How to add armor to a leather jacket?

If you ride a motorcycle, I’m sure you’ll agree that adding armor is an essential safety measure on the road. Although there are many jackets available that come with built-in armor, adding armor to your leather jacket can be a more cost-effective option. You get to keep your favorite jacket while adding an extra layer of protection.

But where do you begin, and how do you install the armor? If you are wondering how to add armor to a leather jacket for maximum protection while riding.

What are armors in leather jackets?

Armors in leather jackets are protective pads or inserts designed to prevent injuries in case of incidents. They are typically made from hard plastic or foam and placed in strategic areas that are more likely to be impacted by a fall or collision.

You can find them in motorcycle jackets or custom leather jackets built for rider protection. Some jackets come with built-in armor, while others allow the wearer to install it at the shoulders, elbows, and back regions where the most impact may occur. Having armor only makes sense if you’re a rider. Furthermore, the armor can be removable, making it easy to clean and maintain. You can even remove the armor to wear the jacket casually.

How to add armor to a leather jacket

When it comes to protecting yourself while riding a motorcycle, you have several options. You can buy a jacket with built-in armor, purchase ready-made armor, or create custom motorcycle armor for your existing clean jacket. If you choose to go the DIY route, here are the steps to follow:

Choose the type of armor

There are different types of armor available in the market, ranging from foam and hard plastic to Kevlar. Choose the type that fits your needs and budget, and decide which areas you want to protect, such as the back, shoulders, elbows, and chest.

Mark the areas

Use tailor’s chalk to mark the areas on your jacket where you want to add the armor. Be precise to ensure a good fit.

Cut the armor

Use scissors to cut the armor to the size and shape of the marked areas. If necessary, carefully remove any stitches in the areas where you want to place the armor. You can also create armor pockets if your jacket has enough room.

Insert the armor

Slide the armor pieces into the prepared areas and sew them firmly into place. If you created armor pockets, simply slide the armor into place.

Finish

Once the armor is securely attached, trim any excess thread or fabric to finish the job.

If the DIY route seems daunting, you can always purchase one of the best leather jackets with built-in armor, or take your existing jacket to a professional tailor or motorcycle gear shop to have the armor installed for you.

 FAQs:

Q: How do you put armor on a motorcycle jacket?

It’s really easy. However, before I walk you through the steps, remember that not all jackets are designed to hold armor. Therefore, confirm that your jacket is suitable for armor installation before proceeding. Here are the steps to add motorcycle armor to your jacket: