Best Overall
The Best Value Summer Motorcycle Jacket… And All the Rest
Evan Rally
Updated: January 26, 2024
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Have you ever ridden a motorcycle in Phoenix?
I crossed through Phoenix in July once, and let me tell you, there’s very little temperature difference between Phoenix and hell.
I thought my “vented” jacket would cut it. Nope.
I was practically riding in a sauna. An hour out from the AC of my Airbnb, I was miserable. Not even sweating; nothing left to sweat out.
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But what was I to do? Wear no jacket at all?
Most summer jackets fall into one of two categories:
- Not vented enough for any real heat or humidity (I live in Thailand, I should know).
- Too weak and thin to handle even a mild spill on pavement (like most “kevlar-reinforced denim” jackets)
You need solid airflow, protection from the sun, and strong materials to stay cool and safe in the heat. That’s what we have for you here: tried and tested gear that’s actually built for summer, not just labeled for it.
A jacket with…
- Breathability and airflow in all the right places – especially torso and underarm ventilation
- CE certified abrasion protection – otherwise, why even wear a jacket?
- Adjustability to help keep armor in place while air flows through.
- Cold and rainy weather protection when you need it (read: removable liners)
The Summer Jacket That Fits Your Ride
Not every jacket with a bunch of holes is cut out for the kind of riding you do. Picking the right summer gear starts with knowing how you ride, not just grabbing whatever looks breezy.
City Blaster or Weekend Roller
If you’re slicing through traffic or cruising around town, airflow is king. But looking like a Power Ranger at the coffee shop isn’t the move. You want mesh that breathes, armor that stays in place, and a style that blends in off the bike. Solid picks here are the Rev’It! Eclipse 2, Street & Steel Blade, or the Pando Moto Commando UH if you want to wear any long-sleeve shirt while packing top-tier protection.
Sport Rider or Canyon Carver
This is where things get fast. You need gear that won’t fold at speed or shift mid-corner. Abrasion resistance has to be on point—think perforated leather or textile-leather combos with pre-curved arms and snug, no-flap fits. Look at the Alpinestars GP Plus R v4 Airflow or Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated. These jackets are built to hang on when you’re pushing it.
Touring and All-Day Riders
Long hauls mean unpredictable weather. One stretch might feel like a furnace, the next like a storm cloud opened up just for you. You need gear that vents hard but adapts on the fly. Removable liners, tough fabrics, and all-day comfort are the name of the game. Check out the Klim Marrakesh or the Sedici Marco 2 Mesh Waterproof. They’re built to take the miles and whatever comes with them.
Tight Budget, No Compromises
If you’re watching the wallet, don’t sweat it. There are jackets that keep airflow and protection high without wrecking your bank account. You’ll skip some bells and whistles, but the basics are covered. The Street & Steel Blade and Rev’It! Eclipse 2 both punch above their price tag.
Top Picks: Best Summer Jacket
Best Overall
Ultimate in protection (CE AAA for highway slides) while loose weave on the protective zones and open mesh on the chest allow airflow everywhere. I own and love this jacket.
City Look
Almost all the jacket is mesh, polyester protectors on shoulders and elbows
Waterproof Liner
A solid and well-priced adventure touring jacket with enough airflow to keep you cool no matter the weather. Yet has a full sleeve waterproof liner included. I’ve owned this jacket.
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of some of the best options out there right now.
Pando Moto Commando UH Jacket: Style Meets Substance (at a Price)
I picked up the Pando Moto Commando UH AAA jacket because I was done sweating through “summer” gear that couldn’t handle intense heat. Living in Thailand, riding in triple-digit temps is just part of life, and most jackets feel like you’re wrapped in a wet towel at every stoplight. I wasn’t expecting much from a single-layer textile jacket, but this one straight up changed the game.
The airflow is wild. With 3D Cordura mesh running across the chest and down the inner arms, it lets air move even when I’m sitting still. The rest of the jacket is made from Balistex, a stretchy, lightweight fabric that’s 15 times stronger than steel. You’re getting full CE AAA protection in a piece that feels more like an athletic windbreaker than a suit of armor.
Versatility is what really seals it. I’ll wear it over a tee when it’s hot, then throw another layer on top if temps dip at night. D3O Level 2 armor is already included in the elbows and shoulders, and there’s a pocket ready for a back protector. Fit-wise, it moves with you, stays put thanks to thumb loops and a silicone hem, and doesn’t bunch or ride up when you’re leaned over.
