[dazzawazza]

I've come off two motorbikes in the UK. On the first occasion I wore a leather jacket, on the second I had a synthetic jacket on (because it was more comfortable in hot weather).

Both were completely safe. On both occasions I slid along the tarmac for about 10-15 meters, I was travelling at around 30-40 mph. I still wear the same leather jacket 30 years later (not for riding) but the synthetic jacket was a right-off.

On both occasions I really smacked my head: don't mess about with sub-standard crash helmets.

So even though leather is better, we're not racing the TT, we're just going from A-B and if you want to wear synthetic you'll be fine at normal speeds. So if you can't wear leather, for whatever reason, don't let that stop you.

[the_sleaze_]

Same thing here. Slid on black ice in the north-east USA winter. Big -big- hit to the side of the helmet, road-slide for 100 feet and got up with a bruised ego.

I'd add 1 point for the pads, shoulder elbow and back for impact. Mine happen to be `D3o` and are comfortable

[Workaccount2]

That's a big factor for me, my leather jacket is tough as nails, and has eaten one slide before with only minor scuffs.

But my synthetic jacket has armor as well, and while thankfully I have never tested it, it should provide pretty good protection even if the nylon burns through.

[loloquwowndueo]

* write-off, not right-off.

[dazzawazza]

Forgive me. I've banged my head a few times.