That’s the main reason why the brand on your jacket matters: it can save your life. Just like you wouldn’t skimp on your helmet, you shouldn’t settle for a jacket that only looks the part. When things go sideways, it’s your last line of defense. Some jackets just don’t cut it.

This guide’s about the brands that do the job consistently. The brands that actually protect you, hold up over time, and get recommended by riders who’ve been through it. 

We’ve grouped the most trusted brands into three tiers based on performance, design focus, and overall value:

Tier 1 – Premium Performance & Innovation

	Klim Klim jackets are built for hardcore adventure and touring riders who demand rugged durability, technical performance, and all-weather reliability.	Check Price on Revzilla Check Price on Amazon
	Alpinestars Alpinestars is legendary gear for riders who push limits—on the track or the street—offering race-proven protection, ergonomic design, and all-out performance.	Check Price on Revzilla Check Price on Amazon
	Dainese Dainese blends Italian design with cutting-edge safety, delivering sleek, high-performance gear trusted by pros and everyday riders alike.	Check Price on Revzilla Check Price on Amazon

Klim

Klim jackets are built for hardcore adventure and touring riders who demand rugged durability, technical performance, and all-weather reliability.

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Alpinestars

Alpinestars is legendary gear for riders who push limits—on the track or the street—offering race-proven protection, ergonomic design, and all-out performance.

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Dainese

Dainese blends Italian design with cutting-edge safety, delivering sleek, high-performance gear trusted by pros and everyday riders alike.

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Tier 2 – High-Quality Versatility

	REV’IT Versatile, well-designed gear that balances protection, style, and value. Great fit, smart features, and options for every riding style.	Check Price on Revzilla Check Price on Amazon
	Pando Moto Pando Moto fuses everyday style with serious protection, creating sleek, minimalist gear that looks as good off the bike as it performs on it.	Check Price on Pando Moto Check Price on Revzilla
	Bowtex Bowtex creates protective base layers that let you ride safely in your favorite clothes—blending comfort, safety, and European craftsmanship.	Check Price on Bowtex
	Spidi Spidi combines Italian craftsmanship with advanced tech to deliver stylish, high-performance jackets built for both city rides and long-distance tours.	Check Price on Revzilla
	Schott American-made leather with timeless fit and iconic heritage. The original moto jacket, built to outlast everything else.	Check Price on Revzilla

REV’IT

Versatile, well-designed gear that balances protection, style, and value. Great fit, smart features, and options for every riding style.

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Pando Moto

Pando Moto fuses everyday style with serious protection, creating sleek, minimalist gear that looks as good off the bike as it performs on it.

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Bowtex

Bowtex creates protective base layers that let you ride safely in your favorite clothes—blending comfort, safety, and European craftsmanship.

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Spidi

Spidi combines Italian craftsmanship with advanced tech to deliver stylish, high-performance jackets built for both city rides and long-distance tours.

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Schott

American-made leather with timeless fit and iconic heritage. The original moto jacket, built to outlast everything else.

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Tier 3 – Budget-Friendly Options

	Sedici Sedici delivers European-inspired design and performance at an affordable price—offering solid quality and style without the premium cost.	Check Price on Revzilla
	Street & Steel Street & Steel brings rugged, cruiser-inspired gear with real protection and streetwise style—built for everyday riders who value toughness over trends.	Check Price on Revzilla
	First Manufacturing First Manufacturing delivers classic American leather gear made to last—combining timeless style, solid protection, and decades of rider-focused craftsmanship.	Check Price on Revzilla Check Price on Amazon

Sedici

Sedici delivers European-inspired design and performance at an affordable price—offering solid quality and style without the premium cost.

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Street & Steel

Street & Steel brings rugged, cruiser-inspired gear with real protection and streetwise style—built for everyday riders who value toughness over trends.

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First Manufacturing

First Manufacturing delivers classic American leather gear made to last—combining timeless style, solid protection, and decades of rider-focused craftsmanship.

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Quick Picks: Moto Jacket Brands

Best Overall	Best for Touring	Best Classic
REV'IT Motorcycle Jackets	Klim Motorcycle Jackets	Schott Motorcycle Jackets
Versatile, well-designed gear that balances protection, style, and value. Great fit, smart features, and options for every riding style.	Top-shelf materials and weatherproofing built for serious distance. Adventure-grade jackets trusted by riders who don’t turn back.	American-made leather with timeless fit and iconic heritage. The original moto jacket, built to outlast everything else.
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Best Overall

REV'IT Motorcycle Jackets

Versatile, well-designed gear that balances protection, style, and value. Great fit, smart features, and options for every riding style.

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Best for Touring

Klim Motorcycle Jackets

Top-shelf materials and weatherproofing built for serious distance. Adventure-grade jackets trusted by riders who don’t turn back.

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Best Classic

Schott Motorcycle Jackets

American-made leather with timeless fit and iconic heritage. The original moto jacket, built to outlast everything else.

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Common Myths About Motorcycle Jacket Brands

“Big brands are always better.” Not always. Some of the smaller or house-label brands are putting out gear that outperforms the big names—often with better fit, better features, and better value. Recognition doesn’t always equal quality.

“You have to pick one brand and stick with it.” Wrong. Most riders mix and match. Klim for the jacket, Alpinestars for the gloves, maybe Pando Moto jeans. Good gear is good gear, don’t box yourself in.

“If it’s not made in Europe, it’s not premium.” Plenty of excellent gear is designed in the U.S. or Asia and made in places like Pakistan or Vietnam. What matters is quality control and design, not the flag on the tag. We break this down further in our guide to the best motorcycle gear brands.

“House brands are just budget knockoffs.” Some used to be. But brands like Sedici and Street & Steel have evolved into serious contenders by offering well-built, well-priced gear that actually holds up. Don’t sleep on them.

“Heritage brands don’t innovate.” Legacy doesn’t mean outdated. Schott still makes jackets that can outlast your bike, and Dainese continues to push tech like airbags and race-grade armor. The key is knowing which models carry the torch, and which just carry the name.

Now that we’ve cleared up the common myths, let’s dive into the brands that actually matter. These are the names riders trust. Here’s what makes each of them worth your attention.

