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Laminated Motorcycle Jackets

There are three types of construction for a waterproof, motorcycle jacket. 'Drop-liner' jackets, 'laminated' and 'removable liner'.
 
In a laminated, motorcycle jacket the waterproof membrane is bonded to the inside of the jacket's protective, outer material.
 
This means that no rain can pass through the outer fabric. The membrane simply prevents it from doing so. Some talk about the rain beading on a laminated jacket, and running off. Technically, that is not what happens; but what is true is that the rain does not get absorbed into the jacket
 
This doesn't mean that a laminated jacket will keep you dryer. What is true, though, is that a laminated jacket will not get as wet, so in certain circumstances you might feel as though you're dryer!
 
The downsides are that laminated jackets can be less comfortable, because the bonding of the membrane to the outer fabric makes it stiffer and less comfortable.
 
Laminated jackets are also potentially colder in cool weather. They are also potentially hotter in warm weather, despite what is known as 'direct-to-body' venting. Simply put, 'direct-to-body' is a myth. Click here to understand why we believe direct to body venting is misunderstood.
 
But the main issue with laminated jackets is that most of them are unreliable. And that's because it is very difficult to manufacture one properly. To do so you have to very carefully tape every join between the panels that make up the jacket. You need to use the best-quality tape. You need to use lots of it. And you need to apply it with great care.
 
But in their desire to reduce costs, most manufacturers cut corners. As a result most laminated jackets leak. And if that happens outside the warranty period, then a new jacket beckons.
 
Which is why, if you really need to stay dry, you should be wary of most laminated jackets.
 
The exception, of course, are those laminated jackets that have Gore-Tex membranes. To protect its brand, Gore goes to great lengths to ensure that manufacturers make gear with their membranes properly. But more importantly, Gore guarantees lifetime waterproofing on jackets with its membranes. If a Gore-Tex laminated jacket ever leaks, Gore will simply send you a new one. No quibbling.
 
Where we get to is that if you don't go out in the rain a lot, then you may well find that a laminated jacket will serve yo well. But if you  do a lot of miles, then you should always go for a Gore-Tex, laminated jacket.
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Verified customer reviews for Laminated Motorcycle Jackets

Rukka ladies Kemi jacket in black / gold

Sally: Rukka Kemi

My old Rukka jacket trousers had served me well over 6yrs of commuting in all weathers so I knew to expect top quality kit from Rukka. I did a lot of research on different brands and materials and decided to go for laminate as one of the gripes I had with my old gear was putting it on again at the end of the day to ride home and it was still heavy and saturated although still waterproof. The kemi offers great value even more so when on sale is very comfortable and I have paired it with the Rukka ladies down jacket for flexability. So far Ive ridden in lots of rain and temps down to 2 degrees and I have been bone dry and warm. I couldnt justify the cost of the Nivala and feel this combo, together with the kemi trousers is a good compromise.

Klim Kodiak 2 jacket in navy blue

david: Kodiak

I bought a new suit in there weekend sale, it arrived very quickly and well packaged. The trousers did not fit so sent them back for the next size up, this happened within a week. When the new trouserarived the fit was great but the bracers were missing. I emailed are a replacement was sent out within two days. What more can I say well happy with there service again.

Rukka Kalix 3 jacket grey

RCee: Proper test

Having ordered the jacket just 10 days before a planned 1000 mile trip I didnt get a chance to wear it be before setting off. No need to worry very comfortable from the off this only improved over the trip. 2 things that really stuck me 1. Once on the bike the shape fit comes into its own 2. Completely water proof having been fully tested over 6 days of some of the worst rain Ive ridden in. Finally watch the Moto Legends videos they describe the pros con very accurately. Pay your money make your choice from an informed perspective.