The great debate: Leather or Cordura motorcycle jackets?

If you spend any time around bikers in the UK, you will eventually hear the big argument. Some swear by the classic look of leather motorcycle jackets that have been around since the dawn of motorcycling. Others prefer modern textile gear. When you are looking for your next bit of kit, it can be hard to know where to put your money.

Both materials have their fans, and both will keep you safe if things go wrong. However, they do different jobs. Whether you are commuting through London rain or hitting the twisty roads on a sunny Sunday, your choice of jacket changes how much you enjoy the ride.

In this blog, we will look at why Cordura motorcycle jackets have become so popular and how they stack up against traditional leather.

Why leather is the old school favourite

Leather is the original protective gear. There is a reason why professional racers still wear full suits on the track. When it comes to sliding down the tarmac at high speeds, many believe leather motorcycle jackets are the best because of their natural abrasion resistance. It is tough, it stays in place, and it fits like a second skin once you have worn it in.

But leather has its downsides, especially for those of us living in the UK. First, it is heavy. If you are walking around a bike meet or heading into the office, you really feel the weight. Second, it is not great in the rain. Once leather gets soaked, it stays wet for ages, becomes even heavier, and can feel freezing cold.

The rise of Cordura motorcycle jackets

Textile gear has come a long way over the years. Years ago, it was seen as the cheap option that didn’t offer much protection. That is not the case anymore. Brands now use high-strength materials like Cordura, which is a specific type of nylon weave designed to be incredibly tough.

Most riders today choose Cordura motorcycle jackets because they are just more practical for everyday life. They are lighter, they offer more pockets, and they usually come with built-in waterproofing. For a commuter or a touring rider, these things matter just as much as the safety ratings.

How do they handle the UK weather?

We all know the British weather is unpredictable. You can start your journey in bright sunshine and end it in a downpour. This is where the difference between materials really shows.

Staying dry

Leather is naturally porous. Even with a waterproof spray, water eventually finds its way through the seams or the zip. Once it is wet, it takes a long time to dry out. On the other hand, most textile jackets feature a waterproof layer. The Texpeed jacket, for example, uses a Reissa membrane. This keeps the rain out while still letting your skin breathe so you don't get all sweaty.

Keeping warm

Leather is a great windbreaker, but it doesn't have much insulation. If you ride in the winter, you have to layer up underneath, which can feel bulky and uncomfortable. Many Cordura motorcycle jackets come with a removable thermal lining. You can zip it in when it’s 2°C in February and take it out when the sun finally appears in July.

Safety and protection: What keeps you safe?

Safety is the main reason we wear these jackets. You want to know that if you fall off, the jacket will do its job.

Abrasion resistance

As we mentioned, leather is king here. It can handle a long slide without tearing. However, high-quality Cordura (like the 600D fabric used in Texpeed gear) is designed to handle the types of slides you might experience on normal roads. It is more than enough for city riding and weekend trips.

Armour and impact

Whether you choose leather motorcycle jackets or textile ones, the armour inside is what protects your bones. Most modern jackets come with CE-approved protectors in the elbows and shoulders. The Texpeed Cordura jacket also includes back protection, which is a must-have. A big benefit of textile is that the armour often stays in a more comfortable position because the fabric is more flexible.

Comfort and fit on the bike

If your jacket is uncomfortable, it distracts you from the road.

Leather motorcycle jackets need a "break-in" period. They can feel stiff and tight for the first few weeks. If you buy one that fits perfectly over a T-shirt, it might be too tight to wear over a jumper.

Cordura motorcycle jackets are usually comfortable right away. They often have adjustment straps on the waist and arms. This means you can tighten the jacket so the armour stays snug against your body, but loosen it if you’re wearing extra layers. The Texpeed version even has soft fabric around the collar to stop it from rubbing against your neck on long rides.

 Practicality for the everyday rider

Think about what you do when you are not actually riding. Do you need to carry your phone, wallet, and keys? Do you need to be seen in the dark?

• Pockets: Textile jackets almost always have more pockets. You get internal pockets for your phone and big external ones that are easy to open with gloves on.

• Visibility: Leather is usually black. While it looks cool, it isn't great for being seen by car drivers at night. Most textile jackets have reflective strips, like 3M Scotchlite, built into the design.

• Cleaning: If a leather jacket gets covered in bugs and road salt, you have to use special cleaners and conditioners. With a Cordura jacket, you can often just wipe it down with a damp cloth. Some even have removable liners that you can pop in the wash.

Looking at the cost

For many of us, price is a big factor. A good leather jacket is an investment. It can cost hundreds of pounds. While it might last twenty years, not everyone has that kind of money to spend upfront.

Cordura motorcycle jackets are generally much more affordable. You can get a high-spec jacket with waterproofing, thermal liners, and full armour for a fraction of the price of a mid-range leather one. This makes them a great choice for new riders who have already spent a lot of money on their bike and insurance.

Why the Texpeed Cordura jacket is a solid choice