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best adventure motorcycle jackets

The Best Adventure Motorcycle Jackets for 2026

We'd know - we've hands-on tested 200+ jackets since 2000!

Our picks are based on jackets that offer the best blend of safety/performance, function/features, and price.

Last updated December 2025 by Devan Martel

Entry-Level

Priced under $300.

Scorpion EXO Optima Jacket

Mid-Range

Priced $300 - $500.

Rev’It! Sand 4 H2O

High-End

Priced $500+.

Dainese D-Explorer 2 Jacket

About Our Motorcycle Jackets Recommendations

Founded in 2000, our team at wBW has collectively tested more than 2,500 helmets, jackets, boots, gloves, accessories, and more. We do not fluff reviews. A riders safety is heavily dictated by how they ride and what they wear while doing so. Our goal is to help riders make informed decisions about the gear they invest in to protect themselves.

wBW is funded by our audience. Our recommendations and reviews may contain affiliate links that earn us a small comission if you make a purchase after clicking them. This is the primary way we fund our website and pay our review team (and comes at no additional cost to you). We disclose our relationship with brands or manufacturers for transparency. For more information about our extensive review process, see our review policies.

Best Entry-Level Adventure Motorcycle Jackets

Priced under $300.

REV'IT! Airwave 4 Jacket

Why?

Check out the Airwave 4 motorcycle jacket! It's the perfect solution for staying cool and stylish while you're out on your motorcycle adventures. Not only does it offer great airflow with its PWR|shell mesh panels, but it also comes pre-filled with armor. Stay safe with CE-level 1 SEESMART™ armor at the shoulders and elbows, and add a CE-level 2 SEESOFT back protector and divided chest protector for additional protection. At such a competitive price point, the REV'IT! Airwave 4 is a must-have jacket.

Key Specs

• Outer Shell: Softshell 3L | PWR|shell mesh | 3D air mesh | Polyester ripstop

• Visibility: laminated reflector at lower arms and shoulders | laminated reflective logo on back

• Fit: tour fit, regular

• Adjustability: adjustment straps on lower arm, cuff and a drawcord at the hem

• Ventilation: fully ventilated mesh

• Features: short connection zipper, jeans loop

Protection & Safety

• Seesoft CE level 1 protection at shoulders and elbows

divided chest protectors (sold separately)

• back protector (sold separately):

• Seesoft Back Protector -Type RV

Type RV / Size 04 fits SM-MD

Type RV / Size 05 fits LG-2XL

Type RV / Size 06 fits 3XL-4XL

Scorpion EXO Optima Jacket

Scorpion EXO Optima Jacket

Why?

This jacket has you set up for all-season rides. The outer shell is 100% waterproof and breathable, and with direct core vents sending air directly to the wearer’s body. All you have to do is zip a few waterproof vents shut when the weather changes from good to bad.

An EverHeat® thermal liner is included for those chilly days or when the temperature drops, and the jacket has Exo-Tec® CE-certified armor on the elbows and shoulders.

Safe and dry at any temperature—nailed it!

Key Specs

• Fully seam-sealed waterproof and breathable laminate outer fabric

• Double zippered center front to prevent leaks

• Two waterproof zippered Direct Core Ventilation vents on upper torso

• Two rear exhaust vents on lower back

• Hook and loop closure tabs at wrists

• One waterproof Napoleon pocket in upper torso, two internal storage pockets and one internal media pocket

• Removable EverHeat thermal liner included

• Comfortable micro fleece lining at collar

•YKK zippers

• 8” jacket-to-pant zipper as well as belt loop fastener

Protection & Safety

• Exo-Tec CE rated armor

• PE foam backpad

• Ample use of NightViz reflective on torso and arms for increased nighttime visibility

REAX Apex Pro Mesh Jacket

Why?

With the same sporty profile as the Jackson Leather Jacket, the REAX Apex Pro Mesh Jacket makes for a perfect adventure jacket on hot weather days.

