7 MIN READ
The future of motorcycle jackets: Modular design for every situation
Riders are increasingly searching for versatile equipment, which has led to the rise of modular motorcycle jackets. But why are these jackets so popular?
Increased awareness about safety on the motorcycle
Thanks to innovations such as motorcycle airbags and awareness campaigns, there is growing recognition of our vulnerability in traffic. Safety is receiving more attention, which translates into motorcycle clothing with high-quality protection and comfortable, advanced materials. The modular textile motorcycle jacket plays an important role in this by offering both comfort and versatility.
What is a modular motorcycle jacket?
A modular textile motorcycle jacket, consists of several layers each with a specific function, such as abrasion resistance, waterproofing, or thermal insulation. By combining these layers, you can adapt the jacket to different situations. This type of jacket is also known as a 3-in-1 or 2-in-1 motorcycle jacket.
Why are versatile motorcycle jackets so popular?
Imagine this: it’s September. In the morning it’s chilly, during the day the sun shines and there’s a chance of rain. When you set off, you wear two of the three layers of your motorcycle jacket: a thermal lining for warmth and the abrasion-resistant outer layer with protectors. During the day, the temperature rises to 26 degrees. You remove the thermal lining and open the ventilation zippers. During the ride home, it starts to rain. You stop for a moment to put the waterproof membrane over your jacket and continue your ride staying dry.
A modular jacket is useful in every season. In the winter, you use all the layers for warmth and protection. In the summer, you only wear the outer layer with open ventilation. Handy, right?!
3-in-1 Waterproof Motorcycle Jacket
Features:
- Exterior: Durable, wear-resistant exterior with built-in protectors
- Membrane: Removable waterproof layer for rainy days
- Thermal lining: Makes the motorcycle jacket suitable for winter
A 3-in-1 motorcycle jacket often consists of a removable thermal liner, over which you wear a waterproof membrane, and over these 2 layers you wear the wear-resistant, water-resistant layer in which the protectors for the shoulders and elbows are incorporated. The outer layer of these jackets is equipped with ventilation panels that you can open by unzipping a panel and tucking it away. These 3 layers can be combined in different ways.
During the summer, you leave the thermal lining at home, you can leave the waterproof membrane at home or stash it in your luggage, and you wear the outer layer with the ventilation panels unzipped. This way, you get cooling while riding and you stay protected.
During the winter, you need the thermal lining to keep you warm, the waterproof membrane to keep you dry, and the outer layer to protect you. This makes the jackets ideal for both summer heat and cold winter days.
If necessary, you can always stop on the side of the road to close the ventilation areas or add another layer back on. Some motorcycle jackets are equipped with a waterproof membrane that you can wear over the outer layer. This prevents this layer from absorbing water and making the jacket heavier.
2-in-1 Waterproof Motorcycle Jacket
Features:
- Exterior: Wear-resistant and waterproof, with built-in protectors
- Thermal lining: Makes the motorcycle jacket suitable for winter
A 2-in-1 motorcycle jacket will often consist of a removable thermal lining, over which you wear the outer abrasion-resistant, waterproof layer in which the protectors for the shoulders and elbows are incorporated. The outer layer of these jackets is equipped with ventilation zippers that you can open if necessary. The design of these motorcycle jackets is simple and effective. Depending on the temperature, you can wear the thermal lining, and the jacket is always prepared for rain.
Perfect for those who don’t want to fuss with a waterproof layer. Although ventilation is limited, a flow-through motorcycle jacket can solve this problem during hot summers.
Gore-Tex Laminated Motorcycle Jacket
With these above-mentioned motorcycle jackets, it’s noticeable that the demand for Gore-Tex remains high. More specifically, the demand for a laminated Gore-Tex motorcycle jacket. In laminated jackets, the waterproof layer is connected to the outside, preventing water absorption. This keeps the jackets water-resistant and light, even in prolonged rain.
The jacket will not absorb water, this prevents the jacket from becoming heavier and it will keep you dry and fresh for longer. After a heavy downpour, you stay dry, thanks to the quality we are used to from Gore-Tex.
What should you pay attention to when buying a modular motorcycle jacket?
All-in-one or multiple motorcycle jackets?
Do you choose multiple motorcycle jackets each for a season or for use in mind? For sporadic riders, a simple winter jacket and a flow-through motorcycle jacket is often sufficient. For intensive riders, a 3-in-1 jacket might be a better investment.
