im looking at these two jackets: http://www.newenough.com/icon_timax_mesh_jacket_page.htm and http://www.newenough.com/icon_timax_jacket_page.htm .
basically what i want to know which one would protect more between the mesh jacket and the textile jacket...the guy at the bike shop said the protection is the same but why would the price be so much of a difference...
anyways....let me know guys, im looking at one or the other.
Because textile cost more to manufacture than mesh.
And they know that people will pay more for it.
When it comes to textile or mesh, there's not really any point in worrying about witch one will protect you more. The armor is what does the protecting. The only difference is skid wear. Basically how long until the fabric rips through if you're sliding along the highway. Between textile and mesh, textile will last a tiny bit longer when sliding, but the difference in so minute that it's not even worth worrying about. If you're super worried about protection, buy leather. It holds up to sliding much better.
When choosing between textile or mesh you need to consider what and when you'll be using it for. If you want a jacket that not too hot, and will still protect you, then go for the mesh. But if you want something that's gonna keep the rain off, keep you warm, and still protect you, then go for the textile. Really you need two jackets. One for super hot and dry days, and one for colder, wetter days.
Also keep in mind that if you happen to be sliding down the highway on your back, the fabric IA going to wear through, leather or textile. But even then, it's gonna take a lot of sliding to wear through those duel density foam elbow and back pads.