What are the alternatives to motorcycle jackets with integrated linings?

When it comes to motorcycle jackets, there are two schools of thought: the all-inclusive 3-in-1 package and the "à la carte" method. How do you make the right choice? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each? In this article, we explain the pros and cons of a 3-in-1 motorcycle jacket, then tell you how to get the right gear without looking like the Michelin Man, and finally present our favorite motorcycle underlays: jerseys and jackets.

But what exactly are we talking about when we talk about a 3-in-1 motorcycle jacket?

3 refers to the number of protections provided: crash, rain and cold. This type of jacket features a shock- and abrasion-resistant outer layer, a removable waterproof membrane and a thermal lining. These 3 layers protect you so you can ride comfortably in all weather conditions.

Our tips for motorcycle jacket models with lining (3 budgets):

---> Alpinestars ANDES V3 DRYSTAR jacket

---> Ixon 3-in-1 RAGNAR motorcycle jacket

---> Rev'it SAND 4 H2O motorcycle jacket

The main advantage of all-inclusives: budget.

It's often more cost-effective to make a single purchase than 3 separate items. And when you buy your 3-in-1 jacket, you're ready to ride come rain, snow or shine. It's practical and economical!

The major drawback?

With all three layers in place at the same time (jacket + waterproof membrane + thermal liner), you sometimes risk feeling compressed in your ensemble. Or conversely, in summer, you may feel like you're "floating" inside. Some manufacturers offer a range of adjustments to compensate for this, but they come at a price.

Second negative point? The waterproofness of the membrane and the quality of the thermal lining will depend on what the manufacturer puts in. And when riding in intense conditions, you can more or less quickly reach the limits.

What's the alternative to motorcycle jackets with integrated liners?

Combine 3 independent layers. For example, you could opt for a protective jacket (fall), a waterproof or warm under-jacket (rain - cold) and a technical jersey (cold). The major advantage is modularity and adaptability. By playing with the different layers, their thicknesses, qualities and materials, you can ride in all weathers and temperatures. The disadvantage? It's a little more expensive, but you can also use this equipment for activities other than motorcycling.

The 3-layer rule

Whether you're riding in summer, in extreme cold or in the rain, you should avoid carrying more than 3 layers of gear. Why not opt for the mille-feuille option, with five T-shirts and two sweaters to keep you warm? Colloquially known as the onion technique, this stacking reduces your freedom of movement and prevents perspiration from escaping. The Michelin Man style is a no-no!

What is the role of each layer of equipment?

• 1st layer, the thermal jersey: regulates temperature and wicks away perspiration.

• 2nd layer, the under-jacket: to keep you warm.

• 3rd layer, the jacket: to insulate you from the elements and protect you in the event of a fall.

This equipment is crucial. Its role? To regulate temperature and, above all, manage perspiration. This technical jersey is available in summer, winter and extreme-cold versions.

For the summer model, the aim is simple: to help you cool your body.

And to take your mind off that nasty idea of taking off your jacket to ride comfortably in 30°C weather. How about a good old cotton T-shirt? After sweating in it, you'll be cold. And that's why! Technical garments, on the other hand, lower body temperature on contact with moisture, dry quickly and avoid that unpleasant sensation. But what fabric can achieve this miracle? A unicorn hair T-shirt? Almost. Klim's Agressor Cool -1.0 technical jersey, for example, uses Cool Core technology. This natural material keeps you cool without feeling cold. For mid-season, we recommend the Aggressor 1.0.

---> Aggressor Cool -1.0 (summer, men)

---> Aggressor 1.0 (mid-season, men)

---> Solstice 1.0 (mid-season, women)

What about the 1st underlay in winter? This task is even more delicate.

Your technical jersey has to wick away perspiration while keeping you warm and without hindering your freedom of movement. Klim has met this challenge with the Agressor 2.0.

And if you really want to feel the Nordic cold, or if you're simply chilly, the 3.0 model will keep you warm. For all these jerseys, the cut-outs, seams and play of materials mean you'll feel as comfortable as if you were in Eve's or Adam's clothing. We're hardly exaggerating :)

---> Agressor 2.0 (winter, men)

---> Solstice 2.0 (winter, women)

---> Agressor 3.0 (extreme cold, men)

---> Solstice 3.0 (cold weather, women)

Our selection of first underlays from the Klim brand:

Pop quiz: what's the role of the 2nd underlay? Keep you warm, but not too warm!

You'd think it would be an easy task, but there are plenty of options. The proof is in Klim (them again), which offers no less than 12 different models of 2nd underlay! How do you choose? We'll give you a hand :)

Which undergarment for summer?

In summer, you're not looking for a warm garment, but rather a windproof or even water-repellent product in case of unexpected rain. That's exactly what the Zephyr offers. As thin as cigarette paper, this high-tech product makes the perfect transition between your jersey and your summer jacket.

---> Klim ZEPHYR undershirt (summer, men)

Which under-jacket for mid-season?

You can choose an under-jacket that's breathable, light yet fleece-like. TheInferno ticks all the boxes. (It's also Michel's favorite, and he's been wearing it regularly for the past 4 years.) Does your diet consist more of Savoyard fondues than salads? Then we recommend the Alpha model, which is a little less form-fitting.

---> Klim Inferno thermal under-jacket (mid-season, men)

---> Klim Inversion Windstopper thermal under-jacket (mid-season, men)

---> Klim Alpha thermal vest (mid-season, men)

---> Klim Whistler Thermal Underjacket (mid-season, women)

Is the mercury dropping below 10 degrees?

The Yukon thermal pullover is ideal. With its Polartec Thermal Pro technology, it's warm and breathable at the same time.

The other option is the Torque fleece and down jacket. Now we're talking high-tech! The challenge is to keep you warm with limited thickness. The technology? Thinsulate. Straight out of the army, it equals the capacity of goose feather with a reduced volume. Why do we love this model? When you've reached your bivouac spot, you can take off your motorcycle jacket and use the Torque as a jacket. The best part: it's "packable", as the Yanks say. In other words, it folds into a small pocket like a Kway.

---> Klim Yukon thermal pullover (winter, men)

---> Klim Torque under-jacket (cold weather, men)

---> Klim Sundance softshell vest (winter, women)

---> Klim Waverly under-jacket (cold weather, women)

Here's a look at our selection of second layers from the Klim brand:

Motorcycle jacket with removable integrated liners vs. the combination of 3 independent layers? It's up to you to choose according to your budget, desires and needs! If we had to remember one thing? 3 layers and not one more! Are you interested in one of our products? Don't hesitate to send us an e-mail for more information, or even better: drop by the showroom to try it out! Enjoy your visit!