15 Best Riding Jackets: Gear Up in Style and Ride Like a Boss! [December, 2023]

Are you a motorcycle enthusiast searching for the best riding jackets in India? Look no further. Check out this thorough riding jacket list that combines style, comfort, and safety.

Whether you are a seasoned rider or a beginner, these jackets will elevate your riding experience to new heights. So why wait? Let’s explore the world of riding jackets and find your perfect match today!

How We Selected the Best Riding Jackets

We analyzed over 50 of the top riding jacket models from renowned brands like Royal Enfield, Alpinestars, Rynox, Axor and more. We considered the following criteria to pick the 15 best options:

• Safety Ratings: Jackets with CE approved armor for impact protection and abrasion resistance. Higher level (Level 2) armor is safer.
• Protection Coverage: Shoulder, elbow, spine and chest protection coverage.
• Material: Durable and abrasion-resistant outer shell materials like Cordura, Ballistic Polyester etc.
• Weather Protection: Waterproof and windproof membranes for all-weather riding.
• Ventilation: Ventilation zones and perforation for air flow in summer.
• Features: Reflective panels, adjustable straps/fits and pockets for practicality.
• Value for Money: Quality and features balanced with affordable pricing.
• Customer Reviews: Real user experiences, ratings and satisfaction.
• Brand Value: Reputed brands known for safety and build quality.

Let’s look at the top 15 riding jackets available in India based on these parameters.

1. Royal Enfield Streetwind V2 Riding Jacket

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Protection: CE Level 2 armor shoulders & elbows, EVA back protector

Material: 100% Cordura 500D Fabric

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Air vents on chest

Features: 2 external and 2 internal pockets

Ratings: 4.3/5 stars

Reviews: “Excellent fit and very good protection. Worth the price.”

The Streetwind V2 jacket from Royal Enfield provides both safety and everyday comfort. It uses 100% premium Cordura fabric with CE Level 2 protection on the shoulders and elbows. The mesh lining and chest vents allow good airflow in summer. It comes in a regular and tall size fitting with adjustable straps for a snug and protective fit.

Price: ₹3,712

2. Royal Enfield Explorer V3 Jacket

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Protection: CE Level 2 shoulder & elbow armor

Material: Ballistic Poly Fabric with PU coating

Weatherproof: Waterproof and windproof

Ventilation: Zippered underarm vents

Features: 2 outer pockets, Exterior elastic adjusters

Ratings: 4.3/5 stars

Reviews: “Excellent fit and finish. Perfect armored winter jacket.”

The Explorer V3 is a versatile 4-season jacket from Royal Enfield. It has a tough Ballistic Poly outer shell with waterproof and windproof membrane. The CE Level 2 protectors and underarm vents make it safe and breathable. Interior pockets and adjusters allow you to fine-tune the fit.

Price: ₹6,712

3. Alpinestars T-GP Plus R Air Jacket

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Protection: Alpinestars CE Level 2 Bio-Armor shoulder & elbow

Material: 450D Polyester mesh & Poly-textile

Weatherproof: Water resistant, Windproof liner

Ventilation: Extensive mesh panels, Air vents

Features: Stretch panels for fit, Storage pockets

Ratings: 4.4/5 stars

Reviews: “Great airflow and nice fit. Lightweight protection.”

The T-GP Plus R Air jacket is a premium summer mesh jacket from Alpinestars. It uses a combination of mesh and poly-textile material reinforced with stretch panels. It comes equipped with CE Level 2 Bio-Armor protection and pre-curved sleeves for riding comfort. The fit is athletic and designed for performance riding.

Price: ₹16,999

4. DSG Aire Mesh Jacket

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Protection: DSG CE Level 2 shoulder & elbow armor

Material: Airflow mesh with Bamboo fiber

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Full mesh construction

Features: Hydration pack compatible, Removable thermal liner

Ratings: 4.1/5 stars

Reviews: “Ultimate warm weather riding jacket with good protection.”

The DSG Aire mesh jacket is engineered for maximum airflow and ventilation. It uses lightweight and durable honeycomb mesh material reinforced with bamboo fiber. For protection, it has removable DSG CE Level 2 protectors. The jacket also has a convenient external hydration pack pocket and provision for a thermal liner.

Price: ₹6,499

5. Royal Enfield Stormraider Jacket

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Protection: CE Level 2 shoulder & elbow armor

Material: Polyester 600D base with PU membrane

Weatherproof: Waterproof and windproof

Ventilation: Underarm zips and rear vents

Features: Zippered pockets and vents, Waist adjustment

Ratings: 3.8/5 stars

Reviews: “Perfect for heavy rains. Great quality and fit.”

