7 Sizing Mistakes People Make Buying Motorcycle Leathers Online
Most of the leathers that come back to sellers don't come back because they're badly made. They come back because they don't fit. And in almost every case, the problem started before the order was placed.
We make jackets and race suits to order, so we see the same handful of sizing mistakes again and again. Here they are, and how to avoid them.
1. Ordering your usual T-shirt or jeans size
Your everyday clothing size is a rough guide at best. Motorcycle leathers are cut differently, and sizing varies a lot from one brand to the next. A "Large" in one brand can be a "Medium" in another. Measure yourself and compare the numbers with the size chart of the brand you're buying from.
2. Measuring over clothes
A hoodie or a pair of jeans can add several centimetres to your chest, waist and thigh measurements. Measure in a thin T-shirt, or in the base layer you'll actually ride in. Keep the tape snug but not tight.
3. Checking the fit standing up
Race-cut leathers are made for a riding position. Standing in front of a mirror, a good race suit can feel short in the arms and tight across the back. That's normal. Sit on the bike, or get into a tuck, and check again: sleeves should reach your wrists and the back shouldn't ride up. Our guide to how a race suit should fit goes through each check.
4. Sizing up "to be safe"
Loose leather feels comfortable in the shop and does a worse job in a crash. If the suit is too big, the armour can slide off your shoulders, elbows and knees when you hit the ground. Leathers should fit snugly. They'll give a little as they break in.
5. Forgetting what goes underneath
If you'll wear a back protector, a chest protector or an airbag vest under your leathers, the jacket or suit has to make room for it. An airbag in particular needs space to inflate. Tell the maker the exact model before you order. Read our airbag guide for what to check.
6. Ignoring your proportions
Standard sizes assume standard proportions. If you have long arms, a long torso, broad shoulders, or hips that are a different size to your chest, a standard size will fit you in some places and not others. Women often run into this with men's or unisex patterns. Our women's race suit guide explains why a proper women's cut matters.
7. Guessing instead of asking
If you're between sizes or a measurement looks odd, ask before you order. A good maker will check your numbers with you. We're happy to do that on WhatsApp or a quick video call.
The easiest fix: made to measure
Every one of these problems goes away when the leathers are cut to your own measurements. We make every jacket and suit to order, so made to measure costs the same as a standard size. You send your measurements, we check them, and we send you photos of the finished piece before it ships.
Common questions
Should motorcycle leathers feel tight when I first try them on?
Snug, yes. Leather gives a little with use, so a race suit or jacket that feels close-fitting when new usually feels right after a few rides. It shouldn't stop you breathing deeply or bending into a riding position, though.
Is my normal clothing size the same as my motorcycle jacket size?
Not always. Race-cut leathers are shaped for a riding position and sizes vary between brands. Always compare your own body measurements with that brand's size chart instead of relying on your usual size.
What if I'm between two sizes?
Go by the measurement that matters most for the garment: chest for a jacket, height and torso length for a one-piece suit. If you're still unsure, made to measure removes the guesswork.
Ready to order?
See our made-to-measure page for how to take your measurements, or browse men's race suits, women's race suits and racer jackets. Not sure about your size? Message us on WhatsApp.