Riding a two-wheeler is an exhilarating experience for many, but it can also be dangerous without the proper safety gear. Wearing the right riding gear (riding jackets and riding pants) is essential for any motorcyclist to stay safe on the roads. A riding gear not only offers protection from the elements such as wind, rain, debris and unfortunate mishaps, but also enhances your riding experience.
When choosing a riding gear, it is important to consider the type of motorcycle you ride and the type of riding you do. For example, if you ride off-road, you may need to invest in more durable and protective clothing and equipment. On the other hand, if you mostly ride on the street, you may not need as much protection. Investing in right and quality gear is of utmost importance to enjoy a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable ride.
Therefore, we are here to fast track your decision on buying the apt riding gear. In our previous article, we discussed the most critical part of a riding gear – The Helmet. In this article, we will take a closer look at the other essential components of riding gear i.e. Riding Jackets and Pants.
Riding Jackets & Riding Pants
While the most essential piece of motorcycle gear is a helmet, you would surely agree when we say the coolest piece of motorcycle gear that you can own is a stylish motorcycle jacket. Moreover, the biker jacket became a fashion statement around the country. The riding jacket and pants are the second most important piece of riding gear after a helmet. Built to protect one from impact with the right armor inserts.
Quality jackets and pants are designed to fit like a second skin. Further its made with abrasion-resistant fabrics and stitching that won’t fail. As well as reflectors that keep you visible on the road. While the Jacket protects the upper body of the rider the Pants take care of the lower body. During any unfortunate mishap if our legs are unprotected, there is potential for serious damage to our knees and other parts of the body. Riding pants not only offer protection in the event of an accident, but they also provide protection from other elements. Whether you’re riding in the rain, in cold temperatures, or in the heat, there are many different styles of riding pants that can keep you comfortable and safe.
Here are some important things to look for while purchasing the riding gear!
1) Riding Jacket and Riding Pants Material
When choosing motorcycle riding gears, the primary decision to make is the type of material they are constructed from –
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Leather –
Leather riding jackets and pants have a unique feel and look that is unbeatable! Contrary to popular belief, leather jackets are not just for winter. As there are now options with mesh panels on the chest, back and arms for breathability. Leather will also keep you warm and dry in mild weather. But it won’t protect you from heavy rain unless it has a waterproof lining or has been treated to be water-resistant. Revit Ignition 2 jacket is a perfect example of a perforated leather jacket. The leather riding gears are great for abrasion protection in case of an accident. However, they need a lot of care when not in use. Leather will be uncomfortable during summers. So it’s important to make sure it is adequately ventilated.
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Mesh –
Mesh riding gears usually consist of a mesh on front and rear with a textile chassis to hold it together. The textile material is highly resistant to abrasion, so it won’t tear apart like paper in the event of a crash. Mesh riding gears are equipped with breathable fabric panels making it ideal for Indian summers. They are designed to provide maximum ventilation while ensuring safety and security. Depending on the brand and model, these jackets may also come with a removable waterproof liner.
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Synthetic Textile –
Textile jackets and pants, such as those made from Cordura, offer better protection from mud and dust than mesh jackets while riding. Additionally, they are more resistant to abrasion, so they won’t tear as quickly. Openable zippers on the jackets also provide ventilation, although they are not as cool as mesh. Additionally, these gears can also be used in light rain without needing a rain liner or coat. On the other hand synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester, or Kevlar can be thinner, lighter, and more flexible than leather.
Which makes them more comfortable in warm weather. However, they don’t provide insulation in cold weather and won’t protect you from road rash in the event of an accident. To keep dry in the rain, you’ll need a pair of pants with a waterproof lining or wear rain gear over your riding gear. If you want protection from abrasions, you may need to opt for Kevlar reinforced panels covering the knees, thighs, and seat.
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Denim
Motorcyclists who prefer not to wear traditional riding gears often opt for denim. Which is designed to look, feel, and act like casual wear. The denim wear is airy and comfortable and help keep riders cooler than leather or synthetic textile pants. Yet, denim does not provide sufficient abrasion or impact protection. So protective Kevlar panels and impact-absorbing padding or armor must be incorporated into the design.
