Winter’s right around the corner which means it’s the perfect time to layer up on the body armor before jetting off on your motorbike. But if ‘bulky’ isn’t your best look and you need an all-in-one type of deal, a motorcycle armoured hoodie is your best pick.
Not only are they versatile, armored hoodies for motorcyclists also offer full coverage in a lightweight, stylish structure. Plus, they’re comfortable!
In this guide, we’ve reviewed seven of the best motorcycle armored hoodies as well as listed down a guide on how to choose the perfect one so you can keep warm while blazing against the chilly wind.
Reviewing 7 of the Best Motorcycle Armored Hoodies
1. REV’IT! Cedar Riding Motorcycle Hoodie
Premium Choice – Best Impact Protection
The best in the business, REV’IT! brought out the Cedar Riding armored riding hoodie and it quickly became a fan favorite.
Constructed out of sturdy Cordura knit and multiple armor panels at the elbow and shoulders, there’s no question why the pullover hoodie is certified CE Level 1.
To maximize convenience, the Cedar armored riding hoodie comes prepared with a back protector insert, adjustable tabs, ventilation ports, thumb loops, and pant loops along with a cuffed wrist.
Our Take:
The REV’IT! Cedar armored riding hoodie is one of the best picks for expert motorcyclists looking to invest in a durable pullover.
2. Roland Sands Jagger Motorcycle Jacket
Classic Choice – Best for All Seasons
Outfitted out of premium oiled buffalo leather, this Roland Sands Jagger Jacket is sure to impress every onlooker with its shine and the rider for its excellent abrasion protection.
The CE level 1 jacket boasts a number of features including ventilation panels in the shoulder and back gusset as well as a mesh cooling liner to enhance breathability, perfect to wear all year round.
The collar is snap-back and the sleeves are pre-curved so the Jagger armored jacket won’t be riding up at high speeds.
Our Take:
With multiple armor panels, a CE level 1 approval, and convenient features, the Roland Sands Jagger Jacket is a definite winner.
3. Alpinestars Chrome Sport Motorcycle Hoodie
Beginners Choice – Most Comfortable
A popular brand among seasoned motorcyclists, Alpinestars launched their Chrome Sport riding motorcycle hoodie and it quickly became a sensation.
Lauded for its tough outer shell, armor reinforcements on the inside and extra protectors at the shoulder and elbows, the CE level 1 motorcycle hoodie leaves no stone unturned.
Our Take:
The Alpinestars Chrome Sport hoodie has all the basic features needed to keep safe and warm on the road during winter. It is the perfect grab for beginners.
4. Street and Steel Kickstarter Moto Hoodie
Reliable Choice – Most Comfortable
Made out of poly-aramid, this Street and Steel Kickstarter Moto Hoodie is the coolest pullover in town. It is ultra-comfortable, flexible, and quite sturdy; perfect for short travels.
The CE level 2 hoodie makes every ride in the winter convenient using cuffed wrists and a knitted waistband with pant loops that prevent it from riding up.
It also comes with a flannel liner, handwarmer pockets, and reflective details for comfort.
Our Take:
Street and Steel Kickstarter Moto riding hoodie is great for cruising on windy days in the winter.
5. Merlin Hamlin Hoodie
Our Top Pick – Best Armour Coverage
With Kevlar lining 100% of the shell, the Merlin Hamlin Hoodie is bulletproof-level strong, and durable.
It features a mesh lining underneath for ventilation, shoulder armor, and CE-rated elbow armor along with ribbed cuffs and waistband so it doesn’t ride up.
The Merlin Hamlin Hoodie also maximizes comfort by adding a pant-to-jacket connection zipper.
Our Take:
With basic features maximized to offer complete convenience, the Merlin Hamlin hoodie is a steal at $159.
6. Icon Uparmor Hoodie
High-Quality Choice – Best for Night Riders
With a chassis built out of soft cotton and lined with tough 300D polyester, the Icon Uparmor riding gear offers impact protection in a pocket of comfort.
For abrasion resistance, the casual-looking hoodie also has D30 armor panels at the shoulder, elbows as well as back.
To maximize its versatility, the Icon Uparmor hoodie comes with reflective lining throughout for a nighttime run on the road.
Our Take:
The Icon Uparmor motorcycle hoodie is perfect if you need a casual armored jacket that’s not your regular hoodie but boats great features at a reasonable price tag.
