The Best Motorcycle Jackets of 2024

If you ride, you’re aware that no motorcycle jacket is perfect for all weather conditions. The best moto jackets, in our experience, are ones that have optional integrated layers or allow you to layer beneath. We also like jackets with a bit of style in addition to their high function.

For the guide, we leaned more toward adventure (a.k.a. ADV) styles, because those are so adaptable and user-friendly across various applications, locations, and trips. We rode through rain, shine, heat, and dust to find the designs that kept us comfortable in the widest variety of conditions.

Properly armored motorcycle jackets have padding along the spine, elbows, and shoulders. Our top choices also pass the minimum EU standards for slide and impact, and some go well beyond that.

To learn more about moto jacket details, check out our comprehensive buyers guide, FAQ, and comparison chart below. Otherwise, scroll through to see all of our recommended buys for 2024.

The Best Motorcycle Jackets of 2024

Best Overall Motorcycle Jacket: Alpinestars AMT-10R Drystar XF Jacket
Best Budget Motorcycle Jacket: REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O
Best Motorcycle Jacket for the City: Aether Mulholland
Best Summer Weather Motorcycle Jacket: KLIM Marrakesh
Best Waterproof Motorcycle Jacket for Rainy Conditions: Dainese Sheffield D-Dry

Specs

Materials: Kevlar slide protection; laminated 2.5L DrystarXF waterproof-breathable membrane
Protection: CE Level 2 armor, AA rating
Best use: Touring, ADV

Pros

Hydration sleeve and storage in rear panel
Converts to a half-mesh jacket for summer rides
Spine, shoulder, and elbow armor with leather reinforcements in slide zones

Cons

Heavy

Versatility, protection, and style? Triple-check for the Alpinestars AMT-10R Drystar XF Jacket ($900), which is expensive but one of our favorite designs to date. We tested this jacket for a year including summer heat waves, thunderstorms, and off-road mud fests. The rain layer paid dividends, and the chest vents helped us dump heat.

The 2.5-layer design has a waterproof-breathable membrane called Modular Laminated DrystarXF. The waterproof laminated DrystarXF rain panel can zip out and be stuffed into a waist pocket. When the layer is removed, the mesh layer is exposed, so your pits, back, and chest all get extraordinary cooling.

This jacket is porky. But Alpinestars addresses the build with a waist wrap so the AMT-10R Drystar XF sits properly on your body and reduces fatigue. The stretch panels on the back allow the material to move with you, which we appreciated while riding a dual-sport Kawasaki off-road.

An Italian maker, the design really targets ADV tourers. There’s a hydration sleeve in the upper back, and the reservoir’s hose has an internal pocket that routes over the shoulder. On one super hot ride, we carried a liter of ice water, which kept us cool for dirt exploration.

You’ll find pockets in every direction. Pouches are located at your hip and chest, externally and internally. There’s one waterproof pocket, which is a dandy place to store a wallet or passport. Also, the zippers rock on the Alpinestars AMT-10R Drystar XF Jacket. They’re super beefy with large pulls that you can grip even while wearing a winter riding glove, and the zippers easily glide. When you have a full day on the bike, these little details add up to make a big difference.

Specs

Materials: Hypalon with Hydratex waterproof-breathable membrane liner; thermal liner
Protection: CE Level 2 armor at shoulders and elbow, AA rating
Best Use: Touring

Pros

3-in-1 jacket
Insane breathability with both interior layers removed
Comfy piece no matter the configuration

Cons

Relatively heavy
Spine protector not included (but there is a sleeve for one)

Our wallet and our checklist are happy with the REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O ($370). This design takes notes from the Alpinestars AMT-10R Drystar XF, given that it’s also waterproof-breathable and utilitarian. But the Tornado 4 H20 is a mesh jacket first, designed for maximum breathability, with mesh across the entire torso and back panel. This jacket breathes nearly as well as the KLIM Marrakesh.

Full of adaptability, this jacket comes with a fully insulated snap-out liner. There’s also a waterproof-breathable liner that can be paired with the insulation.

If you need wind resistance, you can ditch the insulation layer and ride with the waterproof-breathable liner inside the Tornado 4 H2O. We found that combo to be great for early morning and cool rides but a bit too much for warmer afternoons. That waterproof Hydratex layer can also be worn on top of the base jacket. If you add the interior insulation, that’s the warmest arrangement. That’s also the best way to utilize the rain layer because you’re protecting the jacket’s exterior from getting wet.

