We’ve all seen the rainfall forecasts for the UK and Ireland, and I think it’s fair to say that there’s some worry about the upcoming weather. Are we in for a heavy rainstorm? Can we expect to have a chance for a ride? Is there a risk of damage to our beloved motorcycles?
Well, don’t worry, because we’ve got you covered. Check out this list of awesome Gore-Tex motorcycle jackets that will keep you waterproof, no matter what the weather gods throw at you.
We also answer:
- What do all top touring motorcycle jackets have?
- What is a laminated motorcycle jacket?
- What’s the difference between a touring and an adventure jacket?
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Our overall #1 product, the Dainese Carve Master 2, is an excellent choice for those who ride every day—featuring 3D stone protectors with abrasion resistance on elbows and shoulders for superior safety so you can feel confident and safe while riding.
The Mugello fabric with removable thermal lining is breathable, and the waterproof Gore-Tex 3 membrane makes it suitable for all kinds of weather all year round.
What we like
Versatile
It works exceptionally well all around the season and provides excellent warmth in winter, whereas you can remove the thermal neck padding during summer for a more comfortable ride.
Adjustable
It features an adjustable drawstring, has sleeve, waist, and cuff adjusters with a jacket-pants fastening system.
Temperature Regulation
It has air vents on the chest, back and sleeves for better air circulation.
What are gore-tex jackets?
Gore-tex motorcycle jackets are best known for providing excellent protection from rain, wind and are also highly breathable, which makes a solid option if you’re a frequent rider. Although these jackets don’t come cheap, they’re exceptionally comfortable, lightweight and very well-made, which offer maximum protection.
What is a laminated motorcycle jacket?
At present, laminated motorcycle jackets are much sought after for their advanced levels of functionality. They offer better protection from the rain and maximum comfort when touring.
The waterproof/breathable membrane is bonded to the jacket’s outer fabric to prevent the material from getting wet despite heavy rainstorms.
As laminated jackets are made of high-quality materials using the latest technology, they do not come cheap. Also, they don’t hold water, dry much faster, and have better airflow. Gore-tex tends to be the highest quality you can get in this jacket style.
When is a laminated motorcycle jacket better than a three-layer jacket?
The main difference between laminated and three-layer motorcycle jackets is their construction method. A waterproof membrane separates the inner and outer fabric of a three-layer jacket. On the other hand, a laminated motorcycle jacket has a waterproof membrane that is bonded to the outer material.
With that being said, a laminated motorcycle does a better job during rainfall, and we’ll tell you why. Most motorcycle jackets are protected with DWR (Durable Water Repellent), which works well in withstanding light showers.
However, when exposed to rain for an extended period, the material begins to drench in water, making it less effective, and hence, it becomes less breathable and heavier.
But for a laminated jacket, the water cannot penetrate through, which means it cannot get wet even during heavy rainfall compared to typical jackets. That being the case, if you’re touring during heavy rain or monsoon season, laminated motorcycle jackets make an ideal choice.
As a result, a laminated jacket is more expensive than a three-layer, but its quality and high performance are worth the extra price.
The drawbacks of a laminate jacket
Laminated waterproof motorcycle jackets have been stealing the spotlight for quite some time now for being universally superior. But are they suitable for all four seasons? Not really.
The reason is, its waterproofing ability keeps you warm and dry during rainstorms and colder months, but during the summer and spring season, it’ll have you sweating bullets.
It’s because for a membrane to be more water-resistant, fewer holes are put, making them less breathable.
That means you can escape the rain from getting wet but increases the chance of being drenched inside from your sweat as it doesn’t have proper ventilation.
Consequently, if you’re touring, since it’s less breathable and heat cannot escape, the temperature inside will keep on increasing, making you uncomfortable.
How Adventure Spec Produced The Best Waterproof Motorcycle Jacket Of The Decade?
Behind the ingenuity of Adventure Spec are the owners who too love adventures and believe that “light is right” because the lighter it is during travels, the better it’s for the rider and the environment.
So given their theory of knowledge, they believe in travelling light on small and mid-capacity bikes with quality gears maintaining weight while saving space.
They know that a better adventure experience comes with fewer loads and the right gears. Hence, they manufacture motorcycle equipment entirely different from conventional styles.
As for laminated jackets, though you can remove the inner linings, options are limited, and you’re stuck with it while adding additional weight.
However, the motorcycle jackets they produce are of layers ( main jacket, waterproof outer jacket, thermal mid-layer) that you can use and remove according to the weather or wear all at once, making them suitable for use all year round.
Adventure Spec motorcycle gears are designed to provide comfort and protection in a featherless package. They’re versatile, durable, and work both on and off the bike so that you can pack less, making them more favourable than other motorcycle gears.
What’s the difference between a touring and an adventure jacket?
Both touring and motorcycle jackets share similar functionality but are used for different purposes. Still, they’re both comfortable, breathable, and protective.
