Many bikers cover their jackets and other pieces of their riding gear with patches. They add patches to their hats, belts, vests, pants, bags, and much more. But to those new to riding, or to non-bikers looking at whole clubs riding by in their patch-covered jackets, the question is this: are all those patches really needed? What if you like your jacket the way it is? Do you have to cover it in patches?
Well, no, motorcycle patches aren't exactly a requirement. You aren't forced to put patches all over your riding gear. However, some motorcycle clubs do ask that their members wear club patches on their jackets, at least at official club events. These patches state the club name and sometimes list the city the club is based out of. Officers in the club are usually required to wear a patch listing their office. This makes it easy for members and non-members to find those in charge at events. Again, not every club has this requirement. In fact, many of the smaller, more informal clubs don't even have official club patches.
While wearing patches on your jacket isn't a necessity, it can be a lot of fun. It gives you a chance to show off some of your likes and personality. You can let people know you have a sense of humor by adding some funny saying patches, or you can show off your patriotic side by covering your jacket with U.S. flags and other patriotic images. Of course, you don't have to cover your entire jacket, you can only put a few patches on your riding gear if you prefer. It's entirely up to you how many and what type of patches you wear on your jacket.
