How tight should a jacket be?

Scooby_WR1

Scooby_WR1

Scooby_WR1

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Hi guys,
Im a complete noob to biking, i haven't even done the CBT yet but i have bought some gear.
I have a question about the fitment of the jacket i bought, i have a 38" chest so usually buy clothing in size medium. Medium in bike jackets seems to be 42" though so i went for the small size which is 40", however im not sure if its too tight.

My movement is not restricted and i can breath in it but i have to pull it together tight to connect the zip but it will then zip up easily. I understand that it should be snug to keep the protection where it should be but how tight is too tight?
 
Sounds about right to me, you don't want it loose as once you get up to 60+ mph it will start flapping like buggery.
 
What did you have on underneath when it was tight? And did the jacket have a removable liner?

42 might be better as it allows you to wear a thick jumper underneath ect,it will be looser with the lining removed so take that into consideration aswell
 
Too tight is just when it gets uncomfortable. As long as the padding stays in place, then it's fine. As wazza says, keep in mind you might want something thicker on underneath in the winter if it doesn't have thermal lining.
 
I'm 36 inch chest and I have a 42 jacket no liner,it's slightly loose on me but I prefer it like that,it won't be as loose on you,esp with a liner in and a jumper on
 
That style is also designed to be a bit tighter. I've tried similar jackets on before and also had to pull it together. It'll also loosen up a bit over time.

If it's comfortable, then no problems.
 
Nice jacket, the leather will give a little after a few rides and feel more comfortable if it is a little tight (how it should be from new).
Textiles don't really give so when you buy that make sure it fits well from day one.
 
If you want winter textiles, I'd go for ones with removable thermal at least (and maybe removable waterproof as well if you ever want to use it in the summer). Just make sure it fits you with the thermal in and out and you'll be fine. If it doesn't have thermal (most of them do), then yes allow for extra layers.
 
Yep, niceand tight. My furygan leather jacket was the same, could almost feel it holding me in :p but now after a few k miles it's loosened up and fits perfectly. They stretch after a while to suit your body.
 
TallPaul_S said:
Yep, niceand tight. My furygan leather jacket was the same, could almost feel it holding me in :p but now after a few k miles it's loosened up and fits perfectly. They stretch after a while to suit your body.
Click to expand...

I fear that unless I get into shape my jacket will grow its own pot belly :D
 
Needs to be snug but not tight. Also, we're in the middle of summer; if you're going to be riding through the winter you'll need a bit of room for extra layers.
 
Ignore sizing, as it's fairly generic estimation on the manufacturer's part and may not cover all your dimensions. A 44" should fit me, for example, but I have to use a 50" if I want sleeves that are long enough.
A 44" from one Mfr likely won't be the same as a 44" from another, either. Same as calling it "S, M, L, XL, XXL" etc.

Just go with what feels comfortably form-fitting.
If you plan on Winter use, then also test-fit while wearing whatever layers you'll use.

You don't want to go too loose though, as the armour can move around and become a snag-point, which is then dangerous.
 
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