The Best Off-Road Motorcycle Jackets For 2024
We’d Know: We’ve Hands-On Tested 2500+ Pieces Of Riding Gear Since 2000
Our picks are based on jackets that offer the best blend of safety/performance, function/features, and price.
Last updated October 2023 by Devan Martel.
About Our 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 Off-Road Motorcycle Jackets
Priced under $225.
Thor Terrain Jacket
Price: $149
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The perfect jacket for all our minimalist riders who love being on two-wheels rain or shine. The Thor Terrain jacket was designed to withstand the toughest of weather conditions.
Three high-volume tapered zip pockets allow you to bring along the essentials as you ride, while the DWR coating and Hipora membrane keep them dry.
Key Specs
•Three high-volume zippered pockets for trail essentials
•Strategically placed zippered intake and exhaust vents
•Dura-motion paneling provides flexibility without compromising durability
•Taped zippers, DWR coating and Hipora membrane for increased water resistance
•Zip-off sleeves with rear storage compartment
•Jacket packs easily into belt for storage while riding
•Two-way front zipper
•Moisture wicking athletic mesh liner
•Soft touch collar
Protection & Safety
•Rip-stop abrasion resistant paneling on sleeves and shoulders
•Reflective accents for increased visibility
Alpinestars Venture R Jacket
Why?
The Venture R from Alpinestars is squarely aimed at the enduro and scrambler riders.
With removable sleeves, it can adapt to hot weather and is well ventilated, water-resistant, and abrasion-resistant. It is designed to be used with armor worn under or over it and is 100% compatible with the Bionic Neck Support by Alpinestars.
For long-duration rides, it also has a built-in hydration pocket on the back of the jacket, compatible with most hydration bladders.
Key Specs
•Rip-stop Nylon and Polyester fabric construction for excellent abrasion resistance
•Zippered air intake and exhaust vents are strategically positioned for optimized airflow
•Main shell with water-resistant treatment for improved weather performance
•Two fastening front hand cargo pockets
•One zippered waterproof chest pocket
•Large back utility pocket offers secure and convenient storage
•Cuff adjustment closure system for a snug fit
•Elbow and shoulder PU reinforcement for additional abrasion resistance
•Stretch panel on forearms to increase flexibility and movement
•Reflective insert to increase the visibility of the rider
•Slim collar construction with stretch main fabric and microfiber comfort inner lining
•BNS loops fastening to seamlessly incorporate neck supports
•Pre-curved sleeves construction reduces riding fatigue
•Detachable sleeves allow the jacket to be worn as a vest
•Inner water hydration compartment
•Inner pocket compartments for convenient storage
•Microfiber comfort edge on collar and cuffs
Protection & Safety
•Nylon and polyester main fiber is at least 500D ripstop rated
•PU reinforcements on elbows and shoulders for extra abrasion resistance
Sedici Marco 2 Mesh Jacket
Price: $220
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
Shopping on a budget doesn’t always mean you need to sacrifice quality!
The main chassis of the Sedici Marco 2 Mesh Waterproof Jacket is made out of a super strong 600D Dobby textile, as well as 1200D ballistic reinforced textile in high impact areas.
The jacket comes complete with a removable waterproof and windproof liner for all-weather versatility. The full mesh airflow lining, as well as 750D hard mesh on the chest, back, and inner arms will keep you cool no matter how hot of a day it is.
Key Specs
Construction:
•600D Dobby chassis improves durability
•750D Hard mesh
•1200D Ballistic reinforcement
•500D HD 4-way stretch at torso
•Full mesh airflow lining
Waterproofing:
•Removable waterproof and windproof liner for protection from the elements
Ventilation:
•750D Hard mesh at chest, back and inner arms for maximum airflow
Comfort:
•Comfort collar and cuffs feature microfiber lining and neoprene edges to minimize chafing
•Adjustable hip and waist for perfect fit
•Adjustable cuff and forearm reduce turbulence at speed
Pockets:
•2 inner mesh stash pockets
•2 expandable front cargo pockets
•Back pocket for extra storage (WP liner, 1L hydration, extra gloves)
•Zippered inner chest pocket
Other Features:
•YKK Vislon zippers
•Oversized zipper pulls
•Connection zipper pairs jacket to matching Marco 2 Pants or other Sedici ADV pants
Protection & Safety
•Included low-profile AXIAL AX2 CE Level 2 shoulder and elbow armor
•Pocket for optional back protector (sold separately, AXIAL AX2 recommended)
•1200D Ballistic reinforcement areas at elbows and shoulders
•Textured rubber panels at elbows to protect high wear areas
•Carbon reflective trim gives 360 degrees of visibility in humanoid form
Best Mid-Range Off-Road Motorcycle Jackets
Priced $225 - $325.
