Are Moto Jackets Still in Style? What 2025–2026 Coverage Says

Yes, moto jackets are still in style in 2026, though the version that looks current is quieter than the classic. Who What Wear's January 2026 leather coverage favors cropped lengths, softer shapes and minimal hardware over "anything overtly tough". Not everyone agrees: in 2025 one Who What Wear editor said the moto was "definitely losing favor".

For outfits with every jacket, see our jacket styling guide.

The case for "still in style"

The moto has a long track record. Wikipedia dates the first Schott Perfecto, often called the first leather motorcycle jacket of its kind, to 1928. Busbee Style calls the moto "a classic piece" you can wear at any age, "whether you're 22 or 82". Fashion editors still cover it: Who What Wear's moto-jacket page lists editors' shopping picks for Autumn/Winter 2026.

The case for "past its peak"

In April 2025, Who What Wear's Anna LaPlaca wrote that moto jackets aren't truly "out" but are losing favor. She called the moto "trend-resistant" but "markedly absent" that season, and suggested a funnel-neck bomber instead. A later headline on the same site says biker jackets "are fine" while fashion people move to another leather trend.

Busbee Style's "classic" view dates from 2022, before this shift. Read the two views together: the moto isn't going away, but it is not the trend piece of the moment either.

Which moto looks current in 2026

• Less hardware. Who What Wear's 2026 piece says smooth leather and minimal hardware replace anything overtly tough. Busbee Style gave the same advice for a first moto: "Minimal hardware = Maximum versatility".
• Shorter, softer shapes. The same 2026 piece names cropped lengths and gently cinched waists.
• Your build. Real Men Real Style says a moto is tight-fitting and suits a slimmer or lean muscular build. It points average or larger frames to a bomber.
• Color. Busbee Style calls black the most versatile moto. To weigh other colors, see what color jacket goes with everything.

Full outfits will be in how to style a motorcycle jacket. For features and origins, read what is a moto jacket.

What we could not find

We found no reliable 2026 sales or search data for moto jackets, so this answer rests on editors' coverage, not numbers. The bomber question has stronger runway evidence. See are bomber jackets still in fashion.

Buying one now

If you want a moto that fits close and has the hardware level you like, a made-to-order jacket helps. Leather Collection men's leather biker jackets include cafe racer, classic biker and zip-front casual styles. All are hand-stitched to order in cowhide, sheepskin or lambskin, with a Custom Size option.

FAQ

What is the difference between a bomber jacket and a motorcycle jacket?

Real Men Real Style describes the moto as tight-fitting and the bomber as the more flexible shape for different builds. The full comparison is in bomber jacket vs motorcycle jacket.

Are leather jackets still in trend?

Yes, in softer forms. Who What Wear describes 2026 leather jackets as cropped, gently cinched and refined. Stylist reported a black leather balloon bomber from Balenciaga for autumn/winter 2026.