Motorcycle “Rain” Jackets vs. Motorcycle “Waterproof” Jackets
There is a considerable difference between a motorcycle rain jacket and a motorcycle waterproof jacket.
Most “waterproof” motorbike jackets look like any other jacket. In fact, they “are” a regular motorcycle jacket: The difference is they have had some waterproofing construction and chemistry added.
In other words, in the case of waterproof motorcycle jackets, the “waterproof” is an additional feature on a motorbike jacket that would otherwise be used for general riding.
On the other hand, MENS MOTORCYCLE RAIN JACKETS
In this way, motorcycle rain jackets are much lighter and more compact than a waterproof motorbike jacket.
More importantly, they offer the potential to keep you drier.
In other words, a purpose-built rain jacket is going to offer the greatest amount of wet-weather protection - even if neither is perfect. (Prolonged riding in very wet weather can stress the wet-weather protecting properties of any jacket).
What is a “Breathing” Waterproof Jacket?
Regardless of whether you use a waterproof jacket or a rain jacket, either one should feature an ability to breathe. Although it may seem counter-intuitive, what that means is it’s got holes in it.
Very small ones.
They aren’t even visible.
Their job is to let perspiration out, while keep water droplets out. It’s an important job.
If you have ever worn a rain jacket that is NOT breathable, you may have had any rain penetrate the jacket, even though you ended up as wet as if it had. Riding for hours in your own perspiration is not any more comfortable.
Other Features of Motorcycle Rain Jackets
Motorcycle rain jackets need to have reinforced seams to endure the pressure of high-velocity rain driving inward as the rider is traversing through the falling rain.
A high collar, that seals securely and comfortably around your neck is needed to prevent water seeping in.
Some motorcycle rain jacket have a rain hood, which can be handy when taking a break. (In this case, ideally, the jacket will have a simple way to store that hood, too, for when it’s not in use).
You can get rain jackets that come with a self-contained storage pouch so that it can be easily stowed in your luggage or strapped to your seat. (You can also buy separate storage pouches, too).
Pockets on any motorcycle jacket are an important feature. Look to see if there are enough inside and outside pockets. Further, with ANY jacket (rain or waterproof or otherwise), be aware that when you are riding in the rain, those outside pockets may have varying degrees of wet-weather protection. There are some jackets that protect the rider from rain, but not the contents of the rider’s pockets.
Since a motorcycle rain jacket is worn over your existing jacket, a proper fit is important. A rain jacket that is too large, may flap around and be annoying, and offer a greater opportunity for water to get in.
Of course a jacket this is too tight is just not comfortable, and can be too difficult to put on and take off.
Motorcycle Rain Jackets from Amazon
Check out the features and specifications of these motorcycle rain jackets form Amazon.com
You’ll also find a wide variety of colors and sizes.
Typically the size of a motorcycle rain jacket is meant to accommodate an existing motorcycle jacket underneath it. All the same, since the different underlying motorcycle jacket you may wear could be more or less bulky than another jacket, realize that the right fit would be best determined by actually trying the rain jacket on, over any gear you would be wearing on the road.
These jackets via Amazon.com have generous return and exchange policies so you can be sure to get the correct size for your specific requirements.