Touring jackets are versatile and comfortable gear designed for motorcyclists who prefer travelling long distances by road in varying climatic conditions. They’re more like all-season jackets that mainly help the rider stay warm and dry even in bad weather conditions.
On the other hand, adventure jackets are designed to suit changing weather conditions and unstable environments more suitable for those who prefer off-roading.
Since the weather is unpredictable, these jackets are often versatile. Moreover, they have numerous zippers with openings for adequate airflow and have armour plates attached to the elbows and shoulder area for abrasion resistance.
What do all top touring motorcycle jackets have?
All top or best motorcycle jackets have one thing in common, i.e., CE-certified armour on the elbows and shoulders. Moreover, a couple of high-end motorcycle jackets come with CE protectors on the back.
These armour protection are lifesavers and are the first requirement you should look for in motorcycle jackets. When you’re aware that your jacket comes fully protected, you can ride comfortably with more focus instead of worrying.
What makes a good motorcycle touring jacket?
Undoubtedly, motorcycle touring jackets play a vital role in protecting the riders against abrasions or other elements. Moreover, they also help regulate temperature regardless of the weather and enable a comfortable ride.
- Material: A good motorcycle jacket is usually made of durable material and is waterproof. Regardless of the material, be it leather or textile, the jacket should be able to keep you comfortable inside. Here are some features that make a good motorcycle touring jacket:
- Breathability: Besides having waterproof and durable material, a motorcycle jacket should also feature breathable fabric and be well ventilated to control the temperature in varying weather conditions. It should let in a reasonable amount of airflow to your body to keep you cool and relaxed.
- Versatile: Another feature of a good motorcycle touring jacket is versatility, and it makes a huge difference. Most jackets come with removable thermal liners that allow you to remove them and hence are adjustable, making them suitable for all seasons. And these removable liners are highly beneficial, especially during summer, to prevent suffocation.
- Design: Touring bikes have a more relaxed sitting posture, and hence, the jackets are also designed accordingly with proper body coverage. By saying this, touring jackets are often cut longer and have a high collar for better protection.
- Comfort: Since you’ll be riding for a long-distance, the jacket you’re wearing should be comfortable enough. Most touring jackets have unique features like removable liners or adjustable straps that keep you comfortable even during extended rides to boost your riding experience.
- Reflective Stripes: This is an essential feature to enhance visibility during nighttime to prevent accidents.
Reviews
This all-season fully protected Zyxformis armoured motorcycle jacket features five removable protectors with an ergonomic design for bending and folding at the elbow and shoulder. It uses a 600D Oxford fabric that is highly durable and breathable.
Moreover, it’s 100% waterproof, designed to keep you fully dry even during heavy rainfall and features a removable cotton liner for better functionality during the warmer seasons.
What we like
Reflective Strip
It has 7 reflective strips that give better visibility at night for better protection.
Air Vents
The zipper air vents at the front and back ensure adequate airflow for better comfort.
Adjustable
It comes with an adjustable cuff, collar and hem for a better fit.
The GEARX storm motorcycle jacket comes at an affordable price compared to expensive models but is highly competitive in safety and comfort. It’s made with 600D strong Cordura fabric to combat harsh environments and features removable armour with several external back paddings. Also, it has a connection zipper on the waist to attach trousers or pants.
What we like
Removable Waterproof Lining
It has a waterproof lining that you can take off to make the jacket more lightweight.
Reflective Piping
The reflective piping enhances better visibility.
Airvent Zippers
The air vent zippers ensure better airflow for more breathability.
The Texpeed motorcycle jacket is constructed with high visibility bright colour made from 100% Cordura fabric and comes with a waterproof Reissa lining. It features removable armour on the back, shoulder, and elbows with a removable thermal lining for summer. Also, it has an attachment zip to attach trousers.
What we like
Adjustable
With its adjusters on the cuff and waist, you can easily adjust it according to your desired fit.
Air Flow
Its airflow system allows better air circulation that helps cool you down.
Reflective Piping
With 3M Scotchlite at the back at the front, arms, and back it provides better visibility.
This Texpeed armoured motorcycle jacket is made with high-quality 600D Cordura and features neoprene on the collar for better comfort and to deflect cold winds. It has a removable thermal lining and a connection zipper for trouser attachment. Plus, it comes with removable armour on the back, shoulders, and elbows.
What we like
Adjustable
It has arm tighteners and adjustable straps for better adjustment.
Reflective
Its reflective panels on the front and back provide better visibility at night for safety.
Airflow
With its airflow zippers, it enhances air circulation.
Verdict
Riding a motorcycle comes with significant risks, and so it becomes essential that you choose the proper protective gear to be safe on the road while also keeping you comfortable in the weather.
If you’re someone who rides or tours constantly, the Dainese Carve Master 2 is what you need. Moreover, it offers superior protection in all seasons, and it offers more than you expect.