Motorcycle Consumer News did an article on this a while back. It was a pretty extensive test. On of the problems with the comparison is exactly what OzarkHarleyGuy stated. People think that since the pro racers buy leather, then it must be better. But that's not comparing leather to textile. It's comparing very expensive racing leather suits against very expensive racing textile suits. If you're going to spend $3K, leather is your best bet. But you can't compare a $150 Joe Rocket nylon jacket to a $3K leather suit.

If you're an average rider, your goals are differant. You want a jacket that's versatile, comfortable, and will protect you in that once in a lifetime crash. It has to be comfortable, or you won't wear it. Water proof and ventilated would also be nice. Removable lining makes a nice all season coat. Again, making it something you'll wear. And, it has to be affordable for all of that. Who can spend $1200 on a riding jacket? I can't.

With those criteria in mind, dollar for dollar, the textile jackets and pants generally came out the best. As a good example, take a close look at the Tour MAster Advanced jacket, $200. Can you find a matching leather jacket?

I've been wearing the same leather jacket for 15 years. I love it. Very comfortable, 3 seasons, room for a sweat shirt, lots of pockets. But not water proof. No armor on the hard points. And probably not all that abrasion resistant where it needs to be. I'll be switching to textile soon.

Now matter what you buy, you have to spend the big bux to get the big protection.

 

I read something a while back that textile was as good as leather up to 60mph which is where most crashes happen but leather is far superior in high speed crashes.
Given the lower cost of textile and the armour these jackets usually incorporate, textile is a better choice for street usage.

 

I believe 4 mil thickness was what my race leathers were. I've crashed many time and the only injury I sustained was a broken collar bone...and that wasn't on the track. If you have GOOD armor in your leather, it's great. It spreads the impact over a greater surface. The cheesy foam some put in the jackets doesn't do much but it is better than none. Any of your well known names will have quality products, Joe Rocket, Vanson, Hein-Gericke, Alpinestars, etc. If folding it up is a major issue, you could risk going without the back plate/armor which would make it much easier to fold up.

 

coolness

 

medieval bike armor is the best

 

lol, awesome pic...lol

 

HaHaHa, I love it, the ultimate armor.

But I did put some of the armor back in my leather jacket.

 

Maybe try chainmail in the summer...better air circulation, and much cooler.

 

Hey, and no road rash either! Tho it might generate a great deal of heat thru friction......

 

If there was anything better than leather,the racers would be wearing it