13 Best Riding Jackets for Summer

When it comes to motorcycle rides in the summer, it could become really hot. So, it’s understandable that a T-shirt is going to feel pretty good, especially during short rides. But what about longer rides or highway speeds? You haven’t taken a June bug or three to the chest at 70 miles/hour, have you? Clearly, we’ll need riding jackets for summer, as simply a T-shirt isn’t cut it. Such jackets not only look great but also keep the user safe in the event of a crash. Also, riding in the height of the hot weather means you can’t look at regular motorcycle jackets.

So, we looked into their summer versions so that they take away the struggle of riding a bike in the heat. With that in mind, we’ve put together a fantastic list, along with a guide, so you don’t have to break your heads. And the jackets we’ve looked at balance comfort and protection during the heat of the summer with aplomb.

Fly Racing Street Flux Air Jacket

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The Fly Racing Street Flux Air Jacket, which is also available for men, is an excellent motorcycle jacket for summer riding. It’s a great all-around pick for more reasons than one. Firstly, it’s very affordable, costing around 120 USD, which is excellent for a leather riding jacket. Secondly, it has CE Level 1 armor in the shoulders and elbows, along with full-flow mesh panels in the rear and front and the insides of the arms. So, we were very well-ventilated when we were on the highway and didn’t feel stuffy. Moreover, the rms’ outer part is abrasion-resistant. We especially appreciated the zippers in the hip areas, which are useful for stashing quick-access stuff. But what’s impressive is that they offer a little more room even to us curvy people and are still designed to fit comfortably.

Check out this jacket’s detailed YouTube video review by RevZilla.

Klim Induction Jacket

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Best high-end. The Klim Induction Jacket was the perfect high-end pick for those of us who want optimal protection while spending a lot of time riding during summer. It’s expensive, yes, but it’s packed with a plethora of features. For one, it has CE Level 1 armor in the elbows, shoulders, and back. Secondly, there’s the Karbonite mesh, which we loved for its moisture-wicking, sturdy, and flexible appearance. Plus, it promotes airflow, is adjustable, and is comfortable.

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What added to our comfort is stretch panels on the arms, shoulders, and sides, and plenty of give when we were on the bike and reaching for the bars. The best bit is that the zippers were easy to use and maneuver even when we’d donned gloves. Wrapping up the features is the many pockets, which are also reflective for visibility.

Alpinestars T-GP Plus R v3 Air Jacket

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Best sporty riding jacket. The Alpinestars T-GP Plus R v3 Air Jacket packs a serious punch with its looks and features. We loved that the inner arms and the torso are constructed from mesh ventilation panels. In addition to that, there’s CE level 1 Nucleon Flex Plus impact armor in the elbows and the shoulders, which means that protection is top-notch. While they’re sold separately, we appreciated the option for back and chest protector pockets. That said, the shoulders also have external sliders for abrasion resistance. Finally, the v3 Air boasts a low-profile mesh collar, providing oodles of comfort in hot weather. The best feature that we liked, though, is that we can pair this jacket with Alpinestars pants by zipping the bottom to a compatible pair.

“We were looking for a versatile riding jacket that also looked sporty, stylish, and could possibly become a set – and we’ve never been happier than with the Alpinestars V3.”

WOW Travel

Rev’it Eclipse 2

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Best value for money. When it comes to value, nothing comes close to the Rev’it Eclipse 2. We cannot sing its praises highly enough, as it somehow managed to keep us cool at the zenith of Mexico’s summer heat. There are a lot of factors that go into making this jacket amazing. Firstly, the inside of the arms, the chest, and the back have huge polyester mesh panels for air circulation. They did an excellent job when we were on the move in the middle of a Mexican summer. Most importantly, the impact zones are made from 600D polyester, and the Seesmart armor in the elbows and shoulders is more flexible and lighter. Plus, we also felt more comfortable than any other jacket we tried. Besides a rear pocket back protector sold separately, this jacket also has super-strong velcro fasteners.