The outer shell combines 600D poly with a heavy-duty mesh for excellent ventilation without sacrificing protection. The CE-rated armor keeps you safe from impact, but does not include a back protector (sold separately)

Key Specs

• Sport fit

• Customers have found that this jacket runs small and recommend sizing up if you're in between sizes

• Outer shell made of poly 600D, heavy duty poly air mesh

• 1.2-1.4mm Monaco leather in impact areas with Superfabric reinforcement at elbows

• Moisture-wicking stretch mesh lining

• 100% waterproof removable liner

• WP liner can be zipped into the interior of the jacket or worn overtop of the jacket

• Stretch inserts at torso, shoulders and inner arms

• Zippered cuffs with neoprene stretch for that tapered fit regardless of wrist size

• Interior waterproof device pocket

• Zippered hand pockets with key clip

• Rear storage pouch to store WP liner when not in use

• Interior belt/jeans loops

• Interior 8” zipper jacket-to-pants connector

• YKK zippers

Protection & Safety

• AXIAL AX2 Air Level 2 elbow and shoulder armor

• Pocket for optional AXIAL back protector (sold separately). Size MD AXIAL AX1 and AX2 back protectors fit sizes SM and MD Apex Pro Mesh JacketsSize LG AXIAL AX2 back protectors fit sizes LG-3XL Apex Pro Mesh Jackets

• Monaco Leather reinforced back, shoulders, and elbows, with the elbows reinforced with Superfabric

• Subtle reflective highlights from all angles for easier recognition in poor riding conditions

Best Mid-Range Adventure Motorcycle Jackets

Priced $300 - $500.

Klim Induction Jacket

Why?

The Klim Induction Jacket was designed with maximum airflow in mind to keep you comfortable on the hottest of days. In addition, the Induction Jacket comes with the Klim peace of mind for superb protection performance, comfort, and flexibility.

Key Specs

• Karbonite™ industrial grade high-strength mesh

• 500D Cordura® overlays on shoulders & elbows

• 500D Cordura® bottom hem, cuffs and high wear areas

• Breathable stretch material sides, shoulders, biceps & forearms for mobility

• 3M™ Scotchlite™ reflective material

• Biomotion recognition

• YKK® zippers

• D3O® CE level 1 vented armor in elbows and shoulders

• D3O® Viper CE level 1 back pad

• 2 zippered hand pockets

• 1 internal chest pocket

• 1 forearm ID stat card pocket

• Moisture-wicking breathable mesh liner

• Low profile hot-weather friendly collar

• Comfort collar & cuff liner material

• Adjustable Velcro cuffs

• Quick-adjust forearm straps

• Velcro adjustable bottom hem

• CE AA rating certified to EN 17092-3

Protection & Safety

• 500D Cordura overlays on the shoulder & elbows

• 500D Cordura bottom hem, cuffs, and high wear areas

• D30 CE level 1 vented armor in elbows & shoulders

• D30 Viper CE level 1 back pad

• CE AA rating certified to EN 17092-3

Alpinestars Bogota Pro Drystar jacket

Alpinestars Bogota Pro Drystar

Why?

The all-season Bogota Pro Drystar jacket is designed to provide optimal protection and weather performance, ensuring your comfort throughout your ride. With Alpinestars' Drystar membrane, they offer 100% waterproof and breathable performance. The lightweight construction and tailored ergonomic fit allow for easy movement while providing durability. Plus, the jacket comes with Level 2 CE Nucleon Flex Pro shoulder and elbow armor for solid impact protection. Riders may also opt to add back and chest armor at an additional cost.

The jacket also features a three-layer drop liner system that allows the jacket to be quickly and effortlessly configured to meet any riding conditions.

Key Specs

• Lightweight 600D main shell for enhanced durability

• Reinforced 2-L 450D hard outer shell construction for enhanced long-life durability

• Detachable 100g body, 60g full sleeve thermal liner allows the jacket to be configured to the conditions

• Constructed with 100% GRS certified recycled Nylon 6 materials

• DrystarXF membrane incorporates hydrophilic technology where water vapor is absorbed from the body and desorbed on the outside

• Extensive ventilation panels on the chest, full back and arms

• Direct ventilation panels on the chest and arms can be operated with one hand for fast and effective climate control on the go

• Pre-curved sleeves are engineered with a rotated design to follow the shape of the arm in riding position

• Unique sleeve vent construction and wide mesh panel for effective climate control

• Extensive stretch inserts around armpit for optimum freedom of movement and an enhanced fit

