I have a Outback Oilskin vest that I wear occasionally
https://www.outbacktrading.com/colle...ns-magnum-vest

I find it useful in cooler weather when I need more than just a long sleeve shirt but don't really need a jacket. I can see where it could be useful as it gives you more pockets to put stuff but on a touring bike there are plenty of places to put things. In MS for half the year the temps are 90 plus a vest just does not seem practical to me in this heat

 

I wear either a mesh jacket or a leather jacket most of the time I ride. Only time I wear a vest is when I am riding as a Legion member or a Patriot Guard mission.

The jackets have pockets, the vest blocks ventilation on the jackets so I prefer to ride without one.

 

I have a vest I wear with my veterans riding unit, but in 100 degree weather I like my Hellride shirt. Full coverage from the sun and CE armour in elbows and shoulders is discreet but functional

 

I wear my vest when riding and I have a few 'meaningful' patches on it. Notice the bulk of riders nowadays don't tend to wear them and if they do there are no patches.

 

mine holds my phone, EDC combat folder, folding beard / hair brush, pack of Halls cough drops
and covers the Sig 1911 on my hip and the Charter Arms hammerless .44 Bulldog in my back pocket

and it's a nice place for my 11"x7" cross backpatch.........

 

I like souvenirs, so my vest collects pins and patches.

In general a vest is just another way to layer for me, if it's a little chilly I put on a mid-layer underneath then peel it if it gets hot. If it's cold I just wear my jacket.

My one complaint is that when it gets hot my vest has no ventilation, but I really like having the freedom of motion in my shoulders the vest gives me and while it doesn't offer the protection of a jacket it at least offers more than just a shirt.

 

I carried one in my saddle bag for years, it was a gift, long story short, out late with friends and it got cold and I didn't have a jacket. Wore the vest and it kept my core warm so I keep it on the bike for just such times.

 

A few patches. CMA on the back

 

This about sums it up for me.

 

What are you reaching for riding other than ***** and ***???

I do like a vest for carrying stuff. Some summer, some cold when my pants pockets are covered by chaps.