Every rider has been there. You're cruising down the highway, the sky looks a little darker than before, and then; bam! — rain starts pouring. If you don’t have the right gear, you’re stuck with a soggy jacket, wet clothes, and a ride that suddenly feels ten times longer.
That’s why having a solid waterproof touring motorcycle jacket isn’t just nice to have — it’s a must have. The right jacket keeps you dry, comfortable, and focused on the road instead of worrying about the weather. Let’s break down what makes a great waterproof jacket, look at some of the best ones out there, and help you find the right fit for your riding style.
What Makes a Touring Jacket Truly Waterproof?
A lot of jackets claim to be waterproof, but not all of them will actually keep you dry when the weather turns bad. Some are just water-resistant, meaning they’ll hold up in light rain but won’t do much when you’re riding through a downpour. So, what separates a truly waterproof touring motorcycle jacket from one that just shrugs off a drizzle?
1. The Right Waterproof Fabric
The material of your jacket is the first line of defense against rain. High-quality waterproof fabrics like Gore-Tex, D-Dry, and Hydratex are designed to keep water out while letting sweat and body heat escape. This balance is important — without it, you’ll feel like you’re wearing a trash bag, soaked from the inside out. Gore-Tex, for example, uses a membrane with microscopic pores small enough to block water droplets but large enough to let moisture vapor escape. That’s why it’s a favorite for riders who need serious weather protection.
2. Fully Sealed Seams & Waterproof Zippers
Water doesn’t just hit your jacket and disappear — it tries to find any weak spot to seep through. Stitching and zippers are common trouble areas. A good waterproof jacket has sealed or taped seams to block water from creeping in. The best ones also have waterproof or storm-flap-covered zippers, preventing rain from sneaking through those small openings. If these details are missing, even the best fabric won’t save you from getting wet.
3. Proper Ventilation for All-Weather Comfort
A jacket that blocks rain but traps heat isn’t great for long rides. Ventilation is key, especially when riding through varying temperatures. Zippered vents and breathable panels let fresh air flow in when you need it, so you don’t overheat. Some jackets even have removable liners, letting you adjust based on the season. This kind of flexibility is what makes a waterproof touring motorcycle jacket worth the investment.
4. A Fit That Locks Out the Elements
Wind and rain can find their way in through loose cuffs, wide collars, or gaps at the waist. That’s why touring jackets often come with adjustable cuffs, waist straps, and high collars — they help seal off these entry points. A well-fitted jacket should feel snug but not restrictive, allowing you to move freely while keeping water and wind from creeping in.
5. Waterproofing Without Sacrificing Protection
Staying dry is important, but safety should always come first. A solid touring jacket combines waterproofing with impact protection, usually with CE-rated armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back. Materials like reinforced textile or leather provide abrasion resistance in case of a slide. Some jackets also include reflective panels to keep you visible in rainy, low-light conditions.
If you’re serious about riding in all weather conditions, a proper waterproof touring motorcycle jacket isn’t just an accessory — it’s a necessity. The right one will keep you dry, comfortable, and protected no matter where the road takes you.
Top 5 Waterproof Touring Motorcycle Jackets for All-Weather Riding
Riding through unpredictable weather means you need a jacket that does more than just look good — it has to keep you dry, comfortable, and protected. After digging through Team Motorcycle’s lineup, we found five waterproof touring motorcycle jackets that offer the best mix of weather resistance, durability, and safety. Here are the top picks:
Tour Master Mariner Laminated Waterproof Motorcycle Jacket
The Tour Master Mariner Laminated Waterproof Jacket is built for riders who tackle all kinds of weather. Its waterproof shell keeps rain out while still letting air flow, so you don’t feel like you’re wrapped in plastic.
The tough outer fabric holds up against scrapes, and the sealed seams stop water from sneaking in. For colder rides, there’s a zip-out thermal liner, and when it gets warm, oversized vents keep things cool. The fit is adjustable for comfort, and reflective details help you stay visible at night. Whether it's rain, cold, or heat, this jacket's got you covered.
Vance Black Waterproof Lightweight Zipper Front Soft Shell Jacket
The Vance Black Waterproof Soft Shell Jacket is a lightweight, all-season option for riders who want comfort without bulk. Its soft shell material keeps rain out while staying breathable, so you won’t feel stuffy on longer rides.
The full-zip front and stand-up collar block wind and cold, while adjustable cuffs let you customize the fit. With zippered pockets for easy storage, this jacket is practical for everyday riding, whether you're commuting or hitting the open road. Simple, effective, and ready for any weather.