Tier 1 – Premium Performance & Innovation

These are the apex brands. Expect top-shelf materials, technical innovation, and gear that performs in extreme conditions. If you’re riding hard, far, or fast, this is your shortlist.

Klim: Built for the Wild

Klim doesn’t build jackets for the urban poser or the weekend canyon scratcher. This is gear for the backcountry, the borderless, the battered but still rolling. Based out of Rigby, Idaho, Klim has become synonymous with serious adventure and long-haul touring. Whether you’re threading your GS through sand in Baja or hammering frost-covered trails in British Columbia, Klim jackets are engineered to survive, and keep you sane. Their reputation is built on high-performance fabrics, overbuilt construction, and obsessive attention to functional detail. If the phrase “no such thing as bad weather” sounds like your idea of a good time, Klim has your back.

• Year Founded: 1999
• Designed In: Rigby, Idaho, USA
• Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
• Styles: Adventure, touring, off-road, snowmobile gear

Klim sits at the pinnacle of technical riding apparel, with a product philosophy built on testing and durability over flash. Their gear doesn’t come cheap, but it’s not meant to. From the use of Gore-Tex Pro shells that never wet out, to D3O impact armor and abrasion panels where they matter most, every Klim jacket is designed to be part of your toolset, not your outfit. These are garments built for riders who live in the saddle for weeks at a time.

While Klim doesn’t push celebrity endorsements, riders like Lyndon Poskitt (world adventurer and Dakar Rally vet) have put their gear through extremes most of us only dream of. You’ll find Klim gear on folks navigating the Trans-America Trail, criss-crossing the Alps, or ghosting into remote deserts with nothing but fuel, freeze-dried meals, and a GPS beacon. The brand’s roots in snowmobile apparel show through in their tolerance for awful weather. Many ADV riders say once you’ve ridden through a week of sideways rain in a Klim jacket, you’ll never go back. It’s not fashion. It’s survival, with comfort and confidence baked in. if you’re eyeing Klim, check our full review of the Badlands Pro A3.

Popular Klim Jackets

Klim Badlands Pro A3 Jacket	Klim Latitude Jacket	Klim Carlsbad Jacket
Ultimate adventure armor. Hardcore durability, massive venting, and top-tier protection.	Gore-Tex touring comfort with street-friendly looks and versatile weather performance.	Lighter, more mobile ADV build without sacrificing core protection or waterproofing.
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Klim Badlands Pro A3 Jacket

Ultimate adventure armor. Hardcore durability, massive venting, and top-tier protection.

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Klim Latitude Jacket

Gore-Tex touring comfort with street-friendly looks and versatile weather performance.

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Klim Carlsbad Jacket

Lighter, more mobile ADV build without sacrificing core protection or waterproofing.

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Alpinestars: Speed Woven In

Alpinestars isn’t just a brand—it’s practically a rite of passage. If you’ve ridden hard, fast, or on a track, you’ve either worn it or wished you had. Born in Asolo, Italy in 1963, Alpinestars carved its name into the bones of motorsport long before motorcycle gear became a design contest. This is gear for the apex-hungry, the tucked-in, the elbows-down lunatics chasing lean angles and lap times. But it’s not all about speed. Over the years, Alpinestars has evolved from a racewear legend into a comprehensive gear brand for sport, touring, adventure, and even street riders. Whether it’s leather or textile, airbag or hoodie, Alpinestars brings a relentless focus on rider-first ergonomics and real-deal protection that’s hard to beat at any level.

Year Founded: 1963
Designed In: Asolo, Italy
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Sport, track, adventure, touring, urban

For a company rooted in racing, Alpinestars has done an impressive job making that DNA wearable for everyday riders. They’re a juggernaut in MotoGP and Supercross, outfitting names like Marc Márquez and Jason Anderson. That trickle-down from race tech shows up everywhere, from their leather Missile series that fits like a second skin to waterproof touring jackets that look like they could shrug off a hurricane. The fit is aggressive but refined, with articulation and venting that just makes sense once you’re on the bike.

Their Drystar waterproofing system, while proprietary, holds up surprisingly well in variable conditions. And if you’re serious about protection, their Tech-Air airbag compatibility pushes the whole category forward. The design language is unapologetically Italian: edgy, sharp, and ready to go fast standing still—but the function backs it up. Alpinestars doesn’t just chase trends. They make gear for riders who trust it with their lives, day in and day out. Whether you’re setting lap records or lane-splitting downtown, there’s a good chance Alpinestars has something purpose-built for how you ride.

Popular Alpinestars Jackets

Alpinestars Stella T-GP Plus R V4 Airflow Jacket	Alpinestars Andes v3 Drystar Jacket	Alpinestars Missile V3 Ignition Leather Jacket
Sport textile with serious airflow, built for hot days and fast rides.	Rugged ADV touring jacket with solid waterproofing and all-day comfort.	Premium track-ready leather, Tech-Air compatible, race fit.
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Alpinestars Stella T-GP Plus R V4 Airflow Jacket

Sport textile with serious airflow, built for hot days and fast rides.

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Alpinestars Andes v3 Drystar Jacket

Rugged ADV touring jacket with solid waterproofing and all-day comfort.

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Alpinestars Missile V3 Ignition Leather Jacket

Premium track-ready leather, Tech-Air compatible, race fit.

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Dainese: Italian Precision, Track to Street

Dainese doesn’t just make motorcycle gear—they sculpt it. Founded in 1972 in Molvena, Italy, by Lino Dainese, the brand has become a symbol of Italian design excellence and innovation in rider protection. From pioneering the first back protector to introducing the D-Air® airbag system, Dainese has consistently pushed the boundaries of safety and style. Their gear is a staple in MotoGP paddocks and urban streets alike, trusted by professionals and enthusiasts who demand the best.

Year Founded: 1972
Designed In: Molvena, Italy
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Sport, track, touring, urban, adventure

Dainese’s commitment to innovation is evident in every stitch. Their jackets often feature proprietary technologies like the D-Air® airbag system, providing an extra layer of protection that activates in milliseconds during a crash. The brand’s collaboration with professional racers has led to gear that doesn’t just meet safety standards—it sets them. Whether it’s the ergonomic design that reduces fatigue on long rides or the meticulous attention to aerodynamics, Dainese gear is engineered for performance. Yet, they haven’t sacrificed style for function. The sleek lines, premium materials, and Italian craftsmanship make their jackets as fashionable as they are functional. From the track to the café, Dainese ensures riders are protected and poised.

