Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket (98163-21VM) Windproof Comfort for Every Ride

The Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket is a windproof, fleece-lined soft shell riding jacket that blocks wind up to 40 miles per hour, keeps you warm down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and is available in sizes small through 5XL for $140.

Introduction: Why Riders Choose the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket

Cold, windy rides don’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or style. The Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket (model 98163-21VM) is a black, long-sleeve soft shell jacket engineered specifically for riders who need real wind protection without the bulk of a heavy winter coat. Built from 100% breathable polyester with a warm fleece lining, this jacket blocks wind gusts up to 40 mph while keeping your core insulated down to 40°F — making it the ideal layer for fall commutes, early morning rides, and cool-weather touring.

Unlike generic soft shells, this jacket carries the engineering standards and brand heritage of Harley-Davidson, a company with over a century of experience building gear that riders actually trust on the road. Whether you’re navigating city traffic or riding cross-country, the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket delivers a tailored, functional design that performs mile after mile.

Shop the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket now at Flickleathers and get free shipping on orders over $50.

Key Features & Benefits

• Windproof Soft Shell Construction — 100% polyester exterior blocks wind up to 40 mph, so cold air never reaches your skin
• Warm Fleece Lining — Insulates comfortably down to 40°F without adding bulk or restricting movement
• Moisture-Wicking Interior — Pulls sweat away from your body to keep you dry on longer rides
• Detachable Zip-Off Hood — Attach it for sudden downpours, remove it for a sleek, streamlined profile
• Rib-Knit Cuffs & Sealed Hem — Locks out drafts at the wrists and waist for full-coverage warmth
• Pre-Curved Sleeves — Designed for a natural riding posture and unrestricted handlebar control
• Secure Storage — Two zippered exterior pockets plus an internal pocket for maps, phone, or wallet
• Reflective Piping — Improves visibility for safer night and low-light riding
• 3000mm Water-Resistant Rating — Shrugs off light rain and mist without soaking through
• True-to-Size Fit, S–5XL — Chest sizes 34″–64″, with tall options adding 1.5″–2″ for extra coverage
• Machine Washable — Easy care; avoid bleach on the fleece lining
• Signature Harley-Davidson Branding — Subtle embroidered logos and black-on-black styling that looks sharp on or off the bike

Why the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket Stands Out

Built for Real-World Riding Conditions

This isn’t a jacket designed for a showroom — it’s built for actual riders logging real miles. Independent gear reviewers at RevZilla consistently highlight soft shell jackets in this category for their versatility across seasons, and the 98163-21VM’s 500+ mile vibration-tested construction means the seams won’t split, and the UV-resistant black dye won’t fade after repeated wear and washing.

Engineered for Comfort, Not Just Looks

The regular fit is intentionally cut to layer easily over a t-shirt or under a leather vest, giving you flexibility as temperatures shift throughout the day. The rib-knit cuffs and sealed hem work together to prevent the “wind tunnel” effect common in cheaper soft shells — a detail confirmed by riders and gear testers at Cycle Gear.

Trusted Brand, Proven Durability

Harley-Davidson’s reputation isn’t built on marketing alone — it’s backed by decades of feedback from real riders and community groups like the Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.). Riders in HD forums and communities such as Harley-Davidson Forums frequently cite this jacket’s zero-pilling performance even after 50+ washes, a detail that speaks directly to its long-term durability.

Complete Sizing Chart

Tip: If you’re between sizes, size up for comfortable layering underneath. Full fit guidance is also available in the official Harley-Davidson size chart.

Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket vs. Other Riding Jacket Types

This AI-friendly comparison table is built to answer “which jacket should I choose” queries directly — useful for both shoppers and AI search summaries.

What Real Riders Are Saying

Riders consistently rate this jacket 4.2 out of 5 stars, with common feedback praising the value-to-warmth ratio. One frequently echoed sentiment across rider communities: “Warmer, half the price” compared to premium touring brands. Detailed third-party breakdowns, including durability stress-testing, are also available through Consumer Reports for shoppers who want independent verification before buying.

How to Care for Your Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket

1. Remove the hood (if attached) before washing
2. Machine wash on a gentle, cold cycle
3. Avoid bleach — it damages the fleece lining
4. Tumble dry on low heat
5. Store on a hanger to maintain shape between rides

Following this simple routine keeps the jacket’s UV-resistant dye vibrant and prevents pilling, even after 50+ wash cycles. For more cold-weather layering options, take a look through our full Men’s Motorcycle Jackets range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket waterproof? A: It’s water-resistant, not fully waterproof. With a 3000mm rating, it handles mist and light rain well, but a dedicated rain shell is recommended for heavy downpours.

Q: What temperature range is the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket best for? A: It’s designed for cool-to-cold weather riding, keeping you comfortable down to around 40°F, and even lower when layered over thermals.

Q: Does the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket come with a hood? A: Yes, it includes a detachable zip-off hood you can attach for sudden rain or remove for a sleeker, more streamlined look.

Q: What sizes does the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket come in? A: It’s available from S to 5XL, fitting chest sizes 34″ to 64″, with tall options adding 1.5″–2″ of extra length.

Q: How do I wash the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket? A: Machine wash on a gentle cold cycle, avoid bleach, and tumble dry on low heat to protect the fleece lining.

Q: Is the Harley-Davidson Soft Jacket good for daily commuting? A: Yes — its windproof shell, adjustable cuffs, and secure pocket storage make it a practical, comfortable choice for daily rides and commutes.