The best leather motorcycle jackets tried and tested by our MCN riders

Leather jackets have come a long way since Irving Schott designed the “lancet-fronted” iconic leather motorcycle jacket named “Perfecto” in 1928. Today, they come in a whole range of styles, from sports jackets to retro jackets as well as touring jacket designs. Some leather motorcycle jackets are casual and don’t telegraph “motorcyclist”, which can be useful for some. Not everybody wants to be a rebel all the time.

Jokes aside, leather motorcycle jackets offer exceptional protection that’s still the gold standard. Leather is one of the most abrasion-resistant materials available. And the rigidity and thickness of cowhide keeps it from flapping in the wind. There’s a reason pro racers still use it on the track.

For many, there’s no substitute. And they look the part. Riding a motorcycle comes with a certain cachet, there’s no shame in leaning into it, so to speak. You don’t have to be an old-school racer or dirty biker to love a favorite leather jacket.

What to look for in a leather motorcycle jacket

In practical terms, a leather jacket should do three things well. It should look cool, protect you from a slide or fall and effectively keep wind off you. It should have armor like any motorcycling jacket – at the shoulders and elbows. It should have a pocket for an optional back protector and possibly chest protection too. These will have CE-rated Level 1 or Level 2 protection, the latter indicating greater impact-absorbance.

The jacket itself should also be CE-rated, with an AAA, AA, A or B rating. AAA offers the most abrasion-resistance and features the most secure construction. A removable thermal liner is recommended and a degree of water-resistance is best. Leather isn’t as effective as a proper waterproof textile, but treated leather will help against light rain or drizzle. If it’s properly raining, you’ll want to look at over suits.

Some modern leather jackets feature airbag insert capabilities. Long popular with racers and track day enthusiasts, they deploy in the event of an incident to protect you with an air cushion around your vitals.

Check out our selection of leather jackets available, covering sporty, retro and specifically designed for women.

Sporty leather jackets

Sport-styled leather jackets tend to be longer in the back and shorter in the front to prevent bunching in the tucked position. It’s important to note that if you plan on riding track days or racing, you’ll need a jacket that attaches to appropriate riding pants. This category has loads of options and models. See our full list of sport leather jackets.

Retro leather jackets

Retro jackets feature details like quilting and metal studs and fasteners. They look great when paired with a retro bike and they feature modern safety features like armor and a proper CE-rating. You don’t have to choose between style and safety. Check out our selection of retro leather jackets.

Leather jackets for women

Lately, womens’ jackets have come a long way. For obvious reasons, they have a slightly different cut than mens’ jackets. With more flattering fits and improved designs, current options both look and protect better.

Frequently asked questions

Is a leather jacket waterproof?

Leather jackets are generally not waterproof. When treated, they can be water-resistant to a point. But water will run off the leather and eventually find its way through seams and into the lining. There are some options that have waterproof membranes but they’re not common.

Can I tour in a leather jacket?

Absolutely. Protection-wise, you’re set. The only variable is weather. Textile jackets usually have features like larger pockets, waterproof membranes, zippered vents and storm collars. These features make them more versatile for the varied weather conditions that you may face on your travels. But if the weather’s right, leather jackets are fine.

How do I care for a leather jacket?

Leather needs to be cared for in the same way you would care for your own skin. Clean regularly to remove dirt build up and follow up with a conditioning cream or balm to keep the leather supple and protected. While the weather-beaten look of leather is aesthetically appealing, leather needs to be in good condition to protect you.

Is a leather jacket the safest type I can buy?

Yes and no. A leather jacket can be among the safest options available. Professional racers wear leather for a reason. However not all leather jackets are safer than textile options. Conversely, a thin, summer leather jacket isn’t safer than some textile options. It’s important to know a jacket’s CE rating, along with that of the armor inside. Many textile fabrics have been developed to perform to the highest safety standards, so they can be a good option to consider.

---

How MCN tests leather jackets

The MCN team of expert journalists have decades of experience over hundreds of thousands of miles. We don’t torture test anything. We use it just like you do in the real world and in all conditions to deliver impartial leather jacket buying advice.

MCN covers countless miles each week and tries lots of options in a short space of time. We quickly discover which leather jackets feel great, which ones don’t and why.

We only feature leather jackets we’ve extensively tested. Comparison leather jackets will be included if deemed important and relevant. Testing is ongoing and we will continually add gear and products to our site.

To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.

Scoring explained

Products are given a score from 1 to 5 stars. Beyond the ratings tab, you’ll find in-depth info on product and gear performance and attributes.

• 1 Star – Avoid at all costs.
• 2 Stars – Barely acceptable.
• 3 Stars – Average or adequate.
• 4 Stars – Above average.
• 5 Stars – Excellent performance.

To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.

NOTE: While MCN may receive commissions or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections – read why you should trust us.

- Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.