How To Choose a Riding Jacket?

A motorbike jacket is much more than a fashion statement for motorcyclists as it is protective and technical apparel for riders that ensure safety while roaringly riding on the known and unknown trails. It functions as protective apparel and purchasing one necessitates several factors apart from making you look nice too. Continue reading to learn more about what to consider when purchasing a motorbike jacket for your riding excursions.

Riding Pattern
 If you are a weekend rider and have restricted yourself to ride in and around your city only then you must pick a jacket that is not just protective but also appropriate to ride in during the dominating weather conditions of your area. However, if you are into sports motorcycling and are a track lover, then your jacket has to offer much more abrasion and protection too. A leather jacket/suit is the one you must be looking for. Tourers and adventure lovers usually opt for a versatile riding jacket that offers protection from different weather conditions when riding through varied temperatures and has more pockets for carrying more stuff for touring. These all-weather jackets include warm thermal liner as well as waterproof over jacket along with the mesh riding jacket.  

Determine The Size 
While shopping from the comfort of your home, selecting the right size of the riding jacket is a concern. It is better to measure and then buy in order to avoid the hassles of exchange or returns. For the most outstanding results, grab that soft tape measure and enlist your measurements with the help of a friend. You ought to be able to select a jacket that fits appropriately with just three numbers, chest, waist and hip measurements. You must refer to the size chart of the brand during this whole process.

Protection Offering 
Your riding jacket is supposed to protect you from impact and abrasion during a fall. Thus armors play an integral role in these jackets. These jackets have either Level 1 or Level 2 armor protection. Though the price difference is remarkable in some brands, but buying a Level 2 means a little extra protection. All jackets offer armors at shoulder and elbow, while many of these additionally provide back armor and very few brands come with a chest protection. Depending upon protection areas covered, the price of the riding jacket may vary. 

Ensure the Fit
You now have everything you need to pick your jacket: the style, size and protection preference. When you pick your jacket, keep one thing in mind – it will be your second skin. It should be snug fit – neither loose nor tight. If loose, it will cause ballooning while riding and will cause instability and if too tight, it will cause discomfort and ultimately force a mistake causing accident. Wear it about for some time to get a feel for it. You can always refer to the brand size chart and product description to understand the kind of fit your riding jacket offers. 

Sit in your typical riding stance on your motorcycle. Make a few movements to ensure the jacket moves with you. It shouldn't prevent you from turning, leaning, or reaching the handgrips. 
If the jacket is too loose, the protective features may not stay in place if you fall. Make sure the armor covers your elbows and shoulders completely. 
With a well fitted riding jacket, you are all set to explore the terrains across.