Leather vs textile motorcycle jacket: abrasion, weather and upkeep

What textile motorcycle jackets are

A textile jacket is built from synthetic fabrics instead of hide. Common materials are heavy nylon such as Cordura in different deniers, often with tougher panels at the shoulders, elbows and cuffs where a slide does the most damage. The KLIM Induction Pro, for example, lists nylon mesh with 600D Cordura overlays on the cuffs and key abrasion areas, 1000D Cordura on the sides and stretch zones, and perforated goat leather at the elbows and shoulders.

Many textile jackets add liners. The REV'IT! Tornado 4 H2O lists removable thermal and waterproof liners, and the waterproof layer can go inside or outside the jacket. That kind of flexibility is the main reason riders choose textile.

Four jackets compared

Listing facts only. Prices are as listed at the time of writing and vary by size and color.

Abrasion and armor

Leather has been the material of choice in road racing for a long time because it holds up well when sliding on pavement. Thickness and construction matter: the Milwaukee Leather jacket lists 1.2 to 1.3 mm cowhide, and the Alpinestars GP Plus R v3 uses accordion panels and stretch material for movement. Textile can resist abrasion well too, especially with heavy Cordura panels in the crash zones, but quality varies more between jackets.

Material is only half the protection. Impact armor at the shoulders, elbows and back does the other half. Look for CE ratings: Level 2 lets less force through than Level 1. Some jackets include a back protector and some only have a pocket for one, as with the REV'IT! and the Alpinestars. Our armor CE levels explainer and back protector guide explain what to look for.

Weather, heat and comfort

This is where textile pulls ahead for most commuters and tourers. Removable waterproof and thermal liners let one jacket cover cool mornings and rain, and mesh panels open up airflow when it gets hot. Leather is not waterproof by itself and holds heat, though perforated panels help; the Milwaukee Leather jacket lists perforated panels and a zip-out quilted liner for cold days.

For hot climates, a dedicated mesh jacket may suit you better than either; see the mesh jacket guide. For rain-heavy riding, a textile jacket with a waterproof liner is the simpler choice.

Care and upkeep

Leather needs regular cleaning and conditioning to stay supple, and it should dry slowly away from direct heat if it gets wet. Textile jackets are easier: remove the armor and liners, then wash according to the label. Waterproof membranes and coatings can need re-proofing over time. Our jacket cleaning guide covers both.

1. 1

   Remove all armor before cleaning either type.

2. 2

   Check the care label for wash temperature and whether machine washing is allowed.

3. 3

   Air dry; never put leather near a heater.

4. 4

   Condition leather and re-proof textile shells as the maker recommends.

Which should you buy

Browse more options in our leather jacket guide and armored jacket guide. Whatever you choose, pair it with riding gloves and boots.

• Sport riding, track days, want a close fit: leather such as the Alpinestars GP Plus R v3.
• Cruiser or street style on a budget with CE Level 2 armor included: Milwaukee Leather LKM17014.
• Hot-weather touring and street riding with D3O Level 2 armor: KLIM Induction Pro.
• Year-round commuting and touring in mixed weather: REV'IT! Tornado 4 H2O.

See armored jackets →

Frequently asked questions

Is leather safer than textile? Leather has a long track record for abrasion, but a well built textile jacket with heavy panels and CE Level 2 armor also protects well. Fit and armor matter as much as the outer material.

Are textile motorcycle jackets waterproof? Some are, usually through a removable waterproof liner or a laminated membrane. The REV'IT! Tornado 4 H2O lists a removable waterproof liner. Check each listing.

Can I wear a leather jacket in the rain? You can, but leather is not waterproof by itself. Wear a rain layer over it and let it dry slowly afterward.

What armor rating should I look for? CE Level 2 at the shoulders, elbows and back is the stronger rating. See our CE levels guide.