Popular Dainese Jackets

Dainese Racing 5 Perforated Leather Jacket	Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated Jacket	Dainese Air Frame 3 Women's Jacket
A sport-focused leather jacket with excellent ventilation and protection.	High-performance jacket designed for aggressive sport riding.	A lightweight textile jacket ideal for hot weather conditions.
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Dainese Racing 5 Perforated Leather Jacket

A sport-focused leather jacket with excellent ventilation and protection.

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Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated Jacket

High-performance jacket designed for aggressive sport riding.

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Dainese Air Frame 3 Women's Jacket

A lightweight textile jacket ideal for hot weather conditions.

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Tier 2 – High-Quality Versatility

These brands balance performance and practicality. They’re trusted by everyday riders who need comfort, protection, and style across multiple ride types and seasons.

REV’IT!: Dutch Design, Global Ride

REV’IT! hits a rare sweet spot that most brands miss — delivering real-world protection and performance without locking you into a niche. Whether you’re navigating city streets, logging cross-country miles, or just hitting weekend backroads, REV’IT! jackets offer an exceptional blend of function, comfort, and style that adapts to how you actually ride.

Year Founded: 1995
Designed In: Oss, Netherlands
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Adventure, touring, urban, sport

Founded in the Netherlands in 1995, the brand has steadily earned a global reputation for high-design gear that doesn’t just look good — it performs where it counts. From SEEFLEX™ armor that flexes naturally while meeting CE Level 2 standards, to smart layering systems and laminated waterproofing that rivals top-shelf adventure brands, REV’IT! proves that you don’t have to choose between protection, comfort, or aesthetics.

Unlike race-centric brands that assume an aggressive tuck, or ultra-premium ADV brands built around expedition use, REV’IT! gear is made for riders who do a bit of everything. The fits are more forgiving but still trim, the features are intuitive, and the design leans modern without looking overbuilt. You can wear their mesh Eclipse jacket around town, layer up with the Sand 5 for serious trips, or grab a laminated option like the Tornado 4 for all-weather commuting — and in each case, you’re getting gear that’s been dialed in over decades of rider feedback and technical refinement.

It’s not the flashiest brand, and it’s not the cheapest either. But REV’IT! earns “Best Overall” because it consistently delivers everything most riders need — and nothing they don’t.

Popular REV’IT! Jackets

REV'IT! Sand 5 H2O Jacket	REV'IT! Eclipse 2 Jacket	REV'IT! Tornado 4 H2O Jacket
A true four-season workhorse built for serious adventure or everyday touring. Waterproof, ventilated, and loaded with rider-focused features, it adapts to almost anything you throw at it.	Minimalist mesh done right. This hot-weather favorite delivers airflow and protection in a clean, city-friendly silhouette — ideal for commuters and summer riders who don’t want to overheat or overdress.	An all-weather 3-in-1 system jacket that balances breathability, waterproofing, and protection. Perfect for riders who demand one jacket that does it all, from morning chill to afternoon sun.
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REV'IT! Sand 5 H2O Jacket

A true four-season workhorse built for serious adventure or everyday touring. Waterproof, ventilated, and loaded with rider-focused features, it adapts to almost anything you throw at it.

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REV'IT! Eclipse 2 Jacket

Minimalist mesh done right. This hot-weather favorite delivers airflow and protection in a clean, city-friendly silhouette — ideal for commuters and summer riders who don’t want to overheat or overdress.

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REV'IT! Tornado 4 H2O Jacket

An all-weather 3-in-1 system jacket that balances breathability, waterproofing, and protection. Perfect for riders who demand one jacket that does it all, from morning chill to afternoon sun.

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Pando Moto: Urban Armor, Baltic Born

Pando Moto isn’t your average motorcycle gear brand. Born in Lithuania in 2011, this rider-founded company set out to bridge the gap between high-performance protection and minimalist streetwear aesthetics. They didn’t just want gear that worked, they wanted gear that looked good doing it. From their European design roots, Pando Moto has grown into a global name by crafting jackets and riding apparel that blend technical innovation with understated style. If you’ve ever wished your riding gear could double as your favorite everyday outfit, Pando Moto is speaking your language.

Year Founded: 2011
Designed In: Vilnius, Lithuania
Manufactured In: Europe
Styles: Urban, casual, leather, textile, armored base layers

Pando Moto doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. It’s not out to replace Klim on your next cross-continental trip, but for city riders, café-hoppers, and street stylers, it nails the brief. The jackets lean on premium materials like Cordura and Dyneema for abrasion resistance, paired with slim-profile CE-rated armor to keep things low-key but legit. Whether it’s the M65’s military vibes or the Falcon’s clean leather silhouette, every piece balances form and function with zero compromise. They don’t scream “motorcycle,” and that’s exactly why they work so well on and off the bike.

If you’re curious how their best-selling leather piece stacks up, check out our hands-on review of the Pando Moto Falcon jacket.

But the real secret weapon in their lineup is their armored underlayers. The Commando UH (full review here) and Shell UH 02 have become cult favorites among riders who want stealth protection under everyday clothes. These are not just base layers. They are fully CE-rated armor systems designed to move with you, breathe well, and offer crash-tested performance when it matters. Whether you’re commuting in jeans or layering up under a waxed cotton jacket, these pieces disappear until you need them most. Pando Moto may not be trying to win every category, but in the world of stylish, protective urban gear, they are already setting the bar.

Popular Pando Moto Jackets and Underlayers

Pando Moto Falcon Aviator Leather Jacket	Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket	Pando Moto Bia Women's Armored Base Layer
A minimalist leather jacket made from soft, premium cowhide with CE-rated armor and AA protection.	A stealthy CE AAA-rated underlayer that wears like streetwear but protects like armor. Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.	Designed specifically for women, this CE-rated armored underlayer offers top-tier protection with a contoured fit.
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Pando Moto Falcon Aviator Leather Jacket

A minimalist leather jacket made from soft, premium cowhide with CE-rated armor and AA protection.