Leatt Moto 4.5 X-Flow Jacket
Why?
On the hottest of days, the riding shouldn’t have to stop. The Leatt Moto 4.5 X-Flow has been engineered to aid in cooling your skin with panels of X-Flow mesh plus removable arms for maximum airflow.
The included bladder suspension system within the dedicated hydration pocket provides perfect weight distribution even with a full hydration bladder.
Tailored cut for off-road riding with or without body armor, and the collar works with or without a Leatt neck brace.
Key Specs
•Lightweight, ventilated shell with X-Flow front and rear mesh with Spandura stretch panels
•Pre-curved, zip-off arms
•Internal hydration pocket with bladder suspension system for up to 3 liters
•Chest pocket with water-resistant lining
•Tailored cut for off-road riding with or without body armor
•Total of six pockets
Leatt collar:
•Works with or without a neck brace
•Neck brace fits over the collar
•Collar fits around the neck brace
•Rear reflective safety print
Protection & Safety
Multi-row reinforced stitching
Brush Guard fabric protection over elbows
Rear reflective safety print
Leatt 5.5 Body Protector
Price:Up to $350
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
A lot of our recommendations so far have been all “designed to be worn over armor.” This, then, is some of the best armor you can get to wear under all those jackets, and it counts as a jacket all on its own as well.
Armor covers your front, back, flanks, shoulders, and elbows, all of it CE level II rated.
Built on a moisture-wicking liner covered in abrasion-resistant textile, the armor is articulated to allow you the greatest protection with the greatest freedom of movement.
Key Specs
•LEATT maximized protection
•Front, back, shoulder, flank, and elbow safety
•Multi-layer multi-plate articulating design
•Great fit and very comfortable 3D design
•Ventilation slots for maximum airflow
•MoistureCool wicking fabric keeps you cooler
•BraceOn neck brace fitting system
•New FlipFit front and rear function allows over and undershirt fitting with a Leatt neck brace
•LEATT HDPE High-Density Polyethylene hardshell outer protective shield
•LEATT 3DF foam for impact absorption
•CE certified for impact protection: CE EN1621-2 level 2 back, CE EN1621-3 level 2 front, CE EN 1621-1 elbow + shoulder
Sizing:
SM-MD: Height 63″ – 67.75″
LG-XL: Height 67.75” – 72.5″
2XL: Height 72.5″ – 77″
Protection & Safety
•Fully enclosed torso in full CE level II articulated polyethylene shells over 3DF impact foam
•Mild abrasion resistance from the textile chassis and wicking inner liner, however, works best with an abrasion-resistant jersey or jacket over top
Sedici Garda WP
Price: $250
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
Rain or shine, asphalt or dirt, the Sedici Garda WP Jacket was designed to withstand it all. If you’re looking for a jacket versatile enough to handle nearly all weather conditions, look no further.
Sedici had your comfort in mind while designing the Garda WP Jacket. Adjustable hip, waist, forearm, bicep, and cuffs allow you to tailor the jacket fit to your body. The waterproof stretch 600D laminated main construction is guaranteed to keep you dry, all while a full mesh airflow lining and 6 direct vents moves hot air out of the jacket.
