What you wear on your upper body while riding contributes significantly to your protection and grabs the attention at first glance. Kevlar shirts offer the best of both worlds. They redefine how riders look at safety and aesthetics.
From being lightweight and breathable to allowing flexibility without bulk, Kevlar shirts are rapidly becoming riders' first choice due to their versatile styling options and protective features.
In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know before investing in a Kevlar motorcycle shirt, along with some featured products.
What is a Kevlar Motorcycle Shirt
A Kevlar motorcycle shirt is not your ordinary shirt. It's specifically made for motorcycle enthusiasts who want to wear something lighter than their bulky jackets but protective than their casual shirts. It doesn't feel heavy like denim or leather shirts, and it's versatile enough to wear on and off the bike.
Kevlar shirts can be availed in a variety of styling options, come in affordable rates, and serve as a lifestyle statement for riders with a built-in armour. Moreover, they are usually weather-adaptable and can be worn in all seasons. Several brands offer pockets for storing little belongings and come with partial Kevlar linings at the accident-prone areas like the back, elbows, and shoulders.
Features That Matter in Kevlar Motorcycle Shirts
Before starting to explore options online or offline for Kevlar motorcycle shirts, there are a few aspects you must consider. So you would know what to choose and what to ignore.
CE-Certification
A study indicates that motorcycle accidents accounted for nearly 15% of all road crashes, leading to severe injuries that could have been avoided with proper gear. So, safety is an important aspect, no matter which gear you’re buying.
Buy Kevlar shirts equipped with CE Level 1 EN 1621 armours included for shoulders, elbows, and back, and internal CE armour pockets. The CE certifications ensure that the gear has got your back in case of mishappenings.
Abrasion Resistance
Your Kevlar motorcycle shirt must withstand sliding or friction across pavement. It can minimise the risk of skin injuries. Your shirt should have a full lining in high-impact zones like shoulders and elbows, or reinforced panels.
Durability
You would not want to invest in a Kevlar shirt that comes off easily; hence, go for a durable one. They will stay with you for longer durations, even with constant use. Go for the stretch fabric with reinforced stitching to ensure protection and the best value for your money. Durable Kevlar shirts perform well with dirt, dust, wind, and heat as well.
Closures and Fastenings
This is the feature that many people do not consider, but without a quality fastening and closure in your Kevlar shirt, you are compromising on your safety as well as comfort. Heavy-duty zippers or strong buttons put the garment in place even in tough riding conditions. Go for the quality fastenings and Velcro cuffs to decrease the flapping at high-speed rides. Also, check if the closures are well-stitched.
High-Quality Fabric
Whether you are riding in intense heat, chilly weather, or extreme rainfall, a high-quality fabric makes a difference. Try to opt for a Kevlar shirt made with premium quality cotton blended with Kevlar or entirely Kevlar. Some brands also offer Polyester-Kevlar shirts. A good fabric allows sturdiness, comfort, and flexibility.
Breathability & Ventilation
Riding in the heat may become another challenge as the heat, followed by the sweat, can make you uncomfortable. Kevlar shirts engineered with breathability and ventilation features keep you cool by regulating body temperatures. They let the fresh air in and sweat out.
Consider the Styling Options
From casual styles to work shirt ones, they come in a broad variety of solid colors and designs. The most popular ones are checkered patterns. There are slim fits to classic cuts options trending everywhere, but you must select what suits you in terms of comfort and aesthetics. Look for something that aligns with your personal statement. Think about where you will wear this shirt.
You can consider the neutral tones. Don't ignore the collar style, sleeve length, and shirt length. But remember, your Kevlar shirt should not only be stylish, but it should also cover all the safety aspects.
Go for the Accurate Fit
Size is the most crucial aspect that ensures proper comfort as well as safety. Too loose or too tight would affect your flexibility and movements while riding. Go for the fit that allows a complete range of motion. Also, choosing a Kevlar shirt that allows for underneath layering would pay you long-term benefits.
Wear a thin t-shirt while measuring your size to get the most accurate size. Then, take a measuring tape and measure your chest, waist, shoulders, arm length, and front and back length. Now, you have to compare and check with the brand's size chart. This is how you can get a well-fitted Kevlar motorcycle shirt.
Our Recommendations
If you're confused about where to start exploring the Kevlar motorcycle shirts, we have handpicked two of the best-selling options from the Tuff Gear.
Tuff Gear Motorcycle Kevlar Shirt - Black and Red
Tuff Gear Motorcycle Kevlar Shirt is an all-time classic Kevlar shirt made with cotton fabric and stitched with 250 GSM DuPont™ Kevlar® thread. It is a perfect wear for the winter season to keep you warm and comfortable. To keep you safe, this shirt has CE Level 1 EN 1621 armours on shoulders, elbows, and back, and internal CE Armor pockets at elbows, shoulders & spine for impact resistance.
Tuff Gear Motorcycle Kevlar Shirt - Grey
Tuff Gear Motorcycle Kevlar Shirt in Grey can be layered with a black jacket over it or a plain white t-shirt underneath. With press studs at the center and zipper and snap buttons at the cuff, this Kevlar shirt offers a full front zipper for easy wear and convenience. It comes with one internal pocket for easy access to your belongings and two chest pockets at the front.
Conclusion
Buying a Kevlar motorcycle shirt is much more than just looking good. You must feel comfortable while wearing it in all weather conditions; it should make you feel free and flexible without restricting your movements. Pay attention to abrasion resistance, good-quality fabric, and heavy-duty stitching. Don't ignore ventilation, fit, and closures.
Mohammad Akhtar