Cortech Women's Aero-Tec 2.0 Motorcycle Jacket
The Cortech Women's Aero-Tec 2.0 Jacket is built for all-season riding with a waterproof, breathable liner that keeps rain out while letting air flow. The durable shell stands up to scrapes, and impact-tested armor at the shoulders, elbows, and back adds protection. Pre-curved sleeves and stretch panels make long rides more comfortable, while adjustable straps let you tweak the fit.
With waterproof pockets for your phone and reflective details for visibility, this jacket is ready for any weather, whether you're commuting or hitting the highway.
Scorpion Optima Jacket
The Scorpion Optima Jacket is made for all-weather riding, keeping you dry with a fully waterproof outer shell and sealed seams. When the temperature rises, zippered vents let in fresh air without letting water sneak in. It’s got built-in armor for protection, reflective details for visibility, and a cozy thermal liner for colder rides.
Whether you're cruising through summer heat or caught in a downpour, this jacket is your go to option.
Vance Velocity 3-Season Mesh Motorcycle Jacket with CE Armor
The Vance Velocity 3-Season Jacket is built for year-round riding, keeping you cool in the heat and warm when it’s chilly. Mesh panels let air flow on hot days, while the removable thermal liner adds warmth when needed. It’s water-resistant for light rain, and reflective details help you stay visible at night. With built-in armor at the elbows and shoulders, also a back protector pocket, this jacket gives you comfort and protection no matter the season.
A good waterproof touring motorcycle jacket isn’t just about blocking rain — it’s about staying comfortable, protected, and ready for whatever the road throws at you. Whether you’re an experienced long-distance rider or just getting into touring, these jackets offer reliable waterproofing, ventilation, and safety to keep you going in any weather.
How to Pick the Right Waterproof Jacket for Your Ride
Not all waterproof motorcycle jackets are the same, and what works for one rider might not work for another. The key is figuring out what you actually need based on where you ride, how you ride, and what you're willing to spend. Let’s break it down.
Where You Ride
Weather plays a huge role in choosing the right jacket. If you’re in a place like Seattle or Portland, where rain is a regular part of life, you’ll want full waterproofing — not just a water-resistant shell. Look for a jacket with a sealed membrane, like Gore-Tex or Drystar, to keep rain out while still allowing your body to breathe.
On the other hand, if you live somewhere like California or Texas, where rain is more of an occasional surprise than an everyday event, you might be better off with a breathable jacket with a removable waterproof liner. That way, you can adjust your gear depending on the weather without sweating through a rainproof shell when it’s dry.
Your Riding Style
Different types of riders need different features. If you’re an adventure rider, your jacket needs to be tough, with reinforced impact zones and plenty of pockets for storage. A built-in hood or storm flap is a good idea if you’re dealing with unexpected downpours on long trips.
Commuters, though, need something lighter and more flexible — a jacket that’s easy to take on and off, fits over work clothes, and still offers waterproofing for rainy mornings. Some touring jackets come with zip-out thermal liners, which help if you ride year-round and need warmth in winter but airflow in summer.
Budget vs. Features
Price matters, but a cheap jacket usually means cheap waterproofing. A low-end jacket might keep you dry for a few rides, but over time, the seams can leak, or the waterproof coating might wear off.
If you ride often and want something that lasts, investing in a well-made jacket will save you money in the long run. Look for taped seams, quality zippers, and a waterproof rating (many brands now list their jackets' waterproofing levels in millimeters — 10,000mm or higher is good).
That said, you don’t have to spend a fortune. Some mid-range jackets offer solid protection without going overboard on price. Just make sure it actually fits your needs instead of buying based on looks alone.
New Trends in Waterproof Motorcycle Jackets
Motorcycle gear is evolving fast, and waterproof jackets are no exception. Here are some of the latest innovations:
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Self-Healing Fabrics – Some new jackets use advanced materials that can repair small rips or cuts on their own. This means you don’t have to toss your gear after one minor tear, making them last longer.
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Smart Airbags – High-tech jackets now come with built-in airbags that deploy automatically if you crash. Some connect to sensors on your bike, while others work independently. This kind of tech used to be exclusive to racers, but it's becoming more common for everyday riders.
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Eco-Friendly Waterproofing – Many brands are moving away from harsh chemicals and switching to sustainable waterproof coatings that are safer for the environment. If you’re looking for a jacket that’s tough on rain but easy on the planet, keep an eye out for PFC-free waterproofing.
Ride Dry, Ride Safe
Getting caught in the rain isn’t fun, but the right gear makes all the difference. A good waterproof touring motorcycle jacket keeps you dry, comfortable, and protected, so you can focus on the ride instead of the weather. Whether you’re riding across the country or just commuting to work, investing in the right jacket means more enjoyable rides, rain or shine.
Ready to upgrade? Check out these top picks and ride with confidence.