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Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket

A stealthy CE AAA-rated underlayer that wears like streetwear but protects like armor.

Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.

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Pando Moto Bia Women's Armored Base Layer

Designed specifically for women, this CE-rated armored underlayer offers top-tier protection with a contoured fit.

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Bowtex: Undercover Protection for the Style-Conscious Rider

Bowtex is a Belgian brand that has redefined motorcycle safety gear by focusing on protective underlayers. Founded by a passionate rider seeking to combine safety with personal style, Bowtex offers base layers that allow motorcyclists to wear their favorite outer garments without compromising on protection. Their products are designed in Belgium and manufactured in Western Europe, emphasizing quality and local craftsmanship. Want a full breakdown of how their top-tier gear holds up? 

Year Founded: 2015
Designed In: Belgium
Manufactured In: Western Europe
Styles of Gear Made: Protective base layers, including shirts and leggings

Bowtex’s flagship product, the Elite series, has garnered attention for its CE AAA-rated protection, the highest level achievable under current standards. The Elite shirt and leggings are constructed from a blend of Dyneema® and other technical fibers, providing exceptional abrasion resistance while remaining lightweight and breathable . This makes them ideal for riders who want to maintain a casual appearance without sacrificing safety. Read our in-depth Bowtex Elite review.

One of the standout features of Bowtex gear is its versatility. The underlayers can be worn beneath regular clothing, allowing riders to seamlessly transition from the road to everyday activities. This approach caters to urban commuters and touring riders alike, offering comfort in various weather conditions. The garments include pockets for optional CE Level 1 or 2 armor at key impact zones, such as shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips .

In summary, Bowtex offers a unique solution for motorcyclists who prioritize both safety and style. Their innovative underlayers provide high-level protection without the bulk of traditional gear, making them a valuable addition to any rider’s wardrobe.

Popular Bowtex Shirts

Bowtex Elite Shirt V2	Bowtex Elite Shirt Ladies V2	Bowtex Optimal Shirt Men
A lightweight, breathable shirt offering CE AAA-rated protection, designed to be worn under regular clothing.	CE AAA-rated protection tailored for female riders. Cut for all-day comfort and coverage.	Lightweight, breathable, and CE Level A-rate. Ideal for city riding or layering under casual gear.
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Bowtex Elite Shirt V2

A lightweight, breathable shirt offering CE AAA-rated protection, designed to be worn under regular clothing.

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Bowtex Elite Shirt Ladies V2

CE AAA-rated protection tailored for female riders. Cut for all-day comfort and coverage.

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Bowtex Optimal Shirt Men

Lightweight, breathable, and CE Level A-rate. Ideal for city riding or layering under casual gear.

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Spidi: Precision-Crafted Protection

Spidi doesn’t just make motorcycle jackets, they engineer them. Founded in 1977 in Vicenza, Italy, Spidi has built a reputation for combining Italian craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Their gear is designed for riders who demand both style and performance, whether navigating city streets or tackling long-distance tours. With a focus on safety, comfort, and versatility, Spidi offers a range of jackets that cater to various riding styles and conditions.

Year Founded: 1977
Designed In: Vicenza, Italy
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Sport, touring, adventure, urban, leather, textile

Spidi’s commitment to innovation is evident in their use of proprietary technologies like the H2Out waterproof membrane and Warrior armor systems—features designed not just for lab conditions, but for long miles in unpredictable weather. Many of their jackets use a modular system, with removable thermal and waterproof liners and well-placed vents that make it easy to adapt on the fly, whether you’re riding through the Alps or across state lines. Ergonomics are dialed in too, with articulated fits and stretch paneling that make a real difference in comfort over hours in the saddle.

Spidi gear is built for riders who want refinement over flash. If you’re a long-distance tourer, a three-season commuter, or someone who wants one jacket to do it all, Spidi is worth a look. Their range includes jackets tuned for ADV, urban riding, and track use, but the common thread is thoughtful design and a level of finish that feels distinctly Italian. Their collaboration with professional racers and world travelers brings real-world feedback into every stitch. From alpine passes to tight city traffic, Spidi jackets deliver a blend of protection, functionality, and understated style that hits the mark for serious riders who value control over chaos.

Popular Spidi Jackets

Spidi 4 Season V3 Jacket	Spidi Mission-V Jacket	Spidi Net H2Out Jacket
A versatile 3-in-1 jacket with removable H2Out membrane and thermal liner, suitable for year-round riding.	A 2-in-1 jacket with a 3-layer laminated fabric, offering waterproof and windproof protection for all-weather conditions.	A lightweight jacket with mesh panels and a waterproof liner, ideal for warm weather and variable conditions.
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Spidi 4 Season V3 Jacket

A versatile 3-in-1 jacket with removable H2Out membrane and thermal liner, suitable for year-round riding.

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Spidi Mission-V Jacket

A 2-in-1 jacket with a 3-layer laminated fabric, offering waterproof and windproof protection for all-weather conditions.

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Spidi Net H2Out Jacket

A lightweight jacket with mesh panels and a waterproof liner, ideal for warm weather and variable conditions.

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Schott NYC: The Original Rebel Jacket

Schott NYC isn’t just a brand—it’s the blueprint. Founded in 1913 by brothers Irving and Jack Schott in New York City, they were the first to put a zipper on a jacket and, in 1928, created the original leather motorcycle jacket: the Perfecto. Named after Irving’s favorite cigar, the Perfecto became an icon of rebellion, worn by legends like Marlon Brando in The Wild One, James Dean, and Bruce Springsteen. Schott’s jackets have been a staple for those who ride and those who simply want to look like they do. With over a century of craftsmanship, Schott continues to produce many of its jackets in the USA, maintaining a legacy of quality and authenticity. If timeless leather is your style, you’ll want to check out our favorite vintage motorcycle jackets. Schott is right at the heart of that list.