Key Specs
Construction:
•Waterproof stretch 600D laminated main construction
•1200D reinforcement areas at elbows and shoulders
•Full mesh airflow lining
Ventilation:
•6 direct body vents at torso, bicep and back (adjustable)
Comfort:
•Comfort collar and cuffs feature microfiber lining and neoprene edges to minimize chaffing
•Adjustable hip and waist for perfect fit
•Adjustable cuff, forearm and bicep reduce turbulence at speed
Pockets:
•2 expandable, waterproof front cargo pockets
•Rear waterproof cargo pocket
•Large back pocket for hydration bladder (sold separately) with hose pass-through
•2 inner mesh stash pockets
•Zippered inner chest pocket
Other Features:
•Waterproof YKK external zippers
•Oversized zipper pulls
•Connection zipper pairs jacket to matching Garda Pants or other Sedici ADV pants
Protection & Safety
•Included low-profile CE Level 2 shoulder and elbow armor
•Pocket for optional AXIAL back protector (sold separately)
•Size MD AXIAL AX1 and AX2 back protectors fit all sizes Garda Waterproof Jackets
•Textured rubber panels at elbows and shoulders to protect high wear areas
•Carbon reflective trim gives 360 degrees of visibility in humanoid form
Best High-End Off-Road Motorcycle Jackets
Priced over $325+.
Knox Urbane Pro Mk3 Utility Shirt
Price: $330
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
As their third generation launch, Knox’s Urbane Pro Mk3 delivers the same level of excellence as the Pro I and II, all while making improvements you’re sure to love.
New to the Pro Mk3 is a full, low-profile set of CE Level 2 armor. The armor is thinner and highly flexible to allow a full range of motion. Waterproof or insulating layers from the Knox Seasonless Collection can turn this off-road armored shirt into the perfect ADV riding or commuting jacket.
Key Specs
•The important technical CE classification is highlighted on the jacket
•Includes Knox MICRO-LOCK Compact CE approved back, shoulder and elbow body armor
•A separate removable MICRO-LOCK chest protector can be added as an optional extra
•Constructed using high tenacity stretch nylon, combined with tough breathable arrownet mesh selected for abrasion, cut and tear resistance
•5 Duck Canvas pockets, 1 chest, 2 patch pockets on the front, a 1 large back pocket and 1 sleeve stash pocket for even greater functionality
•2 handy low profile interior pockets
•Stretch mesh panels added for flexibility and comfort
•YKK zips throughout
•Discreet Knox branding on the chest, front hem and back
•New patch on the sleeve highlights Knox heritage and design
•Improved security belt loop system is highlighted on the inside to secure the shirt to trousers
•Thumb loops for added security
•Waterproof overjacket can be purchased separately and can be easily stored in the back pocket.
•Machine Washable garment – remove armor before washing. Always read the wash care labels
Protection & Safety
•Low profile Shoulder and elbows – EN 1621-2 Level 2
•Full CE-approved Back protector – EN 1621 -2 Level 2
•CE approved Class AA garment under the CE standard EN1709
Klim Induction Jacket
Price:Up to $430
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
With such success on their first model, Klim’s decided to redesign the Induction Jacket for even better airflow to keep you comfortable on the hottest of days. At the same time, they’ve revisited their the jacket's protective properties to make them more comfortable and flexible.
See our full Klim Induction jacket review.
See our full Klim Induction jacket review.
Key Specs
•Karbonite™ industrial grade high-strength mesh
•500D Cordura® overlays on shoulders & elbows
•500D Cordura® bottom hem, cuffs and high wear areas
•3M™ Scotchlite™ reflective material
•Biomotion recognition
•YKK® zippers
•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
Protection & Safety
•Karbonite™ industrial grade high-strength mesh
•500D Cordura® overlays on shoulders & elbows
•500D Cordura® bottom hem, cuffs and high wear areas
•D3O® CE level 1 vented armor in elbows and shoulders
•D3O® Viper CE level 1 back pad
•CE AA rating certified to EN 17092-3
Fly Racing Off Grid Jacket
Why?
Windproof, waterproof, breathable, and with 360-degree high-visibility reflective panels - what more could you ask for? The Fly Racing Off-Grid Jacket is the swiss army knife of off-road riding jackets.
A 7-point ventilation system works hard to keep your body cool as you ride, while the included CE level 1 armor keeps you protected. Unlike most jackets, the Fly Racing Off-Grid jacket includes a back protector in your purchase!
