-road, snowmobile gear
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Klim sits at the pinnacle of technical riding apparel, with a product philosophy built on testing and durability over flash. Their gear doesn’t come cheap, but it’s not meant to. From the use of Gore-Tex Pro shells that never wet out, to D3O impact armor and abrasion panels where they matter most, every Klim jacket is designed to be part of your toolset, not your outfit. These are garments built for riders who live in the saddle for weeks at a time.
While Klim doesn’t push celebrity endorsements, riders like Lyndon Poskitt (world adventurer and Dakar Rally vet) have put their gear through extremes most of us only dream of. You’ll find Klim gear on folks navigating the Trans-America Trail, criss-crossing the Alps, or ghosting into remote deserts with nothing but fuel, freeze-dried meals, and a GPS beacon. The brand’s roots in snowmobile apparel show through in their tolerance for awful weather. Many ADV riders say once you’ve ridden through a week of sideways rain in a Klim jacket, you’ll never go back. It’s not fashion. It’s survival, with comfort and confidence baked in. if you’re eyeing Klim, check our full review of the Badlands Pro A3.
Popular Klim Jackets
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Ultimate adventure armor. Hardcore durability, massive venting, and top-tier protection. | Gore-Tex touring comfort with street-friendly looks and versatile weather performance. | Lighter, more mobile ADV build without sacrificing core protection or waterproofing. |
Ultimate adventure armor. Hardcore durability, massive venting, and top-tier protection.
Gore-Tex touring comfort with street-friendly looks and versatile weather performance.
Lighter, more mobile ADV build without sacrificing core protection or waterproofing.
Alpinestars: Speed Woven In
Alpinestars isn’t just a brand—it’s practically a rite of passage. If you’ve ridden hard, fast, or on a track, you’ve either worn it or wished you had. Born in Asolo, Italy in 1963, Alpinestars carved its name into the bones of motorsport long before motorcycle gear became a design contest. This is gear for the apex-hungry, the tucked-in, the elbows-down lunatics chasing lean angles and lap times. But it’s not all about speed. Over the years, Alpinestars has evolved from a racewear legend into a comprehensive gear brand for sport, touring, adventure, and even street riders. Whether it’s leather or textile, airbag or hoodie, Alpinestars brings a relentless focus on rider-first ergonomics and real-deal protection that’s hard to beat at any level.
Year Founded: 1963
Designed In: Asolo, Italy
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Sport, track, adventure, touring, urban
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For a company rooted in racing, Alpinestars has done an impressive job making that DNA wearable for everyday riders. They’re a juggernaut in MotoGP and Supercross, outfitting names like Marc Márquez and Jason Anderson. That trickle-down from race tech shows up everywhere, from their leather Missile series that fits like a second skin to waterproof touring jackets that look like they could shrug off a hurricane. The fit is aggressive but refined, with articulation and venting that just makes sense once you’re on the bike.
Their Drystar waterproofing system, while proprietary, holds up surprisingly well in variable conditions. And if you’re serious about protection, their Tech-Air airbag compatibility pushes the whole category forward. The design language is unapologetically Italian: edgy, sharp, and ready to go fast standing still—but the function backs it up. Alpinestars doesn’t just chase trends. They make gear for riders who trust it with their lives, day in and day out. Whether you’re setting lap records or lane-splitting downtown, there’s a good chance Alpinestars has something purpose-built for how you ride.
Popular Alpinestars Jackets
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Sport textile with serious airflow, built for hot days and fast rides. | Rugged ADV touring jacket with solid waterproofing and all-day comfort. | Premium track-ready leather, Tech-Air compatible, race fit. |
Sport textile with serious airflow, built for hot days and fast rides.
Rugged ADV touring jacket with solid waterproofing and all-day comfort.
Premium track-ready leather, Tech-Air compatible, race fit.
Dainese: Italian Precision, Track to Street
Dainese doesn’t just make motorcycle gear—they sculpt it. Founded in 1972 in Molvena, Italy, by Lino Dainese, the brand has become a symbol of Italian design excellence and innovation in rider protection. From pioneering the first back protector to introducing the D-Air® airbag system, Dainese has consistently pushed the boundaries of safety and style. Their gear is a staple in MotoGP paddocks and urban streets alike, trusted by professionals and enthusiasts who demand the best.
