For years, traditional mesh jackets were the go-to for beating the heat. Now, a new player is shaking things up: smart tech summer motorcycle jackets. These jackets promise to keep you cool and add high-tech safety that could save your life. But are they worth the hype (and the price tag)? Let’s dive in.
Traditional Summer Motorcycle Jackets
Traditional summer jackets are designed with one mission: airflow. Think lightweight mesh panels, perforated leather, and vents you can zip open like windows. Brands like FirstGear and Tourmaster have perfected this art, using materials like polyester mesh and Cordura nylon to balance breathability and abrasion resistance.
Pros:
- Airflow King: At highway speeds, these jackets feel like wearing a breeze. The mesh construction lets air rush through, cooling you down fast.
- Lightweight: Most weigh under 3 pounds—perfect for avoiding shoulder fatigue on long rides.
- Affordable: You can snag a solid mesh jacket for under $300.
Cons:
- Protection Trade-offs: Mesh isn’t as abrasion-resistant as leather. Slide across asphalt at 60 mph, and you might regret prioritizing airflow over durability.
- Sweatbox in Traffic: Stop moving, and the airflow stops too. Sitting in summer traffic? Prepare to marinate in your own sweat.
Smart Tech Jackets
Alpinestars Motorcycle Jacket
Smart jackets combine crash protection with techy perks, and brands like Dainese and Alpinestars are leading the charge. Here’s what sets them apart:
1. Airbags That Deploy Faster Than You Can Say “Oh Crap”
Smart jackets use sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, and sometimes GPS) to detect accidents. If you go down, the system inflates an airbag in 20–60 milliseconds—faster than you can blink.
- Electronic vs. Tethered Systems:
- Electronic (e.g., Dainese’s D-Air): Fully autonomous, no lanyard needed. Great for low-speed tumbles where you don’t fully separate from the bike.
- Tethered (e.g., Helite’s Free-Air): Relies on a lanyard attached to your bike. Simpler design but won’t activate if you’re still clinging to the handlebars.
These jackets aren’t just about crashes. Many sync with your phone via Bluetooth, letting you tweak settings (like airbag sensitivity) through an app. Some even offer firmware updates—because yes, your jacket can get software upgrades.
You’re probably thinking, “Won’t all that tech turn my jacket into a microwave?” Surprisingly, no. Brands use strategic mesh panels and zippered vents to keep airflow decent. They’re not quite as breezy as a pure mesh jacket, but close.
What Most Riders Are Saying
Don’t take my word for it. Here’s what riders on forums and motorcycle communities are saying:
- “Saved My Collarbone”: One rider walked away from a 40-mph crash with just soreness, thanks to their Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 vest.
- “Surprisingly Cool”: Despite the tech, many say smart jackets like the Klim Ai-1 are “manageable” in 90°F heat.
Is It Worth It?
A traditional mesh jacket costs about as much as a nice dinner. A smart jacket? More like a weekend getaway. But here’s the kicker: medical bills from a crash can easily hit five figures. As one rider said, “I’d rather spend $800 on a jacket than $80,000 on surgery.”
Some brands let you buy airbag vests (like the Helite Turtle 2) separately. Wear it under your favorite mesh jacket for airflow + safety.
What’s Next for Summer Riding Gear?
Smart jackets are evolving faster than a sportbike on a straightaway. Here’s what’s coming:
- Biometric Monitoring: Jackets that track heart rate and fatigue.
- Smarter Airbags: Systems that cover hips and thighs.
- Cheaper Tech: As competition grows, prices should drop. Fingers crossed.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a traditional and smart summer jacket boils down to your priorities:
- Max Airflow + Budget: Stick with mesh.
- Safety First: Go smart. That airbag could be the difference between riding home and riding in an ambulance.
As for me? I’ve switched to a Dainese Smart Jacket for my daily commute. Sure, it’s pricier, but the peace of mind is priceless. Plus, it’s almost as breezy as my old mesh gear. Almost.
