Tips for Buying Motorcycle Leather

When you are buying Motorcycle Leather , good looks is only one thing to consider. A leather jacket provides protection from the elements and if the quality is good, it acts like protective armor, should the worst happen. As promised, here are five tips for buying this type of clothing and for caring for it. Next to your helmet, it could be the most important purchase that you make.

Tip #1: Proper Fit

Since the most popular leather apparel is the jacket, let's use that as an example. Your leather jacket should be properly fit to allow for comfort in a riding position. It should be shorter in the front and longer in the back to provide adequate cover when leaning forward. The sleeves should be long enough to cover your wrists when you are holding the handle bars. It should be roomy enough in the shoulders to allow for ease of movement and the neck should be snug, but not restrictive. Don't forget to allow for layering.

If you order motorcycle leather jackets online, you should check the return policy. You want to be able to return it easily, in the event that the fit is not perfect.

Tip #2: Check for Quality Hardware and Venting

The ideal leather jacket will have a heavy duty zipper down the front with a flap to cover it. It should also have strong snaps or buttons on the sleeves. If you ride much at all, these zippers, snaps and buttons will see many years of use and hundreds of cycles. Make sure they are sturdy enough to out last the leather itself.

Tip #3: Check for good Ventilation

As I said before, zippers are the ideal front closure system for jackets. Snaps or buttons are okay, but will let in more cold air. Better to have vents that you can control. If you can't stay reasonably warm in cool weather and cool in warm weather you will tend to leave the jacket or pants at home. Besides doing you no good for safety, you've wasted your money as well.

Tip #4: Keep it Dry

Remember that no motorcycle leather is meant to get wet. You will need a rain suit to wear over it in the event of rain. Of course, we can’t always be prepared. Practically every biker has run into a surprise rainstorm at one time or another, so if your leather jacket or other clothing does get wet, hang it up in a warm place, but not near a direct source of heat.

Tip #5: Clean and Treat it Regularly

Leathers that get wet lose their natural oils which leads to deterioration and cracking. This happens with time, as well. To lengthen the lifespan, an occasional oiling makes all of the difference. I prefer natural oil based products like Doc Bailey's Leather Black , but some guys prefer the synthetics. Choose according to your own budget. Dirt, grime and bugs are also enemies of leather. Regular cleaning in addition to oiling will prolong the life of your investment.

Summary

When buying gloves , chaps , pants, Motorcycle Boots or vests , the main thing to consider is fit, comfort and durability. The leather should be at least 1.2mm thick. The stitching should be firm and strong, particularly in areas that are under strain. Areas like the elbows and knees should be padded.

The fingerless gloves are kind of popular, but do not work when riding in cold weather. Unless you want several pairs, go with the fingers.

If chosen correctly and properly cared for, motorcycle leather can last for many years. Because of that, most of us feel that it is okay to pay a little more.

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