When you are thinking about buying motorcycle jackets there are some basic things that you should look for in a jacket. comfort, protection, durability, style, and price. While there are many brands and companies which offer these features and Viking Cycle is a prominent name offering the most in the least price. Whether you are finding a jacket for your next cruise trip, to wear it on the race track or to go with dirt bike these features are a must have in your jacket. Circling around these features here is our list of the top 12 most important things that you should look in a motorcycle jacket. These are not listed from most to least important things because it depends on your riding style. 

1. Jacket Material

Whatever type of jacket you are choosing the material of the jacket is very important because it will protect you from abrasions, weather, wind, and water. Most of the people choose leather jackets because it is better at abrasion resistance however the latest textile jackets are also very good at doing so. Textile jackets have more breathability and water resistance compared to leather. There are many textile jackets that offer good water resistance, abrasion, and armored protection and many more features. While their many jackets but this Viking Cycle Asger textile jacket is on the top, have a look at it.

2. Closures

When your front zipper fails during a ride it annoys more than anything. There is no specific type of zipper or some specific brand zipper that fails more. You can find many jackets with zippers behind a snap closure. Mostly they are heavy duty and work well. These textile Enforcer jackets have solid span buttons and good zipper. NOTE: get the zipper repaired as soon as possible and do not depend on the button for long. 

3. Storage

When you ride there is always something that you have to carry with you. Everyone does not want to carry a bag all the time. So, how can you get the thing you need with you? Multi internal and external pockets in a jacket provide you such option. Not all jackets have that feature but here is a jacket with several big enough pockets that you can carry all you need. This  Viking Cycle Ironside jacket, which has a total of eight pockets and they are good to have even if you would not use them regularly. This is my personal favorite speaking of pockets. 

4. Protection and Safety

The CE approved armor play a major role in the protection and safety of a rider. Mostly armor is included in sensitive areas like back/spine, shoulders, and elbows. Having armor and protection does not mean you won’t get even a scratch. The save you from severe injuries and keep you alive. When selecting a motorcycle jacket make sure yours have CE approved armor. Nowadays it is available in both textile and leather jackets. 

5. Ventilation

If your jacket does not have ventilation it would work perfectly in winters but during summer you would be drowning in sweat. Under you tough, thick, windproof and waterproof jacket you will be all sweaty. There is a simple solution to this, a ventilated jacket. Perforated leather and textile mesh jackets with ventilation zippers provide good ventilation. It keeps air flowing through the jacket keeping you sweat free and cool down body temperature. One of our favorites in the leather category is this classic brown jacket. A full summer, lightweight, and more ventilated textile jacket is this Viking Cycle Warlock mesh and textile jacket, it is ventilated and breathable. 

6. Night Visibility

Another aspect or part of safety is night visibility. Reflective jackets draw other rides and non-rider attention and let them know of your presence. This prevents accidents from happening. Usually, jackets have reflective panel while the new trend is the reflective lining. 

7. Collar

The collar is going to be in constant contact with your neck so you must be careful while choosing a jacket. If the collar is coarse or has something itchy on it then it can cause scrapes on your neck. It would be almost impossible to wear that jacket and ride comfortably. Another thing that you must keep in mind is jacket collar should not disturb helmet. The perfect collar would fit perfectly on your neck, not too tight and not wobbly at all. Then it should be soft and comfortable plus should not disturb your helmet on moving the neck. 

8. Liners

Liners are very important as they can make a huge difference. Jackets with removable liners are much better as you can remove and add them when needed. These jackets are often suitable for all seasons and perform well. But if you want to check out some all-weather jackets have a look at the link. Another important thing is that these liners should be easy to remove and put back in otherwise it just lessens the charm. 

9. Waterproofing

Waterproofing or you can say water resistance up to a good level is very important especially in the rainy season. The external material is the main thing in this. If you can get a good waterproof jacket it is much better then a rain gear. These jackets can be a bit expensive and not all of them are completely waterproof so be careful. Leather with certain membrane makes it water resistant. If it absorbs water things will get uncomfortable very quickly. 

10. Closures, adjustable or non-adjustable

Your jacket cuffs are a quick and simple way for wind and cold to get in. In such case even heated and super warm jackets are of no use. Cuff closure and straps can make sure wind or cold is not getting in and let you drive with comfort and ease. Snap closure, zippers, and elastic cuffs are all very good but my most favorite type are straps because they are much more effective. After cuffs, your waits are from where the wind and cold can make your back stiff so see if you can get a jacket with waist adjustable straps too! However, you can go with whatever suits you better. There are plenty of other closures types and styles that you can choose from. The one that we love the most and stands out is this textile jacket by Viking Cycle. Add a thermal liner and some long gloves to protect yourself even more if you feel like it. 

11. Construction

Construction covers all aspects of the jacket, its material, looks, durability, how good the jacket is and many other things. Make sure you are getting a jacket that is reliable and durable plus the comfort level. Lining, closure, finishing, stitching and other things like color and looks of the jacket are all over good. 

12. Fitting

This is one of the most important things. you should try the jacket on and move your arms and neck around to see if you like it's fitting. It is better to return or replace the jacket with a more suitable size rather than wearing it and discovering it is not your size and then it would just be lying in a corner. Also check arm length, waist length and overall fitting of jacket. It should not be too tight or saggy, the body should fit snugly. Waist or side adjustable straps really help in this case.