Leather Riding Gear

[the Ferret]

The problem with wearing leather, and I wear it a lot, and have for 41 years when I got my first Bates leather jacket (before that it was either a denim jacket in the summer and an old green Army coat in fall and winter) is its ability to absorb water if you get caught in a rainstorm, and it's inability to dry out in a reasonable amount of time. Plus the water weight it gains. There are waterproof leathers, with the leather having been treated with something, but I've never known anyone personally that had a set.

When I tour, I resort to Textile gear with armor, from Tourmaster usually, which will shed a light rain or most of a heavy rain for a short time, but still requires that you pack rain gear if you get caught in an all day soaker or Toad Strangler as we call them.

Still, there is a special place in my heart and closet for a good leather jacket or two, despite their shortcomings. Nothing says motorcycle rider to me than a leather jacket covered in bug guts.