Best Summer Motorcycle Jackets: Safe and Comfortable No Matter the Temperature
Fashion meets function with a summer motorcycle jacket that protects you on the road

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Summer can be the best time for riding. It can also be uncomfortable if you're not wearing the right type of gear. High temperatures can be seriously sweat inducing when you're sitting at stoplights and stuck in traffic. A jacket can make or break your post-work ride or weekend getaway when the sun is beating down on you. If you're the type of rider who wears shorts and sneakers on your bike, pay attention. Protective equipment is a good idea regardless of the season. That means wearing ankle-supportive footwear, long pants to prevent abrasion in the event of a crash, and a jacket with armor. Fortunately, manufacturers know the importance of making summer riding jackets that are breathable and keep you relatively safe in an accident. Check out my top picks below.

Rev’It Eclipse Jacket
- Lightweight
- Good airflow
- Feels sturdy
- Adjustable straps
- Good value
- Sleeves may be too long
- Back protection not included
Bilt Blaze 2 Jacket
- Affordable
- Good ventilation
- Sturdy zippers
- Adjustable fit
- May not be true to size
- May feel a little short on the torso
Klim Induction Jacket
- Back protection included
- Moisture-wicking
- Comfortable
- Reflective for visibility
- Pricey
- Cuffs don’t have zippers
Summary List
Best Overall: Rev’It Eclipse Jacket
Best Value: Bilt Blaze 2 Jacket
Premium Pick: Klim Induction Jacket
Best for Women: Fly Racing Street Flux Air
Most Versatile: Dainese Super Rider D-Dry Jacket
Honorable Mention: Alpinestars T-GP Plus R v3 Air
Our Methodology
I considered several factors when choosing the best summer motorcycle jackets. Armor was a priority. And armor is usually removable should you decide not to use it. I focused on well-known brands with a reputation for producing high-quality riding gear. It's beneficial to choose a product from a well-established company that knows a thing or two about keeping you comfortable and safe on the road. While I was unable to test these jackets, I consulted those who did and I read how riders said they performed in real-life conditions. I also included jackets from a range of prices to accommodate various budgets. For more information on our methodology, go here.
Best Summer Motorcycle Jackets Reviews & Recommendations
Specs
- Brand: Rev’It
- Amor: CE-rated elbow and shoulder
- Material: polyester mesh
Pros
- Good overall value
- Six color options
- Good airflow
- Lightweight
Cons
- Back protection must be purchased separately
- Sleeves may be too long
- Sits up high on the waist
Specs
- Brand: Bilt
- Amor: CE-rated elbow and shoulder
- Material: Mesh shell, 600D protection panels
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Several sizes available
- Breathable
- Comfortable
Cons
- Runs a little small
- Short
- Back armor purchased separately
Specs
- Brand: Klim
- Amor: CE-rated elbow, shoulder, and back
- Material: Karbonite mesh and cordura
Pros
- Flexible and moisture-wicking mesh
- Very adjustable
- Stretch panels
- Reflective elements
Cons
- Expensive
- No chest armor or zippers on the cuffs
Specs
- Brand: Fly Racing Street
- Amor: CE-rated elbow and shoulder
- Material: Mesh
Pros
- Affordable
- Abrasion-resistant arms
- Adjustments for curvier riders
- Lightweight
Cons
- Arms might be a little long
- No interior pocket
Specs
- Brand: Dainese
- Amor: Shoulders and arms
- Material: Mesh and leather
Pros
- Three-season use
- Removable liner
- Ergonomically designed
- Adjustable
Cons
- Falls a little short on the waist
- Can feel snug
Specs
- Brand: Alpinestars
- Amor: CE-certified elbow and shoulder protectors
- Material: Mesh and polyester
Pros
- Fastens to a compatible pair of Alpinestars pants
- Lightweight
- Good ventilation
- Waist and cuffs are adjustable
Cons
- Sleeves might be too long
- Zipper is hard to use with gloves
Our Verdict
My pick for the best jacket overall is the Rev’It Eclipse Jacket, which gets two thumbs up from my colleagues due to its breathability, comfort, and lightness. It’s also stylish (the bright blue is my personal favorite). For a slightly more budget-friendly option, consider the Bilt Blaze 2 Jacket.
Consider Secondhand
When we start shopping for tools and products, we never overlook the secondhand market. In fact, it’s usually the first place I look. Whether you’re scrolling through Amazon’s Renewed section, eBay for car parts or tools, or flipping through the pages of Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, you have hundreds of thousands of used tools, parts, and gear ready to be shipped to your doorstep. Refurbished to like-new status, they’ll be willing to give you many more years of faithful service all while saving you money.
Secondhand Tips
To make your secondhand search easier, here are two tips to finding the best deals and making sure your new-to-you stuff wasn’t destroyed by the previous owner.
- Check the item for obvious signs of wear and tear. Look at the seams and zippers and evaluate their condition.
- If the jacket contains armor, inspect it to make sure it’s in good shape and hasn’t been involved in an accident.
What to Consider When Buying a Summer Motorcycle Jacket
Fit
Always check the sizing chart. Some brands run smaller, and armor can make the jacket feel more snug around the back and torso. Read reviews of the products to see what users ordered relative to their normal sizes. Some jackets run shorter than others, which may be less comfortable for some riders. Also, consider sleeve length and whether or not there are adjustments in the waist, arms, and cuffs.
Ventilation
Ventilation and air flow are important when choosing a summer riding jacket. Most options have mesh elements, but construction can differ between brands. Some have more mesh than others. Also look to see if the liner is removable, which can make it more comfortable on those particularly hot and humid days.
Armor
Armor can make a big difference when it comes to crash protection. All of the jackets on this list include at a minimum shoulder and elbow protection. A few include back protection or the space to accommodate it and the ability to purchase it separately. You can also find jackets with chest protection if you really want to step up your game. However, armor can make the jacket feel more snug, and if it doesn't fit properly, the armor won't cover your body as well as it should. That's why it's important to make sure to consult the size guidelines and user reviews for the best fit.
Pricing
You can find a decent summer motorcycle jacket for less than $150. These jackets are typically basic and might not include many pockets or removable liners. If you spend just a little bit more, you will find jackets with a few more features. Some of the more high-end options, which can cost several hundred dollars, may include back armor and/or the versatility to use them during other seasons of the year. Jackets on the lower end of the price range are good, but higher-priced picks typically have additional perks that make them worth the investment.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
Q: What do motorcyclists wear in the summer?
A: Even though temperatures can be sweltering in the summer, the most conscientious riders wear gloves, pants, a jacket, over-the-ankle boots, and a helmet. This equipment covers the skin to minimize sun exposure and also protects the body from abrasion in the event of a crash. Oftentimes the gear is ventilated or constructed of mesh panels for airflow. Lighter colors are popular because they absorb less heat than black.
Q: Are leather motorcycle jackets good for summer riding?
A: Leather jackets are protective, however, they can be very hot. They are generally not ventilated like their textile jacket counterparts.
Q: What do you wear under a motorcycle jacket in the summer?
A: It's a good idea to wear a light layer underneath your jacket that's comfortable and keeps you dry. Some materials are more breathable and moisture-wicking than others. For example, shirts that are 100-percent cotton are less desirable because they absorb moisture and don't dry very quickly.

Why Trust Us
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
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