The catch? You’ve got to buy the back protector separately, and at this price, that stings a little.
Silver lining: What you’re getting is rare, true breathability, top-tier impact and abrasion protection, and a stealthy look that works just as well off the bike. For anyone riding in serious heat but not willing to skimp on safety, this jacket punches way above its weight.
Alternative option: Check out the Bowtex Elite. I also own this set, and it’s a similar underlayer system although instead of Pando’s mesh at the chest it has a stronger (and tighter weave) material, making it flow just a bit less air.
Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket
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CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style. Full review here.
Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.
Pros:
- Material 15x stronger than steel
- Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
- Excellent airflow
- CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders
Cons:
- Back protector sold separately
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Our Review: Style and safety rarely blend this well. I’ve been putting the Pando Moto Commando UH 01 through everyday use, and this thing holds up. Check out my full hands-on review.
Rev’It! Eclipse 2 Jacket: The Classic Mesh Maestro
The Rev’It! Eclipse 2 has been an easy pick for me when the temps climb and I still want decent protection without overheating. It’s also my wife’s choice of jacket!
It’s built for hot days, plain and simple. Big mesh panels on the front, back, and inner arms keep the air moving whether I’m stuck in city traffic or out on a weekend ride. It doesn’t try to be fancy, and that’s exactly why it works.
The impact zones are backed by 600D polyester, so it’s not just some mesh shell flapping in the wind. The included CE Level 1 armor at the shoulders and elbows sits flat and stays comfortable, and there’s a spot to add a back protector if you’re looking to complete the setup.
Fit-wise, it’s easy to dial in with tabs at the waist and snaps at the biceps. That helps keep things snug without restricting movement. Storage is pretty straightforward too: two zippered hand pockets and one inside pocket, enough for the usual daily carry.
For commuting, quick runs, or longer weekend stretches, it’s one of those jackets that just does the job without getting in the way.
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The catch? This is not a do-it-all jacket. No liners, no waterproofing, no insulation. When the weather shifts, you’ll need to bring your own solutions.
Silver lining: That single-minded focus is what makes it so effective. It does one thing exceptionally well: keeping you cool when it’s hot out. No bulk, no unnecessary features, just clean airflow and lightweight protection that works when the heat is on. At its price, it’s a solid pick for anyone who wants a dedicated summer jacket that gets out of the way and lets you ride.
Alternative option: If you need built-in weather protection, you’d look towards something like the Sedici Marco 2.
REV'IT! Eclipse 2 Jacket
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A lightweight, summer-ready motorcycle jacket with large mesh panels for airflow, CE Level 1 armor, and a clean, urban style—ideal for hot weather riding.
Pros:
- Excellent airflow for hot weather
- Lightweight and comfortable
- CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor included
Cons:
- No waterproof or thermal liner
- Back protector not included
- Limited storage/pocket space
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Our Review: The Eclipse 2 pops up in more than one of our gear guides, including a deep dive on the women’s version. It’s a go-to pick for staying cool without emptying your wallet.
Klim Marrakesh Jacket (2022 Revision): The Stretch-Woven Wonder
The Klim Marrakesh doesn’t scream summer jacket at first glance, but it’s one of the best pieces I’ve worn when the temps start climbing. No big mesh panels, no flashy zips. The whole thing’s made from this Karbonite Micromesh Cordura that feels soft, moves well, and somehow still breathes like crazy. It looks solid, almost like a light softshell, but it vents way better than you’d expect.
The airflow’s not like getting hit with a leaf blower. It’s more even, more natural. Since the whole shell breathes, I don’t get those weird hot spots or sudden cold blasts. I’ll throw on a wicking layer underneath and it stays comfy even when I’m crawling through traffic or stuck waiting at lights.
Protection’s already dialed in. CE AA rating, D3O armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back. No nickel and diming for upgrades. The fabric’s got stretch too, so it moves with me when I’m leaning into corners or shifting around in the saddle. Doesn’t bunch. Doesn’t fight me.
Storage is solid. Four pockets on the outside, one inside. I can stash gloves, wallet, even a small tool roll if I’m packing light.
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The catch? The airflow isn’t as instantly noticeable at low speed as it is with wide-open mesh, and it’s not built for heavy rain. You’ll need backup for serious weather.
Silver lining: That extra fabric density cuts wind better, takes the edge off cooler mornings, and handles light drizzle better than you’d expect. It’s one of those rare jackets that actually bridges hot and mild weather without missing a beat. Built to last, built to ride.