The Stormraider is an all-weather touring jacket from Royal Enfield. It uses a waterproof and windproof Polyester shell reinforced with CE Level 2 armor. The air intake vents and rear exhaust vents allow circulation of air while riding. Reflective piping and adjustable fit makes it both safe and comfortable.

Price: ₹7,462

6. Royal Enfield Breeze Women’s Jacket

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Protection: CE Level 2 armor on shoulder & elbows

Material: Polyester outer shell

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Mesh lining

Features: Side adjustment straps, inner mobile pocket

Ratings: 4/5 stars

Reviews: “Lightweight and fits well. Good for daily city commute.”

The Breeze jacket is specially designed for female riders. It is made of durable Polyester fabric and comes lined with a mesh comfort lining. For impact protection, it has CE Level 2 armor on shoulders and elbows. The jacket also has reflective piping on the sleeves and back for high visibility.

Price: ₹4,200

7. Rynox Air GT 4 Jacket

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Protection: Rynox Evo Armour on shoulder, elbows and back

Material: Air Mesh, 600D Polyester

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Ventilated mesh panels

Features: YKK zippers, Adjustable fit, Reflective stripes

Ratings: 4.5/5 stars

Reviews: “Extremely airy jacket perfect for summer rides.”

The Air GT 4 jacket from Rynox uses a combination of ventilated mesh and abrasion-resistant Polyester. It has Rynox Evo foam armor providing impact protection on the shoulders, elbows and spine. The jacket offers a customizable and comfortable fit in summers with its mesh panels and reflective design accents.

Price: ₹6,950

8. TVS Racing Challenger 3 Jacket

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Protection: CE Level 2 shoulder, elbow & back armor

Material: Polyester with PU Coating

Weatherproof: Waterproof

Ventilation: Air mesh lining & underarm vents

Features: Zippered pockets & vents, Lycra panels

Ratings: 3.9/5 stars

Reviews: “Value for money with good fittings and quality.”

This jacket from TVS Racing provides all-weather protection and functionality for bikers. It uses a waterproof Polyester shell with PU coating and CE Level 2 protectors. The air mesh lining and underarm air vents allow needed ventilation on rides. Lycra stretch panels, zipped pockets and waist adjustment straps provide an ergonomic fit.

Price: ₹7,680

9. Axor Cruise 2 Jacket

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Protection: Axor Moulded armor Level 2 CE

Material: Polyester with Water Resistant coating

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Mesh lining

Features: Adjustable waist belts & cuffs, Pockets

Ratings: 4.4/5 stars

Reviews: “Awesome fit, good looks and quality.”

This jacket from Axor provides the perfect balance of safety, utility and style for daily commutes. It uses durable Polyester with a water resistant finish and Level 2 CE-rated Axor moulded armour. The mesh lining, belts and zippered pockets make the fit customizable. Available in stylish color combinations.

Price: ₹5,606

10. DSG OX Blood Jacket

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Protection: D3O Level 2 impact protectors

Material: 1.4mm Buffalo Leather

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Perforated panels

Features: Stretch panels, Zip closures

Ratings: 4/5 stars

Reviews: “Premium leather jacket with safety features.”

For riders looking for a protective leather jacket, the OX Blood from DSG Gear is a great choice. It uses high quality 1.4mm Buffalo leather along with D3O CE Level 2 impact protection. The perforated panels and stretch fabric ensures good fit and ventilation. It offers abrasion resistance with style.

Price: ₹21,999

11. Rynox Stealth Air Pro Jacket

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Protection: Rynox Pro armor on shoulders, elbows and back

Material: Airflow mesh, Cordura panels

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Ventilated mesh construction

Features: Rynox YKK zippers, Waist adjustment

Ratings: 4.4/5 stars

Reviews: “Keeps me cool in summer without compromising safety.”

The Stealth Air Pro from Rynox uses durable Cordura fabric reinforced with extensive mesh panels for maximum ventilation. It is equipped with Rynox Pro protectors on the crucial impact zones. The jacket offers a comfortable and breathable riding experience without compromising on protection.

Price: ₹9,850

12. Royal Enfield Guiness Bomber Jacket

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Protection: Removable CE Level 1 elbow & shoulder armor

Material: Nylon outer shell with polyfill

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Ribbed collar, cuffs and waist

Features: Multiple pockets, Zip & button closure

Ratings: 3.8/5 stars

Reviews: “Warm for winter riding and very stylish.”

This bomber style jacket from Royal Enfield has a padded nylon shell filled with polyfill for insulation during winter. It comes with removable CE Level 1 protectors for basic impact protection. The ribbed collar, cuffs and waist prevent wind ingress. Multiple pockets provide practical storage space on rides.

Price: ₹2,750

13. Rynox Urban X Jacket

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Protection: Rynox Hexa Armour on shoulders & elbows

Material: Polyester mesh & shell fabric

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Ventilated Construction

Features: YKK zippers, Adjustable straps

Ratings: 4.1/5 stars

Reviews: “Lightweight and very well ventilated.”

