Jackets & Vests

The Best Dirt Bike Enduro Jackets: Dress For The Adventure

Are you shopping for an enduro jacket? Choose a jacket that best suits your preferred riding style – whether it’s hard enduro, dual sporting, or trail riding – using this practical buyer’s guide: Enduro riders face a unique gear challenge: While motocross riders typically ride for 30-minutes sessions and then return to a pit or staging area for gear adjustments, fuel, and food… Enduro riders need to take a more thoughtful approach to what they’re wearing and carrying. Adventure and enduro riders can ride for hours, sometimes days, across variable terrain where temperature and weather conditions can fluctuate dramatically. Mornings might be cold, while afternoons might be scorching hot. Exposed mountain terrain can be windy and cold. While surprise rainstorms (or even snowstorms) can, in the worst conditions, leave you hypothermic if you’re unprepared. That’s why, as an enduro rider, you need to come dressed for the adventure. Fortunately, over the last decade, most of the top industry clothing brands have released their own take on the “enduro jacket,” so riders have plenty of high-tech options available. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the choices and make the best buying decision:

#1 - Do you need an “ALL-SEASON” or “LAYERING” jacket?

There are two basic styles of enduro jackets: the all-season jacket and the layering jacket. A layering jacket is typically more economical because it’s assumed it will be worn as one of many layers. They’re designed to be a lightweight armoured shell that offers some protection against rain and wind, as well as abrasion protection in case you crash. Plus, they’re designed to easily compact into a small carrying pouch–easy to bring along “just in case” or take off mid-ride if you’re feeling too warm. On the other hand, all-season jackets are designed to be more complete. (And their premium price tag typically reflects this.) These jackets offer superior protection against both the elements and riding conditions you may encounter on your latest adventure. With zip-off/out thermal layers, outer shells, and sleeves that allow you to adjust the jacket to suit the current riding conditions.

#2 - Do you need a WATERPROOF jacket? Or is WATER RESISTANT good enough?

Most enduro jackets are, at the very least, water-resistant. Waterproof jackets are available, but they tend to come with a premium price tag. So before you buy, consider the weather conditions you’ll encounter. Water-resistant jackets are good for riders who expect to encounter light rain on shorter expeditions. Riders planning longer adventures into more remote areas with variable weather may be wise to invest in all-season jackets with an actual waterproof rating.

#3 - Would you like zip-off sleeves and thermal layers?

Many jackets offer zip-off sleeves, which can be useful for controlling body temperature during rides when you’re sweating and working hard, but still need to protect your core body temperature. The same goes for removable internal thermal layers, which can be zipped out and stored if you get too warm.

#4 - How much ventilation does the jacket include?

Many enduro jackets feature zippered vents (in the front, back, and underarms) that can be opened and closed, again, to help control your body temperature. Some riders mention that the venting in all-season jackets with removable thermal layers is sometimes compromised. But generally, zippered venting helps give you more control over your body temperature.

#5 - What level of protection do you require?

If you’re going to be twisting throttle on gravel roads or asphalt at higher speeds, you may wish to consider investing in an enduro jacket that offers more abrasion resistance. Most enduro jackets are designed to allow riders to wear the body armour of their choice underneath. However, asphalt riders should know that some enduro jackets come with CE certified body armour included. Something to look for if that’s you!

#6 - How many pockets are included?

Adventure riders who embark on extended expeditions will appreciate jackets that feature multiple pockets. It’s not uncommon for enduro jackets to include as many as seven pockets for convenient storage of phone, GPS, snacks, and more.

#7 - Other design features worth considering:

Once you’ve decided on the style of enduro jacket you need, other nice-to-have design features you should be looking for when making a buying decision include:

• Does it include reflective panels for nighttime visibility?

• Is it easy to compact and stow away in a bag if you’re warm?

• Does it offer freedom of movement?

• Sealed & taped seams (for better water and wind resistance)?

• Do the sleeves include gaitor cuffs with silicone grips? To keep out weather and prevent them from sliding up?

• Is the collar adjustable? (For comfort?)

• Is it made with quick-drying fabric?

#8 - Overall quality and comfort.

It’s generally a good idea to invest in the best enduro jacket you can afford. While there are excellent budget options available, like with most gear, the quality of enduro jackets varies by price. The level of protection in which you invest should depend on your budget, riding style, experience, expected terrain, and overall aggressiveness as a rider. Better quality jackets will last longer and provide better overall protection.

Ready To Shop? We’ve Made It Easy:

Ready to start shopping for enduro jackets? We’ve made it easy! 24MX is proud to offer a lineup of enduro jackets from well-known brands that include: Alpinestars, Acerbis, Leatt, Shot Race Gear, FXR, GMS, and more!