Many dirt bikes retire to the garage when winter weather hits but those who don't let the cold get in the way of their passion simply brave the elements and enjoy the ride.
But they cheat, in a way you could say, because just as most people don't leave the house without a coat when the mercury drops, a dirt bike jacket becomes must-wear riding gear once shorts-weather says so long for the year.
Just so we don't have a misunderstanding - a dirt bike jacket does not cover your motorcycle. Wearing a dirt bike jacket may sound cumbersome at first but just like all the other riding gear you wear, these practically tailor-made riding jackets work with you and not only keep you warm but have additional assets that help enhance the overall ride. Most riders wear a dirt bike jacket to deflect cold weather and repel moisture while fully utilizing the array of external and internal pockets that hold snacks, fluids, phone, small tools, and wallet, among other things usually brought on off-road rides.
However, if you ride only tracks and skip the trails we'll save you time - you can probably move on to another excellently written article like this one: From the Track to the Trails on Your Dirt Bike. But before you leave, though not recommended during the race, a Motocross jacket keeps you warm during practice and allows you to get some laps in without focusing on the chilly weather. So, don't dismiss one just yet.
Wait, so what's the difference? A dirt bike jacket is a Motocross Jacket and a Motocross Jacket is a dirt bike jacket. Different strokes for different folks as they say. Or maybe it's more the you say potato I say poh-tah-toe thing.
At the very least, read on to check out some of the best dirt bike jackets that handle cold weather, wet weather and even summer weather. Say what?
Dirt Bike Jackets
Fox Racing Legion Jacket
A lightweight all-around riding jacket, the Fox Racing Legion Jacket has a removable sleeve system so you can cool off after warming up without going frigid. Plenty of zippered vents allow you to control the airflow through the jacket and turn on/off the natural air-conditioning. Choose from the regular Legion, the Downpour with a fully waterproof but breathable membrane or the Softshell which stands up to the wind and cold.
Other features include:
- Mesh zipper pockets at waist.
- Hook-and-loop closure on wrists.
- Soft collar for increased comfort.
- Right and left side hem cinch with barrel to adjust.
- Drop tail design for increased coverage.
Klim Adventure Rally Air Jacket
This jacket might costs as much as a new car from 1977 but you get what you pay for and you get so much more with the Klim Adventure Rally Jacket. A great all-season riding jacket, the ventilation offers excellent breathability while providing optimum protection from impacts while keeping you warm when the shade grows long.
Other features include:
- Heavy duty DuPont Kevlar mesh construction with amazing tear and abrasion resistance.
- D30 Xergo shoulder and elbow pieces.
- D30 Viper Pro - Level 2 back piece.
- Eight external pockets; two internal pockets; one hidden pocket.
- Moisture-wicking mesh internal liner.
Fly Racing Patrol Jacket
The perfect all-around dirt bike jacket that provides a lightweight, breathable shell construction that acts as a wind breaker and water resistance barrier to keep you warm and dry. The Fly Racing Patrol Jacket also converts into a vest so you can cool off in necessary without losing all the warmth.
Other features include:
- Four front pockets that are easily accessible and one sleeve pocket.
- Fleece-lined interior for added comfort.
- Adjustable Velcro brand hook-and-loop wrist cuff closures.
- Shock cord waist band helps keep jacket in place.
- Standard: not too slim, not too loose.
Leatt GPX 4.5 X-Flow Jacket
Ideal for summer weather, the Leatt GPX 4.5 X-Flow Jacket has super ventilation by using panels of X-Flow mesh along with removable sleeves. Additionally, the jacket features an internal bladder suspension system allowing you to quickly install a hydration pack up to three liters that helps keep you going and going and going.
Other features include:
- Six pockets including a water-resistant chest pocket.
- Tailored cut to ride with or without body armor.
- Neck collar that works with or without a neck brace.
- Multiple-row reinforced stitching.
- Brush Guard fabric protection over elbows.
FXR Off-Road Vest
If the idea of wearing heavy sleeves while riding a dirt bike sounds more akin to donning a three-piece suit while scuba diving, then say hello to the FXR Off-Road Vest. You get wind and water resistance in a four-way stretch shell that fully breaths.
Other features include:
- Durable YKK zippers at front.
- Hand pockets and large back pouch pocket.
- Side mesh inserts.
- Binding at armhole and bottom hem.
MotoSport carries an assortment of dirt bike jackets so if none of these fit the bill then check out our entire selection where you can narrow your choices by brand, material and waterproofing properties.