Suppose you are riding and find it difficult to rotate your shoulders, turn the handlebars, or lean forward during high-speed stretches because of an ill-fitted vest. When you ride, your ordinary vest cannot handle the responsibility of upper body movements, and here comes the importance of motorcycle riding vests. Usually, motorcycle vests tend to be the last gear riders put their investment in. But that's not how it should be.
Motorcycle vests are made to offer protective features on and off the bike, and can ensure the rider's comfort throughout the journey. In this blog, we will explore all the necessary aspects you must consider before you pick your next ideal motorcycle vest.
Your Checklist to Choosing the Right Motorcycle Vests
Motorcycle vests are manufactured to handle the needs of riding, including specific shoulder and neck movements. While you can overlook the style if you are not a fashion-enthusiast but considering factors like size and fit, breathability, and weather adaptability are among non-negotiables if you want to make your investment worth it.
So, let’s begin by looking at all crucial factors by you can consider when choosing the right motorcycle vests in Australia.
1. Match Vests to Your Ride Type
You obviously know what kind of rider you are, or which particular motorcycle rides you are intended to explore, so make your choice accordingly. Here are a few popular categories of motorcycle vests that you should know;
Leather Motorcycle Vest
Best for cruising, cafe racing, and sport riding, leather vests are considered a premium standard in the motorcycle riding gear industry. This is the oldest-discovered and traditionally used fabric.
It offers high durability, classic looks, high impact protection, and a windproof barrier. The best part of buying leather motorcycle vests is that they mould to the wearer's body over time if maintained well.
Tuff Gear Motorcycle Leather Vest V-33
Tuff Gear Motorcycle Leather Vest V-33 is made with the supreme-quality cowhide leather and feels soft on the skin. It contributes to your looks by adding a stylish aspect and can be worn in both summer and winter. There is a button-front closure for ease of wear, and there is a cotton lining for better ventilation.
Textile Motorcycle Vest
An affordable option who want to go on long-distance rides, or explore beginner-friendly rides, daily commutes, and dual-sport rides. Textile vests are made to feel lightweight to the wearer. They often have very broad styling options, designs, and storage options. Textile vests could be an ideal option for warm weather conditions to beat the heat and keep riding. Most of the textile motorcycle vests are equipped with thermal liners for year-round use.
High-Visibility Vest
If you are planning to go on night rides when visibility is low, explore early morning or dusk rides, urban commuting, and high or long-distance rides, a high-visibility motorcycle vest is all you need. Typically made with bright neon colours like yellow, orange, or green, these vests help prevent accidents by making you noticeable to other vehicle riders.
Tuff Gear Motorcycle Safety Fluro Yellow Hi Vis Vest
Tuff Gear Motorcycle Safety Fluro Yellow Hi Vis Vest offers a good number of layering options, along with t-shirts, long-woven shirts, or hoodies. It is manufactured with a top-tier textile material and equipped with features like breathable liner, YKK zippers, and side laces.
Armour Vest
Armour vests are designed with features to specifically safeguard your upper body areas, including neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Often incorporated with tough yet flexible elements, vests give freedom to move as you want on a bike. Ideal for sport riding, warm weather rides, or adventure rides, vests allow layering under or over other gear for customizable protection levels.
2. Opt for Impact-Resistant Fabric
Buying motorcycle vests without checking for proper safety elements can make your money go to vain. No matter which fabric you choose, it should be engineered with an impact resistance feature to protect you during crashes or falls, like Kevlar and Cordura. This feature can reduce injuries by absorbing shocks and dispersing energy.
If possible, look for vests that add no bulk with a breathable liner to have that extra ventilation for scorching weather.
3. Prioritise Comfort Features
From adjustable straps and closures to liners and soft inner lining, you should not compromise on comforting features while making a purchase. While breathable mesh panels can improve airflow and reduce sweat, moisture-wicking fabrics can make you stay dry.
You can consider ergonomic design that moves organically with your body, and quick-release buckles to put on and take off easily. Some vests also include laces on the side to let you easily tighten or loosen the vest for better comfort.
4. Pick Climate-Friendly Vests
Wearing motorcycle vests according to the weather can give you a value-added advantage as a rider. During warm weather, you can consider vests with breathable layers and waterproofing materials to let your skin breathe and stay cool.
Cold weather requires features like removable thermal liners and windproof materials. Breathable membranes and waterproofing features are good for humid and rainy conditions. Opt for layered designs to switch between weather swiftly.
5. Don’t Compromise on Size
Suppose you are riding with all enthusiasm and passion, but suddenly feel suddenly feeling fatigue during your long journey because of a poor posture and balance.
This may happen when you don’t pay enough attention to get the exact-sized motorcycle vests. Always check the brand’s size chart. Measure your vests’ size and make a comparison to the chart.
The Endnote
Choosing your next motorcycle vest is more than just style and aesthetics. You have to look beyond these factors and consider protective features, size and fit, safety, and the type of ride you are going to have. Make your money count with motorcycle vests that deliver both functionality and fashion.
Imran Akhtar