• Intuitive incorporation of zippers, connectors and ergonomic design on liner connection, closure systems, wrists, and collar for ease of use

• Innovative collar closure with adjustable self-centering snap closure for an optimized fit

• Collar has a hook and loop style closure on the inside to keep the collar in the open position in warm weather conditions

• Ergonomically designed adjustable cuffs for ease of use with gloved hands

• Two front zippered pockets, two chest pockets, an inner waterproof document pocket and two inner pockets on the liner

• Lower hem shock cord for an optimized fit

Protection & Safety

• CE Level 2 Nucleon Flex Pro shoulder and elbow armor included

• Pockets for optional back and chest armor (sold separately)

• Can accommodate the Tech-Air 5 or Tech-Air 3 Airbag System

• CE approved to pr-EN17092 as a Class AA garment

Firstgear Kilimanjaro 2.0 Jacket

Alpinestars Ardent 3-in-1 Adventure Jacket


Why?

The Ardent's 3-in-1 design refers to the 3 main shells that make up the overall jacket. This includes a removable full-sleeve thermal liner, a detachable drystar jacket, and the exterior abrasion-resistant 300D ripstop shell. The Ardent 3-in-1 jacket was designed with a relaxed, fully adjustable fit catered to all adventure touring riders

Key Specs

• 3 removable layers: thermal liner, drystar jacket, exterior shell

• 300D ripstop polyfabric

• Extra durable textured 1200D poly

• Detachable Drystar Jacket fits over and under the jacket and detachable thermal jacket

• Chest opening, back opening vent panels and 3D multiple arm vents for ventilation

• Dedicated relaxed fit and shape, with multiple volume adjusters on the arms

• Large waist adjuster side panel and lower hem bungie cord

• Cargo pockets

• Asymmetric back and front lengths

Protection & Safety

• Tech-Air ready

• Nucleon Flex Pro CE Level 2 shoulder and elbow armor

• CE certified to EN 17092-3:2020 as a Class AA garment

• Pocket for optinal back protector and chest protectors

• Heavy duty reinforcements on the elbows and shoulders

Best High-End Adventure Motorcycle Jackets

Priced over $500.

Klim Carlsbad Jacket

Klim Carlsbad Jacket

Why?

Ultra lightweight and massively vented jacket with all the essential features ADV riders demand.

Key Specs

• Gore-Tex performance shell

• FPL400 main chassis fabric

• 630D Cordora twisted yarn overlays in abrasion zones

• SCOTCHLITE™ C790 carbon black material in bioform

• YKK zippers

• Glove-friendly zipper pulls

• D3O CE Level 2 adjustable shoulder and elbow armor included

• D3O CE Level 2 back protector included

• Klimatek™ cooling mesh liners at armor pockets

• CE AA prEN 17092-3 garment certification

• 2 forearm vents and 2 chest intake vents

• 2 vertical back exhaust vents

• Cargo, Comfort and Support Systems:

• 8 external pockets (1 waterproof chest pocket)

• 6 internal pockets

• Emergency information card pocket

• Backpack compatible

• Forearm quick-adjust straps

• Collar back function

• Bottom hem cinch

• Jacket-to-pant zipper integration system

Protection & Safety

• Maintains Klim’s highest abrasion resistance and durability standards

• Specifically designed for both street and off-road riding

• Carries Klim’s Crash Protection Guarantee

• Main chassis is constructed of FPL400 fabric, with impact zones further reinforced with 500 Denier Karbonite Ripstop

• Can be worn as a standalone jacket or can be zipped directly to the Klim Carlsbad pants, assisting further with abrasion resistance

• A full suite of D3O CE Level 2 impact protection comes standard in the elbows, shoulders and back

• Also includes an advanced venting system, keeping riders cool in even the hottest temperatures

• Reflective panels help with the chances of being seen at night with other road users nearby

• Light weight and mobility help with decreasing rider fatigue

Klim Badlands Pro Jacket

Dainese Hekla 20k

Why?

Check out the Dainese Hekla Pro 20k Jacket. It's an awesome jacket designed for long trips on and off-road. With its 20,000 mm waterproof and breathable laminated membrane, you can stay dry and comfortable in any weather.

