7 Best Summer Motorcycle Jackets for UK Riders (2025 Guide)
Looking for the best summer motorcycle jacket in the UK? With rising temperatures and unpredictable rain, UK riders need a jacket that balances airflow and protection…
When (if) the sun finally shows up in the UK, there’s nothing better than getting out on the bike. But riding in summer heat—especially with stop-start traffic or long motorway stretches—can get uncomfortable fast if you’re wearing the wrong gear.
A proper summer motorcycle jacket needs to keep you cool, stay protective, and ideally handle a passing shower or five (this is the UK!). I’ve put together this guide to the best summer jackets available to UK riders in 2025, from full mesh jackets to hybrid textile options — all with CE-rated protection and solid rider reviews.
Whether you’re commuting, touring, or riding for fun, a breathable summer motorcycle jacket UK riders can trust is worth the investment.
Alpinestars T-Faster v3 Air
Best for: Sport riders who want airflow without losing protection
The Alpinestars T-Faster v3 Air is perfect for UK riders who want to stay cool without ditching safety. With large mesh panels on the chest, back, and sleeves, this jacket channels airflow brilliantly even at lower speeds — perfect for town and B-road riding.
You still get CE Level 2 armour in the shoulders and elbows, plus the option to insert a back protector. Stretch panels on the chest and arms improve comfort and reduce flapping at speed, while the aggressive styling and range of colours makes it a good match for naked bikes and sports machines.
Pros:
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Excellent ventilation through mesh zones
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CE-rated armour included
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Flexible fit, ideal for sportier bikes
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Quality construction from a top-tier brand
Cons:
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No waterproofing — carry an overjacket just in case
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Sizing runs small for some riders
RST Pro Series Ventilator-X
Best for: All-rounders who ride in mixed summer weather
If you’re looking for a true British summer jacket, the RST Pro Series Ventilator-X is as close as it gets. It combines mesh ventilation for hot days with a removable waterproof liner—ideal when the weather flips mid-ride (as it often does!).
The jacket comes with CE Level 2 armour in the shoulders, elbows and back. It also includes a chest protector too. That’s rare at this price point. Its sporty touring cut makes it comfortable for upright or leaned-forward positions, and the design isn’t too racey—so it works across most bike styles.
Pros:
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Mesh panels + removable waterproof liner = great versatility
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CE Level 2 armour all around (including back & chest)
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High build quality for the price
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Well suited to UK weather swings
Cons:
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Bulkier than pure mesh jackets
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May run warm in stop-start traffic without liner removed
Dainese Air Frame 3
Best for: Riders who want style, ventilation, and light waterproofing
The Dainese Air Frame D-Dry is a top-tier summer option for riders who value premium build quality and sharp design. Unlike full mesh jackets, it features Dainese’s proprietary D-Dry membrane, which adds water resistance while still allowing airflow via large mesh panels on the chest, arms, and back.
It’s a great jacket for UK riders who want the feel of mesh but need just a touch more weather protection. Armour-wise, it includes CE-certified composite protectors at the shoulders and elbows, and has a pocket for an optional back protector.
The fit is tailored but not overly tight, and the urban/sporty styling means it looks just as good off the bike as on it—great for café stops or commuting.
Pros:
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D-Dry waterproof liner built in
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High-end materials and finish
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Ventilated, lightweight, but still protective
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Sleek, versatile styling
Cons:
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Expensive, but you do get what you pay for
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Back protector not included by default
Oxford Spartan Air
Best for: Riders on a budget who still want airflow and CE protection
The Oxford Spartan Air is a standout pick if you’re shopping smart on a budget. With full-perforated mesh panels across the chest, back, and sleeves, it maximises top-tier airflow—ideal for hot British days. At around £80, it offers an inexpensive way to stay cool while riding.
While it includes CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow protection, there’s room to upgrade with a back protector via the jacket’s pocket. The adjustable cuffs, waist, and collar help you fine-tune the fit, and lightweight fabric keeps it comfortable for everyday use.