The Urban X jacket from Rynox uses a combination of Polyester mesh and shell fabric for breathability and durability. It has Rynox Hexa armour on the shoulders and elbows for impact absorption. The multiple adjustment straps allow you to customize the fit as needed. It provides good airflow and protection around the city.

Price: ₹7,550

14. Royal Enfield Nirvik Jacket

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Protection: D3O & CE Level 2 armor shoulders, elbows, chest

Material: Cordura 500D fabric, 3-Layer construction

Weatherproof: Waterproof & windproof

Ventilation: Air vents & perforation

Features: Rain liner, thermal liner, pockets

Ratings: 4/5 stars

Reviews: “The best armored all-weather riding jacket.”

The Nirvik jacket is Royal Enfield’s flagship offering packed with features and safety. It uses a 3-layer Cordura fabric construction with waterproof and thermal liners. For protection, it has D3O & CE Level 2 armor on all major impact zones. Multiple air vents provide ventilation when needed. It offers versatility across all seasons and weather.

Price: ₹11,212

15. Yamaha MT Jacket

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Protection: TPU molded shoulder & elbow protection

Material: Polyester material with PU coating

Weatherproof: Water resistant

Ventilation: Intake and exhaust vents

Features: Pockets & flaps for adjustability

Ratings: 4/5 stars

Reviews: “Affordable protection for daily commute.”

This reasonably priced jacket from Yamaha provides basic protection for daily rides. It uses Polyester material with a PU coating for water resistance. Ventilation is enabled by intake and exhaust vents. It also has adjustable waist flaps and Velcro straps to customize the fit. Provides good value at an affordable price point.

Price: ₹6,693

Comparison of Best Riding Jackets

How to Choose the Best Riding Jackets

Follow this quick checklist when choosing a riding jacket for functionality, safety and value:

• Look for CE approved armor for impact absorption on shoulders, elbows and back. Level 2 armor provides higher impact protection.
• Ensure good coverage on shoulders, elbows, upper arms, chest and upper back. Less coverage means less protection.
• Pick outer shell fabric that is abrasion-resistant like Cordura, Polyester etc. Leather offers the best abrasion protection.
• For all-weather riding, select a jacket with a waterproof & windproof liner/membrane.
• For summer rides, choose a jacket with mesh material or perforations for maximum breathability and airflow.
• Adjustable straps, removable liners and tailored fit allows you to customize the jacket as per your needs.
• Look for useful features like removable armor, pockets, vents, reflectivity etc. based on your riding requirements.
• Do not compromise on safety but also consider value for money before choosing a jacket.

Different Types of Motorcycle Riding Jackets

There are 5 main types of motorcycle riding jackets in terms of features and functionality:

• Racing Jackets – Designed for performance and speed with a snug fit. Use abrasion-resistant materials with ample protection on high impact zones. Low on features but high on protection.
• Mesh Jackets – Uses extensive mesh panels which allow maximum airflow for riding in summer heat. Offer impact protection along with cooling comfort.
• Textile Jackets – Made from hard-wearing textile materials like Cordura, Polyester, Ballistic Nylon etc. Water-resistant and armored for abrasion-resistance and impact absorption. Offer good protection at an affordable price.
• Leather Jackets – Constructed using premium leather which offers unparalleled abrasion-resistance. Most protective option but less breathable and more expensive.
• ADV Touring Jackets – Packed with features for all-weather and long distance touring. Hard shell with membrane liner for breathable waterproofing. Spine pads, adjustment points and storage pockets for utility.

Tips for Usage, Maintenance and Care

• Always wear your jacket fully closed with all adjustment straps tightened for maximum protection.
• Use the removable liners to adapt the jacket across varying weather conditions. Ride with the waterproof liner during rains and thermal liner in winter.
• Keep the armor pockets free of any inserts other than the CE approved protectors for safety.
• Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer for washing and drying the jacket. Improper cleaning can damage the materials.
• Avoid over-washing the jacket. Spot clean stains and use protective sprays instead to maintain the protective finish.
• Check the jacket for tearing of fabric or stitching and get it repaired by the manufacturer promptly to restore safety.
• Replace the armor immediately if cracks or deformation is visible since that compromises impact absorption.
• Apply a water protection spray to refresh the water resistance of the outer shell periodically.
• Store the jacket on a wide hanger in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to increase product life.

FAQs about Best Riding Jackets

Q. How much does a good riding jacket cost in India?

A. The price range is very wide depending on brand, materials used, features and protection levels. You can get a decent quality basic riding jacket from ₹4,000 to ₹8,000. For high-end riding jackets from premium brands with multiple safety features, expect prices from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000.

