Motorcycle jackets come in various styles, materials, and designs. Each material brings its unique advantages and features tailored to a rider’s preferences and needs, and Denim Motorcycle Jackets have become increasingly popular among riders who value style and functionality. Denim offers a rugged and casual look that appeals to many motorcycle enthusiasts.
Apart from its aesthetic appeal, denim also provides adequate protection from the elements, as well as from minor scrapes and cuts in case of a fall. Combining both fashion and utility and with that, a denim motorcycle jacket can be an excellent addition to any rider’s wardrobe. When choosing a denim motorcycle jacket, some key factors to consider include the quality of the denim, fit, added protective features, and overall style.
With the right balance of these elements, you can get better comfort and safety, and denim quality is particularly important, as the thicker or reinforced denim is, the better protection and durability. So, let’s take a deep dive into the world of denim motorcycle jackets, and I’ll provide the top picks to make you look and ride in style while keeping you well-protected on the road.
Table of Contents
COMPARISON CHART
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
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1. Speed and Strength Overhaul Jacket
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2. Rokker Black Jacket
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3. BMW Road Crafted Denim Jacket
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4. Pando Moto Capo Cor 01 Riding Shirt
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5. Knox Haydon Denim Jacket
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Best Motorcycle Jackets Review
Before we begin, let me lay out some ground rules first, and those are the few things you’ll want to keep in mind when shopping for a motorcycle jacket. First and foremost is safety. A good motorcycle jacket will have reinforced stitching at key points and abrasion-resistant materials in the areas that are most likely to come into contact with the pavement in the event of a fall.
Second, you’ll want to consider comfort. A good motorcycle jacket will be made of breathable materials and have vents to help you stay cool on hot days or warm in the winter months and dry in the rain. It should also fit snugly but not be so tight that it’s uncomfortable to wear.
Finally, you’ll want to consider style. A good motorcycle jacket should look good both on and off the bike. It should fit well with your personal style and make you feel confident when you’re wearing it. Now that you know what to look for in a motorcycle jacket, let’s take a look at some of the best options on the market.
1. Speed and Strength Overhaul Jacket
Specification
| Protection | CE-approved and reinforced panels |
| Waterproofing | Not provided |
| Adjustment Features | Belt loops for pant attachment |
This is a 12oz denim frame that has been enzyme washed, and it even comes with removable shoulder, elbow, and spine protectors that are approved by the CE. That’s always a good sign. The shoulders and elbow feature aramid reinforcement panels and seams assembled with aramid thread which should stand the test of time.
The jacket also has a removable insulated vest liner, shoulder expansion gussets, a mandarin-style collar, leather trim, and reflective trim so that fellow riders and motorists can not only see you but spot how stylish you look at the same time. Additionally, there are belt loops for attachment to pants and a YKK main zipper opening.
PROS
- Great as a starter jacket
- Well made and has great value for the price
- Should last for longer than two years with proper care
- The look is great, and the feel, when worn, is even better.
CONS
- It’s recommended to order a size larger than you normally need, as the jacket runs a little smaller than expected.
- Some may find or want a bit more when it comes to ventilation.
- Not ideal for either very cold or very hot climates
- Won’t slide as well as leather
Where To Buy
2. Rokker Black Jacket
Specification
| Protection | D3O CE-certified armor |
| Waterproofing | Schoeller-Dynatec Water Resistance |
| Adjustment Features | Integrated leash to attach to pants |
The jacket is made of Schoeller-Dynatec fabric that is non-abrasive, wind-resistant, and water-repellent for those rough elemental challenges. It also has cold black finishing technology, which reflects heat and UV rays, and NanoSphere finishing technology which increases its water and dirt-repelling properties to further enhance these properties. It comes with protector pockets on the shoulders, elbows, and back that are also made of 100% Schoeller-Dynatec.
When it comes to safety, the jacket comes with removable D3O protection for the back, shoulders, and elbows. Not only that, but a fantastic thing is also that it’s easy to care for as it can be washed at 40°C and ironed to improve water repellency. The jacket also has an integrated leash that can be attached to pants. Additionally, there are two side pockets with waterproof zippers and two large inside pockets.
PROS
- A secure choice, one can be confident when it comes to Denim protection.
- Very stylish and can look good if the correct sizing is obtained
- The finishing and quality of the materials are on the better end of the spectrum.
