With the lazy and hazy heat of summer almost gone, it's time to break out the cooler weather gear. When it comes to overall protection, nothing beats an all leather jacket for safety and protection from the weather and the road.
Not only does the style of leather jacket make a personal style statement, but it also defines the type of riding you do. Many of today's jackets take the fashion end so far that they look as much at home at a nightclub as a canyon back road.
Because of the all leather construction, ventilation and liners play a big part in jacket design. The use of stretch panels, venting, perforation and zip-out liners allow the jacket to breath during warm riding while still providing maximum protection. Padding also plays an important role-the large foam pads installed help minimize impact in the event of a crash. Whether it's style or performance you're after, a good leather jacket is a crucial part of any bike owner's apparel and is the cornerstone of proper riding gear.
*Note: The +/- rating is based solely on the editors' personal opinions after wearing the jackets. Your body shape, fashion sense and bank account are probably different!
ALPINESTARS "MX-1"
For the rider looking for the ultimate in race performance looks and features in a jacket, the MX-1 is a wise choice. Hard panel vented shoulders, Kevlar stretch panels, perforated venting and a MotoGP-style speed hump make it the racer (and wannabe racer) choice.
DAINESE "DELMAR"
For the performance-focused rider who wants half a set of leathers, the Delmar is the choice. A snug fit, speed hump and race-inspired design looks the part perched atop any exotic bike. An all perforated front creates a cushion of air between the body and the jacket that, Dainese claims, keeps an ideal temperature in both hot and cool conditions.
SCORPION "STINGER"
Scorpion Sports was previously known mainly for its line of helmets, but earlier this year it made the leap into apparel. The all white Stinger has a relaxed street fit and a fully perforated front with a removable liner and stretch panels that provide cooling. The back design is a modern take on tattoo-inspired art for one badass jacket.
PARKER SYNERGIES "PROJECT H"
The Project H jacket from Parker Synergies is a must have for Honda owners. A nonsymmetrical design style makes a hot jacket for winged riders. Outside of aesthetics, the Project H is a fully padded performance jacket for the serious rider.