Best Summer Motorcycle Jackets: Safe and Comfortable No Matter the Temperature

Rev’it’s Airwave 3 takes everything that’s great about the Eclipse 2 jacket and adds more premium materials and safety features. Its chassis is made from high-density polyester 600D in impact zones and PWR mesh panels in the front, back, and inside of the arms. This mesh is knitted in an open structure to increase flexibility, breathability, and safety. Underneath the ripstop material at the shoulders and elbows sits Seesmart CE level 1 armor, which is lightweight, flexible, and extremely breathable.

There’s a pocket at the rear for a Seesmart CE level 2 back protector, which isn’t included, but I’d recommend purchasing it. There are also two pockets at the front for CE level 1 Seesmart chest protectors, which are sold separately. It features two exterior slit pockets and inner storage pockets. You can connect this to the Airwave pants via a zipper. The sizing stays true to Rev’it’s sizing chart, so check that out before you buy. It’s very difficult to find any issues with this jacket, but if I’m being critical, it’d be nice to have a two-way snap back for the button on the collar so it’s not flapping around when you crack the collar on a hot day.

It was a tough decision not to make the Rev’it Eclipse 2 my best overall pick, but in terms of value, nothing touches this jacket. This model’s predecessor is my daily jacket, and I can’t sing its praises highly enough. It somehow manages to keep me cool in the heights of the Mexican summer heat, and very little has changed to make the current iteration: The back, chest, and inside of the arms still consist of huge polyester mesh panels, which do an excellent job of channeling air while you’re on the move. Impact zones are made from 600D polyester, just as they were on the previous jacket.

The biggest difference between this model and the previous version is the armor. The Eclipse 2 gets upgraded Seesmart shoulder and elbow armor, which is lighter, more flexible, and more comfortable than the prior model’s slightly bulky Knox armor. There’s a pocket at the rear for a CE Level 2 SeeSmart back protector, which is sold separately. It’s certified to CE EN 17092-4:2020, which is the minimum necessary degree of protection from impact abrasion. My biggest gripe with the original Eclipse jacket was that the velcro fasteners were weak, but this appears to have been addressed for the Eclipse 12. Rev’it has improved on what was one of the very best summer jackets, all without increasing the price.

The Alpinestars T-GP Plus R v3 Air is a contender for the best overall summer jacket and will be the better pick for those who like a sportier style. The torso and inner arms are constructed from mesh ventilation panels, and there is CE level 1 Nucleon Flex Plus impact armor in the shoulders and elbows. There are pockets for chest and back protectors, which are sold separately. The shoulders also include external sliders for abrasion resistance. This model features a low-profile mesh collar for comfort, and you can zip the bottom of the jacket to a compatible pair of Alpinestars pants.

There are two exterior hand pockets and a large waterproof pocket on the inside, which is great for a wallet and smartphone. The sleeves are pre-curved for comfort, and you can adjust the waist and cuffs for the best fit. The arms might be a little long for some riders, however, which means the armor may not fit properly over the elbows. The zipper is also a little small and can be hard to use with gloves on. Overall this is a great sporty summer jacket that won’t break the bank.

The Klim Induction Jacket is a high-end pick for those who spend a lot of time riding during the summer and want optimal protection. While it's expensive, it's packed with features, including CE Level 1 armor in the back, shoulders, and elbows. The jacket comes with Karbonite mesh that is flexible yet sturdy and moisture-wicking. It is comfortable, adjustable, and promotes airflow.

Adding to its comfort are stretch panels on the sides, shoulders, and arms, and it has plenty of give when you're on the bike and reaching for the bars. The zippers are easy to use and maneuver when you're wearing gloves, there are several pockets, and it's reflective for visibility. The cuffs, forearms, and waist are adjustable, and the collar sits low on the neck, so it's less intrusive on blistering hot days. One downside is that it is a little expensive compared to some rival options and doesn't include chest armor. The cuffs also don't have zippers.

The Merlin Shenstone Air D30 means lovers of retro cafe jackets no longer need to suffer in the sun due to their love of style. The Shenstone Air takes the classic TT style and couples it with modern protection and a breathable chassis. Large ventilation panels at the torso and inner arms channel plenty of airflow to keep you cool, while Hally Stevensons 8 oz Cotec fabric is used in impact zones. Keeping you safe in the event of a crash is perforated D30 p1 armor in the shoulders and elbows, and a D30 Viper Stealth back protector. All the armor is CE level 1.

This is a great warm-weather jacket, but a Reissa Active waterproof removable liner means that it’ll also stand up to rain and windy conditions. The sizing runs slightly large, and there are plenty of snaps, velcro straps, and zips to adjust the fit. Belt loops and a zip means you can connect the jacket to riding pants for even more protection while you’re on the move. The biggest con for me is the two chest pockets, which aren’t made from mesh and slightly stem airflow. And, if I were to buy this jacket, I’d upgrade the back protector to D30 CE level 2 armor.

The Fly Racing Street Flux Air is also available for men, making it a great all-around pick. Plus, it's an affordable option. This jacket has CE Level 1 armor in the elbows and shoulders and features full-flow mesh panels in the front, rear, and insides of the arms. The outer part of the arms is abrasion-resistant. There are zippers in the hip areas to provide a little more room even if you're a little curvy, and it's designed to fit comfortably when your arms are stretched out in a riding position.

It's lightweight, reflective, and the high-impact areas are bolstered by high-abrasion material. The cuffs, waist, and arms have adjustable elements. However, the arms might be a little too long for some riders. Also, it lacks an interior pocket, and it may feel a little snug if you have broad shoulders.