7. Speed and Strength Women’s Armoured Hoodie
Value Choice – Most Stylish
One for the female riders, the Speed and Strength Cat Outta Hell hoodie has a cotton-poly frame and comes with CE-approved armor panels at the shoulders, elbows, and even the spine.
The jacket stylishly features reflective tiger stripes to maximize nighttime visibility, belt loops, and a long zipper for convenience.
Our Take:
The Speed and Strength Cat Outta Hell Women’s Armoured Hoodie is up for grabs if you need an oversized, feature-fed, and stylish jacket for riding around town.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Armoured Hoodie
Here’s all you need to consider to narrow down the perfect motorcycle armored hoodie:
Armour Material
Armored hoodies are usually made of Kevlar as it is durable, impact-protective, and weather-proof. On top of that, Kevlar motorcycle hoodies are quite flexible and lightweight which maximizes the comfort level of the road racer.
You can also find cotton-poly jackets and Cordura pullovers. They are comfortable but offer low-impact protection.
Breathability
Since armor is quite tough and bulky, it can feel a bit claustrophobic. Make sure the motorcycle armored hoodie you choose has mesh panels as well as breathable liners like cotton. This way safety isn’t compromised, comfort is enhanced and flexibility is ultimately improved.
Weather Compatible
The best quality of a motorcycle armored hoodie is its versatility. Even though they are full coverage and decked out in tough Kevlar, armored hoodies are also lightweight and comfortable. Just ensure it comes with a mesh lining for ventilation in the summer and has enough room to add an underlayer during winter.
Extra Armour
Although Kevlar covers the chest, shoulders, and tailbone in a motorcycle armoured hoodie, some also come with extra panels of armor at the elbows and spine. They may be removable or built-in. Armor panels add an extra layer of protection to highly sensitive areas, perfect for enduro riders and motocross madmen.
Convenient Features
Since you’ll be wearing the armored hoodie for quite some time on the road, it is best to maximize its versatility. To prepare for the rainy season, look for motorcycle riding hoodies with a polyester upper as it is waterproof. It also performs well as a windbreaker.
Speaking of the wind, one of the main points of contention of riders on Kevlar hoodies is that the sleeves and back ride up at high speeds. To prevent the action, look for motorcycle armored hoodies that have thumb cuffs at the wrist and strong pant loops at the waist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are motorcycle armoured hoodies worth it?
Yes, motorcycle armoured hoodies are worth the price and effort. They are one of the most versatile pieces of motorcycle gear. Not only do they keep you warm on chilly days, but they also protect against dust, rain, and harsh UV rays. Not to mention, they’re quite stylish as well.
What should you not wear on a motorcycle?
The general rule of thumb is not to wear anything that leaves your bare skin exposed. So, this rules out casual shorts and vests. It also isn’t recommended to wear Cordura denim on a motorcycle as it is rigid but doesn’t offer much impact protection. The safest option when buying motorcycle gear is to go for armored hoodies, shoes, motorcycle jackets, helmets, etc.
Are Kevlar motorcycle armors bulletproof?
Yes, some Kevlar motorcycle body armors claim to be bulletproof vests. Although it isn’t proven yet, Kevlar is considered to be one of the strongest materials available for body armor. It is five times stronger than steel but still manages to be lightweight. It is also heat-resistant and incredibly flexible.
Does motorcycle armor expire?
No, motorcycle armor does not expire. Similar to conventional clothing, body armor made for motorcyclists is also crafted out of fabric. The only difference is, the fabric is incredibly strong like Kevlar and supported by padding, armor panels as well as zippers, and velcros. It can last around 15 years.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a motocross madman, a road racer, or a cruiser simply looking for a cost-effective solution for protective motorcycle gear, a hoodie is your best asset for safety on the road. We’ve narrowed down on the finest motorcycle armored hoodies on the market so you can find one that fits you best. Don’t forget to check out the rest of our guides on motorcycle gear.
Brad Mitchell is a seasoned motorcycle enthusiast with over 16 years of riding experience. He’s spent countless hours on the open road, particularly favoring scenic routes aboard his trusted Harley-Davidson. Brad’s laid-back approach to life and riding gives him a unique perspective on motorcycle gear and safety, which he shares through his in-depth reviews and expert advice on ProtectiveGearz.