Pros:
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Excellent venting through full mesh panels
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Affordable (~£80), great price-to-performance ratio
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Adjustable fit for comfort and airflow
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Lightweight and easy to wear daily
Cons:
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Only CE Level 1 protection—lower than premium alternatives
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No included back protector (but there’s a pocket for it)
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Not ideal for rainy conditions
Spidi Tour Net Textile Jacket
Best for: Versatile riders who want mesh airflow with quality build
The Spidi Tour Net is a well-designed mesh-centric jacket, offering fantastic airflow across chest, back, and sleeves. Built with ripstop polyester and high-visibility piping, it’s ideal for mixing city commuting with longer summer rides.
Pros:
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Excellent mesh ventilation
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CE Level 2 shoulder & elbow armour (with pocket for back protector)
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Clip-stop connection for trousers
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Reflective details and ripstop durability
Cons:
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No waterproof lining (just mesh)
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Slightly bulkier than minimalistic mesh options
Spidi Tour Net Textile Jacket
Best for: Riders wanting airflow and modular protection layers
The Spidi Tek Net combines excellent mesh ventilation with an option to add thermal and waterproof liners (via Step‑In Wear). CE Level 1 armor (shoulders, elbows) and a pocket for back protection make it a flexible all-rounder—great for UK summer, spring, or early autumn rides.
Pros:
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Adjustable mesh airflow with clip-stop trousers fit
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Compatible with rain/thermal liners
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CE-certified armor and protective materials
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Reflective trim enhances visibility
Cons:
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Only Level 1 armor (lower protection tier)
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Bulkier with added liners
RST S-1 CE Mesh Jacket
Best for: Riders seeking lightweight, affordable full-mesh ventilation
The RST S-1 CE Mesh Jacket is a great budget mesh option loaded with features: full-perforation panels, CE-rated armor, and a removable waterproof liner for quick adaptability.
Pros:
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Full mesh panels ideal for peak summer temps
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CE Level 1 armor included
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Removable waterproof liner makes it versatile
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Affordable (~£150)—excellent value
Cons:
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May feel slightly cool at motorway speed without liner
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Armor protection is Level 1 (not 2)
Finding the perfect summer motorcycle jacket is all about striking the right balance between airflow, protection, and practicality. Whether you’re blasting through twisties on a superbike or commuting into the city, your jacket needs to keep you cool, safe, and comfortable—without sacrificing style.
If you’re after the best all-rounder, the RST Ventilator-X offers incredible versatility for UK riders with its mesh zones and waterproof liner. On the other end, if you’re ready to invest in premium protection and sleek design, the Dainese Air Frame D‑Dry is hard to beat.
For those on a tighter budget, the Oxford Spartan Air punches well above its weight, providing true summer-ready ventilation at a fraction of the cost.
Before you buy, consider:
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CE protection level (aim for Level 2 where possible)
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Whether you need waterproofing or layering options
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How it fits your riding style (sport, touring, commuting)
💡 Pro Tip: If your chosen jacket doesn’t include a back protector, it’s worth picking one up separately—some of the most affordable jackets don’t include this crucial protection by default.
Summer Motorcycle Jacket FAQs (UK)
Are mesh jackets safe enough for the road?
Yes, if they carry a CE garment rating (A, AA or AAA) and include CE armour. AA/AAA offer the best abrasion protection; always check the label.
Mesh vs perforated leather — which is cooler?
Mesh textiles move more air at town speeds and on hot days. Perforated leather flows less at low speed but offers excellent abrasion resistance.
Do I need a separate back protector?
Many jackets ship with a foam insert. Swap it for a CE Level 1 or Level 2 back protector that fits your jacket’s pocket for better protection.
Are summer jackets waterproof?
Some include a removable waterproof liner, but most mesh jackets are not waterproof. Carry a lightweight over-jacket for rain.
How should a summer jacket fit?
Snug enough that armour stays in place, but not tight across the shoulders when you reach for the bars. If between sizes, try the smaller first.
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