Year Founded: 1972
Designed In: Molvena, Italy
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Sport, track, touring, urban, adventure
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Dainese’s commitment to innovation is evident in every stitch. Their jackets often feature proprietary technologies like the D-Air® airbag system, providing an extra layer of protection that activates in milliseconds during a crash. The brand’s collaboration with professional racers has led to gear that doesn’t just meet safety standards—it sets them. Whether it’s the ergonomic design that reduces fatigue on long rides or the meticulous attention to aerodynamics, Dainese gear is engineered for performance. Yet, they haven’t sacrificed style for function. The sleek lines, premium materials, and Italian craftsmanship make their jackets as fashionable as they are functional. From the track to the café, Dainese ensures riders are protected and poised.
Popular Dainese Jackets
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A sport-focused leather jacket with excellent ventilation and protection. | High-performance jacket designed for aggressive sport riding. | A lightweight textile jacket ideal for hot weather conditions. |
A sport-focused leather jacket with excellent ventilation and protection.
High-performance jacket designed for aggressive sport riding.
A lightweight textile jacket ideal for hot weather conditions.
Tier 2 – High-Quality Versatility
These brands balance performance and practicality. They’re trusted by everyday riders who need comfort, protection, and style across multiple ride types and seasons.
REV’IT!: Dutch Design, Global Ride
REV’IT! hits a rare sweet spot that most brands miss — delivering real-world protection and performance without locking you into a niche. Whether you’re navigating city streets, logging cross-country miles, or just hitting weekend backroads, REV’IT! jackets offer an exceptional blend of function, comfort, and style that adapts to how you actually ride.
Year Founded: 1995
Designed In: Oss, Netherlands
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Adventure, touring, urban, sport
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Founded in the Netherlands in 1995, the brand has steadily earned a global reputation for high-design gear that doesn’t just look good — it performs where it counts. From SEEFLEX™ armor that flexes naturally while meeting CE Level 2 standards, to smart layering systems and laminated waterproofing that rivals top-shelf adventure brands, REV’IT! proves that you don’t have to choose between protection, comfort, or aesthetics.
Unlike race-centric brands that assume an aggressive tuck, or ultra-premium ADV brands built around expedition use, REV’IT! gear is made for riders who do a bit of everything. The fits are more forgiving but still trim, the features are intuitive, and the design leans modern without looking overbuilt. You can wear their mesh Eclipse jacket around town, layer up with the Sand 5 for serious trips, or grab a laminated option like the Tornado 4 for all-weather commuting — and in each case, you’re getting gear that’s been dialed in over decades of rider feedback and technical refinement.
It’s not the flashiest brand, and it’s not the cheapest either. But REV’IT! earns “Best Overall” because it consistently delivers everything most riders need — and nothing they don’t.
Popular REV’IT! Jackets
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A true four-season workhorse built for serious adventure or everyday touring. Waterproof, ventilated, and loaded with rider-focused features, it adapts to almost anything you throw at it. | Minimalist mesh done right. This hot-weather favorite delivers airflow and protection in a clean, city-friendly silhouette — ideal for commuters and summer riders who don’t want to overheat or overdress. | An all-weather 3-in-1 system jacket that balances breathability, waterproofing, and protection. Perfect for riders who demand one jacket that does it all, from morning chill to afternoon sun. |
A true four-season workhorse built for serious adventure or everyday touring. Waterproof, ventilated, and loaded with rider-focused features, it adapts to almost anything you throw at it.
Minimalist mesh done right. This hot-weather favorite delivers airflow and protection in a clean, city-friendly silhouette — ideal for commuters and summer riders who don’t want to overheat or overdress.
An all-weather 3-in-1 system jacket that balances breathability, waterproofing, and protection. Perfect for riders who demand one jacket that does it all, from morning chill to afternoon sun.
Pando Moto: Urban Armor, Baltic Born
Pando Moto isn’t your average motorcycle gear brand. Born in Lithuania in 2011, this rider-founded company set out to bridge the gap between high-performance protection and minimalist streetwear aesthetics. They didn’t just want gear that worked, they wanted gear that looked good doing it. From their European design roots, Pando Moto has grown into a global name by crafting jackets and riding apparel that blend technical innovation with understated style. If you’ve ever wished your riding gear could double as your favorite everyday outfit, Pando Moto is speaking your language.