KLIM Marrakesh Summer Motorcycle Jacket
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$419.99
The best lightweight motorcycle jacket on the market. With an all-mesh construction and D3O Ghost armor, it feels and looks like a casual light hiking jacket. Except it packs the CE AAA protection of a MotoGP race suit!
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Our Review: We spotlighted the Marrakesh on It’s Better On The Road for its rare combo of CE AA protection and all-day comfort. It’s one of the few jackets that really lets you breath when the heat is relentless.
Sedici Marco 2 Mesh Waterproof Jacket: Value-Packed Versatility
When I’m riding through heat and know there’s a chance of rain, I like having gear that can handle both without costing a fortune. The Sedici Marco 2 does exactly that. The airflow is solid with big mesh panels on the front, back, and sleeves, which makes it bearable when the sun’s cooking and I’m stuck behind cars or rolling through slow sections. It’s reinforced with 600D in the right spots too, so I’m not just relying on mesh if something goes sideways.
What makes it worth keeping around is the waterproof liner. Full sleeve, easy to zip in, and it actually keeps me dry when I get caught out. It also helps take the edge off on chilly mornings or during shoulder season rides. For the price, that kind of flexibility is hard to beat, especially if I’m commuting during the week and riding for fun on the weekends.
The armor setup is better than expected at this range. CE Level 2 in the elbows and shoulders comes standard, which isn’t something you usually get without spending more. There’s a pocket for a back protector too if you want to complete the setup. Fit adjusters at the waist and arms help keep things snug and stop it from flapping around once you’re at speed.
It’s not fancy. It just works when the weather flips on you.
The catch? The materials aren’t premium, and the waterproof liner can feel a bit clammy if the humidity’s already up. It’s not a high-end setup, but it’s not trying to be.
Silver lining: You get airflow, armor, and a rain plan in one jacket without burning through your fuel budget. Great for riders who need gear that works, not just gear that looks good on a hanger.
Alternative option: If you don’t need the liner and want maximum airflow in a slightly more refined package (at a similar price), the Rev’It! Eclipse 2 could be an alternative.
Sedici Marco 2 Mesh Waterproof Jacket
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A basic adventure jacket with zip in waterproof liner. The liner is not great (closer to a trash bag than Gore Tex) but it's fine for emergencies. Evan rode with this across the American south until he lost it in Paris, Texas!
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Our Review: Is the Marco 2 the ultimate budget all-rounder? We’re testing its limits. Check our gear page for the upcoming full review.
Alpinestars GP Plus R v4 Airflow Jacket: Sportbike Precision Cooling
The Alpinestars GP Plus R v4 Airflow is the kind of jacket I’d point to if you’re riding fast and want real protection without overheating. It’s full-grain 1.3mm leather with big perforations across the chest and back, so it actually flows air once you’re moving. Not mesh-level, but it breathes way better than most leathers I’ve seen.
The stretch zones are legit. HRSF and Rideknit panels around the arms and torso give you plenty of movement without feeling stiff, even in a full tuck. It has that aggressive fit with pre-curved sleeves, a snug chest, and a drop tail that stays put when you’re leaned over.
Armor is CE Level 1 in the shoulders and elbows, and it’s already set up for the Tech-Air system if you want to run an airbag. The back protector isn’t included, but there’s a pocket for one. The whole jacket is CE AA rated, so the safety side is well covered.
There’s even a proper aero hump. Not just for looks. It helps smooth things out when you’re on the gas and adds a little stability. Definitely not something I’d wear for relaxed rides, but for twisty roads or track sessions, it makes a lot of sense.
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The catch? In stop-and-go traffic or casual riding, even with the perforations, it runs hotter than mesh. That’s just the nature of leather.
Silver lining: You’re trading a bit of airflow for serious protection, better materials, and track-ready features that full mesh jackets just can’t match. This jacket isn’t pretending to be versatile. It’s built for speed, and it does that job right.
Alternative option: If you’re looking for a similarly aggressive leather jacket with top-tier protection and airflow, the Dainese Super Speed 4 offers race-level features and a more tailored, athletic fit to rival the GP Plus R v4 Airflow.
Alpinestars GP Plus R V4 Airflow Jacket
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A premium sport leather jacket with race-level protection, airflow-focused perforation, and Tech-Air® airbag compatibility.