Year Founded: 1913
Designed In: New York City, USA
Manufactured In: Primarily in the USA (Union, New Jersey)
Styles: Motorcycle, café racer, bomber, flight, peacoat, urban leather

Schott NYC’s commitment to quality is evident in every stitch. Their jackets are crafted from premium materials like heavyweight cowhide and horsehide, ensuring durability and a distinctive patina over time. The Perfecto, with its asymmetrical zipper, belted waist, and snap-down lapels, set the standard for motorcycle jackets and remains a timeless piece. Beyond the Perfecto, Schott offers a range of styles, including the minimalist 141 Café Racer and the rugged 530 Waxy Cowhide Jacket. Each jacket is a testament to Schott’s dedication to craftsmanship, with many pieces still made in their Union, New Jersey factory. This hands-on approach ensures that every jacket meets the brand’s high standards and continues the legacy that has made Schott a symbol of American rebellion and style.

Popular Schott NYC Jackets

Schott 141 Cafe Racer Jacket	Schott 626VN Perfecto Vintaged Jacket	Schott 626VNW Women's Jacket
A clean, no-frills classic made from heavyweight cowhide. Built for the long haul with understated style and timeless fit.	The rebel silhouette with a broken-in feel right out of the box. Asymmetrical zip, snap-down collar, and all attitude.	A tailored version of the iconic Perfecto, vintage-washed and contoured for women riders who want heritage without compromise.
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Schott 141 Cafe Racer Jacket

A clean, no-frills classic made from heavyweight cowhide. Built for the long haul with understated style and timeless fit.

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Schott 626VN Perfecto Vintaged Jacket

The rebel silhouette with a broken-in feel right out of the box. Asymmetrical zip, snap-down collar, and all attitude.

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Schott 626VNW Women's Jacket

A tailored version of the iconic Perfecto, vintage-washed and contoured for women riders who want heritage without compromise.

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Tier 3 – Budget-Friendly Options

These are smart picks for riders on a budget, newer riders building their first gear setup, or anyone who wants function over flash. Solid protection without the premium price tag.

Sedici: Euro-Inspired Gear Without the Euro Price

Sedici is the kind of brand that sneaks up on you. At first glance, it might seem like just another house label, but spend some time in their gear, and you’ll realize there’s more beneath the surface. Launched in 2011 by Cycle Gear and now part of the Comoto family (which includes RevZilla and J&P Cycles), Sedici was created to offer riders European-inspired design and performance without the premium price tag. The name itself means “sixteen” in Italian, a nod to its Euro roots. Designed in the U.S. and manufactured overseas, Sedici gear is built to meet the demands of riders who want quality without breaking the bank.

Year Founded: 2011
Designed In: United States
Manufactured In: Primarily China and Pakistan
Styles: Adventure, touring, sport, mesh, leather, waterproof textile

Sedici’s strength lies in delivering functional, feature-rich gear at a price point that’s accessible to a wide range of riders. Their jackets often come equipped with CE Level 2 armor, waterproof liners, and thoughtful ventilation systems. 

Take the Garda WP Jacket, for example: it’s a laminated, seam-sealed adventure jacket with stretch fabric for comfort and a host of pockets for practicality. Or the Alexi 2 Mesh Jacket, which offers impressive airflow for hot-weather riding, along with removable waterproof and thermal liners for versatility. While Sedici may not have the cachet of some high-end European brands, it consistently punches above its weight, making it a smart choice for riders who value performance and affordability.

Popular Sedici Jackets

Sedici Garda WP Jacket	Sedici Alexi 2 Mesh Jacket	Sedici Avventura Waterproof Jacket
Description: A versatile adventure touring jacket with waterproof construction and ample storage.	Description: A warm-weather jacket featuring mesh panels and removable liners for adaptability.	Description: Designed for adventure riders, offering waterproof protection and durability.
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Sedici Garda WP Jacket

Description:

A versatile adventure touring jacket with waterproof construction and ample storage.

Check Price on Revzilla

Sedici Alexi 2 Mesh Jacket

Description:

A warm-weather jacket featuring mesh panels and removable liners for adaptability.

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Sedici Avventura Waterproof Jacket

Description:

Designed for adventure riders, offering waterproof protection and durability.

Check Price on Revzilla

Street & Steel: Cruiser Cool Meets Everyday Protection

Street & Steel feels like the neighborhood bruiser of the gear world. It’s unpolished, practical, and tougher than it looks. It doesn’t posture, it doesn’t flex, and it sure doesn’t care about runway styling. This is gear made for riders who want something that fits the cruiser lifestyle, holds up in a slide, and still looks halfway decent when you step off the bike. Like Sedici, Street & Steel was born in 2011 under the Cycle Gear umbrella and is now part of the Comoto family. 

Street & Steel was built with the American street rider in mind. Think leather, denim, armor, and attitude. Designed stateside, produced overseas, and priced so you can still fill your tank after you buy it.

Year Founded: 2011
Designed In: United States
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Cruiser, urban, leather, textile, armored hoodies

Street & Steel’s strength lies in delivering functional, feature-rich gear at a price point that’s accessible to a wide range of riders. Their jackets often come equipped with CE Level 2 armor, waterproof liners, and thoughtful ventilation systems. Take the Independence Jacket, for example. It’s a full-grain cowhide leather jacket with a fully perforated chassis and a removable thermal liner, making it suitable for year-round riding.

Then there’s the Anarchy 2 Jacket, which offers a rugged denim look with Aramid reinforcements and CE Level 2 armor for solid protection. Street & Steel isn’t chasing prestige, and that’s exactly why it works. It delivers honest, hardworking gear for riders who care more about road time than brand names, and it does it without cutting corners where it counts.

Popular Street & Steel Jackets

Street & Steel Independence Jacket	Street & Steel Anarchy 2 Jacket	Street & Steel Drifter Jacket
Description: A versatile leather jacket with perforated panels and a removable thermal liner.	Description: A rugged denim jacket with Aramid reinforcements and CE Level 2 armor.	Description: A leather jacket with a removable hoodie and CE-rated armor for casual rides.
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Street & Steel Independence Jacket

Description:

A versatile leather jacket with perforated panels and a removable thermal liner.

Check Price on Revzilla

Street & Steel Anarchy 2 Jacket

Description:

A rugged denim jacket with Aramid reinforcements and CE Level 2 armor.

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Street & Steel Drifter Jacket

Description:

A leather jacket with a removable hoodie and CE-rated armor for casual rides.