Year Founded: 2011
Designed In: Vilnius, Lithuania
Manufactured In: Europe
Styles: Urban, casual, leather, textile, armored base layers
Pando Moto doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. It’s not out to replace Klim on your next cross-continental trip, but for city riders, café-hoppers, and street stylers, it nails the brief. The jackets lean on premium materials like Cordura and Dyneema for abrasion resistance, paired with slim-profile CE-rated armor to keep things low-key but legit. Whether it’s the M65’s military vibes or the Falcon’s clean leather silhouette, every piece balances form and function with zero compromise. They don’t scream “motorcycle,” and that’s exactly why they work so well on and off the bike.
If you’re curious how their best-selling leather piece stacks up, check out our hands-on review of the Pando Moto Falcon jacket.
But the real secret weapon in their lineup is their armored underlayers. The Commando UH (full review here) and Shell UH 02 have become cult favorites among riders who want stealth protection under everyday clothes. These are not just base layers. They are fully CE-rated armor systems designed to move with you, breathe well, and offer crash-tested performance when it matters. Whether you’re commuting in jeans or layering up under a waxed cotton jacket, these pieces disappear until you need them most. Pando Moto may not be trying to win every category, but in the world of stylish, protective urban gear, they are already setting the bar.
Popular Pando Moto Jackets and Underlayers
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A minimalist leather jacket made from soft, premium cowhide with CE-rated armor and AA protection. | A stealthy CE AAA-rated underlayer that wears like streetwear but protects like armor. Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off. | Designed specifically for women, this CE-rated armored underlayer offers top-tier protection with a contoured fit. |
A minimalist leather jacket made from soft, premium cowhide with CE-rated armor and AA protection.
A stealthy CE AAA-rated underlayer that wears like streetwear but protects like armor.
Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.
Designed specifically for women, this CE-rated armored underlayer offers top-tier protection with a contoured fit.
Bowtex: Undercover Protection for the Style-Conscious Rider
Bowtex is a Belgian brand that has redefined motorcycle safety gear by focusing on protective underlayers. Founded by a passionate rider seeking to combine safety with personal style, Bowtex offers base layers that allow motorcyclists to wear their favorite outer garments without compromising on protection. Their products are designed in Belgium and manufactured in Western Europe, emphasizing quality and local craftsmanship. Want a full breakdown of how their top-tier gear holds up?
Year Founded: 2015
Designed In: Belgium
Manufactured In: Western Europe
Styles of Gear Made: Protective base layers, including shirts and leggings
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Bowtex’s flagship product, the Elite series, has garnered attention for its CE AAA-rated protection, the highest level achievable under current standards. The Elite shirt and leggings are constructed from a blend of Dyneema® and other technical fibers, providing exceptional abrasion resistance while remaining lightweight and breathable . This makes them ideal for riders who want to maintain a casual appearance without sacrificing safety. Read our in-depth Bowtex Elite review.
One of the standout features of Bowtex gear is its versatility. The underlayers can be worn beneath regular clothing, allowing riders to seamlessly transition from the road to everyday activities. This approach caters to urban commuters and touring riders alike, offering comfort in various weather conditions. The garments include pockets for optional CE Level 1 or 2 armor at key impact zones, such as shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips .
In summary, Bowtex offers a unique solution for motorcyclists who prioritize both safety and style. Their innovative underlayers provide high-level protection without the bulk of traditional gear, making them a valuable addition to any rider’s wardrobe.
Popular Bowtex Shirts
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A lightweight, breathable shirt offering CE AAA-rated protection, designed to be worn under regular clothing. | CE AAA-rated protection tailored for female riders. Cut for all-day comfort and coverage. | Lightweight, breathable, and CE Level A-rate. Ideal for city riding or layering under casual gear. |
A lightweight, breathable shirt offering CE AAA-rated protection, designed to be worn under regular clothing.
CE AAA-rated protection tailored for female riders. Cut for all-day comfort and coverage.
Lightweight, breathable, and CE Level A-rate. Ideal for city riding or layering under casual gear.
Spidi: Precision-Crafted Protection
Spidi doesn’t just make motorcycle jackets, they engineer them. Founded in 1977 in Vicenza, Italy, Spidi has built a reputation for combining Italian craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Their gear is designed for riders who demand both style and performance, whether navigating city streets or tackling long-distance tours. With a focus on safety, comfort, and versatility, Spidi offers a range of jackets that cater to various riding styles and conditions.
