Gear Up for Your Next Off-Road Ride With These Adventure Motorcycle Jackets
Protect yourself on your next journey with one of these top motorcycle jackets.
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If you're an ADV rider, you enjoy taking the longer, scenic route, which often involves off-road trails and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Adventure riders don't mind getting a little dirty and have more flexibility with their bikes than the typical commuter. Oftentimes ADV trips involve riding long distances, camping, and dirt bike trails. ADV riders are a bit fearless and thrive on pushing themselves and their bikes in sometimes challenging situations.
You also know the importance of high-quality riding gear. You need the best equipment to safely and comfortably reach your destination. One must-have article of clothing is an adventure motorcycle jacket. While they can be a little on the pricey side, they're worth the investment because of the features they provide. Check out some of our favorites in the guide below.
Klim Carlsbad Jacket
- Comfortable even in warm temperatures
- Numerous pockets, including a waterproof chest pocket
- Has glove-friendly zippers
- A little heavy
- Material is a little stiff
Scorpion XDR Yosemite Motorcycle Adventure Touring Jacket
- This jacket can handle any climate with full-length zippers for hot days, a removable waterproof liner for rainy days, and a removable thermal liner for cold days
- CE-certified armor on the shoulders and elbows
- Just one color option
- Jacket may be overkill for most people who won’t need the extreme level of protection this jacket offers
Our Methodology
When it came to producing this list of good ADV jackets, we used our years of dirt and trail experience. As well as our experience with ADV jackets ourselves. From there, we chose an array from the top brands we love, as well as price ranges. The list below also reflects jackets for both men and women.
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.
Learn moreBest Adventure Motorcycle Jackets Reviews & Recommendations
Dainese is one of the most well-known motorcycle gear manufacturers and that comes down to one reason: The company's products are some of the best in the business. And its D-Explorer 2 Gore-Tex jacket is fabulous.
With CE-armor throughout, as well as Gore-Tex's legendary weather protection, and enough pockets to store all your necessary gear and EDC, the D-Explorer 2 is excellent. It fits as expected and is warm when you need it, while cool when it's blazing hot.
The author's personally used this jacket for a while now, and it's one of his favorites. You cannot go wrong with it. That said, it's expensive. One of the most expensive on this list. You get what you pay for, though.
Designed specifically for ADV riders, the Klim Carlsbad Jacket is for those who seek durable, breathable, abrasion-resistant, and streamlined outerwear. One of its best features is the venting system, which includes two forearm vents, two chest intake vents, and two vertical back exhaust vents, so you feel comfortable no matter the temperature. It comes with CE-certified shoulder, elbow, and back protector armor and Klimatek cooling mesh liners in the armor pockets. The rugged textile material contains 500D Karbonite RipStop for durability.
Other features include a Gore-Tex shell, glove-friendly zipper pulls, six internal pockets, eight external pockets including a waterproof chest pocket, and a jacket-to-pants integration system. You can also wear a backpack with this jacket. Users report that it's true to size, blocks out the wind and cold temperatures, and overall provides excellent protection in various weather conditions.
One downside is that it's a little heavy. Also, the material feels a little stiff.
If you're looking for a heavy-duty touring jacket, Scorpion Exo has just the perfect one for you. This model is made of 500 denier nylon and reinforced with 1680 denier nylon at the abrasion zones. It even features high-stress seams with heavy bar tacking for ultimate security and protection. Overall, the jacket is ideal for extreme weather and challenging road conditions. We recommend it to everyone who is setting up for a challenging ride. When it comes to design benefits, this jacket has several of them.
The CE-certified armor on the shoulder and elbows, and the removable waterproof and thermal liners, make the jacket perfect for different seasons. There's also a reflective strap to enhance visibility, as well as several zippers for venting to create optimal airflow. Another thing most motorcycle riders love is the extra storage space. With two large cargo pockets on the lower front, two on the chest, and an internal one, it's not likely you will run out of space for storing your essentials.
Still, the jacket might be a little too much for those who are not planning on riding through extreme weather. For casual and short-distance rides, we recommend some of the other and lighter options on our list. This one is also quite expensive and comes in only one color.