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First Manufacturing: Classic Leather, Built for the Long Haul

First Manufacturing Co. has been crafting leather motorcycle gear since 1987, starting with a suitcase full of leather and an American dream. Founded in New York City, the company recognized a demand for high-quality leather jackets and set out to meet it with dedication and craftsmanship. Over the years, they’ve expanded their offerings to include a wide range of motorcycle apparel, all designed with the rider in mind.

Year Founded: 1987
Designed In: New York, USA
Manufactured In: Primarily overseas (locations not publicly disclosed)
Styles: Cruiser, café racer, touring, urban, leather, textile

First Manufacturing’s commitment to quality is evident in their use of premium materials and attention to detail. Their jackets are made from drum-dyed naked cowhide, offering both durability and a supple feel. Features like YKK zippers, armor pockets, and concealed carry compartments are standard, reflecting the brand’s focus on functionality. The Enforcer Jacket, for example, combines classic styling with modern protective features, making it a favorite among riders. 

Beyond their standard offerings, First Manufacturing provides a Custom Builder tool, allowing riders to design jackets that suit their individual style and needs. This level of personalization, combined with their commitment to quality, has earned them a loyal following in the motorcycle community. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or embarking on a long-distance tour, First Manufacturing offers gear that’s both stylish and reliable.

Popular First Manufacturing Jackets

First Manufacturing Enforcer Jacket	First Manufacturing Commuter Jacket	First Manufacturing Vendetta Jacket
Description: A classic asymmetrical zip leather jacket with modern protective features.	Description: A versatile jacket blending classic style with modern functionality.	Description: A sleek, café racer-style jacket with a streamlined fit.
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	Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon

First Manufacturing Enforcer Jacket

Description:

A classic asymmetrical zip leather jacket with modern protective features.

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First Manufacturing Commuter Jacket

Description:

A versatile jacket blending classic style with modern functionality.

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First Manufacturing Vendetta Jacket

Description:

A sleek, café racer-style jacket with a streamlined fit.

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Motorcycle Jacket Buying Guide

Picking a motorcycle jacket starts with picking the right brand. You’re not just buying a piece of gear, you’re buying into a design philosophy, a materials standard, and a level of trust. The brands you choose determine how your gear performs when it counts, and how long it holds up after months or years in the saddle.

If you’re still narrowing down your options, check out this guide to choosing the right motorcycle jacket, it breaks down exactly what to look for.

Know What Each Brand Is Good At

• Klim leads in weatherproofing, durability, and technical adventure gear.
• Alpinestars and Dainese are race-day specialists with tight fits and advanced armor.
• Sedici and Street & Steel provide budget-friendly gear with surprising quality.
• Schott NYC and First Manufacturing own the classic leather space with American-made craftsmanship.

Don’t Let Country of Origin Fool You

• Great gear is made everywhere—from Pakistan and Vietnam to the U.S. and Europe.
• Sedici and Street & Steel prove that overseas-made doesn’t mean second-rate.
• Higher cost doesn’t always mean better quality—especially with European-made gear at the mid-range.

Budget with the Right Brands in Mind

• $1,000+: Look at Klim, Alpinestars, and Dainese for premium tech and fit.
• $300–$500: Solid value from REV’IT!, Sedici, and First Manufacturing.
• Want daily style with real protection? Pando Moto and Schott NYC strike that balance.

Final Tip: Trust the Patterns

• Listen to riders who put in serious miles—they’ll steer you right.
• Brands that come up again and again do so for a reason.
• Match your gear to your riding habits, and don’t chase logos. Ride what works.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are biker jackets worth it?

If you ride regularly, absolutely. A proper motorcycle jacket isn’t just a fashion statement. It’s armor, abrasion protection, and comfort all rolled into one. Whether you’re cruising across states or just running errands, a well-built jacket could be the difference between walking away and limping off.

How can you tell if a jacket is good quality?

Start with materials and construction. Look for CE-rated armor (Level 1 or 2), solid stitching, and abrasion-resistant fabrics like leather, Cordura, or Dyneema. Zippers should be YKK or equivalent, liners should feel substantial, and nothing should flap or sag when you’re in a riding position. Cheap jackets cut corners. Good ones don’t.

How do I choose a riding jacket?

Think about your riding style, climate, and priorities. Touring? Go for waterproof and vented. City rider? Look for lightweight and flexible. Track? You’ll want leather with a snug fit and impact zones covered. If you’re heading off-road or planning big-mile ADV trips, check out our favorite adventure jackets to see what holds up. Start with how you ride and find a brand that builds for it.

Should a motorcycle jacket be tight or loose?

It should be snug, not restrictive. Armor only works if it stays in place during a crash. Too loose and it shifts. Too tight and it limits your movement or airflow. Sit on your bike in riding position before you decide. It should feel natural and stay put.

Why are motorcycle jacket zippers off center?

That offset zipper isn’t just for style. It keeps wind and rain from pushing through the main closure, adds a double layer across your chest, and reduces bulk right under your helmet chinstrap. You’ll see it on a lot of classic leather jackets, especially cafe and cruiser styles.

Wrap-Up:

The right motorcycle jacket isn’t just a piece of gear—it’s part of how you ride, how you feel, and how you walk away when things go sideways. Whether you’re crossing continents or cutting through traffic, the brands you trust make all the difference. Some of the names in this guide are household, some are sleeper hits, but they’ve all earned their place through time, testing, and road-earned respect. Don’t buy hype. Buy what works.

Still figuring out your first move? This list of the best motorcycle jackets is a solid place to start. Go with the gear you’ll never second-guess once you’re moving. That’s the real benchmark.

The post Motorcycle Jacket Brands Riders Actually Trust first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

What’s so special about that, you ask? Isn’t that what rain gear is supposed to do? But what if I told you I’ve worn this set for over five years of demanding dual-sport and adventure riding across several continents, through unforgiving conditions that chewed up and spat out lesser gear? Stick around, and I’ll show you why the Traverse might be the last waterproof shell you ever need to buy.

Klim Traverse Jacket

Klim Traverse Jacket and Pants offer rugged, lightweight protection built for off-road adventure with all-weather performance.

