Buying a new riding jacket is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your bike kit. And when it comes to touring, we always recommend choosing the versatility of a laminated jacket over anything else.
For those of you who haven’t come across them, a laminated jacket features a membrane like Gore-Tex that is baked into the textile material, making it waterproof, so there’s no need to carry rain gear. But with prices for laminated jackets reaching up to £1,500, choosing the wrong one can prove to be an expensive mistake.
We recently put 13 laminated adventure jackets from the world’s leading brands through their paces. We tested everything from budget-friendly options to premium flagship models, riding in heavy rain, warm sunshine, on the road and off it.
You can read about which jackets impressed and which didn’t in the latest issue of Adventure Bike Rider magazine, which you can order with FREE UK postage HERE.
But in the meantime here are five things we learned during testing that every rider should consider before buying a laminated jacket.
1. Don’t assume the most expensive jacket is the best
Price isn’t always the best indicator of performance.
While several premium jackets impressed, one of the biggest surprises during our test came from the LS2 Apollo. Costing £499.99, it was one of the jackets we tested that achieved the highest possible CE AAA safety rating, proving you don’t have to spend four figures to get top-level protection.
Set yourself a budget, but let the features and performance determine which jacket you buy.
2. Good ventilation is just as important as waterproofing
Because a laminated jacket is designed to be waterproof, and to an extent windproof, it will get hotter than the alternatives. But if it can’t keep you cool when the sun comes out, you’ll soon regret your purchase.
The best jackets combined large intake vents with effective rear exhaust vents to create genuine airflow through the garment. Others looked well vented on paper but delivered surprisingly little cooling once we got moving.
If you’re planning to tour through Europe and beyond this summer, don’t underestimate the importance of a well-designed ventilation system.
3. Look beyond the waterproofing
It’s easy to get distracted by Gore-Tex logos and nifty features, but the first thing you should compare is the jacket’s CE safety rating and the armour fitted as standard.
Check whether it comes with Level 1 or Level 2 armour, whether a back protector is included or sold separately, and if there’s provision for chest protection or an airbag system. Some jackets arrived fully equipped, while others required additional investment to achieve the same level of protection.
4. Comfort comes from the small details
You’ll notice the waterproofing when it rains, but you’ll notice the little details every mile you ride.
A comfortable collar, easy-to-use adjusters, glove-friendly zips, sensible pocket placement, quality cuffs ,and good freedom of movement all make a huge difference over a long day in the saddle.
The best jackets simply disappear once you’re riding. The worst constantly remind you they’re there.
5. Buy for the riding you actually do
There is no such thing as the perfect adventure jacket.
Some excel in hot weather. Others prioritise all-day comfort in cold, wet conditions. Some are built for demanding off-road riding, while others are clearly aimed at long-distance road touring.
Before you start comparing brands, think about how you really ride. If most of your adventures are weekend blasts around Britain, you’ll want different features to someone planning a month-long trip across southern Europe or tackling technical trails. Buy the jacket that suits your riding, not somebody else’s.
Want to know which laminated jacket came out on top?
The latest issue of Adventure Bike Rider magazine features a comprehensive group test of 13 laminated touring jackets from brands including Klim, Rukka, Fox, LS2, Touratech, Leatt, Halvarssons, Adventure Spec, Alpinestars, Furygan and more. We reveal which jackets offer the best value, which are worth paying extra for, and which we’d choose for our next big adventure.
You can order your copy of the magazine, with FREE UK postage, HERE.
