You may think of a leather motorcycle jacket as something that never, ever changes and is exactly the same as it always is. However, jackets have changed a lot since James Dean's day. In fact, if you put a modern day leather motorcycle jacket side by side with a jacket from 10, 20 or 30 years ago chances are you wouldn't recognize them both as being closely related. Today there are many great motorcycle jacket features. Technology has changed a lot over the years and with the advent of new types of materials as well as leather jacket production techniques things are very different today.

A newer feature found in jackets is water proofing. This will let you keep riding even if the weather gets wet, without damaging your jacket. Check on manufacturer's websites to see if they offer this feature. This feature also ensures your chances of staying dry if it does start to rain. Obviously a rain suit is better, but if your riding and hit a small shower, it is good to know your whole body won't be soaked.

You can also find many jackets with protective armor. Many only have this feature in the elbows and shoulders, but you want it on the back and chest, to prevent injuries there. It should be semi stiff, and not shift when you move. If the jacket you purchase doesn't have build in body armor to protect your spine and chest area you can always get under armor, which you wear under your jacket. This helps augment the protection in any jacket.

For a rider going on a long rider, who needs storage, there are leather motorcycle jacket features that can give that to you. You will find the most storage in a three quarter length style jacket.

Many nice jackets have articulated sleeves, which mimic the curve of your arm when riding. You should also look for a sleeve that completely covers your wrist even when your arm is extended. The articulated sleeves make wearing your jacket for long distances much more comfortable. Since the sleeves don't bunch up, there isn't any pressure on the elbows while riding, try one out and you will see the difference!

A leather motorcycle jacket feature to look for is roominess. You want a jacket that fits you well, but has some extra room so that on a night ride, a sweatshirt can be warm under it to keep you warm. You can now even get jackets with electric heater inserts, for that extremely cold weather riding.

When you're buying your jacket, check for a removable lining. This will allow the part of your jacket that may become dirty or sweaty to be washed without damaging the leather jacket. Many liners can be used to help keep you warm in just cool weather. In the Summer time you may want to go with a mesh jacket, but removing the inner liner can sometimes make riding with the leather jacket comfortable.

When you're in the market for a new jacket, make sure to check out the great new leather motorcycle jacket features available to you. These features can help to give you a more comfortable ride.