Dainese Super Speed Jacket Review: Built for Summer Riding?

The Dainese Super Speed 4 sets a new benchmark for sports motorcycle jackets, blending advanced safety, comfort, and Italian design.

Riders demand gear that can keep up with high speeds and aggressive riding, and the Dainese Super Speed 4 answers with certified pro armor, cowhide inserts microelastic, and a fit tuned for the super bike crowd. But can the Dainese Super Speed 4 stand up to the summer heat?

I’m writing this Dainese Super Speed 4 review to help you decide if the Dainese Super Speed 4 is the right choice for your riding style, needs, and expectations.

Dainese Super Speed 4 Verdict

I’ve written an in-depth review of the Dainese Super Speed 4, covering everything from its certified armor and cowhide inserts microelastic to real-world comfort and protection.

If you want the highlights, just click on the tabs below for a quick summary, a list of pros and drawbacks, and a video review showing the jacket in action.

You can use the table of contents menu on the right to jump straight to any section that interests you. Whether you’re looking for a fast overview or want to see how the Super Speed 4 compares to other leather jacket sport options, everything you need is right at your fingertips.

Comparison to Similar Models

Key Features Comparison

• Material:
  • Leather models (Dainese Super Speed, Alpinestars GP Plus R V4 Airflow) offer the highest abrasion resistance but less versatility in weather.
  • Textile/mesh models (Klim, REV’IT!, REAX) focus on airflow, with various high-strength fabrics and mesh for hot climates.
• Weather Protection:
  • Only the REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O features a true multi-season system with both waterproof and thermal liners, making it suitable for rain, cold, and heat1.
  • Klim Marrakesh offers water resistance (DWR) but not full waterproofing.
  • Others are designed for hot/dry weather with no waterproofing.
• Armor/Safety Certifications:
  • All jackets include CE Level 1 or 2 armor at shoulders and elbows; some include back protection or a pocket for it.
  • REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O, Klim Marrakesh, and Klim Induction Pro achieve the CE AA rating, indicating higher abrasion resistance for textiles1.
  • Leather models rely on material strength and integrated armor for maximum protection.

This table demonstrates that the REV’IT! Tornado 4 H2O stands out for its true all-weather versatility and higher included armor level among textile jackets, while leather options remain the benchmark for abrasion resistance but lack weather adaptability.

Dainese Super Speed 4 Outer Shell

The outer shell of the Dainese Super Speed 4 is crafted from D-Skin cowhide leather, a full-grain technical leather known for its abrasion, traction, and tear resistance.

This leather stands out for being both soft and flexible, which makes it comfortable for long rides and aggressive riding positions.

I’ve worn jackets with D-Skin before, and the way it breaks in over time gives you a custom fit that feels like a second skin.

However, you do need to care for leather—occasional conditioning keeps it supple, and it’s not the best for heavy rain unless paired with a waterproof overlayer. The leather feels a bit stiff out of the box, but it softens up after a few rides.

S1 bielastic fabric is positioned on the back and shoulders. This material, an elastomer coated with Cordura polyamide, offers mechanical strength and elasticity, boosting your freedom of movement on the bike.

It’s treated with nanotechnology to repel water and oil, so you won’t have to worry about light rain or road grime soaking in. The S1 fabric, combined with localized perforation in the leather, delivers impressive airflow.

On hot days, I’ve noticed the airflow through these panels keeps things manageable even in stop-and-go traffic.

Still, S1 isn’t fully waterproof, so you’ll get wet in a downpour. Some reviewers and I agree the reduction of S1 fabric compared to earlier versions makes the jacket feel less bulky, but it does mean the initial fit can be snug in certain spots until the leather loosens up.

What’s your experience with leather jackets in changing weather? Would you trade a bit of airflow for more weather protection, or do you always reach for leather for safety?

Adjustment Points (Waist, Cuffs, Upper Arms)

The waist adjustment on the Dainese Super Speed 4 lets you fine-tune the fit to your body shape. I’ve found the waist straps easy to use, and they make a real difference when layering up or slimming down for summer rides.

However, the adjustment range isn’t huge, so if you’re at the extreme ends of the sizing chart, you might not get a perfect fit.

I found that while the waist can be snugged up, those with a more athletic build might wish for a bit more adjustability.

The wrists feature an elasticated performance construction with zippered cuffs. This makes it easy to slip gloves under or over the jacket and gives you the option to open the zippers for a bit of extra ventilation on warm days.

I’ve used these zips to cool off during long rides, but I’m always a bit cautious—zippers can wear out over time, especially if you’re rough with them.

A few forum comments echo this: “Great fit at the wrists, but I’m hoping the zippers hold up after a couple of seasons.”