I started with a 2-in-1 motorcycle jacket with ventilation zips on the sleeves and quickly noticed during the summer that the temperature was getting too high. Then I bought a basic breeze-through motorcycle jacket as an extra. Both were budget-friendly and have served their time. Now I have a 3-in-1 motorcycle jacket that has already proven itself in the summer. During a real heatwave, I still fall back on my breeze-through motorcycle jacket.
What type of rider are you?
Riders can choose between touring, sporty, or offroad models, depending on their riding style and preferences these jackets are equipped with a unique fit and the necessary extras to make your ride comfortable.
- Offroad: Ventilation and impact protection are essential.
- Sporty: Tight motorcycle jacket with short cut, leather outfits are ideal.
- Touring: Jackets with lots of pockets, good ventilation and protection provide the most comfort.
Those who go off-road riding will be looking for ventilation options and impact protection. In the mud or sand, you need less of the wear-resistant layer. A sporty rider will look for a leather outfit with a tight short cut so that nothing is flapping. Those who go touring will benefit most from a 3-in-1 motorcycle jacket with plenty of pockets and adequate ventilation.
Are you looking for a different kind of modularity?
Sometimes, modularity is not about 3-in-1 or 2-in-1. In some cases, it’s about a motorcycle jacket that approaches modularity from a different angle. The following motorcycle jackets have set the tone for the future.
Alpinestars Halo Drystar motorcycle jacket
The Alpinestars Halo Drystar is a jacket that immediately stands out due to its unique, asymmetrical design. The zipper runs along the side, creating room for a large mesh panel that provides excellent ventilation during hot summer days. Another notable feature is the handy kangaroo pocket on the stomach, ideal for quickly storing small items.
The jacket offers more than just a fresh look. The sleeves are detachable, revealing a mesh base layer in which the protectors are firmly integrated. This provides extra cooling without compromising on safety. Moreover, there is a built-in kidney belt that ensures a perfect fit and extra support, especially during long rides. Thanks to these features, the jacket is extremely suitable for off-road use.
Underneath the modular outer layer is a waterproof membrane, which can be worn both under and over the wear-resistant outer layer. The only thing missing is a thermal lining. This can be easily resolved by wearing a thick sweater or an extra thermal layer.
The Halo Drystar emphasizes versatility, with a strong combination of functionality for both on-road and off-road. The striking design and technical prowess make this jacket an excellent choice for adventurous motorcycle riders.
REV’IT! Stratum GTX motorcycle jacket
The REV’IT! Stratum GTX is an ingenious two-piece system that optimally responds to modularity. The jacket consists of a breezy base layer of abrasion-resistant mesh with built-in protectors, which meets the AA-class safety standards. This base layer functions as a full-fledged air-through jacket for warm conditions.
For wet or colder conditions, you can wear the durable, laminated Gore-Tex outer layer over the mesh base layer. This outer layer is B-class rated for wear resistance and ensures that you are fully protected against rain and wind. Unlike the Halo Drystar, where you unzip sleeves and open ventilation areas, the Stratum GTX offers a completely integrated solution with two separate layers. These are two different ways to achieve the same type of use.
The Gore-Tex outer layer also has a removable hood that doubles as a wind collar, and includes handy extras such as a pocket in the sleeve and ventilation zippers on the upper arms. The airy base layer is prepared for extra chest protection, provides space for a Hydra Bag, and – just like the Halo – has a built-in kidney belt for additional support.
What makes this jacket special is the combination of comfort and ease of use. The base layer is exceptionally comfortable and the outer layer goes on smoothly. According to many, myself included, the Stratum GTX is one of the most user-friendly modular jackets on the market.
Recommended Motorcycle Jackets
- Rev’It Sand 4 H2O: Versatile 3-in-1 touring and adventure motorcycle jacket.
- Rev’It Valve H2O: Sporty laminated 2-in-1 motorcycle jacket with leather accents.
- Alpinestars Halo Drystar: Unique design with versatile features.
- Rev’It Stratum GTX: Mesh and Gore-Tex laminated jacket, perfect for offroad and adventure.
- Rev’It Tectonic H2O: Little brother of the Stratum, with Laminated Hydratex membrane instead of Gore-Tex.
What does the future hold for motorcycle jackets
Motorcycle jackets continue to evolve with new materials and smart designs. Thanks to modular systems and reliable protection, riders are prepared for all weather conditions. The future lies in even lighter, more comfortable, and more versatile designs. With a modular motorcycle jacket, you are always prepared, whether you are taking a short ride or planning a long trip. Choose a jacket that suits your riding style and enjoy every ride, regardless of the weather!
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Nathan is our webshop employee who is ready with advice and assistance to help customers. When he is not answering customer questions, he writes helpful texts and blogs for the RAD site.