REV’IT! nailed the armor, which meets a CE level 2 protection certification. With rider adaptability, there are also three different internal sleeve positions, so you can move the armor further away from the elbow if your arms are shorter.

Snaps and an adjustable slider are situated on the forearm to lock the sleeve armor in the best position. An adjustable strap sits at the waist. You can also adjust the collar circumference, which is key if you wear a Buff and need that to layer between the collar and your neck.

The gold for the REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O is that it has plenty of pockets. There two inner pockets and two slash pockets. You’ll find an internal pocket on the waterproof Hydratex layer. There’s also an interior pocket on the insulation layer.

Specs

Materials: Nylon and waterproof-breathable membrane
Protection: CE Level 1 D3O Ghost armor at shoulders, spine, and elbow; A rating
Best Use: Touring, City

Pros

Beautiful tailoring makes it perfect for city riders
Lined pockets won’t scratch shades
Muted color palette looks street casual

Cons

CE Level 1 rather than Level 2 armor
Could breathe better

We’ve tested a bunch of Aether products over the years, and these designers really pay attention to the details. The Aether Mulholland ($650) is a city piece for commuters that looks urban and is ridiculously comfortable. For daily rides, we reach for this piece.

You can easily yank the armor out of the interior sleeves. When we step off the bike, this athletic jacket feels and looks like a regular wardrobe piece. The design uses a canvas-like Japanese nylon. Despite the textile strength, the material easily moves and carries a stylish workwear vibe.

Beyond comfort, the oversized zipper pulls are super easy to use with a gloved hand. Aether wisely incorporated a two-way front zipper. So, you can open the zip from the bottom for extra room when you’re seated and additional venting when riding in the heat.

Chest vents are also available. Aether offers two top-entrance pockets with snappable flaps; one envelops the chest pocket and a zippered chest pocket. The single internal security pocket is large enough for a phone.

Our only wish? To see longer underarm zippers for cooling off, but the ventilation ports on the backs of the shoulders help. The Aether Mulholland provides decent ventilation, but it mostly racks up style and versatility points. For the hottest days and climates, check out the REV’IT Tornado 4 H2O or the KLIM Marrakesh for breathability and ventilation.

Specs

Materials: 1000-denier Karbonite Cordura stretch-woven with hydrophobic coating
Protection: CE Level 1 D3O armor at shoulders, spine, and elbow; AA rating
Best Use: City, Touring

Pros

Best breathability
Six sizes available
Smart Napoleon pocket design

Cons

You’ll be cold if the temps drop
Could use a two-way front zip

Coming in hot with an update, the steadfast KLIM Marrakesh ($420) was recently redesigned with a slightly softer mesh material that looks a little more natural. The silhouette has a drape and hand feel that’s more like a workwear piece. We found the fabric moves easily, thanks to the incorporated stretch. This Marrakesh is among the most comfortable options in our closet for on and off the bike.

There’s one caveat. The jacket is a tad long, so it bunches when we sit. If the design had a two-way zipper, like the Aether Mulholland, it would be less cramped when you’re seated on a motorbike.

But we love the overall construction. The deep waist pockets and the ID pocket on the left arm are super handy. The Napoleon pocket on the chest is smartly designed because it’s located at the perfect height and placement for a phone, shades, or wallet. For added security, there’s an interior pocket for more essentials.

Expansion zips on the forearm are a great touch. You can slide on your gloves and then close the zips to tighten the sleeves around the glove cuffs. The zippers prevent air from tunneling up your sleeves. That said, the entire jacket is perforated, you shouldn’t buy this piece if your aim is warmth.

The integrated Cordura material sheds moisture, and we found that the KLIM Marrakesh dries rapidly. Our advice is to wear a synthetic or wool base layer. Then, even if you do get caught in the rain your layers will dry more quickly. If you ride where it’s hot, this jacket is a primo option.

Specs

Materials: D-Dry waterproof-breathable membrane
Protection: CE Level 1 armor at shoulders and elbow, A rating
Best Use: City or commuting

Pros

Very lightweight
Longish cut keeps rain off, even during storms
Comes with zip-in insulation

Cons

Spine protector not included (but there is a sleeve for it)
Level 1 rather than Level 2 armor

Resembling an overcoat, the Dainese Sheffield D-Dry ($215) is built for street rides and commuters but still packs shoulder and elbow armor. While the jacket doesn’t include a spine protector, there’s an internal sleeve to add one. Also, this price is pretty wallet-friendly.

