[snowkloud]

I'm a new rider. I have a decent Kawasaki LTD K1000, 1982.
I'm looking for jacket information. I'm not a huge fan of leather because of the weight also it looks like the textile jackets have more protection and visibility. However past that I get lost in options. I live in Virginia can anyone give some insight on 1st jacket selection? What options should I select in a jacket and which ones are just fluff from the sales pitches?

[stevenh]

I used to think leather was for show, but it's great for blocking wind and will be like a first layer of skin to scrape off in the event of hitting pavement. I'm sure some with more years and miles will chime in soon.

[voodoochild]

I think leather is your best bet, but that's just my opinion. I have heard the textile jackets are good though, but don't have any personal experience with them.

[DJJK]

I Live In Ma...leather Is Best For Riding...i Use A Biker Jacket It Keeps The Wind Out And Will Protect U In Case Of A Spill..
I Also Wear Just A Leather Vest On Warm Days Does Just Fine

[skull2007]

i recommend leather. it's the most protective, lasts forever, has pasted the test of time with flying colors many times over, and is very rewarding when it comes to maintaince. the relationship you'll have with leather is very simular to the one you'll have with your bike; you take care of it, it takes care of you. besides... leather and bikes just go together, kinda of like birds and feathers. oh. . . wool is relly great too

[Slimjim]

I like leather also, especially on cold days. The fit of the jacket is important to me. I like the HD jackets because they are cut to fit well while riding. The sleeves are longer and don't ride up when your arms are stretched out to your bars. I like the jacket to stay down and not ride up my back. Mine also has dual zippers where you can unzip the lower part when your setting on the bike. This keeps it down over your hips and is much more comfortable to me. My .02.

[maxpower_hd]

The only textile type I would recommend would be the kind with Kevlar in them and they can be quite expensive. Leather is my choice too. The heavier the better. And it isn't LIKE an extra layer of skin protection, it IS an extra layer of protection. I've seen the pavement before and was very glad I was wearing my leather.

If you are short on cash, you may be able to find one at a consignment shop or on craigslist. Some of the local leather shops have pretty decent prices too. Just shop around.

[skull2007]

you may want to try leatherup.com, not top of the line but a good deal for the money. they also have the composite stuff too

[bikerjim1]

Yep,
Leather is my choice also. I have both leather and textile. During the hotter months, a textile is great for fending off the sun's heat, but the rest of the year it's leather or nothing. There's a great company out there that will custom make you a leather jacket. Fox Creek leathers. check 'em out on the web. Prices aren't bad either.

[Red Rider]

Obviously, there are a lot of leather fans nere - me included. My Dad, refusing to wear leather 'cuz the "biker" association, wears one of those internal Kevlar armor things and swears by it. Got it from a BMW place. Probably cost as much as his bike, but if ya don't like leather.......

[chucktx]

i have been riding since 1967, have ridden in all types of weather including snow.....ya cant beat leather. there are different weights of leather also. it now comes in colors and styles. have fun and ride easy....

[mwelych]

Just think about this one... Cows wear that stuff year round... They must know something... Leather!!!

[Ultra Al]

Leather definitely. Oil it down good and it is great for wind and even some rain. I have a Schot and an old CCI Bullskin made by Hein Gerike. A good leather jacket will last you a lifetime.