Not everyone who commutes in the United States uses a traditional car or truck; some prefer motorcycles. Of course, there are several perks to commuting via a motorcycle over a full-sized automobile. For starters, motorcycles are more fuel efficient. According to Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC), the average motorcycle gets approximately 43.5 miles per gallon, while cars get roughly 23 miles per gallon -- that's nearly a 50% difference in fuel economy. Furthermore, motorcycles are more maneuverable, giving riders more freedom over where they park.
Whether you currently own a motorcycle or are thinking of buying one, you should update your wardrobe with the right "riding gear." You won't see many motorcycle riders wearing cotton t-shirts and cut-off shorts. Instead, they typically wear heavier and more appropriate clothing, including a jacket. Most motorcycle riders will agree that a high-quality jacket is the single most important piece of gear you can buy. Without a high-quality jacket, you'll be exposed to the elements when riding a motorcycle. So, how do you know which biker jacket is right for you? Here are 7 essential tips to help you find the perfect motorcycle riding jacket.
Avoid Windbreakers
While a popular choice of outwear for the fall season, windbreakers generally lack the protection needed when riding a motorcycle. After all, the defining characteristic of windbreakers is their lightweight construction, usually consisting of a synthetic material. There's nothing wrong with wearing a motorcycle jacket made of synthetic materials like polyester, but windbreakers are simply too thin. The thin construction of a windbreaker isn't going to keep you warm, not will it offer any notable level of protection in the event of an accident.Choose Leather
There's a reason why leather is the preferred choice of material for motorcycle riding jackets: it's comfortable, warm and thick -- something you won't find in jackets made of other materials. For more than half a century, leather jackets have been the de-facto standard material for biker jackets. Assuming it's made of genuine leather, it will protect the rider from the elements, offering an unmatched level of comfort and insulation from the cold. This is particularly important for men and women who ride in the late fall and winter months. Even if the temperature is still relatively mild, it will feel cooler when you ride due to the presence of wind chill. A high-quality leather jacket, however, will keep you warm and comfortable when riding your motorcycle on these chilly days.Appropriate Size
In addition to choosing a leather biker jacket, you should also choose the right size. While choosing the right size jacket is always important, it's essential if you plan to wear the jacket when riding a motorcycle. If your jacket is too small, you may have trouble turning your motorcycle or otherwise moving your body. But if your jacket is too big, the excess fabric will hang from your body, potentially getting caught in your motorcycle. So, for both comfort and safety, choose a leather jacket that's designed to fit your body. You can find the perfectly sized biker jacket here at LeatherCult. We offer custom sizing on all of our jackets at no additional charge. When ordering, simply include your body measurements, which we'll use to customize your leather biker jacket. There's no easier or faster way to find the perfectly sized jacket.Quilted Interior
Granted, not every biker needs a leather jacket with a quilted interior; some prefer jackets without this soft interior lining. But if you plan on riding your motorcycle during the cold winter months, you should at least consider a quilted leather jacket. As the name suggests, quilted leather jackets are designed with a soft interior lining. The jacket itself is made of genuine leather. Inside the jacket, however, a soft quilted material like cotton or wool is added for increased comfort and warmth.