Dainese Air Frame D1 Textile Jacket

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Dainese has proven over and over that they’re the masters of creating excellent motorcycle gear, and that too for all budgets. And the Dainese Air Frame D1 Textile Jacket is no different, which is why we were so excited to try it. And we weren’t disappointed! This jacket offers unmatched ventilation and doesn’t compromise when it comes to safety. The jacket has an A rating for abrasion resistance, and its impact zones have CE level 1 impact protectors. What’s more, this jacket balances protection and practicality with its lightweight nature. We felt like we were riding our bikes with nothing but t-shirts on! This is thanks to the extended mesh panels, due to which we enjoyed huge gusts of air across our entire bodies.

Check out a detailed review of this jacket at MCM Reviews.

Klim Marrakesh Jacket

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Klim makes an appearance again on this list; this time, it’s the Klim Marrakesh Jacket. In fact, Klim’s other jacket also features on the list of the best jackets for bikers. Coming to the Klim Marrakesh, it offers everything from water repellency to excellent temperature management. Both features were lifesavers during our epic cross-country joyride, and it was only because of the jacket that it was a joyride. What’s more, the jacket employs tightly-woven, tough 1000D Cordura impact zones at the elbows and shoulders. If that wasn’t enough, it also has D30 CE level 1 armor at the spine, shoulders, and elbows, along with a four-way stretch at the shoulder blade and the core. Wrapping up the features is the micromesh on the chest, which adds to the breathability.

Fly Racing Street Coolpro Jacket

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The Fly Racing Street Coolpro Jacket was the perfect choice for us when we went riding mid-spring through mid-fall. There are a lot of things we love about this jacket, starting with the abrasion-resistant mesh construction. Not only did it protect us all the time, but it also ensured maximum airflow when we rode out in the heat. What’s more, it’s even reinforced with 840D ballistic nylon in all important impact areas. If that wasn’t enough, it also features an anatomically-fitted build that moved seamlessly with us when we were on the bike. Hence, it was super easy for us to get into the perfect riding position without any constriction or binding with this Fly Racing jacket.

Helite Free-Air Mesh Airbag Jacket

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If you have a lot to splurge, we’d seriously recommend the Helite Free-Air Mesh Airbag Jacket. We tried it on just once and were convinced that this was what we’d want on our back when we went riding – without the expensive tag. But besides that, this jacket has both abrasion resistance and uber airflow, thanks to the comical sounding-but-impressive ‘Turtle Airbag’ technology for maximum protection. What’s more, it even boasts a 600D Cordura exterior with mesh panels, thus offering oodles of airflow. If that wasn’t enough, the removable waterproof liner kept us dry when caught in an unexpected downpour during the test ride.

Revitsports Glide Vintage Leather Jacket

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The Revitsports Glide Vintage Leather Jacket is hefty – it weighs a whopping 6.6 lbs – but it’s for a good reason, according to us. For one, it boasts the CE Level 2 armor in both the shoulders and the elbows. What’s more, it even has a quilted vest thermal liner in place, which ensured supreme levels of moisture-wicking when we were riding. While we were able to see the caliber of the Brazilian cowhide in the jacket body, the Glide didn’t feel heavy or bulky to wear. It felt like a part of us the moment we put it on, showcasing that it allowed a full range of flexibility and motion. Finally, the strategically placed four-way stretch on the pre-curved sleeves and torso provided a trim fit that moved with us and didn’t bind. 

Rev’it Convex Three-Season Motorbike Jacket

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The Rev’it Convex Three-Season Motorbike Jacket is one of the sleekest jackets on this list. And it’s not difficult to see why. Firstly, the Convex brings racing-inspired looks to the table, which we absolutely love. And it does so without going full race-spec, making it an ideal jacket for us riding enthusiasts who also like style. Secondly, it boasts a sportive feel and fit offered by the right amount of stretch in the form of poly textile panels. What makes it all the more versatile is the inclusion of the detachable thermal liner. So, we were able to ride in various temperatures, including summer heat.

The best bit is that we felt protected, too, thanks to the brand’s proprietary Seeflex CE-level 2 protectors at the elbows and shoulders. Those who want it can even add an extra armor layer by installing the brand’s proprietary Seesoft CE-level 2 back protector insert. The best bit is that the jacket can even be paired with jeans using Revit’s Safeway 2 belt (sold separately).