Pros:
- Excellent ventilation
- Tech-Air® compatible
- Sport fit with stretch panels
Cons:
- Expensive
- No back protector included
- Not waterproof
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Our Review: We love testing sport gear! Our in-depth analysis of the GP Plus R v4 Airflow is in the works. Find it soon on our gear review page.
Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated Jacket: Italian Flair, Ferocious Airflow
The Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated jacket brings that unmistakable Italian style with the kind of protection you’d expect from a brand rooted in racing. It’s sharp, aggressive, and built for sport and naked bike riders who want serious safety without roasting every time the sun comes out.
Tutu cowhide gives it a tough outer shell, and the perforated panels across the chest and back are placed smart, letting in air without weakening high-impact zones. The S1 stretch fabric adds a bit of give in all the right places so the jacket can move with you, especially when you’re leaned over in a corner.
Protection is no slouch. CE Level 2 armor comes stock in the shoulders and elbows, and those external aluminum sliders on the shoulders aren’t just for show. They’re made to help you slide rather than catch if things go sideways. Pockets are ready for optional chest and back protection, and the jacket carries a CE AA rating, which puts it in serious gear territory.
Fit is tight and sporty. Pre-curved arms, a dropped tail, and a race-cut chest mean it feels best in the riding position. There’s a speed hump out back and a zipper to connect to Dainese pants if you want that two-piece suit feel. Adjustments are minimal but effective.
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The catch? It runs warm in stop-and-go and takes a bit to break in. The stretch panels feel a little stiffer compared to others in this class.
Silver lining: You get top-shelf protection, legit race tech like the replaceable sliders, and that classic Dainese edge. It’s a jacket made to ride hard and look fast standing still.
Alternative option: If you’re after the same level of protection with a slightly more flexible fit and different stretch zones, check out the Alpinestars GP Plus R v4 Airflow. It’s tuned for performance too, but feels a bit different once you’re geared up.
Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated Jacket
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The Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated Jacket is a race-bred leather jacket offering top-tier protection and airflow for aggressive street and track riders.
Pros:
- CE AA-rated D-Skin leather with aluminum sliders
- Microelastic 2.0 and S1 stretch panels for mobility
- Localized perforation and 3D-Bubble liner for ventilation
Cons:
- Back and chest protectors sold separately
- Aggressive fit may be tight for casual riders
- Premium price point
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Our Review: Dainese vs. Alpinestars is a classic matchup. We’re comparing the Super Speed 4 Perf head-to-head soon.
Street & Steel Blade Jacket: Budget-Friendly Brawler
The Street & Steel Blade jacket is one of those budget brawlers that gets the job done without beating up your wallet. It’s built for hot-weather riding, plain and simple. Big mesh panels up front, out back, and down the arms keep air moving when the sun’s trying to cook you in your lid. It’s not fancy, but it flows air like a champ.
Construction is what you’d expect at this price point. Lightweight polyester mesh where you want airflow, with solid textile reinforcements in the impact zones like the shoulders and elbows. It’s not race-grade, but it gives you way more protection than riding in a hoodie or denim jacket. CE Level 1 armor usually comes standard in the elbows and shoulders, and there’s a slot for a back protector if you want to beef things up.
Fit can be dialed in with Velcro adjusters at the waist, cuffs, and sometimes the arms. That’s key for keeping armor in place and cutting down on flap when you’re riding above parking lot speeds. Most versions come with basic zippered pockets and, if you’re lucky, a thin removable liner. Don’t count on it keeping you dry in a downpour, but it might knock off some early morning chill.
The catch? You’re trading down on materials and finish. The mesh isn’t the toughest, the armor is entry-level, and the overall feel isn’t as polished as pricier gear.
Silver lining: It gets you on the road with solid airflow and CE-rated protection for way less coin. For new riders, city commuters, or anyone riding on a tight budget, it’s a solid way to stay safer without skipping gear.
Alternative option: If you’re after better armor and a legit waterproof liner without a big price jump, the Sedici Marco 2 is worth a look. It steps things up without breaking the bank.
Street & Steel Blade Jacket
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The Street & Steel Blade Jacket combines classic leather styling with essential protection, featuring CE-rated armor and perforated panels for enhanced airflow. It's an affordable choice for riders seeking a balance between style and safety.
Pros:
- Genuine drum-dyed leather construction
- CE-rated armor at elbows and shoulders
- Perforated panels for improved ventilation
Cons:
- No removable liner for temperature adaptability
- Back protector not included
- Leather may be thinner compared to premium options
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Our Review: Does the Blade cut through the heat on a budget? We’re testing its chops. Check back for our full review on It’s Better On The Road.