Looking at the construction, the Sheffield has a removable thermal liner, which works reasonably well. The high collar allows you to close the gap between the helmet and the top of the jacket, so when we tested this coat on chillier rides we stayed pretty comfortable.

Riders can tighten the snaps at the waist to prevent air from flowing up. This D-Dry fabric is fairly soft to the touch and quiet, too, so it doesn’t noisily flap in the wind. We found the design breathed super well during muggy summer rainstorms, but we never felt like air was slicing through the material.

Part of the reason we love this coat so much is that the textile is a four-way stretch. We wore this piece on our favorite mud-bogged two-track route during a downpour and muck seemed to easily fall or wipe off the face fabric.

Four patch pockets with flaps — two near the hips and two at the chest — are on the Dainese Sheffield D-Dry. There’s also an interior waterproof pocket, which is a secure spot for valuables. The only update we’d like to see is for the lower patch pockets to have internal hand-warmer pouches, which would enhance the street functionality.

front zipper on motorcycle jacket — Some motorcycle jackets include optional integrated layers for additional warmth and protection; (photo/Michael Frank)

Motorcycle Jackets Comparison Chart

Scroll right to view all of the columns: Price, Materials, Protection, Best Use.

Motorcycle Jackets	Price	Materials	Protection	Best Use
Alpinestars AMT-10R Drystar XF Jacket	$900	Kevlar slide protection; laminated 2.5L DrystarXF waterproof-breathable membrane	CE Level 2 armor, AA rating	Touring, ADV
REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O	$370	Hypalon with Hydratex waterproof-breathable membrane liner; thermal liner	CE Level 2 armor at shoulders and elbow, AA rating	Touring
Aether Mulholland	$650	Nylon and waterproof-breathable membrane	CE Level 1 D3O Ghost armor at shoulders, spine, and elbow; A rating	Touring, City
KLIM Marrakesh	$420	1000-denier Karbonite Cordura stretch-woven with hydrophobic coating	CE Level 1 D3O armor at shoulders, spine, and elbow; AA rating	City, Touring
Dainese Sheffield D-Dry	$215	D-Dry waterproof-breathable membrane	CE Level 1 armor at shoulders and elbow, A rating	City, Commuting

inside of a motorcycle jacket with mesh — Breathable mesh can be integrated inside the jacket; (photo/Michael Frank)

How We Tested Motorcycle Jackets

Our lead GearJunkie tester, Michael Frank, pulled on these motorcycle jackets over the course of hundreds of miles of canyon carving, city crawls, and Interstate blasts. Throughout our testing, the weather ranged from chilly and freezing to muggy. Frank also rode at various paces and scored the usability of the pockets and zippers. He also checked the ventilation and insulation systems for each jacket, as well as the fit and adaptability across temperature ranges.

A top priority was finding motorcycle jackets that provide comfort and ease of use. We prefer to wear fabrics that provide freedom of movement. We also opt for more heavily armored and protective pieces. Our top choices usually carry Level 1 or Level 2 protection. Better versions of armor, such as on the D3O Ghost armor in the Aether Mulholland, felt more comfortable because the material is a bit softer, and the build is less restricting.

unzipped moto jacket — External and internal pockets often typically need to be functional for use with motorcycle gloves on; (photo/Michael Frank)

Moto jackets were tested for versatility and adjustability, such as whether a liner was removable or a layer could be added beneath. We also paid attention to the strength of zippers and snaps and whether the rider could keep their gloves on to operate the jacket.

For pockets, we tested each one with all the goods we typically carry on a ride: shades, wallet, keys, ear protection, phone, earbuds, and snacks.

Leaning into our field tests and personal experience, we determined the best jackets for ADV riders for both hot weather and rain. We also found a few single-quiver options that work for most ride days and moderate weather.

Some motorcycle jackets didn’t make the cut. The ones left off the list were too bulky, lacked adequate armor, or were simply uncomfortable.

jacket cuff — Jacket cuffs with both zippers and snaps allow motorcyclists to pull on gloves beneath the sleeve; (photo/Michael Frank)

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Motorcycle Jacket

Types of Motorcycle Jackets

The type of motorcycle jacket you need greatly depends on the terrain you ride. If you’re commuting on the Interstate, your needs will differ from someone riding for adventure.