Key Specs
•Hydraguard Pro - Weatherproof technology
•Windproof, waterproof, breathable
•Waterproof, windproof under helmet-hood
•Arm volume adjusters secure armor and provide optimum fit
•7-point ventilation system
•YKK® zippers throughout
•Zipper pulls for ease of use with gloves 8” attachment zipper connects to pant
•Waterproof pocket and vent zippers
•Hook and loop adjustable cuff
•D-ring waist adjusters for customized fit
Protection & Safety
•High abrasion fabric in critical wear areas
•360° high-visibility reflective panels
•SAS-Tec CE Level 1 removable shoulder/elbow armor
•Removable CE Level 1 back armor
Frequently Asked Questions About Off-Road Jackets
What makes an off-road jacket different from a street/on-road jacket?
Off-road jackets are designed from the outset to handle the rigors of dirt, trail, and general off-road riding. They are typically extremely lightweight, have superb ventilation, and can resist many minor impacts, such as tree branches as you do an enduro run through a forest. Street jackets, on the other hand, are designed mostly to protect against flying debris and sliding/impacts related to coming off your bike.
Can I use my off-road jacket for on-road riding safely?
If your jacket has included armor that is at least CE Level 1 rated and an abrasion rating greater than 450D, then it should be safe to use on road. The most commonly asked question right after that answer is why, and the reason is so you can ride your dual sport or ADV to the off-road area, go off-roading, and then ride it back home, without needing a bike trailer or using another vehicle to get the bike there.
What materials are commonly used in off-road jackets?
Many off-road jackets use a variation of polyester, nylon, or reinforced cotton. Some specific materials include spandura, cordura, rip-stop nylon, polyester-wrapped nylon mesh, and the like. These materials are used mostly to provide decent abrasion and impact protection, while also allowing a lot of airflow as well as stretching more than standard street motorcycle gear to allow for standing on pegs, riding in motocross/enduro, and the like.
Do off-road jackets come with built in armor?
Not necessarily. Some off-road jackets are specifically meant to be worn over armor, while other jackets have built in armor. There really is no standard or true regulation for off-road jackets, as they come in all shapes and sizes.
Some jackets here look like ADV jackets, can I use my off-road jacket for ADV riding?
While they may look similar, ADV jackets and off-road jackets have some important differences. ADV jackets are usually multi-layered and designed to be resistant to all types of weather, as well as be puncture resistant to prevent injuries from a fall on rocks or a thorny plant. An off-road jacket may be waterproof, even weather-proof, but they are not multi-layered and not designed with anti-penetration in mind.
For the jackets listed as “worn over armor,” does that mean I need to buy another jacket or armor?
Something that is listed to be worn over armor is commonly a motocross shirt or an enduro jacket. These jackets do not come with armor built-in as the assumption is that you will be wearing full regulation armor for those types of competition, such as an armored vest, back protector, elbow pads, and the like. If you do buy an off-road jacket that has that label, but do not have the armor, you will need to buy the torso armor, elbow armor, helmet brace, and the like.
What To Look For In an Off-Road Jacket
Off-road and trail jackets are quite often not the primary source of rider protection, unlike almost every other style of riding. Instead, jackets in this segment are more for weather protection, additional abrasion and impact resistance, or to add to and enhance protective garments worn underneath.
Also, don’t forget that off-roading also requires other specialist equipment, such as dedicated helmets, boots, protective pants, and of course, real dirt biker gloves!
Dirt & Off-Road Jacket Sizing Guide
Most, if not all, dirt and off-road level gear has a decently tight fit, as the objective is to keep any armor in the jacket in place. Some jackets, especially enduro jackets, will have a slightly looser fit, to allow for extra layers underneath and to allow the rider to control the bike both while standing and while sitting. Rather than being heavyweight leather jackets, off-road gear tends to be lighter and often features mesh and other breathable materials.
As always, if you can visit a local powersports gear store and try on a few jackets to get an idea of how they fit, first-hand experience is always best. If not, consider ordering one size up from the recommended fit for European branded jackets, as they are generally tighter fitting.
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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