Apparently, a post featuring my new Schott Perfecto traditional motorcycle jacket caught someone’s attention. I received an email the other day about it from a guy in Georgia who asked grumpily…

I have a question about the traditional biker jacket. No one can provide a answer. Why does this jacket have the big V-neck opening in the front? When riding in cold or wet weather, this jacket has no purpose. When it is cold, I will zip mine all the up, but what in the world are you suppose to do with the useless flaps??

Hmmmm… “what in the world are you supposed to do with the useless flaps?” … well, unsnap them and close up the jacket if you’re cold.

But actually I gave a more thorough response:

I don’t make the jackets, I just wear them. However, the deep v-neck opening I think dates back to the 50s and it is a style feature.

I find that deep V-opening to be helpful to provide ventilation on mild days that require a jacket, but are warm enough that I don’t need full protection from getting chilled — just protection from abrasion in case of a crash. I always wear full riding gear protection every time I ride, so on 60/70-ish days, that jacket is wide open for full ventilation, but the long sleeves and thick leather are protective against abrasion in case of a fall/crash/slide. (Been there, done that… not fun!)

On cold days, I wear other gear that is more wind-resistant, has a thermal insulated liner that zips closed, and the jacket closes right up to the neck, holding in a balaclava if I need one inside my full-face helmet. My rain gear operates about the same way.

I guess it’s a matter of style choices and selection. If you have only one jacket, then one that manages all weather is best. If you have choices, then a stylish jacket works sometimes.

Take care, ride safe.

So much said… if you can afford it, having some different motorcycle jackets to choose from based on weather and conditions is good. If you can only afford one jacket, choose one that provides the most versatility and safety for the conditions in which you ride.

Life is short: have choices (and don’t sound like Mr. Grumpy!)