Scorpion Vortex Air Jacket

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Style and functionality come together in the Scorpion Vortex Air Jacket, which we absolutely loved for its typical “leather jacket” look. For one, it combines Rhino-Mesh, which is thrice more abrasion-resistant than the mesh usually used in riding jackets. This large-gauge mesh provides up to 30% more airflow than the usual mesh jackets, which we felt as we rode across the highway in heat. Not just that, but the jacket also features CE Level 1 armor at the elbows and shoulders. Plus, we loved the high-density back pad, which provides protection and moisture-wicking comfort. Wrapping up the features are the removable waterproof liner and the 360-degree reflectivity, which enhance visibility and safety.

Scoyco Motorcycle Jacket

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Best overall design. We loved the overall design of the Scoyco Motorcycle Jacket, which is very premium and looks attractive. Firstly, the jacket is made of mesh-type material to provide good airflow, which was great for us to have when we were riding during summer. What’s more, the material is highly abrasion resistant, so there’s very little chance of wear and tear. We felt well-protected while riding since there are CE-certified removable elbow and shoulder protectors and removable back padding. Thanks to the removable rain liner, we didn’t have to worry about wearing the jacket during even moderate rain. The best bit? The protectors are easy to put and remove.

Alpinestars Viper V2 Air Jacket

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We found the Alpinestars Viper V2 Air Jacket to be one of the most wearable jackets for riding in the heat. Firstly, the fit was a little on the sporty side, and yet the shoulder and the elbow armor stayed where they were supposed to. What’s more, the jacket wasn’t heavy or overwhelming, and nothing poked at us from the inside. We especially loved the multi-fabric shell construction with mesh panels on the sleeves, back, and chest, which helped us stay calm. But we really appreciated the waist adjustment for a better riding fit and the zipper build that allowed us to attach the jacket to Alpinestars’ riding pants easily. All in all, the Viper V2 is a jacket we can get behind.

Our Verdict!

While we loved all the riding jackets on this list, we particularly loved the ones below for their specific features:

• Best overall design: Scoyco Motorcycle Jacket
• Best sporty riding jacket: Alpinestars T-GP Plus R V3 Air Jacket
• Best high-end: Klim Induction Jacket
• Best value for money: Rev’it Eclipse 2

How To Choose The Best Riding Jackets for Summer?

Armor

For us, the entire point of wearing motorcycle jackets in the summer is to provide protection. So, we made sure to look for jackets with padding that are CE-certified at the elbows and shoulders. Ideally, we also looked at whether the pockets had an additional back protector.

Fit

When it comes to fit, riding jackets should fit not too loosely or tightly but just right. We looked at jackets that were just tight enough to keep them from flapping in the wind and the armor in the proper place. At the same time, we ensured that it was loose enough so we were able to get inside it could provide our bodies with some airflow. Many jackets we looked at also offered stretch panels, so they’re more adjustable. They go a long way in helping eliminate discomfort.

Materials

Materials are the next big important factor when it comes to jackets. While they’re the height of style, leather jackets will always be heavier than the others. This is notwithstanding the amount of perforation and the number of vents, even though they’re the ones with the most style. On the other hand, synthetic textile jackets are the exact opposite. They run much lighter but sport a technical look, as opposed to a leather jacket’s timeless one.

Ventilation

Finally, airflow and ventilation are critical factors in keeping one cool while wearing a riding jacket. Motorcycle jackets for the summer usually offer a lot of mesh paneling for maximizing airflow.

Also, check out the best face masks for motorcycle riding.

Which level riding jacket is best?

When it comes to riding jacket safety standards, the lowest level of rating is C, and the highest level of rating is AAA. So, look for jackets with a AAA rating.

You might also want to check out the best jackets for cycling.

What do bikers wear in the summer?

Bikers go for warm-weather riding jackets, especially for long or highway rides. Also, they choose warm-weather vented boots, moisture-wicking socks, cooling vests, and riding gloves.

Why do bikers wear black?

Since clothes can accumulate a lot of grease, debris, and dirt while riding, black is popular as it’s more resistant to staining. Also, a major chunk of motorcycle gear is made from black leather.