Year Founded: 1977
Designed In: Vicenza, Italy
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Sport, touring, adventure, urban, leather, textile
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Spidi’s commitment to innovation is evident in their use of proprietary technologies like the H2Out waterproof membrane and Warrior armor systems—features designed not just for lab conditions, but for long miles in unpredictable weather. Many of their jackets use a modular system, with removable thermal and waterproof liners and well-placed vents that make it easy to adapt on the fly, whether you’re riding through the Alps or across state lines. Ergonomics are dialed in too, with articulated fits and stretch paneling that make a real difference in comfort over hours in the saddle.
Spidi gear is built for riders who want refinement over flash. If you’re a long-distance tourer, a three-season commuter, or someone who wants one jacket to do it all, Spidi is worth a look. Their range includes jackets tuned for ADV, urban riding, and track use, but the common thread is thoughtful design and a level of finish that feels distinctly Italian. Their collaboration with professional racers and world travelers brings real-world feedback into every stitch. From alpine passes to tight city traffic, Spidi jackets deliver a blend of protection, functionality, and understated style that hits the mark for serious riders who value control over chaos.
Popular Spidi Jackets
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A versatile 3-in-1 jacket with removable H2Out membrane and thermal liner, suitable for year-round riding. | A 2-in-1 jacket with a 3-layer laminated fabric, offering waterproof and windproof protection for all-weather conditions. | A lightweight jacket with mesh panels and a waterproof liner, ideal for warm weather and variable conditions. |
A versatile 3-in-1 jacket with removable H2Out membrane and thermal liner, suitable for year-round riding.
A 2-in-1 jacket with a 3-layer laminated fabric, offering waterproof and windproof protection for all-weather conditions.
A lightweight jacket with mesh panels and a waterproof liner, ideal for warm weather and variable conditions.
Schott NYC: The Original Rebel Jacket
Schott NYC isn’t just a brand—it’s the blueprint. Founded in 1913 by brothers Irving and Jack Schott in New York City, they were the first to put a zipper on a jacket and, in 1928, created the original leather motorcycle jacket: the Perfecto. Named after Irving’s favorite cigar, the Perfecto became an icon of rebellion, worn by legends like Marlon Brando in The Wild One, James Dean, and Bruce Springsteen. Schott’s jackets have been a staple for those who ride and those who simply want to look like they do. With over a century of craftsmanship, Schott continues to produce many of its jackets in the USA, maintaining a legacy of quality and authenticity. If timeless leather is your style, you’ll want to check out our favorite vintage motorcycle jackets. Schott is right at the heart of that list.
Year Founded: 1913
Designed In: New York City, USA
Manufactured In: Primarily in the USA (Union, New Jersey)
Styles: Motorcycle, café racer, bomber, flight, peacoat, urban leather
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Schott NYC’s commitment to quality is evident in every stitch. Their jackets are crafted from premium materials like heavyweight cowhide and horsehide, ensuring durability and a distinctive patina over time. The Perfecto, with its asymmetrical zipper, belted waist, and snap-down lapels, set the standard for motorcycle jackets and remains a timeless piece. Beyond the Perfecto, Schott offers a range of styles, including the minimalist 141 Café Racer and the rugged 530 Waxy Cowhide Jacket. Each jacket is a testament to Schott’s dedication to craftsmanship, with many pieces still made in their Union, New Jersey factory. This hands-on approach ensures that every jacket meets the brand’s high standards and continues the legacy that has made Schott a symbol of American rebellion and style.
Popular Schott NYC Jackets
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A clean, no-frills classic made from heavyweight cowhide. Built for the long haul with understated style and timeless fit. | The rebel silhouette with a broken-in feel right out of the box. Asymmetrical zip, snap-down collar, and all attitude. | A tailored version of the iconic Perfecto, vintage-washed and contoured for women riders who want heritage without compromise. |
A clean, no-frills classic made from heavyweight cowhide. Built for the long haul with understated style and timeless fit.
The rebel silhouette with a broken-in feel right out of the box. Asymmetrical zip, snap-down collar, and all attitude.
A tailored version of the iconic Perfecto, vintage-washed and contoured for women riders who want heritage without compromise.
Tier 3 – Budget-Friendly Options
These are smart picks for riders on a budget, newer riders building their first gear setup, or anyone who wants function over flash. Solid protection without the premium price tag.
Sedici: Euro-Inspired Gear Without the Euro Price
Sedici is the kind of brand that sneaks up on you. At first glance, it might seem like just another house label, but spend some time in their gear, and you’ll realize there’s more beneath the surface. Launched in 2011 by Cycle Gear and now part of the Comoto family (which includes RevZilla and J&P Cycles), Sedici was created to offer riders European-inspired design and performance without the premium price tag. The name itself means “sixteen” in Italian, a nod to its Euro roots. Designed in the U.S. and manufactured overseas, Sedici gear is built to meet the demands of riders who want quality without breaking the bank.
