Far from a fashion statement, a proper motorcycle jacket can save a rider from injury. When shopping for a motorcycle jacket, take as many factors into consideration as you can: Do you need something bulkier or a more casual, lighter jacket? Are you riding mostly on- or off-road? What kind of weather are you likely to ride in? Also, while safety is never something to scrimp on, you don’t have to break the bank for a quality, protective motorcycle jacket. We sought out five examples rated highly in their respective categories by experts and consumers alike. 

Speed And Strength offers a versatile jacket priced well within reach of beginning riders. A water-resistant, nylon-cotton blend, the Off The Chain 2.0 features removable protectors on the shoulders, elbows and spine as well as a removable hooded liner for cooler weather. Buyers recommend sizing up as this jacket tends to run small. 

The ScorpionExo 1909 is a super-stylish leather piece for café racers and cruisers alike. Under its slick exterior are some crucial features: Perforated torso and underarm panels help manage heat along with a removeable liner. Sas-Tec Level 2 armor is found at the elbows and shoulders with a back pocket for a Sas-Tec back protector that is sold separately. But the back protector is not included and some riders said the leather felt too dry. Others had difficulty with some of the 1909’s snaps, especially when wearing gloves. 

Klim’s Artemis jacket for women is designed to keep riders cool and dry in all seasons while offering great protection and an amazing amount of storage. A Gore-Tex shell keeps water out, while vents around the chest and arms keep just enough air flowing in. Protection is handled by the integrated shoulder and elbow armor along with a back pad. There are pockets found nearly everywhere, so there’s more than enough storage for essential items. The Klim Artemis is nearly universally loved among those who have one. Keep an eye on sizing, as for shorter riders it can wear a bit long. The price tag can be a turn-off, but the consensus is that it’s well worth it. 

Safety is important for every motorcyclist, but most important for kids learning to ride. The Duchinni Jago jacket brings many features seen in adult jackets: Waterproof and insulated liners, vents and removeable shoulder and elbow armor. As with any piece of kid’s clothing, be very particular when it comes to size. The Jago does have adjustable sleeves to deal with a growing rider but initial ordering can be tricky. 

The Alpinestars Missile V2 Ignition is a track jacket dressed down just enough for road use. Included shoulder and elbow armor can be complimented by chest or back plates; a “speed bump” on the back is there to help keep your helmet off the ground in case of a fall. If you are looking to run on the track, the Missile is compatible with the company’s Tech-Air 5 Race Airbag System, which can detect a crash and inflate to protect the back, kidneys, shoulders and chest. The Missile V2 Ignition may be a bit too much for daily riders, especially on price and its track-focused capability. If you need a jacket that can potentially offer race-level protection and still be worn out on the street, it might be exactly what you’re looking for. 

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In order to determine the best motorcycle jacket, we considered the products most accessible to the widest swath of consumers in the U.S., which also includes performance, price and value. We also considered a broad range of end-user ratings and evaluations by multiple testers.

Forbes Wheels based its choices on a blend of materials, quality, riding types and budget. The range of jacket styles, rider needs and body types makes the selection nearly limitless; this list seeks to display the best available jackets for a swath of riders, including women and children who are often left out of such lists. Selections were made considering quality, expert rating, customer satisfaction and pricing. 

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