2) Armour & Safety Standards
When choosing a motorcycle riding gear it is important to check Impact protection, burst strength, and abrasion resistance. As they are the most important tests conducted ensuring the durability of the gear. For jackets the protective armour on the elbow, shoulder and back area plays a vital role. Where as well as for pants the focus is on knees. The armours available are C.E. Rated 1 and Rated 2; the latter offering more protection.
Many entry-level jackets now come with Level 2 armour as standard. While foam pads were traditionally used for the back protector and hips. But now Level 1 and Level 2 back protectors are becoming more common. When shopping for riding gears, be sure to look for safety labels indicating that they meet the necessary standards; a CE tag means it meets European standards (usually followed in India), while AS indicates an Australian standard. Offer utmost safety, CE level 2 protectors are typically found on the shoulders, elbows and knees. Although it is possible to have them on the back for extra protection.
Knee Armour
Not everyone is okay with riding pants. For those external protectors are the best option. External knee armours hinges which allow a great fit and give decent protection for the cost. These are simpler to put on, take off and adjust. However, they can cause scratches on the bike’s tank.
3) Style & Fit
Finding the proper size for your riding gear can take some trial and error. The shoulder fit is the most important factor for Jackets and the waistline for the pants. In riding pants, it is important to consider what type of closure you would be most comfortable with. Many riders opt for suspenders over a belt or Velcro closure. When wearing multiple layers of clothing including a heated vest. If the pants you are considering do not have buttons for suspenders, the buttons can easily be sewn on.
There are four types of fits for riding gears.
- Street/Sports Motorcycle – Perfect fit for those who prefer speed on the street or track.
- Touring Motorcycle – The most common and preferred among Riders who enjoy long rides in various weathers and during several seasons. This is the best style segment to opt for touring motorcycle. They offer comfort and versatility throughout the day.
- Cruiser/Casual Motorcycle – Designed for the rider who enjoy the cruiser style motorcycle and the relaxed riding.
- Dirt Riding Motorcycle – Designed for dirt riding to provide superior protection and the necessary freedom of movement. Ensuring intense, action-packed riding on dirt tracks or trails. The pants usually feature “pre-curved” legs to fit the forward-leaning position of dirt riders. In India, sport and touring fit are the most common.
4) Visibility & Ventilation
Visibility is a critical factor for riding gears when riding in a group or solo. It is essential that the rider is visible to other riders and drivers on the road, especially during night. High visibility gears are designed with reflective stripes and bright colours. Further, helping in increased visibility of the rider to other riders and drivers. The reflective material helps to reflect light from headlights, allowing the rider to be seen at night. Bright colours also help to make the rider more visible during the day.
Additionally, some gears also feature LED lights built into the jacket to increase visibility during low light conditions. Ventilation is an essential feature of any riding gear, particularly in India. Where the climate is generally hot throughout the year. Proper venting in a riding gear can stop too much perspiration and even heat exhaustion during warmer weather riding. Therefore, if you are not wearing a mesh gear, you should ensure that your riding jacket has enough ventilation. You can also try a cooling vest to beat that heat.
5) Zippers
Ensure that zippers are heavy duty, in particular on the fly and all other places they are utilized. Such as the sides of the legs for simple access and the cuffs to secure that region around your boots. Additionally, each zipper should be covered with a flap to prevent wind and water from entering.
Further, most pants offer an 8” back zipper to zip it to your riding jacket. With some better designs providing a full circumference zipper for extra protection. Additionally, it ensures the jacket and pants are intact in case of any mishaps.
Now that you know what to look for in a riding jacket and pant we bring you the Top Riding Gears in India.
| Brand and product name | Jacket Starting Price | Pants Starting Price |
| Tarmac | ₹ 4,999 | ₹ 6,000 |
| Scala | ₹ 7,299 | ₹ 6,999 |
| Rynox | ₹ 4,950 | ₹ 7,550 |
| Raida | ₹ 7,500 | ₹ 6,999 |
| MOTOTECH | ₹ 5,450 | ₹ 6,950 |
Conclusion:
Finding the appropriate apparel for motorcycle riding is not an easy task, but we’ve done all the leg-work to make it easier for you. We hope this article serves as a perfect guiding book to your purchase on jackets and pants. If you have any inquiries about buying motorcycle riding apparel, or if you would like additional suggestions, please leave a comment below. Enjoy your ride!
