Leather vs Denim Biker Vests: Which One Offers the Best Protection?

Whether you are travelling for a purpose or cruising for fun, bike gear definitely plays a part in our style and safety. The two iconic Motorcycle Vest looks are Denim Vests and Leather Vests. They both have their own individual reasons for being great, but which one will offer you the best protection for an unwanted mishap? Let's find out!

Protection is not just about help in a fall; it also includes protection from the weather and elements from the road. Both Denim and Leather vests rock the Biker world but one is a true leader in all aspects of protection in riding. Here is a quick read on Leather and Denim and how they both do with Safety, Style, Comfort and Durability.

Protection Comparison: Leather vs. Denim

A protective Motorcycle Vest should be able to withstand abrasions and give you some form of protection from the elements. How do Denim and Leather compare to each other? 

Leather Motorcycle Vests:

Straight off the bat, Leather is the best material for the 2 wheeled world. Motorcyclists can be assured that when they are riding with Leather, they are riding with durability, abrasion resistance and ultimate protection. Leather is strong enough to survive falls, slides and any debris from the road or wind, will bounce right off a Leather Vest. A Leather Vest with reinforced stitching is even stronger and will stay intact to keep you intact. 

Denim Motorcycle Vests:

Denim still offers protection and will be comfortable from the first wear. But the protection is minimal compared to a Leather Vest. Depending on the extent of the elements and from a fall, a Denim Vest will provide protection but will tear easy if put under any trauma. If safety and protection are at the top of your list and you like to ride higher speeds, leave the Denim at home for your Motorcycle rides.

Winner: Leather. Although Denim is comfortable and looks awesome on bikes, they lack in durability and protection. For the best protection, Leather Vests will always be in front.

A Typical Badass Vest from RhinoLeather, The Outlaw:

Durability and Longevity

Durability is about having strength and being able to handle not only falls, but harsh elements when riding. It should also be tough enough to go for years. 

Leather Motorcycle Vests:

When maintained properly, leather will last for years and are happy to take a beating. The cold, the hot, the dry, the wet...the strength of a Leather Vest will keep it going even with scars. The more you wear a Leather Vest, the more it molds to you, and it won't lose its shape. If you want a lasting companion that doesn't complain and keeps coming back for more, then a Leather Vest is 100 percent your piece. 

Denim Motorcycle Vests:

Denim still is a tough material but does not have near as much as the lasting strength as leather. When a Denim Motorcycle vest is regularly worn out on the road in all the elements such as the sun and wind, Denim will fade and will be prone to tearing. If you won't use the vest extensively and durability isn't an issue, then a Denim Vest should be ok.

Winner: Leather. Leather is the best choice for durability and longevity. It is resilient and lasts for years. 

Comfort & Flexibility

A comfortable ride makes for a better ride, and what you wear can make all the difference in how you feel. Here is a breakdown on what is great for movement and flexibility. 

Leather Motorcycle Vests:

A new Leather vest will feel a little stiff, but once Leather has been worn a few times, it becomes quite flexible and molds to your body making it like a second skin. Fortunately, some Leather Vests also come with breathable materials and features that help with changing temperatures. Thats one comfy piece of clothing. 

Denim Motorcycle Vests:

In short term, Denim is in front for comfort. From the first moment you put a Denim vest on, it will feel more flexible, breathable and lightweight. However, Denim won't hold its shape as long as Leather and with a lot of wear, it can feel it has lost its fit that it used to have. 

RhinoLeathers Atlas Denim vest looks good on or off the bike and comes in Black and Blue: 

Winner: Leather. For long term comfort and flexibility, Leather will out do the rest. 

Style & Biker Culture

Motorcycle vests make up the vision of a true Biker. For many years, the vest has shown power, freedom and rebellion. Whatever your style is, there will be a vest that matches who you are and where you are going.

Leather Motorcycle Vests:

A timeless classic that will live on. Leather is part of Motorcycle Culture. The Classic styles are still around, and new styles keep emerging but still have the strength and the look to match a true biker. If you like protection with attitude and live to ride, then Leather is your thing. 

RhinoLeathers Tactical Vest, not your average biker look but still sexy: 

Denim Motorcycle Vests:

Still rebellious and showing attitude, Denim vests are a more casual and tough look that will also live on. Patches are popular on Denim Vests which can show true Brotherhood. They are stylish but can lack the edge that Leather does. 

Winner: Leather.You think of Biker, you think of tough leather looks. That is just how it is. Sorry Denim lovers, but Leather has won again. 

Which One is Better for Protection?

Hands down, its Leather. Its durable and strong which is what Denim lacks in the long term. If you love looking damn good on your bike and don't want to compromise safety, then Leather is the real deal. 

RhinoLeather has strong leather vests to hopefully scratch that itch. In store, or online- check us out.