Let’s face it—your riding jacket isn’t just a fashion statement. It’s your second skin on the road, battling dirt, rain, and occasional spills. But how do you keep it looking sharp and protective after years of adventures? Whether you’re rocking a leather classic or a high-tech textile jacket, here’s your ultimate guide to maintaining your riding jacket like a pro.
1. Cleaning: The “Don’t Ruin Your Gear” Edition
Leather Jackets
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Dust off first: Use a soft brush or a damp cloth to remove surface dirt. No harsh scrubbing—treat it like your grandma’s vintage handbag.
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Spot clean: Mix mild soap (like baby shampoo) with water. Wipe gently, then dry with a microfiber cloth.
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Deep clean: Use a leather-specific cleaner (ReiseMoto recommends ph-neutral formulas) to avoid cracking.
Textile Jackets
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Remove armour and liners: Take out elbow/shoulder protectors and waterproof membranes before washing. Trust us, you don’t want soggy foam.
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Hand wash: Use lukewarm water and gear-specific detergent. Avoid fabric softeners—they murder water resistance.
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Air dry: Hang in shade. Sunlight = faded colours + brittle fabric.
Pro Tip: Check your jacket’s care label! Some textiles can handle a gentle machine cycle, but leather? Never.
2. Waterproofing: Because Rain Happens
Leather Jackets
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Wax it up: Apply beeswax or a product like BONE DRY for old-school waterproofing. Use a hairdryer to melt wax into seams.
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Spray smarter: Silicone-based sprays (e.g., Nikwax) add water resistance without stiffness. Spray 20cm away and focus on seams.
Textile Jackets
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Wash-in magic: Toss Nikwax TX. Direct into your washing machine to revive waterproof membranes.
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Spray and pray: Use a waterproofing spray post-wash. Reapply every 3-6 months.
Watch Out: Over-spraying creates sticky residue. Less is more!
3. Repairs: Fix It Before It’s Trash
Minor Tears
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Patch it: Use gear repair tape (like Tenacious Tape) for small holes. Works on leather and textiles.
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Stitch in time: Loose threads? Hand-sew with waxed nylon thread. YouTube tutorials are your friend.
Zippers & Snaps
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Lubricate: Rub paraffin wax on sticky zippers. WD-40 for metal parts (wipe excess!).
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Replace: Broken zipper teeth? Visit a tailor.
Armour Check
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Inspect monthly: Cracks in elbow pads? Replace immediately. Your joints will thank you.
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Upgrade: Swap basic foam for CE Level 2 armour. ReiseMoto’s D3O protectors are crash-tested magic.
4. Storage Hacks for Lazy Riders
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Hang it right: Use wide hangers to keep shoulders shaped. No wire hangers—ever.
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Avoid plastic bags: Store in breathable garment bags. Mildew smells worse than roadkill.
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Climate control: Keep jackets in cool, dry spaces.
5. When to Say Goodbye
Even the best jackets retire. Toss yours if:
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Seams split like a bad breakup
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Armour cracks (it’s now a fashion jacket)
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Smell wins against Febreze
Why ReiseMoto’s Gear Wins
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Built to last: Reinforced stitching + premium materials = fewer repairs.
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Easy care: Removable liners and machine-washable textiles (we know you’re busy).
A well-maintained jacket isn’t just about looks—it’s about staying safe when things go sideways. Spend 10 minutes a month on cleaning and inspections, and your gear will love you back.
Ready to upgrade? Explore ReiseMoto's riding jacket collection for adventure-ready designs that make maintenance a breeze.
-Team Reisemoto