Pros:

• Gore-Tex waterproofing keeps you dry in all conditions
• Durable 500D Cordura reinforcements for high-impact areas
• Lightweight design enhances mobility and reduces fatigue

Cons:

• Back protector for jacket sold separately

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My Journey to Finding Reliable Wet Weather Gear

I can’t even begin to count how many sets of rain gear I’ve owned in more than half a century of riding. But they all had one thing in common: they never lasted long. Sooner or later, they invariably failed to keep me dry. Whether it was poor design, shoddy workmanship, material failure, prematurely worn out, or damaged by (ab)use, it was just a matter of time before that dreaded feeling of cold water trickling down my crotch, back, leg, or elbow pit would set in. 

If you have ever experienced this all-too-familiar miserable feeling, you know how distracting, irritating, and downright frustrating it is. The treacherous trickle of those first glacial droplets is only the beginning of an insidious ingress of cold water bound to make your ride a miserable ordeal. When the floodgates open on a chilly day, leaking rain gear will turn you into a shivering blob of jelly in no time, making you wish you’d taken up collecting postage stamps as a hobby instead of motorcycling.

Typical rain gear for off-road riding almost always consists of a thin, waterproof polyester or polyamide (nylon) shell. Riding on rough terrain requires standing on the pegs, demanding much greater physical exertion than cruising on the road. To help abate fatigue, seasoned dirt riders avoid donning heavy, bulky shells like the yellow PVC ‘oilskin’ rain gear sailors and construction workers wear, even though it’s much more durable than polyester or nylon. 

Living by the motto of “less (weight) is more (fun)”, off-road riders favor rain gear made of a thin plastic layer, keeping the shell lightweight, flexible, and compact. Experienced enduro riders know why these interrelated criteria matter. But if you’re new to enduro/dual-sport riding and not sure what to buy, consider that lightweight, flexible rain gear doesn’t weigh you down, aiding mobility and agility and reducing fatigue. Compactness or packability matters too, since rain gear is stowed when it’s not raining or cold. However, its downside is that a flimsy shell lacks strength and abrasion resistance. Hence, it shreds when hooking up on branches or hitting the ground when you suddenly feel the urge to collect soil samples.

I’ve tried it all: dedicated rain suits that felt like wearing a plastic ‘rapid weight loss’ sauna suit, expensive laminated jackets that were too bulky or eventually wetted out, cheap throwaway ponchos that shredded in the wind – you name it. I was searching for that perfect balance, that trifecta of comfort, durability, and functionality that would help to keep enduro/dual-sport riding FUN in inclement weather. Alas, the gear gods never answered my prayers.

Traversing 15 Years

Until the Klim Traverse entered the stage fifteen years ago. It first appeared on my radar soon after its launch in 2010. Although I tend to be a ‘first adopter’ of game-changing gear, I declined the offer as it didn’t tick off all the ‘criteria’ boxes on my wish list. I was already a Klim user long before the Idaho-based brand became a household name in the motorcycle gear industry. I bought my first two Klim off-road pants in 2004 after a friend in the trade introduced me to this brand I’d never heard of. Klim was only known for its snowmobile gear, and their 2004 off-road collection was the brand’s first foray into motorcycle apparel.

I considered buying the redesigned, second generation of the Klim Traverse when it was launched in 2016. But again, I didn’t pull the trigger, as it still didn’t fit all my requirements. The tough 680D Cordura overlays on the high-wear impact areas (elbows, shoulders, knees, and seat of the pants) made the Traverse very resistant to cuts, scuffs, and abrasion. However, that ruggedness made it heavier, stiffer, bulkier, and less packable, which was a deal breaker.

I was holding out for the Holy Grail: a lightweight, waterproof combo for enduro and dual-sport riding that was durable and flexible but still relatively thin and compact enough to be packable. Weight and packability are important as I carry my rain gear in my backpack or strapped onto the bike. The rugged 2016 Traverse catered more to ADV riders, for whom abrasion-resistance matters more in case of a high-speed get-off.

But then, in 2020, the gear gods took pity on me and answered my prayers when Klim launched the redesigned third-generation Traverse, repositioning it more towards the off-road end of the spectrum. This was a welcome move, although some ADV riders who owned the previous two generations lamented the reduced ventilation and abrasion resistance. But that criticism was unwarranted, as Klim offers other combos (e.g., the Klim Badlands Pro and Carlsbad) that cater to the ADV segment.

When Klim returned to the drawing board for the third generation, they revised the Traverse to realign it with its core mission, as it was always intended for off-road use. Engineered specifically for the unpredictable weather encountered during full seasons of dual-sport riding, Klim focused on boosting comfort and cutting bulk. 

Thinner, lighter, and more flexible, the third-generation Traverse is the ideal waterproof kit for dual-sport and hard-core enduro riders who ride in all seasons. With its “Guaranteed to Keep You Dry” Gore-Tex Performance Shell, the Traverse offers serious foul weather protection while being much tougher than basic rain jackets and pants. 

With reduced vents and substituting 500D for the 680D Cordura overlays, the current Traverse’s supple lightweight chassis is less bulky and cumbersome than the previous generation. Its minimalistic shell delivers on the promise of fully protecting the rider against inclement weather, season after season, without the weight and bulk of a full-fledged 4-season ADV suit.

Let me tell you how it held up to that promise over years of abuse.

Putting the Traverse Through Its Paces: Real-World Stories

This gear hasn’t sat in a closet. Over the years, it’s seen deserts, mountains, jungles, and everything in between.

TET France Downpour Nightmare: Riding solo on the Trans Euro Trail across the windswept plains of northern France on a cold early spring day, the low cloud deck grew menacingly dark, and then the sky just opened up. Not rain, but a torrential, freezing downpour mixed with sleet. Slipping and sliding through the greasy mud of the tracks deeply rutted by farming tractors, I grew weary of the ice-cold rain that wouldn’t relent. When I crossed from the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region into Picardy, I had enough and veered onto the paved roads, looking for shelter. But I dread to think what a potentially life-threatening, hypothermic ordeal it might’ve been without proper rain gear. Fortunately, I stayed bone dry inside the Traverse. The Gore-Tex just worked, shedding water relentlessly. The only moisture inside the Traverse was my sweat from wrestling the bike through the mud. But that didn’t chill my body, as the Klim Teton Merino Wool Long-Sleeve Shirt and Pants wicked away the sweat, keeping me dry and warm. That day sold me on the shell and layering concept.