If you ride a BMW, the BMW Rallye Jacket is great for your on and off-road adventures. It features ProTechWool, which provides airflow and dries quickly. The elbows are reinforced for additional abrasion protection, and the waterproof liner can be worn on top of the jacket as well as inside of it. Warmer temperatures are not an issue because it has vents on the chest and arms, making it very breathable. CE-certified armor is included in the back, elbows, and shoulders. It also has 10 pockets — two of which are waterproof — to hold your keys, smartphone, and other gear.
Additional features include reflective elements for more visibility and snap buttons/hook and loop fasteners for a more customized fit. Its adjustability is one of its most beneficial features. In addition, it's true to size and comfortable even if you're a larger individual.
However, it's a little warm in high temperatures, and the white patches of fabric will show dirt over time. The shoulder pads may also restrict your head movement when you're wearing a helmet.
The REV'IT! Sand 3 Jacket is also a lower-priced ADV jacket, but it's a good four-season option. It features more ventilation and 3D mesh than the brand's previous model, so it's tolerable to wear in summer months. The thermal liner and waterproof layer are also removable, so you have even less bulk and more versatility compared to brands that feature a single, laminated membrane.
The jacket is made of polyester ripstop with a seamless armpit area for optimum comfort and movement. It comes with CE-certified shoulder and elbow armor and accommodates a back protector. Other features include reflective elements in several areas as well as adjustable waist strap, under arm straps, arm straps, cuff straps, and a drawcord at the hip. It also has several pockets inside and out. This is the jacket you need if you want comfortable gear for winter riding and excellent ventilation for warmer months.
Unfortunately, it doesn't come with back armor. It can also feel a little tight if you wear it with both liners.
The Alpinestars Andes v3 Jacket is one of the most affordable jackets on our list. Designed for on and off-road riding, it has breathable Drystar waterproofing technology that repels moisture. The polyfabric textile is abrasion-resistant, and it includes removable elbow and shoulder armor. The thermal liner is also removable, and it features a zippered system. The jacket has waterproof cargo pockets, reflective elements, a soft edge collar, YKK zippers, pre-contoured sleeves, and a jacket-to-pants connection zipper.
You can purchase chest and back protectors separately, and it's compatible with the brand's Tech-Air 5 airbag system for even more protection. It's comfortable in most riding positions and provides good wind protection. It's also not as heavy as some rival brands.
One downside is that it may run a little small and restrict movement for some riders, requiring you to size up. Also, should you choose to buy the additional armor, it drives up the cost.
The Klim Artemis Women's Jacket is designed to fit the female body. It includes CE armor in the back, elbows, and shoulders, and the latter two areas are reinforced with Karbonite Ripstop. It features a Gore-Tex shell, adjustable cuffs, cooling mesh in the pad pockets, 10 vents for airflow, numerous pockets, a soft collar liner, bicep straps, forearm straps, waist adjusters, and zippered hip gussets.
The chest vents are particularly cooling, and the Velcro on the collar is covered, so it doesn't get stuck in long hair. Plus, it's available in sizes that can accommodate small women, which is very helpful. Overall, it provides excellent wind protection and ventilation, and it connects with compatible pants very nicely.
It can, however, feel a little warm in hotter temperatures. Also, it may be a little long if you have a short waist.
The Sedici Avventura Waterproof Jacket is another low-priced ADV jacket designed for year-round use. This waterproof option has three-layer construction and is made of abrasion-resistant 450D Oxford fabric. The waterproof liner and quilted thermal liner are both removable.
It includes an air control ventilation system, two-way zippers with flow vents, an adjustable inner waist belt, reflective elements, a large cargo pocket on the back, a memory foam back panel, and CE Level 2 armor in the elbow and shoulder areas. In hot weather, the air vents work well, and they are easy to open and close. It provides a lot of features at a lower cost overall.
Unfortunately, there have been some complaints that the material gets stuck in the zippers. It may also fit a bit on the smaller side, so you may need to order a size up. The liner system is also a little bulky.
Our Verdict
You can't go wrong with either the Klim or the Dainese jackets. However, the Dainese just edges out the Klim. That said, any of these jackets are great and you won't regret buying or using them.
Types of Adventure Motorcycle Jackets
Thermal-Lined
The best adventure motorcycle jackets are built to last throughout all four seasons. They are designed to handle different weather conditions and protect riders from wind, rain, snow, and more. Riders who want this kind of protection can find it in thermal-lined adventure motorcycle jackets.
This type comes with a thermal inner layer and a thick outer shell. Both of these features can be removed for more convenience in different road situations. You can use a thermal inner liner to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable in the winter, and remove it when the temperatures rise.
Unlined
Although thermal-lined jackets have removable liners, and you can use them during warmer weather, they are not as convenient as unlined jackets in the summer. Unlined adventure motorcycle jackets have vents and zippers to promote airflow and keep drivers cool at all times.
Unlined jackets also have an armored shell and waterproof protection. However, you will have to buy a separate lining for the winter if you intend on wearing the same clothing item in all seasons. The good thing is that unlined jackets allow riders to select the type and number of layers they need, and add them accordingly.
Adventure Motorcycle Jackets Pricing
Look, you're gonna be spending a bunch of money no matter how you look at it. There are bargain options, but we don't recommend them. After all, these jackets are designed to protect your hide in the event of a crash. Look to spend between $300 and $800 for a good-quality ADV jacket.
Key Features
Here's what you should look out for.
Protection
One of the first things to look for in an adventure motorcycle jacket is the protection it provides. There can be quite some hazards both on and off the road, and you want to be ready and safe at all times. Thus, the best clothing item you can get is the one that comes with armor so it can adequately protect you.
Jackets with CE-certified armor can absorb impacts and keep drivers safe in case of crashes and accidents. Therefore, look for the CE logo on the adventure motorcycle jacket and double-check whether it has shoulder, elbow, and back armor.
Waterproofing
Wherever you go with your motorcycle, chances are you're going to get wet. To make your adventures worry-free, ensure you have a waterproof jacket. With it, you can ride in any weather and still stay dry and comfortable.
It's important to notice that not all adventure jackets have full protection against water. Some of them feature only a moisture-resistant inner liner, while others provide just an outer water-protective shell. We recommend you look for an adventure motorcycle jacket with both features. Only then you'll have the protection you need from the weather.
Ventilation
As an adventure rider, you will want to get a jacket with excellent ventilation. A breathable clothing item makes all the difference in the world in hot weather. It will not only keep you cool, but will also prevent sweating and discomfort, which is crucial for both short- and long-distance rides.
To make sure your desired jacket has proper ventilation, look for zippered vents you can open and close whenever necessary. It would be best to find a jacket with vents on both the front and the back for superior air circulation. A removable inner liner also helps with ventilation because it allows for simple adjustments in the summer and winter.
Tips
- Think about the climate and conditions you plan to ride in. Get a jacket that’ll protect you from both the weather and the vegetation. Look for zipper vents and removable thermal liners.
- Look at the versatility of the jacket. You want a jacket that will work in a variety of conditions so that you can limit the number of separate pieces of gear you need to bring.
- While it isn’t everyone’s taste, a high-viz jacket will increase your visibility and safety. Bright yellow and reflective yellow will catch the eye and help you be seen.
- Consider jackets that zip up to compatible pants. This will provide even more protection, which is helpful in inclement weather.
FAQs on Adventure Motorcycle Jackets
You've got questions. The Drive has answers.
Q. How do I buy the right size motorcycle jacket?
A. First, take your basic measurements around your chest, waist, and the length of your arms. From there, think about what you plan to wear under your jacket. A T-shirt won’t add bulk but multiple layers will, which could increase the size of the jacket you need to buy.
Q. Does the material in an adventure motorcycle jacket matter?
A. You betcha. You want an ADV jacket that is water-resistant or waterproof, has high abrasion resistance, armor, and will still breath when it's hot or you're out in the desert. This isn't a place for a leather jacket.
Q. Can I use a regular motorcycle jacket for tour riding?
A. Technically, you can wear any jacket you want, but other styles aren’t manufactured with touring in mind. Touring jackets are sewn to fit the riding position and conditions. This creates a more comfortable jacket that can be worn long-term.