It has a thermal and windproof layer with Polartec Power Air technology that you can remove and wear separately. Plus, it's super versatile for year-round use with ventilation in key areas like the sleeves, chest, and back. This jacket has plenty of large, waterproof pockets that are easy to access and use with just one hand. It's all about convenience, right?

Safety-wise, the Hekla has got you covered too. It's equipped with anti-cut and anti-abrasion areas, as well as Pro Armor Level 2 protectors on the shoulders and elbows. Plus, it's designed to accommodate type G back protectors and chest protectors.

Key Specs

• Ergonomics and Comfort:

Jacket-pants fastening system

Sleeves adjustment

Adjustable neck, waist and cuffs

Air vents on back

Air vents on sleeves

Breathable Nanofeel liner with Silver ion treatment

Air vents on chest

Removable thermal liner in Polartec Power Air that can be used separately

Separated collar fastening

• Other Features:

QuickDry fabric

Ripstop weaved fabric

ABSOLUTESHELL PRO 20K laminated membrane

1 large front pocket

1 outer pocket Reflective inserts

1 inner waterproof pocket

Magic Connection System

Fidlock waterproof pocket

Elastic mesh cargo pocket

Elastic mesh front pocket

Rear webbing to ease the air vents opening

Protection & Safety

• Pro-Armor protectors certified to EN 1621.1 Level 2 standard on shoulders

• Pro-Armor protectors certified to EN 1621.1 Level 2 standard on elbows

• Pockets for Pro-Armor Chest 2 protector

• Pocket for G1 and G2 back protector

REV'IT! Stratum GTX Jacket

REV'IT! Stratum GTX

Why?

The Stratum GTX Jacket offers maximum comfort in any weather conditions, making it a versatile choice for year-round use. With its class AA CE-certified air mesh layer, spring and summer rides are a breeze, while a back pocket allows for easy hydration on the trails. When the weather takes a turn for the worse, the waterproof 3L GTX laminated shell provides unparalleled waterproofing and weather protection. Plus, ventilation zippers strategically placed on the front, back, and upper arms ensure optimal airflow when the sun shines bright again. CE-Level 2 protection for the shoulders, elbows, and back is included, and chest protection is an optional add-on.

Key Specs

• Construction:

3L GORE-TEX Nylon 400D fabric

3L GORE-TEX Pro Armacor fabric

3L Nylon 200D GORE-TEX fabric

Neoprene

Polyester mesh

PWR|Shell mesh

PWR|Shell ripstop stretch

PWR|Shell stretch

• Waterproofing:

3L GORE-TEX fabric

Waterproof front zipper

• Ventilation:

Ventilation zippers on upper arms, upper back and center front

Ventilation panels on back, behind center front zipper and inside arms

• Comfort:

Adjustable at the hem, waist, cuffs and lower arm

Elasticated waist and cuffs

Stretch at cuffs, back, elbows and shoulders

Sleeve pocket

Slit pockets at back, chest and front

Two inner pockets

Two waterproof inner pockets

Two waterproof slit pockets in the front

XL storage pocket

• Other Features:

Back pocket for optional hydration pack (sold separately)

Detachable hood that back be stored in back pocket

Short connection zipper

Protection & Safety

• SEEFLEX CE-level 2 elbow and shoulder protectors included

• SEESOFT Air CE Level 2 back protector included

• Detachable kidney belt

• Pocket for SEESOFT CE-Level 1 divided chest protector (sold separately)

• • CE certified Class AA garment

Thumb loops

• Protective print at elbows

Frequently Asked Questions About Adventure & Touring Jackets

What defines a jacket as “Adventure/ADV” versus something like a sport jacket?

In general, ADV jackets are designed to withstand the rougher conditions often faced by adventure riders. Almost always synthetic textile and 450D abrasion resistance or better, and many have a waterproof membrane layer, known by names such as Gore-Tex, HydraTex, DryStar, and such, built in. They are often very adjustable via clips or straps to fit all sizes and types of riders, around the waist, upper and lower arms, and across the hips.

What should I look for in a good ADV jacket?

Three major things that an ADV jacket needs to have are: 

1) High quality armor, with shoulder and elbow CE Level 1 rated armor the least. All ADV jackets also have a pocket in their liner for back armor, with some jackets including the armor, others requiring you to buy a separate piece of armor.