Jacket styles in the moto world include track or racing, MX, and full-leather builds. Those jackets are all niche and made for specific applications, and we’re not reviewing those types of jackets here.

Our guide comprises motorcycle jackets for everyday street/cruiser, sport, touring, and adventure/dual-sport rides. These jackets lean more into textiles than leather.

pocket on moto jacket — A jacket pocket that’s large enough for a phone is useful; (photo/Michael Frank)

Adventure (ADV) Jackets

Adventure jackets are the most versatile motorcycle jackets on the market.

The best designs have separate integrated layers that either zip or snap into the exterior layer to help keep you warm. Those layers can be removed depending on the weather conditions and season. Adventure jackets allow for modification as the weather shifts, including ventilation ports. You will appreciate that versatility if you’re touring on a multiday trip.

A couple of great examples of jackets in this category include the Alpinestars AMT-10R Drystar XF Jacket and the REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O.

ventilation port on motorcycle jacket — A variety of ventilation ports can be integrated onto a moto jacket include underarms and on the back; (photo/Michael Frank)

Cruiser/Street Jackets

Cruiser or street jackets tend to be lighter weight, like the Aether Mulholland, and we like using these on city rides.

These designs are still armored and include weather protection so you don’t get soaked on your commute.

This type of jacket is also discreet and streamlined, so you can walk around town between being on your bike. You don’t really want a bulky ADV coat for this duty.

ventilation of underarm zone on moto jacket — Underarm vents on moto jackets are great for hot days; (photo/Michael Frank)

Weather-Specific Jackets

Versatility is king. But weather-specific jackets might be your priority based on where you ride.

For instance, the Dainese Sheffield D-Dry is waterproof for rainy weather and might be a top pick if you live in a wet climate like Portland, Oregon, or Boston.

Alternatively, the Klim Marrakesh is a great option for riders who commute in Phoenix or Miami.

Regardless, these models have armor, versatile pockets, and a sharp aesthetic.

moto jacket sleeve — Extra accessories like an integrated plastic slider on the sleeve can help prevent unwanted airflow beneath the fabric; (photo/Michael Frank)

Pockets

Pocket placement is key for convenience and quick, easy access and overall functionality. The ergonomics and shape of the pocket also influence how easy it is to enter a pocket with moto gloves on.

The Aether Mulholland has extra-large flaps with burly snaps on the front pockets. The pockets are ideally located. A similar pattern is on the Dainese Sheffield D-Dry, so you can easily enter the pocket.

The best riding garb has plenty of pockets, and the pockets are in convenient locations. We like pockets integrated into the exterior of the sleeve on the upper or lower arm. We use those pockets to stash a credit card or phone.

Two-way front zipper on motorcycle jacket — Some jackets off two-way zippers; (photo/Michael Frank)

Zippers and Adjusters

The beefier the zippers, the better. The last thing you want is a broken zipper when you’re riding. The REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O zips are oversized with big teeth, for instance. We found that these zippers engage well, stay put, and set a benchmark for durability.

On jackets like the REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O, you’ll find sliding adjusters on the forearm, which cinch down the sleeves. That integrated arm belt alters the volume. When you’re gripping the handlebars, a streamlined fit can help reduce fatigue, because the fabric isn’t shifting around. An athletic fit also holds the armor at the elbows and shoulders in place during a crash.

Lower on a sleeve, some jackets have zippers that tighten up the circumference of the cuff, too. That detail prevents wind from blowing up your sleeve.

internal pocket — Internal pockets can be a protective place for phones; (photo/Michael Frank)

Integrated Layers and Waterproofing

We prefer moto jackets with waterproof-breathable membranes. That dual-action layer prevents moisture from soaking your jacket while still allowing perspiration to escape. Jacket materials also typically have a level of windproofness.

