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Classic Cowhide Biker Jacket
Timeless asymmetric-zip biker jacket in full-grain cowhide with CE armour pockets at shoulders and elbows.
View productKnow Your Gear
Rider's Gear Guide
Choosing motorcycle apparel is about more than style. The right jacket and gloves can make a real difference in a slide. This guide covers everything you need to make a confident, informed choice.
Bikers Paradise
Practical guidance connected directly to the live catalogue and support flow.
Collection
Motorcycle Gloves
Leather riding gloves engineered for grip, knuckle protection, and all-weather confidence. Whether you ride year-round or summer only, our glove range covers short-cuff sport styles through to full gauntlet winter gloves.
View CollectionUnderstanding CE Armour Ratings
CE armour is the European standard for motorcycle protective equipment. All armour sold in the UK must meet EN 13594 (gloves) or EN 13634 (jackets and trousers) to carry a CE mark. Within those standards, there are two performance levels: Level 1 is the baseline and provides solid protection for road riding; Level 2 offers higher impact absorption and is recommended for faster roads, touring, or riders who want maximum protection.
At Bikers Paradise, we list the armour level for every product. Most of our jackets include CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armour as standard, with a spine protector pocket for an optional Level 2 back insert. Our Armoured Touring Jacket ships with CE Level 2 armour at all three zones — shoulders, elbows, and spine — as standard.
When you are comparing jackets, check whether the armour is included or whether the pockets are simply armour-ready. We always specify which is the case so you know exactly what you are buying.
- CE Level 1: standard road protection, meets minimum UK/EU requirements
- CE Level 2: higher impact absorption, recommended for touring and fast roads
- Back protector pockets: check whether an insert is included or sold separately
- All armour in our range is CE-marked and meets current EN standards
How to Measure for a Leather Jacket
Leather jackets fit differently to textile gear. Here is how to take the measurements that matter.
Chest
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape horizontal. Add 5 to 8 cm for a riding fit — leather should be snug but not restrictive when you are in the riding position.
Waist
Measure around your natural waist. For touring and armoured jackets with a longer cut, this helps ensure the jacket covers your lower back when you are leaning forward on the bike.
Sleeve Length
Measure from the centre back of your neck, over the shoulder, and down to your wrist with your arm slightly bent. Leather sleeves should reach your wrist in the riding position, not when standing upright.
Shoulders
Measure across the back from shoulder seam to shoulder seam. This is the hardest measurement to adjust in leather, so getting it right is important. If you are between sizes, size up and use the waist adjustment strap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from riders choosing their first or next piece of leather gear.
Yes, for riding purposes. Full-grain leather uses the outermost layer of the hide, which is the densest and most abrasion-resistant. Split leather is taken from lower layers and is weaker under abrasion. All our jackets use full-grain or top-grain cowhide — we do not stock split-leather riding gear.
Wear it. Leather softens and moulds to your body with use. For the first few rides, the jacket may feel stiff across the shoulders and elbows — this is normal. Applying a quality leather conditioner after the first few wears will help the leather stay supple without compromising its protective properties.
Leather is naturally water-resistant but not waterproof. In light rain, a well-conditioned leather jacket will shed water effectively. In heavy or sustained rain, the leather will eventually absorb moisture and become heavy. Our Armoured Touring Jacket includes a bonded waterproof membrane for wet-weather riding. For other jackets, a leather waterproofing spray adds useful protection.
Most year-round UK riders keep two pairs: a waterproof mid-season glove (like our Touring Waterproof Gloves) for spring, autumn, and wet summer days, and a full winter gauntlet for November through February. A single pair of all-season gloves tends to be a compromise in both directions.
Generally yes, but glove sizing varies slightly between styles. Our sport and summer gloves tend to fit true to size. If you are between sizes in a winter gauntlet, size up to allow for base layers. If you are unsure, contact us with your hand circumference measurement and we will advise.
After wet rides, allow gloves to dry naturally away from direct heat. Once dry, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to keep the leather supple. Avoid machine washing — it strips the natural oils from the leather and can cause it to crack. For heavily soiled gloves, a damp cloth with a small amount of leather cleaner is the safest approach.
Seasonal Gear Recommendations
A quick reference for matching your gear to the UK riding calendar.
Spring & Autumn
A jacket with a removable liner covers the temperature swings of the shoulder seasons. Pair with waterproof touring gloves for the inevitable rain. Our Classic Cowhide Biker Jacket with its quilted liner is a strong choice.
Summer
Perforated leather keeps you cool without sacrificing protection. Short-cuff summer gloves or sport gloves with perforated panels are the right call. Do not be tempted to drop to textile — leather still outperforms in a slide.
Winter
A heavier cowhide jacket with a thermal liner, paired with full gauntlet gloves rated to sub-zero temperatures. Reflective detailing becomes more important as daylight hours shorten — check your gear has it.
Still Not Sure? Ask Us.
We are riders ourselves and we are happy to talk through your options before you buy. Drop us a message with your riding style, typical conditions, and budget and we will point you in the right direction.
Related products
Items tied to this page
A few catalogue examples that connect the guidance, process, or service topic to the actual storefront.
Classic Cowhide Biker Jacket
Timeless asymmetric-zip biker jacket in full-grain cowhide with CE armour pockets at shoulders and elbows.
£189.00
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Armoured Touring Jacket
Long-cut touring jacket in heavy cowhide with CE Level 2 back protector, ventilation zips, and a waterproof inner membrane.
£269.00
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Perforated Summer Riding Jacket
Heavily perforated cowhide jacket designed for maximum airflow on warm-weather rides, with CE Level 1 armour throughout.
£175.00
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