2) Easily accessed ventilation, as you will wear the jacket in all temperatures and weather, and as you are riding many hours on most adventure rides, regulating your body temperature is paramount;

3) An abundance of pockets, more often than not at least 2 large “glove pockets” at the waist and 2 accessory pockets at the chest on the front, a waterproof pocket inside, and any other pockets as needed, as you will want to carry everything you need if you’re going miles into the bush, nowhere near the next available corner store.

Can I use ADV gear for other types of riding that are not adventure oriented?

Of course! In fact, since ADV gear is designed with extra protection and long term rides in mind, ADV jackets are perfect for new riders, or those that want a looser fitting garment that will still protect them as well as any other gear. You will see riders on everything from cruisers to superbikes wearing ADV gear almost every day.

Some ADV jackets are rated AA, and some are rated AAA. What does this mean?

These letter grades on the label in the jacket come after the wording “EN17092,” which is a European standard for testing abrasion resistance, impact absorption, and general overall protection offered by motorcycle gear. The ratings range from C, meaning bare minimum and usually not recommended, all the way to AAA, which is applied to the best, most robust, most protective pieces of gear. AA is one step below, so an easy way to think of it is A = Good, AA = Better, AAA = Best

I’ve been told that an ADV jacket should fit “loose” on me. Is that true?

ADV jackets for more loosely on a rider by design, as they are designed for long-distance rides (adventures) across any terrain. The extra space in the fit is so you can layer up underneath the jacket for warmth or for extra weatherproofing. The looser fit also allows for you to have a good range of motion on your bike, so you can move around while on difficult terrain, or turn to look behind you if you need to at a stop, such as to see where your riding partner is, without feeling the jacket fight against you

Which are the best brands for ADV jackets in particular?

While there are a ton of brands out there, there are a few companies that have specialized departments for, or are entirely dedicated to, ADV gear. The most common recommendation is Klim, as they are the most respected brand in the ADV market as they make only ADV gear. Other excellent ADV gear comes from brands such as Rev’It!, First Gear, Alpinestars, and Scorpion. Many other manufacturers will also put out the occasional bit of ADV gear, so if you are brand loyal to, say, Dainese, they do make ADV gear as well.

What To Look For In An Adventure Motorcycle Jacket

Adventure jackets are made for corner-carving, canyon-careening, fast turns, and aggressive riding. They are formed to a riding position that is ideal when leaning over the tank of your machine. They are going to be down on functionality – pockets/storage, etc. – but up on protection and style.

As With Any Jacket, Look For

  • Material – Cowhide. Buffalo. Goatskin. Mesh. Textile. There are a lot of types of leather, each with their own perks and quirks in terms of look and feel, and the same is true for textile fabrics. While leather is generally accepted to have the best abrasion resistance, textile jackets often have more utility and comfort options – pockets, vents, etc. – and cost less.

  • Use case – A jacket that you intend to wear in the spring or fall is going to need to be warm, while the inverse is true if you spent your seat time underneath the hot Arizona sun. If you are going to be hot when riding, make sure you have adequate venting. Consider when you’ll be wearing it and make sure it’s prepared to meet the need.

  • Protection – Most jackets come with elbow and shoulder armor, but not all do. Conversely, most jackets will come with a foam back pad but not proper back armor. Make sure the jacket you’re considering packs enough armor to keep you safe.

At WBW, “Best” Actually Means Something

Remember when you could open up a review of something, and when the publication—magazine, car show, whatever—said “best” they stood behind it? Yea, we remember, and we’re bringing it back.

Here’s how we do things:

  • We disclose our affiliate relationships—We make money via advertising and affiliate relationships on our website. It’s how we pay our team and invest in things like sending Jim to Italy. And Japan. And France… wait… why do we always send Jim places?

  • We obsessively hands-on test—We wear and ride with gear before reviewing it, and we update reviews down the line if our opinions change. We look at real-world situations because that’s the world we live in.

  • We’re objective—Good gear is good gear, regardless of who made it.

  • We’re value-focused—Why pay $500 if something for $250 is just as good? Our review scores and recommendations reflect best value. Brand only goes so far—the gear has to stand on its own.

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