Ever wondered why bikers talk so passionately about their leathers?
As someone who’s spent years surrounded by the motorcycle community, I hear the term "leathers" thrown around constantly. If you're new to riding, or simply curious, you might find yourself asking, "What exactly are leathers, and why do they matter so much to bikers?" Well, I'm here to break it down for you.
Why Leather is a Rider's Best Friend
When riders say "leathers," they mean leather motorcycle gear—usually jackets, pants, and suits designed specifically for riding. And no, it's not just about looking good (though, let’s be honest, leather gear definitely has its style perks). The real reason leather gear is so important is safety.
Leather offers unmatched abrasion resistance. In simple terms, if you hit the road (literally), leather protects your skin better than almost anything else. I've seen riders walk away from spills simply because they wore proper leather jackets for motorcyclists. There's actually another article that does a great job explaining why safety gear, particularly leather, is essential every time you ride.
At my store, I always advise my customers to consider investing in quality leather jackets.
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Is Leather Really That Comfortable?
Absolutely. Modern leathers aren't the stiff, uncomfortable gear you might imagine. They're crafted to fit snugly without restricting movement. Quality brands create leather riding suits and jackets that mould comfortably to your body, getting better and more comfortable with age.
If you’re thinking about leather gear, you might want to consider combining it with good-quality women’s motorcycle pants. This combo ensures you're not only protected but comfy during longer rides too.
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The Practical Side of Leather
Beyond comfort and protection, bikers often choose leather gear for its durability. Good quality leathers can last for decades, making them a worthwhile investment. Unlike textiles, leather improves as it wears—getting softer, more personalised, and, frankly, better-looking over time.
For those hotter Australian days, perforated leathers are a lifesaver. If you're interested, I've covered that topic extensively in this blog article. It explains why perforated jackets can make all the difference during summer rides.
The Debate: Leather vs Textile
You might've come across riders debating whether leather or textile gear is better. Personally, I always lean towards leather for safety, especially if you're planning to ride at high speeds or hit the track. From my experience—and countless stories shared by fellow riders—the protective advantages of leather are unmatched. Leather tends to hold up far better in a slide compared to most textiles.
But don't just take my word for it. I often suggest riders check out this comparison of leather and textile gear for a deeper understanding of the differences.
Of course, there are situations where textiles make sense—like commuting, casual rides, or wet weather riding. For scenarios like that, having good waterproof motorcycle gear handy can be beneficial.
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Do You Really Need a Full Leather Riding Suit?
If you're planning regular track days or sporty riding, a full leather riding suit isn't just a luxury—it's essential. A well-fitted suit drastically reduces your risk of injury. I've seen many friends avoid serious harm because they wore proper leather riding suits. A good leather suit can genuinely save your skin.
For street riding, however, you can mix and match. A jacket paired with women’s motorcycle pants or riding jeans with Kevlar lining might be perfect. I've touched on the differences between single-layer and double-layer gear in detail in this post, if you want to learn more about what suits you best.
The Right Gear is Personal
Ultimately, choosing the right gear is very personal. What works for one rider might not feel right for another. But when it comes to protection, leather always seems to top the list for its reliability, durability, and timeless style.
If you're still unsure about what type of gear might be best for you, or you have specific needs, feel free to contact me directly. I'm always happy to help you find the perfect gear for your riding style and needs.
After all, my passion is making sure every rider feels safe, confident, and stylish on their ride. Because that's what good gear is all about—allowing you to enjoy the journey without worry.