BILT Blaze 3 Mesh Jacket: The Airflow Starter Pack
The BILT Blaze 3 Mesh Jacket is built for one thing: surviving the summer heat without riding half-naked. It’s the kind of jacket you throw on when the sun’s cooking the pavement and you still want legit protection without overheating.
The mesh is everywhere. Chest, back, arms. It lets air blast through at any speed. There’s just enough 600D polyester at the impact zones to give it some backbone and abrasion resistance. The whole thing feels light and breathable, like it’s made to disappear once you’re moving.
Protection-wise, it’s basic but solid. CE Level 1 armor in the elbows and shoulders comes standard, and there’s a pocket for a back protector upgrade if you want it. It’s not built like a track jacket, but it’ll keep your skin in better shape than a T-shirt if things go sideways.
Fit is relaxed, with a few key adjusters like waist straps, cuff tabs, and snaps at the arms to keep it from flapping around. No liners, no flashy extras. Just the essentials: airflow, structure, and a couple of zippered hand pockets.
The catch? The Blaze 3 runs a bit bulkier than some other mesh jackets and doesn’t offer much in the way of storage. You get airflow and basic protection, but if you’re after a more streamlined fit or extra pockets for your gear, there are sharper options out there.
Silver lining: If you’re cooking in traffic or roasting on weekend rides, the Blaze 3 delivers serious airflow and just enough protection to ride smart without breaking the bank.
BILT Blaze 3 Mesh Jacket
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The BILT Blaze 3 Mesh Jacket is a budget-friendly option designed for warm-weather riding, offering excellent airflow through its mesh construction and providing basic CE-rated protection.
Pros:
- Excellent airflow for hot weather
- Affordable price point
- Includes CE-rated shoulder and elbow armor
Cons:
- Back protector not included (foam pad only)
- Limited abrasion resistance compared to premium jackets
- Minimal storage options
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Our Review: The Blaze 3 is built for hot-weather riding at a budget-friendly price. We’re testing how well it delivers on airflow, comfort, and protection. Full review coming soon on It’s Better On The Road.
Summer Motorcycle Jacket Comparison
| Feature | Pando Moto Commando UH | Rev’It! Eclipse 2 | Klim Marrakesh | Sedici Marco 2 | Alpinestars GP Plus R v4 Airflow | Dainese Super Speed 4 Perf | Street & Steel Blade | BILT Blaze 3 |
| Primary Material | Dyneema / Cordura Denim | Mesh / 600D Poly | Stretch Cordura | Mesh / 600D Text | Leather / Stretch Fabric | Leather / S1 Fabric | Mesh / Polyester | Mesh / 600D Oxford |
| Airflow Level | Good | Excellent | Great | Excellent | Good (at speed) | Good (at speed) | Excellent | Max |
| Abrasion Rating | CE AAA | CE A | CE AA | CE A | CE AA | CE AA | CE A | CE A |
| Included Armor | CE Level 2 (S,E) | CE Level 1 (S,E) | CE Level 1 (S,E) | CE Level 2 (S,E) | CE Level 1 (S,E) | CE Level 2 (S,E) | CE Level 1 (S,E) | CE Level 1 (S,E) |
| Back Protector | Pocket (Chest Pocket too) | |||||||
| Waterproof Liner | No | No | No (Resistant) | Yes (Removable) | No | No | Basic | No |
| Price Range | $$$$ | $$ | $$$$ | $$ | $$$$ | $$$$ | $ | $ |
| Best Use Case | Urban Style, Commute | Urban, Casual | Versatile Tour | Budget Tour | Sport, Track | Sport, Track | Budget Casual | Max Airflow Budget |
| Get One | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Note: Prices are relative ($ = lowest, $$$$ = highest). CE Ratings and specific armor levels should always be confirmed with the manufacturer/retailer for the specific model year.
Buying Guide: Nailing Your Summer Jacket Choice
Alright, we’ve gone through some solid picks. Now let’s break down how to actually choose the one that fits your ride, your style, and your weather.
Airflow Matters. A Lot.
When the heat kicks up, airflow keeps you sane. Here’s how the options stack up:
Mesh
All about max airflow. Great for city traffic, slow riding, or full-on heat waves. It’s breezy as hell but can feel like you’re getting blasted with a hair dryer when it’s dry and hot.