Year Founded: 2011
Designed In: United States
Manufactured In: Primarily China and Pakistan
Styles: Adventure, touring, sport, mesh, leather, waterproof textile
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Sedici’s strength lies in delivering functional, feature-rich gear at a price point that’s accessible to a wide range of riders. Their jackets often come equipped with CE Level 2 armor, waterproof liners, and thoughtful ventilation systems.
Take the Garda WP Jacket, for example: it’s a laminated, seam-sealed adventure jacket with stretch fabric for comfort and a host of pockets for practicality. Or the Alexi 2 Mesh Jacket, which offers impressive airflow for hot-weather riding, along with removable waterproof and thermal liners for versatility. While Sedici may not have the cachet of some high-end European brands, it consistently punches above its weight, making it a smart choice for riders who value performance and affordability.
Popular Sedici Jackets
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Description: A versatile adventure touring jacket with waterproof construction and ample storage. | Description: A warm-weather jacket featuring mesh panels and removable liners for adaptability. | Description: Designed for adventure riders, offering waterproof protection and durability. |
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A versatile adventure touring jacket with waterproof construction and ample storage.
Description:
A warm-weather jacket featuring mesh panels and removable liners for adaptability.
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Designed for adventure riders, offering waterproof protection and durability.
Street & Steel: Cruiser Cool Meets Everyday Protection
Street & Steel feels like the neighborhood bruiser of the gear world. It’s unpolished, practical, and tougher than it looks. It doesn’t posture, it doesn’t flex, and it sure doesn’t care about runway styling. This is gear made for riders who want something that fits the cruiser lifestyle, holds up in a slide, and still looks halfway decent when you step off the bike. Like Sedici, Street & Steel was born in 2011 under the Cycle Gear umbrella and is now part of the Comoto family.
Street & Steel was built with the American street rider in mind. Think leather, denim, armor, and attitude. Designed stateside, produced overseas, and priced so you can still fill your tank after you buy it.
Year Founded: 2011
Designed In: United States
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Cruiser, urban, leather, textile, armored hoodies
Street & Steel’s strength lies in delivering functional, feature-rich gear at a price point that’s accessible to a wide range of riders. Their jackets often come equipped with CE Level 2 armor, waterproof liners, and thoughtful ventilation systems. Take the Independence Jacket, for example. It’s a full-grain cowhide leather jacket with a fully perforated chassis and a removable thermal liner, making it suitable for year-round riding.
Then there’s the Anarchy 2 Jacket, which offers a rugged denim look with Aramid reinforcements and CE Level 2 armor for solid protection. Street & Steel isn’t chasing prestige, and that’s exactly why it works. It delivers honest, hardworking gear for riders who care more about road time than brand names, and it does it without cutting corners where it counts.
Popular Street & Steel Jackets
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Description: A versatile leather jacket with perforated panels and a removable thermal liner. | Description: A rugged denim jacket with Aramid reinforcements and CE Level 2 armor. | Description: A leather jacket with a removable hoodie and CE-rated armor for casual rides. |
Description:
A versatile leather jacket with perforated panels and a removable thermal liner.
Description:
A rugged denim jacket with Aramid reinforcements and CE Level 2 armor.
Description:
A leather jacket with a removable hoodie and CE-rated armor for casual rides.
First Manufacturing: Classic Leather, Built for the Long Haul
First Manufacturing Co. has been crafting leather motorcycle gear since 1987, starting with a suitcase full of leather and an American dream. Founded in New York City, the company recognized a demand for high-quality leather jackets and set out to meet it with dedication and craftsmanship. Over the years, they’ve expanded their offerings to include a wide range of motorcycle apparel, all designed with the rider in mind.
Year Founded: 1987
Designed In: New York, USA
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Cruiser, café racer, touring, urban, leather, textile
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First Manufacturing’s commitment to quality is evident in their use of premium materials and attention to detail. Their jackets are made from drum-dyed naked cowhide, offering both durability and a supple feel. Features like YKK zippers, armor pockets, and concealed carry compartments are standard, reflecting the brand’s focus on functionality. The Enforcer Jacket, for example, combines classic styling with modern protective features, making it a favorite among riders.