CONS
- Athletic/slim: Runs small; order one size larger than what you typically wear if you have a huskier/gym build.
- Sleeves are cut ~2″ longer for more coverage when reaching for aggressively high or low bars.
- It is quite pricey compared to similar competitors.
Where To Buy
3. BMW Road Crafted Denim Jacket
Specification
| Protection | EN 1621-1:2012 Level 1 shoulder and elbow protection |
| Waterproofing | Not provided |
| Adjustment Features | Snap adjustments at cuff and waist |
The company offers slim and comfortable sizes for its customer as a priority when it comes to this jacket and even includes elastane stretch and gusseted shoulders to further enhance the experience. The clothing also features snap adjustments at the cuff and waist, along with a classic button-front placket over the main front zipper to help with coverage.
For storage usage, the jacket has two inside pockets, and the outer layer is all denim that is resistant to abrasion. The good thing is that it comes with EN 1621-1:2012 Level 1 protection for the shoulders and elbows, and there’s also a pocket for an optional NPL back protector, which must be purchased separately, though. The jacket has a 40cm zipper that can connect to pants as an option should you feel the need to do so.
PROS
- It is crafted from very premium materials
- Stylish classic cut
- Comes with very good protection
CONS
- The denim used is heavier than most.
- It is much more expensive because of the branding.
- Some may feel the jacket to be a bit of a tight fit around the shoulder area.
Where To Buy
4. Pando Moto Capo Cor 01 Riding Shirt
Specification
| Protection | CE EN 17092 Level A riding garment certification |
| Waterproofing | Snap down collar and main zipper closure |
| Adjustment Features | Snap-down collar and main zipper closure |
The Pando Moto is made of 12.5oz cotton and a name that you might have heard often, Cordura material with 1.5% elastane for stretch should you find yourself needing to reach for something. The left arm of the jacket is plain to attach hook and loop patches, a snap-down collar, and a zipper closure with polished hardware. The jacket also features a mesh comfort liner and chest pockets.
Even though the name might not claim it as a jacket, it features a zippered inner pocket, as well as SAS-TEC TripleFlex CE Level 1 elbow and shoulder armor for adequate safety. It also includes a pocket where an optional back protector (sold separately) can be inserted. The embroidery design is located on the shoulders and, furthermore, has received CE EN 17092 Level A riding certification.
PROS
- Decently priced for the jacket market
- Nice airflow and warm weather friendly
- The protective qualities are good enough
CONS
- For men, and may look very odd on women of a smaller frame.
- Smaller Size Range
- Only comes in one color
Where To Buy
5. Knox Haydon Denim Jacket
Specification
| Protection | 12oz Cordura denim and Lined with DuPont™ Kevlar® fabric |
| Waterproofing | Cotton interior lining for comfort and freshness |
| Adjustment Features | 12oz Cordura denim Lined with DuPont™ Kevlar® fabric |
This is a jacket made of 12oz Cordura denim and is lined with DuPont™ Kevlar® fabric, both popular names in the industry. The lining is provided over the back, shoulders, and elbows to increase the jacket’s abrasion resistance to help with sliding situations. The jacket features YKK Metaluxe zippers and includes high-end branding and detailing; not sure why, but it is part of the Knox Layering System.
The jacket features a Knox snap closure that has a special silicone coating to prevent surface scratches, and the interior lining is made of cotton for comfort and freshness. To store your key, phone, and whatnot, there’s a zipped interior pocket. It has a unique dual fitting system that allows you to expand or contract it depending on the layers worn underneath, along with a zip cuff closure that makes it easy to fit gloves.
PROS
- Good when it comes to abrasion protection
- Has a very simple yet modern look to it
- Comes in blue or black for color options
CONS
- It may not feel as breathable to some individuals
- The shoulder area looks a bit odd as it has separate layers
- It might be a very tight fit, so it may require sizing up.
Where To Buy
Conclusion
There are various motorcycle jackets available with distinct features. My preferred jacket of choice for Denim is the Speed and Strength Overhaul Jacket for not only its style, protection, and abrasion resistance but also the breathability it offers.
However, depending on your individual riding requirements and choices, feel free to go for a more cost-effective option or the most stylish should you feel that is the road for you. In any case, all jackets on this list are very good for a multitude of applications. Happy cruising!