Wear This, Not That: Leather Jacket

Looks like a “motorcycle jacket”. Feels like one, is this good enough to wear on your motorcycle?I’m a sucker for a cool looking motorcycle jacket just like the next person. But, I value my body much more than that. The fact is this jacket is NOT good enough for riding on the front (or back for that matter) of a motorcycle. Here’s why: Nordstroms.com, $398Anything can be labeled as motorcycle gear. Anything. I can make a jacket today and call it a motorcycle jacket without anyone enforcing standards or minimum safety requirements in order to sell it to you.That’s the problem with all of this casual motorcycle inspired gear. It has NOTHING to do with you falling off your motorcycle, pure and simple. It’s not about racing, it’s not about touring thousands of miles, it’s all about you separating from you bike. If you’re in denial about that, then that’s a completely different issue. But the fact is, you could very well fall off and probably not because you did anything wrong. That’s why I wear all this stuff, because I have no idea what could happen to me.So what’s a nice alternative? For $30 more, the REV’IT Roamer Jacket is a much safer, stronger alternative. Extras like body armor, abrasion resistant leather, precurved arms (more comfort in riding position) and a removable thermal liner are included. The seams are also constructed in such a way that the jacket will stay together and hold its structure in case something happens. A LOT of thought, time and money has been spent to provide something that will work in case you are separated from your motorcycle. That’s it’s primary job.Along with all these features, you have a beautifully fit jacket that will look great on or off the bike. Of course, its not as light and thin as the casual Nordstrom option, so no, it’s not going to fit or feel exactly the same. The Roamer is ideal for Fall, Spring and mild winters (California, Florida, etc.). The leather is softer, and more forgiving so you don’t have to spend as much time breaking it in. I like the Roamer because it’s a little more relaxed than it’s sportier counterparts.