Best mesh motorcycle jackets

We tend not to get that many heatwaves in the UK, but when we do they can be pretty extreme. That said, it doesn’t take much of a climb in the mercury for protective motorcycle clothing to become cumbersome, hot and sweaty. While you may have lighter weight clothing for the summer months or garments with lots of venting in them, they can still become stifling on hot rides - which is when a mesh motorcycle jacket can be a game changer.

Mesh clothing tends to use solid material in key impact and abrasion areas – the outside of arms, shoulders, upper back – and mesh that is transparent to air in non-key areas, such as the insides of arms, the area below the arms and the front of the jacket. You might only need it for a couple of weeks of the year but once you’ve tried it, you’ll realise that the difference it can make over those rides is so profound, that a mesh motorcycle jacket is worth the investment for future summers.

Related: Best summer motorbike gloves

Of course, if masses of cooling air can get in, then so can water so you can’t expect mesh clothing to be waterproof. You may want to take some waterproofs with you just in case – unless the garment in questions is a multi-layer one in which case, you may already have a waterproof layer to hand.

Here is a selection of mesh motorcycle jackets that will help you stay cool in summer.

It comes with CE-approved armour in the shoulders, elbows and forearms with a foam back protector, though this can be upgraded. There is also a zip to join it to the matching mesh trousers.

CE rating: N/A

Armour rating: L1

"In practise this means you can wear it without fear of a summer downpour, and even consider extending the season you wear it into the warmer weeks of spring and autumn.

"The HD polyester construction offers good abrasion resistance without being still and heavy to wear, while three colourways range from neutral silver and blue, off-road suitable green and (my favourite) grey camo.

"Whichever you end up with, you'll get a short, sporty cut and precurved arms that enable a more aggressive riding position without excess material bunching up."

CE rating: AA

Armour rating: L1

Made from polyester, the key areas are traditional fabric with around a third of the jacket made from perforated, air-tex style material, so it’s perfect for summer rides. It has a CE approved A-rating and comes fitted with CE approved protectors at the shoulders and elbows, with space for a back protector.

The mandarin style collar is soft lined and comfortable and there are nice touches with adjusters at the hip and on the sleeves, which ensure a snug fit. A couple of zipped external pockets are large enough for keys, and an internal pocket will hold my mobile phone. I’ve opted for the black and grey version, that has subtle flashes of pink, not to my taste but it’s brighter than the black option. I wear a size 14 and it’s true to size.

CE rating: A

Armour rating: L1

It has two hand-warmer pockets and a rear pocket and zipped and Velcro-fastening cuffs. The matching trousers also feature large mesh panels on the front of the thighs and shins and have the cool trick of the lower leg zipping off to turn them into shorts for use off the bike.

CE rating: A

Armour rating: L1

This Soro version, though, is far less expensive without the waterproofing option. A longer, touring-style jacket with mesh panels and Level-2 armour in the shoulders and elbows and a pocket for an optional L2 back protector, it can also be paired with Dane’s Fano waterproof jacket to offer protection from the elements, though this is available separately.

CE rating: Unknown

Armour rating: L2

It is intended to be worn on its own or under a hoodie or an outer jacket and provide protection itself rather than rely on another garment. I’ve tried this and it is a seriously impressive bit of kit.

Read our full review of the Knox Urbane Pro Mk2 here

CE rating: AA

Armour rating: L1, L2 (back protector)

Not only does it offer exceptional safety and cooling, it also comes with a removable windproof lining to help keep you warm on chillier rides and has Level-1 armour in the shoulders and elbows.

CE rating: AA

Armour rating: L1

It has two front and a Napoleon pocket as well as a poacher’s pocket on the back and will accept T-Ur’s drink bladder system. It also comes with a waterproof, windproof and thermal liner that can be fitted for colder or wet rides then removed when the temperature goes up.

Its spec is also impressive; CE AA rated and it comes with Level-2 D3O armour in the shoulders and elbows and there is a pocket for the D3O L2 back protector.

CE rating: AA

Armour rating: L2

The arms are pre-curved for a comfortable fit and it features detailing on the upper arms that includes reflective accents. It comes with D3O armour in the shoulders, elbows, and in the back.

CE rating: A

Armour rating: L1

CE rating: A

Armour rating: L1

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