Often motorcycle apparel companies design jackets with internal rain protection. The idea is that you zip a waterproof liner inside your jacket, and it rests atop a base layer. During testing, we found this usually leads to a soaked exterior, which becomes heavy and the inside of the jacket becomes clammy. We suggest purchasing a motorcycle jacket with an external layer that is waterproof and not the other way around.

integrated pocket on motorcycle jacket — We prefer moto jackets with a variety of pockets; (photo/Michael Frank)

Two jackets with integrated and removable layers include the Alpinestars AMT-10R Drystar XF Jacket and the REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O. The Tornado 4 H2O includes a rain layer that can be zipped inside the jacket for windproofing or on top of the exterior face fabric for waterproofness. We dig that type of versatility, but it’s unique in this apparel category.

Otherwise, we tend to pick a jacket that’s built to fit aftermarket layers beneath. You might want midlayers for warmth or to invest in an airbag vest.

When trying on the coat or buying one online, think about layering before selecting the size.

external arm pocket on moto jacket — Another great place for a pocket is on the upper portion of the arm; (photo/Michael Frank)

Breathability and Ventilation

We also prefer fabrics with a waterproof-breathable membrane because they breathe in addition to providing protection. Typically, zip-in liners do not breathe, as well.

Jackets with zippered pits, chest vents, and back or exit vents behind the shoulder blades like on the Aether Mulholland are great choices for breathability. Some zippers have a mesh overlay inside including the Alpinestars AMT-10R Drystar XF Jacket.

We see it as a downside when a jacket doesn’t have venting, like the Dainese Sheffield D-Dry, but that style of jacket is also made to be a beast for rainy, cooler weather. You likely wouldn’t find that jacket comfortable in rainy and warmer weather like the monsoon season in Mumbai.

In contrast, the Klim Marrakesh is like wearing a screen door: It’s all mesh.

Ultimately, ventilation and breathability are crucial for hot-weather motorcycle rides.

interior of a moto jacket — Motorcycle jackets have various safety certifications that you can look for including CE; (photo/Michael Frank)

Safety and Armoring

The European Union rates armoring and slide protection in motorcycle jackets via CE, which stands for Conformité Européene. For apparel, the CE includes three categories of classification for apparel that has protection against impact and abrasion: A, AA, and AAA.

Class AAA: Highest level of protection for impact and abrasion; potential limitations regarding ergonomics, weight, and thermal power
Class AA: Mid-tier protection from impact and abrasion; better ergonomic and weight than Class AAA garments
Class A: Meet the minimum protection requirements for impact and abrasion; more malleable and lighter than other classes

Class B classifications offer protection against abrasion, while Class C includes exterior and interior impact protection.

The impact protectors are also rated at Level 1 or Level 2, with the latter being stronger.

The EU measures tear strength and abrasion resistance, as well as the impact force.

That testing also includes tear resistance and seam strength.

The elbows, shoulders, knees, and sections of the back need to be built to withstand a slide for up to four seconds without structural damage for Level 1 ratings and up to seven seconds for the Level 2 cert.

You’ll want certified slide and impact protection for a motorcycle jacket because that shield is critical to being as safe as possible on the road.

backside of a moto jacket — Many motorcycle jackets include collars, and some have adaptable waistbands with snaps; (photo/Michael Frank)

FAQ

Motorcycle jackets needs to be made specifically for riding. We advise finding a jacket with a CE Level 1 or 2 certification for armor plus an A or AA overall safety rating, at a minimum.

We suggest looking for a design that offers a range of weather protection. You should be able to fit layers of insulation on beneath the jacket, or those layers should be integrated and included in the jacket design.

Look for jackets with a waterproof-breathable membrane to prevent you from getting soaked in a downpour without causing overheating on warmer days. Find jackets with ventilation, as well as enlarged zipper pulls for easier use and oversized pocket openings, so you can grab items while still wearing motorcycle gloves.

front face of motorcycle jacket — Extended pull tabs can make operating zippers easier with motorcycle gloves on; (photo/Michael Frank)

Leather is a popular choice for racing jackets. Often, Kevlar or other hard composites are integrated into a moto jacket for slide resistance. Other highly resistant materials include Cordura and Dyneema, which are developed to not reach a melting point during a motorcycle slide.

Your motorcycle jacket’s fit should be roomy enough for you to put layers on underneath. Some designs include arm adjusters.

Jackets with tons of arms can feel stiffer, which is why racers tend to wear those built-out designs, and more casual riders opt for a more flexible jacket.

Motorcycle airbags are becoming more common. If you intend to wear one beneath an armored jacket, look for a roomy coat to accommodate that extra layer and safety system.