Beyond their standard offerings, First Manufacturing provides a Custom Builder tool, allowing riders to design jackets that suit their individual style and needs. This level of personalization, combined with their commitment to quality, has earned them a loyal following in the motorcycle community. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or embarking on a long-distance tour, First Manufacturing offers gear that’s both stylish and reliable.
Popular First Manufacturing Jackets
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Description: A classic asymmetrical zip leather jacket with modern protective features. | Description: A versatile jacket blending classic style with modern functionality. | Description: A sleek, café racer-style jacket with a streamlined fit. |
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A classic asymmetrical zip leather jacket with modern protective features.
Description:
A versatile jacket blending classic style with modern functionality.
Description:
A sleek, café racer-style jacket with a streamlined fit.
Motorcycle Jacket Buying Guide
Picking a motorcycle jacket starts with picking the right brand. You’re not just buying a piece of gear, you’re buying into a design philosophy, a materials standard, and a level of trust. The brands you choose determine how your gear performs when it counts, and how long it holds up after months or years in the saddle.
If you’re still narrowing down your options, check out this guide to choosing the right motorcycle jacket, it breaks down exactly what to look for.
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Know What Each Brand Is Good At
- Klim leads in weatherproofing, durability, and technical adventure gear.
- Alpinestars and Dainese are race-day specialists with tight fits and advanced armor.
- Sedici and Street & Steel provide budget-friendly gear with surprising quality.
- Schott NYC and First Manufacturing own the classic leather space with American-made craftsmanship.
Don’t Let Country of Origin Fool You
- Great gear is made everywhere—from Pakistan and Vietnam to the U.S. and Europe.
- Sedici and Street & Steel prove that overseas-made doesn’t mean second-rate.
- Higher cost doesn’t always mean better quality—especially with European-made gear at the mid-range.
Budget with the Right Brands in Mind
- $1,000+: Look at Klim, Alpinestars, and Dainese for premium tech and fit.
- $300–$500: Solid value from REV’IT!, Sedici, and First Manufacturing.
- Want daily style with real protection? Pando Moto and Schott NYC strike that balance.
Final Tip: Trust the Patterns
- Listen to riders who put in serious miles—they’ll steer you right.
- Brands that come up again and again do so for a reason.
- Match your gear to your riding habits, and don’t chase logos. Ride what works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are biker jackets worth it?
If you ride regularly, absolutely. A proper motorcycle jacket isn’t just a fashion statement. It’s armor, abrasion protection, and comfort all rolled into one. Whether you’re cruising across states or just running errands, a well-built jacket could be the difference between walking away and limping off.
How can you tell if a jacket is good quality?
Start with materials and construction. Look for CE-rated armor (Level 1 or 2), solid stitching, and abrasion-resistant fabrics like leather, Cordura, or Dyneema. Zippers should be YKK or equivalent, liners should feel substantial, and nothing should flap or sag when you’re in a riding position. Cheap jackets cut corners. Good ones don’t.
How do I choose a riding jacket?
Think about your riding style, climate, and priorities. Touring? Go for waterproof and vented. City rider? Look for lightweight and flexible. Track? You’ll want leather with a snug fit and impact zones covered. If you’re heading off-road or planning big-mile ADV trips, check out our favorite adventure jackets to see what holds up. Start with how you ride and find a brand that builds for it.
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Should a motorcycle jacket be tight or loose?
It should be snug, not restrictive. Armor only works if it stays in place during a crash. Too loose and it shifts. Too tight and it limits your movement or airflow. Sit on your bike in riding position before you decide. It should feel natural and stay put.
Why are motorcycle jacket zippers off center?
That offset zipper isn’t just for style. It keeps wind and rain from pushing through the main closure, adds a double layer across your chest, and reduces bulk right under your helmet chinstrap. You’ll see it on a lot of classic leather jackets, especially cafe and cruiser styles.
Wrap-Up:
The right motorcycle jacket isn’t just a piece of gear—it’s part of how you ride, how you feel, and how you walk away when things go sideways. Whether you’re crossing continents or cutting through traffic, the brands you trust make all the difference. Some of the names in this guide are household, some are sleeper hits, but they’ve all earned their place through time, testing, and road-earned respect. Don’t buy hype. Buy what works.
Still figuring out your first move? This list of the best motorcycle jackets is a solid place to start. Go with the gear you’ll never second-guess once you’re moving. That’s the real benchmark.