There’s no explicit mention of upper arm adjustment on the Super Speed 4. From my experience, and based on what others have said, this can mean a bit of extra material flapping at high speeds, especially if you have slimmer arms.

While I haven’t found it to be a dealbreaker, some riders prefer jackets with upper arm straps to keep things tight and streamlined.

The D-Skin leather and S1 fabric are strong choices for a sports motorcycle jacket, and the adjustment points offer enough flexibility for most riders, though not everyone will find a perfect fit.

The lack of upper arm adjustment is a minor miss for those wanting a truly tailored race fit. Still, the overall construction and materials make this jacket a top pick for aggressive street and track riders who prioritize safety and airflow.

Dainese Super Speed 4 Interior

The interior of the Dainese Super Speed 4 features a Nanofeel liner with Silver ion treatment and integrated 3D mesh.

This liner is completely breathable, designed to wick moisture and keep you cool. The Silver ion treatment provides antibacterial and anti-odor properties, so you can ride hard without worrying about the jacket smelling after a sweaty day.

The 3D mesh structure creates an air space between your skin and the jacket, promoting airflow and comfort even during long rides.

I’ve found the interior stays fresh after multiple wears, and forum users echo that the lining feels soft against the skin and helps with temperature regulation.

Still, the focus on breathability means it doesn’t trap much heat, so you’ll want to layer up when riding in colder weather.

Waterproofing

The D-Skin leather and S1 fabric in the Dainese Super Speed 4 are treated with nanotechnology to be water-repellent.

This gives you some protection against light rain or splashes, making short commutes in unpredictable weather less stressful.

However, the jacket—especially the perforated version—isn’t fully waterproof, so you’ll need to pair it with a dedicated rain layer if you expect a downpour.

I’ve ridden through a drizzle and stayed dry for a while, but when the rain picked up, water started to seep in, which matches what other riders have shared online.

Breathability

The Nanofeel inner lining and 3D mesh inside the Dainese Super Speed 4 work together to deliver a breathable experience.

The S1 bi-elastic fabric also aids airflow, helping to regulate your temperature and keep you comfortable on hot rides.

I’ve noticed the difference when switching from a non-mesh-lined jacket—the Super Speed 4 feels lighter and less sticky in the heat.

If you choose the non-perforated version, breathability decreases slightly, so consider your climate before making a purchase.

Ventilation

The perforated version of the Dainese Super Speed 4 stands out for its localized perforations in the leather, which allow for a significant amount of airflow.

There are two ventilation pockets on the sides, air vents on the sides of the chest, and you can open the cuff zippers for extra cooling.

On summer rides, the airflow through these vents is noticeable—I’ve opened the cuffs and felt the breeze circulate through the jacket, which is a relief in stop-and-go traffic.

I found that the non-perforated version doesn’t move as much air, so if you ride in hot conditions, the perforated model is the way to go.

Still, on extremely hot days, even the best ventilation might not be enough for everyone, so consider your heat tolerance.

Dainese Super Speed 4 Sizing

The sizing of the Dainese Super Speed 4 is tailored for sportbike riders, drawing on MotoGP technology to deliver a jacket that excels in an aggressive riding position.

The pre-cut design and lengthened back keep you covered when you’re tucked over the tank, and the jacket feels like it’s made for speed.

I’ve noticed the micro-elastic technology and bi-axial elasticated inserts help the jacket move with me—especially when shifting side to side or reaching for the bars.

If you ride upright or want a jacket for casual street use, the aggressive fit might feel restrictive, especially around the shoulders and arms.

The fit is snug and the stretch panels make it comfortable for long rides, but you need to get the size right to benefit from the mobility features.

The previous version’s S1 stretch collar, which some found bulky, is gone—making the neck area feel more streamlined and less intrusive when you’re in a full tuck.

The sizing ranges from Euro 44 to 62, covering a wide range of body types. Size charts are available and seem accurate. I have a 44-inch chest, am 6 feet tall, and weigh 220 lbs, and I found that a size 56 matched the chart and fit well.

Still, I’d recommend trying the jacket on if possible; the fit is precise and a wrong size could limit your movement or comfort.

The Super Speed 4’s race-oriented fit and elasticated inserts make it a standout for sport riding, but the lack of a ladies’ version is a gap for some riders.

Accurate sizing is crucial—if you’re between sizes or have a unique build, trying the jacket on is the best way to ensure you get the full benefit of its advanced features.

Dainese Super Speed 4 Armor Safety & Protection

The Dainese Super Speed 4 stands out with its replaceable aluminum plates on the shoulders and seamless aluminum plates on the elbows, both of which are designed for high abrasion resistance and smoother sliding during a crash.

These aluminum plates can be swapped out if they get damaged, which saves you from having to replace the entire jacket after a slide.

While these plates excel at abrasion protection, they don’t absorb impact energy like a full soft protector, so their role is to reduce the risk of dangerous rolling and keep you sliding rather than tumbling.

