leather vs. textile?

Question

New rider...am I going to sweat to death if I get a leather jacket for spring/summer riding? Or should I choose textile even though it's "less safe"?

Answer 1

Leather is the way to go and it has nothing to do with looking cool.
The textile is ok but after witnessing a few accidents and being in one myself with textile I was less than impressed. In all cases with textile the riders received some road rash and the jackets where destroyed.

I have seen many accidents at high speed on the track and on the street. Those who had leather generally came out without a scratch.

There are many leather jackets that are fully perforated and work very well in the heat.
I would even say better than textile.

Here in Texas our sport riding club wears leather year round. When the heat is at its worst the leather actually keeps you cooler because the sun rays don’t get to your skin. If the leather is well ventilated it feels great.

Spend the money and get a good quality Alpinestars jacket. You will be happy you did.

http://www.cyclemartusa.com/shop/browse.htm?shopBy=4101&catalogId=652

I recommend the Alpinestars Stage fully perf leather jacket. It is a great choice for a leather jacket that is cool. Also the TZ1 is a good choice. Call if you have questions.

Answer 2

A new rider, have you participated in a safety course yet?
Like MSF http://www.msf-usa.org/

Textile has been gaining in popularity here in Europe. They look better then most leather jackets, incorporate reflective threads and patches, wind and waterproof and are just as safe if not more then leather.
Now I am not talking about a $50 jacket, but last years wares can be had at sales or $200 and up. The cheaper clothes are ok, but don't last as long and in warm weather almost like being wrapped in a plastic bag, can we say sweat!!!
The better suits have removable cold weather liners, leak warranty for atleast 3 years, and vents that can be opened during hot weather.
Here is a good suit after an accident:
https://crc.army.mil/mmp/60mphCrash.asp
While the suit needs replacement, manufacturers of leather suits also say to replace the suit after asphalt surfing.

Textile has so much more to offer then leather, just don't go cheap!!!! And that also applies to leather.
For picking clothing look at this:
http://www.msf-usa.org/downloads/Protective_gear_REV.pdf

whichever you decide on, keep the shiny side up and enjoy the ride!

Answer 3

I've got textile but will be buying leather next time. Nothng wrong with textile (better all 'round weather protection), I just want to try leather.

Make sure you "Gear up to go down", regardless of how hot it is. Sweat is a lot easier to replace than blood and flesh.

Consider a perforated leather jacket. Much cooler.

Answer 4

Leather will be hotter in the summer, but perforated leather is better than "waterproof" textile in the summer. If being hot is your only concern, then get perf'd leather. If you're dreading getting caught in a sudden rainstorm, get a textile jacket with good ventilation.

Leather fits better, feels better, is more aerodynamic, and protects better than textile, but textiles are getting better and some have leather on key places anyway.

BUT- it's always better to sweat than bleed!

Answer 5

Get a light leather jacket with a liner that you can take out. Make sure it has zippers in the arms, front and rear to provide air flow thru the jacket.

I have a heavy weight textile jacket and I sweat like a stuck pig if I'm all zipped up. It just depends on the jacket, I like mine because I do alot of cold weather riding.

I just put up with it in the summer and take the liner out to help.

If you know anyone with a jacket like the one your looking at, borrow it for the day and see how it works for you.

Answer 6

I have a nylon jacket with vents, removable armor and full lining that zips out. I can wear it year round.

You can get the same features in a perforated leather jacket, but it might not be suitable for winter where you live.

Answer 7

for just riding around go textile. for the cheaper stuff ($200-$400) leather is better protection, but what is the point if you never wear it?

Answer 8

I never wear a leather in the summer. I ride to have fun, not to roast to death to look cool.