Examples: Rev’It! Eclipse 2, BILT Nomad Air, Sedici Marco 2, Street & Steel Blade
Perforated Leather
Still flows air, but works best when you’re moving. Tons of abrasion resistance. Sport riders and canyon carvers, this is your zone. At a stop, it gets toasty.
Examples: Alpinestars GP Plus R v4, Dainese Super Speed 4
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Specialty Textiles
Stuff like Klim’s Karbonite Micromesh breathes through the whole fabric. Good airflow, better protection than straight mesh, and not as drafty at speed.
Example: Klim Marrakesh
Where the Air Hits
You want airflow through the chest, back, and underarms. That’s where heat builds. No vents there? Keep scrolling.
Don’t Slack on Protection
CE Abrasion Rating (EN 17092)
This tells you how the outer shell holds up in a slide.
- A – Entry-level. Works for slower-speed riding and city commutes.
- AA – Solid for street, touring, and everyday use.
- AAA – Top shelf. Usually found in track-ready stuff.
Impact Armor (CE Level)
This is what soaks up the energy when you hit the ground.
- Level 1 – Basic coverage. Better than nothing.
- Level 2 – Soaks up more force. Go for this if you can.
Most jackets come with shoulder and elbow armor. Always check for a back protector pocket—and add one if it’s not included.
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Fit = Function
Armor only works if it stays put. A jacket that flaps around or sags won’t do you any favors in a crash.
Look for adjusters at the waist, cuffs, arms, and biceps. Make sure you’ve got good movement on the bike. If you’re planning to wear layers underneath, keep that in mind before locking in your size.
Liners: Worth It?
Ask yourself this—are you only riding in the heat, or do you get caught in random weather?
Pros
A removable waterproof or windproof liner makes your jacket way more versatile. Helps you ride longer into the season or handle surprise showers.
Cons
They add bulk. Some are a pain to take in and out. Cheap ones don’t breathe and can turn your jacket into a sweaty mess.
What’s It Made Of?
Mesh (Polyester)
Moves a ton of air. Less abrasion resistance, so check that CE rating.
Textile (Cordura, Nylon, Poly blends)
Used in high-impact zones for a reason. 600D and up is the sweet spot.
Leather
Tough as nails and molds to your shape. But heavy, hot, and needs perforations for summer use.
Specialty Stuff (Dyneema, etc.)
Single-layer protection with serious slide resistance. Light and breathable, but your wallet will feel it.
Final Take
The right summer jacket turns sweatbox rides into something you actually enjoy. Think about where and how you ride, how much heat you’re facing, and what level of protection you’re good with.
Pick the one that fits your ride, not just your look, and stay cool out there.
Summer Motorcycling FAQs
How do bikers stay cool in summer?
Staying cool in the saddle is all about smart choices and a little creativity. Invest in a breathable, well-ventilated summer motorcycle jacket from the list above. Remember to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drinking plenty of water will help you stay cool and focused. Use moisture-wicking base layers to keep that pesky sweat at bay. And take breaks in the shade when you can.
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Is hot weather bad for motorcycles?
Hot weather itself isn’t inherently bad for motorcycles, but it can lead to overheating if you don’t take proper care of your ride. Keep an eye on your coolant levels, oil levels, and tire pressure. And yourself!
How can I sweat less on my motorcycle?
Nobody likes feeling like a sweaty mess on their bike. To keep things fresh and dry, wear moisture-wicking base layers. Also, choose a well-ventilated helmet – you lose a lot of heat through your head. And finally, keep the air flowing by keeping your speed up (safely!) – heavy traffic commutes are not in your favor.
Can it be too hot to ride a motorcycle?
Yes, it can be too hot to ride a motorcycle. If the heat is so extreme that it’s affecting your ability to focus, react, and stay safe on the road, it’s best to postpone your ride. Better safe than sorry, right?
The air over pavement can also be significantly higher temperature than the ambient temperature – we’re talking 150-160F over blacktop in the sun sometimes. That’s the air you’re in, not the blacktop itself (which is hotter).
Also, keep in mind that in extreme heat your sweat may evaporate from the wind you’re riding through, or your body will stop sweating entirely. This happened to me near the Salton Sea in California once. I definitely gave myself heatstroke.
What are signs of an overheating motorcycle?
Keep an eye out for these telltale signs that your bike is getting a little too hot under the collar: 1. Rising oil temperature gauge or warning light 2. Coolant leaking from the overflow tube 3. Engine performance issues, such as loss of power or stalling 4. Unusual smells, like burning oil or coolant.