Inside, you get certified pro armor: EN1621.1 Pro-Armor soft protectors at the shoulders and racing-derived EN1621.1 composite protectors at the elbows.

This combo is comfortable and well-ventilated, letting you move freely without feeling confined. The main drawback, is that both are CE Level 1. I would expect CE Level 2 in a jacket at this price, especially for aggressive street and track use.

Shoulder and Elbow Protectors

The shoulder and elbow protectors on the Super Speed 4 offer a layered approach, combining external aluminum plates with internal CE Level 1 Pro-Armor and composite protectors certified to EN1621.1.

The elbow protectors run down toward the wrist and use the RSS System 2.0, making the exterior pucks easy to swap after a slide.

Thermoformed base shoulders add another layer of impact dispersion, and the design helps the jacket move with you in aggressive riding positions.

I like that I have the ability to replace the sliders after a crash, which means you can keep the jacket in service longer.

The main critique is again the use of CE Level 1 armor. “For the price, I expected CE2, but the comfort of the CE1 is hard to beat for long rides.” If you’re riding at the limit, you might want to upgrade these protectors for even greater impact absorption.

Back Protector

The back protector setup in the Super Speed 4 is modular, with a pocket for optional G1 or G2 back protectors.

No back protector comes standard, so you’ll need to buy one separately to get full spinal coverage.

This lets you tailor the jacket to your needs—some riders prefer a slim profile for city riding, while others want maximum protection for track days.

I’ve used the Dainese Wave D1 G2 in other jackets, and it fits well, offering a good balance of rigidity and ventilation.

Still, the extra cost is worth factoring in, although I wish the jacket included at least a basic back protector at this price point.

Abrasion Resistance

The abrasion resistance of the Super Speed 4 comes from its D-Skin cowhide leather and S1 bi-elastic fabric, both of which are chosen for their mechanical strength and flexibility.

The jacket meets EN 17092 AA certification, a high level for street and track use, which means you’re getting a shell built to withstand serious sliding.

The S1 fabric adds flexibility without sacrificing strength, and the leather’s finish stands up to repeated wear.

I haven’t seen specific abrasion test numbers published. Still, the AA rating and the use of premium materials give me confidence in the jacket’s ability to protect in a real-world crash. The leather feels thick and reassuring, but not so stiff that it restricts movement.

The Dainese Super Speed 4 combines a modular, race-inspired protection system with high-level abrasion resistance and replaceable armor where it matters.

The main tradeoff is the CE Level 1 armor, which offers comfort and flexibility but left me wanting more impact absorption.

If you’re looking for a jacket that lets you tailor your protection and keep riding after a minor spill, this one’s hard to beat, but you’ll want to factor in the cost of upgrading the back protector for full coverage.

Dainese Super Speed 4 Color Options

The Dainese Super Speed 4 leather jacket gives you four color options to match your style and riding needs.

You can choose from Black, Red, Black/White/Fluo Red, Black-Matt/Charcoal-Gray, and Black-Matt/White/Fluo-Red.

I’ve seen these options in person, and the Fluo Red accents really pop, especially in daylight, while the all-black and charcoal versions offer a more understated, classic look.

Having multiple color options means you can pick a jacket that fits your personality or stands out on the road.

I like being able to match my jacket to my bike’s color scheme, the brighter color combos help you feel more visible to drivers.

The jacket also features integrated reflective inserts to boost your visibility in low-light or nighttime conditions.

These reflective details are subtle during the day but catch headlights and streetlights at night, making you more visible to other road users.

I’ve noticed the reflective inserts are well-placed on the arms and back, but if you want maximum night visibility, you might still want to add a hi-viz vest or extra reflective gear.

Dainese Super Speed 4 Frequently Asked Questions

Dainese Super Speed 4 Conclusion

The Dainese Super Speed 4 leather jacket stands out for riders who demand a high level of safety and a tailored, sporty fit.

Its D-Skin cowhide inserts microelastic construction feels durable and flexible, and the replaceable aluminum sliders on the shoulders and elbows give you confidence when pushing hard on a super bike or a super naked.

I’ve found the certified armor and composite protectors certified for impact zones deliver comfort and mobility, making the jacket feel like it’s built for aggressive riding.

You’ll want to weigh the CE Level 1 armor against your own safety expectations, especially if you prefer CE Level 2 for peace of mind.

The absence of a back protector means you’ll need to add a G1 or G2 insert for full coverage, which is common at this level but worth budgeting for.

If you want a leather jacket sport that’s ready for spirited rides and track days, the Super Speed 4 offers a blend of protection, style, and performance that’s hard to match.

I’ve seen forum riders echo that it’s a favorite for men racing who want both safety comfort and a race-ready look.

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