Leather vs Textile Motorcycle Vests: Which is Right for You?

Each rebellious rider has their own style and rides on their own terms while wearing whatever the hell they want, and nowadays there are a lot of options for Motorcycle Vests out there. Buttons, zips, laces, no laces, and the main question...leather or textile?

All these options have their own strengths and bonuses, so let’s have a look at what they are....

Key Differences Between Leather and Textile Vests

Choosing between textile and leather vests comes down to what you are looking for the most. Main things to look for are versatility, durability, style and performance. Leather has been around for decades and goes hand in hand with biker culture, boldness and a rebel side. Textile is a more modern look and can be a bit more flexible and have a more relaxed feel. 

Here’s a quick snapshot:

• Leather vests – Never dying style of a classic biker look, also great for durability.
• Textile vests – Much lighter in weight and some can adapt better to weather conditions. 

Pros and Cons of Leather Vests

Pros:

1. Unmatched Durability: Just like our own skin, if properly cared for, leather can last a lifetime and look better with age. 
2. Classic Aesthetic: The iconic look of a Leather Motorcycle Vest says it all. No words are needed to show you have freedom and you can be badass. 
3. Natural Protection: Leather is naturally abrasion resistant. A leather vest gives you that extra bit of protection from slides or debris. 

Cons:

1. Heavier Weight: They are a little heavier so on long rides you may feel the weight.
2. High Maintenance: To keep leather lasting and looking its best, you will need to clean it and condition it around twice a year. 
3. Limited Weather Adaptability: Only water resistant to a point, very wet or very hot conditions don't go in favour with leather. 

Pros and Cons of Textile Vests

Pros:

1. Weather Resistance: Textile vests breathe much better on a hot day. Some textile vests may also come with water resistant features. 
2. Lightweight: Very lightweight which makes long rides comfortable.
3. Affordable Options: Still good quality but usually cheaper than leather. 

Cons:

1. Less Durable: Unfortunately, textile does not compare with the durability of leather. 
2. Less Classic Appeal: Does not have the classic biker appeal that riders look for. 
3. Limited Heat Resistance: Lengthened periods in extreme heat can degrade textile materials. 

Protection and Safety Features

For Protection and Safety, let's have a look at what each has to offer. 

• Leather motorcycle vests – Offer outstanding abrasion resistance, making them great for all round riding and especially highway riding. 
• Textile vests – Only textile vests with built in armour or reflective strips are best for protection. Otherwise, if you want protection in a textile vest, it can easily be worn over a jacket. 

Combining style and safety is achievable for those that may push the boudaries. 

Weather and Riding Conditions

How and where you ride can certainly play a role in what vest is best....

• Leather- Great in cooler temperatures but loses a few points in the rain and heat. Great for highways or harder riding because of that extra protection. 
• Textile – Great for hotter weather but you can still use it over a jacket in cooler months. Perfect for casual smaller rides. 

You may be an all-year rider or just a perfect weather rider, choose what is best what environment you are in. 

Comfort and Fit

Leather vests can take a little time to break in, but once they do, the leather will mold to your body and be a beautifully custom fit vest. Some vests also come with extras such as clips or side extenders for more comfort. 

Textile vests are comfortable as soon as you put them on. These may also have adjustable features. 

Rhinos Swat Leather vest with side adjustable straps:

Style and Aesthetic Appeal

A leather vest has an edgy, classic and rebellious look. They make a statement whether you are solo or group riding. 

Textile vests can lack that rebel appeal but there are still textile vests that can look just as cool. 

Not leather but still awesome, check out RhinoLeather Atlas Denim Vest in Black or Blue

https://www.rhinoleather.com.au/search.php?search...

Cost and Value

If price is put into consideration, here is a quick upfront look:

• Leather motorcycle vests- leather vests are most often more expensive but worth it in the long run as they will last longer. 
• Textile vests- a little cheaper but may need to be replaced sooner.

Investing in Gear? Think about how often you will be on two wheels and wearing that gear. 

Which Vest is Right for You?

If you ride in all weather and you just need a simple vest to throw over, then maybe a  textile vest is for you. 

If you want durability and still want to look like you own the road, then leather will do the job.

After you add up your priorities and where your journey takes you, it is up to you, but the best way to know? - if you have been thinking about an awesome looking leather vest and you can't stop thinking about it....it usually the one. 

Conclusion

Choosing between Leather and Textile vests in the end comes down to you. You will feel a pull towards the right one as this one usually shows who you are as a rider. When you feel unstoppable on the ride, you’ve hit the nail on the head. 

Ready to explore and find that vest? Take a look at our collection and let us help you.

Let's get you rolling!