Q. Is riding without a jacket unsafe?

A. Yes, riding without any protective apparel can be unsafe in case of accidents. A riding jacket protects your upper body including shoulders, arms, back, chest and ribs from impact injuries and abrasions. It provides a protective shell between your body and the road. Unprotected falls can lead to severe injuries or worse.

Q. Can I use a riding jacket in rains?

A. Many riding jackets come with a waterproof membrane or liner which makes them suitable for use in the rains. However, some models are made only for dry weather riding. Choose a jacket made of water resistant material or with a rain liner for wet weather protection.

Q. How to pick the right jacket size?

A. Most jackets come in numeric sizes like 42, 44 etc. Some brands also offer a more customized fit like regular, tall, slender etc. Refer the specific size chart and match your chest and arm measurements. Pick a snug but comfortable fit for riding. Also check if the shoulder, elbow and spine armor is correctly positioned when you wear the jacket.

Q. Is CE certified armor necessary in a riding jacket?

A. Yes, you must always choose a jacket with CE certified armor since that ensures the armor has met rigorous European impact absorption standards. CE Level 2 armor offers better impact force dissipation needed for high-speed riding. CE Level 1 is only meant for minimum urban commuting safety.

Q. Why do I need a riding jacket? 

A riding jacket is not just a fashion statement but an essential protective gear. It provides impact protection and abrasion resistance in case of an accident, helping to minimize injuries.

Q. How much protection should I look for in a riding jacket? 

The level of protection you need depends on your riding style and preferences. Level 1 protectors work for daily commutes, while level 2 armour provides enhanced safety for long rides and harsh weather conditions.

Q. How can I make sure my riding jacket fits right? 

Refer to the brand’s size chart and measure yourself to ensure a perfect fit. A snug fit that doesn’t restrict movement is ideal, and the jacket should cover your torso and arms with sleeves that reach your wrists.

Q. How often should I replace my riding jacket? 

Replace your riding jacket every 3-5 years or sooner if it shows wear and tear. Inspect it for any damage, and replace it if necessary to maintain optimal safety.

Q. Which level riding jacket is best?

The best level of riding jacket depends on your specific needs. CE Level 2 armor provides maximum impact protection for high-speed riding as it absorbs more impact force compared to Level 1. For regular city commuting at lower speeds, Level 1 armor jackets can suffice if you are on a budget. Some premium jackets also use D3O armor which offers advanced impact absorption for aggressive performance riding. Ultimately, choose a jacket with adequate armor coverage across your shoulders, elbows and back based on your typical riding style and speed.

Q. What jacket is good for motorcycle riding?

Some good jackets for motorcycle riding are:

• Textile jackets made of Polyester, Cordura, Ballistic Nylon etc. These are abrasion-resistant and weather-proof. Royal Enfield Explorer V3 is a good textile jacket.
• Mesh jackets like Alpinestars T-GP Plus R Air provide maximum ventilation for summer riding while still offering armor protection.
• Leather jackets such as DSG OX Blood provide the best abrasion resistance for aggressive riding.
• Jackets with CE Level 2 protectors on shoulders, elbows and back like the Royal Enfield Streetwind V2 provide good impact protection.
• Look for useful features like waterproofing, thermal liner, armor pockets, ventilation, reflectivity etc. based on your specific needs.

Q. Is riding jacket necessary?

Yes, a riding jacket is necessary safety gear for motorcycle riders. A good jacket protects your upper body from injuries in case of accidents. It provides impact absorption against collisions thanks to armor pads at shoulders, elbows and back. It also prevents abrasion injuries through the use of durable outer shell materials like leather, Cordura etc. Wearing a jacket minimizes injuries during falls and accidents on the road. So a riding jacket is absolutely essential, not just for racers but regular bikers as well.

Q. Why do bike riders wear jackets?

Bike riders wear specialized riding jackets mainly for the following reasons:

• Protect against impact injuries and falls due to the armor pads and impact absorbing materials.
• Reduce abrasion injuries by providing a thick layer of abrasion-resistant textile or leather between the body and road.
• Ensure better safety from unpredictable weather like rain, wind or cold conditions.
• Increase comfort during long distance touring with vents for airflow and pocket for storage.
• Provide better visibility and style with striking colors and designs.

So jackets provide both crucial safety as well as comfort and convenience for motorcycle riders. A good jacket can literally be a lifesaver in the event of accidents.

Conclusion

We have curated the 15 best riding jackets in India based on critical safety parameters, riding comfort, all-weather practicality and value. The Royal Enfield Streetwind V2 Jacket emerges as the #1 choice combining robust protection and everyday comfort at a reasonable price point. Invest in a good quality riding jacket to make your motorcycle journeys safer. Remember to always wear proper riding gear. Ride Safe!