Fabric for manufacture - cotton, leather, textile, or hybrid? Textile
Length of jacket short or touring style? 3/4 Length. Touring bunches at front and rubs tank, short gets weather around your back
Consider the wearer of the jacket is riding a well faired bike that needs more ventilation. Yes
Any other specific design features? E.g. Additional mesh panels for ventilation Chest, Arms, Back
Is ventilation required, placement of ventilation? Back to exhaust jacket
Does the jacket need to be waterproof? Removable or permanent waterproof lining No, you cannot have Zips, Vents & FULLY waterproof in the price range we are looking around.
Does it need to provide protection from the elements when the temperature drops to 5 degrees? No, see below
Does the jacket need a thermal lining? No, I would prefer the $ spent in the jacket, I use my own thermal jacket underneath, as you need to carry a off the bike jacket/jumper anyway
Should the thermal lining be removable? N/A
Does it need to be suitable when the temperature is over 30 degrees? Yes please
I think the role of a jacket is as the safety and protective layer in a mishap.....so emphasis should be on H/D textile and quality Armour in the impact areas, quality double stitching, Hi-Vis, and cooling. Use your own thermal Layer underneath for warmth, and a breathable rain jacket over the top for rain/wind
Agree with all of that
But would add if there is not going to be a ladies cut in the jacket, it needs to have a waist band or better still an adjustable belt for the hour glass figured lady's.