Moab Muddy Mayhem: Hitting some slick red rock trails after a rainstorm meant lots of skidding, slipping, and sliding, resulting in frequent get-offs. Picking up a bike laden with camping gear while wearing boots that fail to find traction on the red goo gets old quickly. The 500D Cordura overlays on the knees, elbows, and seat took a beating but showed minimal wear. Hosing off the slimy muck at the car wash in town was surprisingly easy, and it was ready to go the next day. Lesser gear would have been shredded or stained permanently.

Big Temperature Swings on the ACT in the Spanish Pyrenees: Think about those fall rides where you start off freezing, work up a sweat in the afternoon sun, and then freeze again as evening sets in – conditions you might find in mountain regions. Layering up under the Traverse was key for crossing the Pyrenees via the Adventure Country Tracks in late fall. With the vents open (collar, pit zips, front and rear thigh vents), it breathed reasonably well during the warmer parts of the day. When temps dropped, zipping everything up tight and relying on Klim’s technical base and mid-layers kept me comfortably warm. The Traverse shell worked perfectly with the layers; it felt like cheating the weather. When the temperatures plummet, you add mid-layers; when they rise, you simply remove layers and the shell and stow it away.

Torrential Trans-Canada Adventure Trail: It was (too) late in the fall when I rode south along the coast to Vancouver after exploring parts of the Trans Canada Adventure Trail in British Columbia and Alberta for a few weeks. What started as a steady drizzle turned into a deluge when I approached Whistler, which didn’t let up until I reached Vancouver. The Traverse was a true lifesaver that day, as I stayed bone dry riding for hours in absolutely torrential rain. No leaks and no wet-out feeling through the fabric. The cinched collar kept rain from trickling down my neck, and the pant cuffs sealed perfectly over my boots. Although not designed for highway surfing, the Traverse performed its core function flawlessly.

The “Drop Test” in Northern Thailand’s Himalayan Foothills: Lots of spills on the hard-packed jungle tracks in the mountains of northern Thailand. Usually, it’s due to the rear wheel coming around when accelerating out of a corner or the front end washing out, resulting in shoulders, elbows, and hips taking the brunt of the impact. The Traverse shell slid across the slick soil numerous times but never wore through. Scuffed the Cordura a bit? Sure. But no holes or tears, and the armor underneath did its impact protection job. It proved the shell material was tough enough for typical dual-sport spills.

What I Like About the Klim Traverse (After 5 Years)

• Bulletproof Gore-Tex Waterproofing: This is the main event. Klim’s implementation of the Gore-Tex Performance Shell is simply outstanding. It works. Period. The crotch stays dry, the cuffs seal well, and the gusseted fly, adjustable cinched collar, and bottom hem keep water out. The Traverse has been utterly reliable compared to countless other jackets and pants that claimed waterproofness but failed after a season or in sustained rain. “Guaranteed To Keep You Dry®” isn’t just marketing speak here.
• Surprising Durability: For a relatively lightweight shell, it’s tough. The main body fabric holds up well and the strategic placement of the rugged 500D Cordura in high-wear/impact areas (shoulders, elbows, forearms, knees, seat) makes a huge difference. It survived slides, snags on branches, and general trail abuse far better than I expected. It’s a noticeable step up from the typical cheap, flimsy, rain gear. The 500D Cordura overlays endured numerous spills unscathed on treacherous trails in the Pyrenees, the Sierra Nevada, and the Himalayan foothills.
• Effective Ventilation (for a Shell): Let’s be realistic: no waterproof gear breathes like mesh. But for rain gear, the Traverse has generous vents. The jacket sports two waterproof 13-inch/33-cm zippered pit vents and a velcro collar tab retainer, keeping the collar open without letting it flap in the wind. The pant has four waterproof YKK zippered vents on the thighs: two 10-inch/25-cm intake vents and two 6-inch/15-cm exhaust vents. They flow a decent amount of air when moving, significantly extending the comfort range compared to non-vented rain shells. They make dealing with changing temps and exertion levels much more manageable. And when temperatures rise beyond the vents’ cooling capacity, you simply take it off and stow it.
• Great Fit for Active Riding: Klim apparel’s cut is known to be generous. The Traverse shell offers a roomy “active” fit designed to go over body armor and mid-layers without bunching up or limiting movement, whether standing or sitting. Its generous cut offers more articulation in the elbows and knees, even with separate body armor and knee braces. The flexible nylon fabric chassis feels less bulky and cumbersome than laminated adventure suits.
• Relatively Lightweight & Packable: Compared to Klim’s more feature-heavy ADV gear like the Badlands or Carlsbad, the Traverse feels significantly lighter and packs down smaller (though not as small as the typical flimsy ‘sheet’ rain shells). Its minimalist shell makes it great for trips where space and weight are a concern.

What I Don’t Like (The Tradeoffs)

The Included Armor: To avoid creating the wrong impression, there’s nothing wrong with the D3O protective armor in the high-impact zones. If you’re new to dual-sport or ADV riding and don’t have any protective gear yet, you’ll certainly want the impact protection that comes with the Traverse jacket and pants. The soft, flexible, ventilated D3O® LP1 Limb Protectors are inserted in the shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips lining pockets. (LP1 means level 1 impact protection certified to CE safety standard EN1621-1:2012). 

As every dual-sport and enduro rider knows, falling (frequently) is part and parcel of trail riding. To prevent bruises or worse, I would opt for the highest impact protection level, requiring substituting the LP1 pads with the more protective LP2 pads. But the problem is that, when stashed in your backpack or strapped to the bike, the inserted D3O pads (LP1 or LP2) add volume to the Traverse, making it bulkier and unwieldy to pack. 

But that’s not my main gripe. The disadvantage of inserted protection pads is that you’re unprotected when your rain gear is stowed away. Like most enduro/dual-sport riders, I wear a separate ‘stand-alone’ body armor system, which offers better impact protection and maximizes ventilation and breathability. Donning body armor allows the removal of the D3O inserts, keeping the shell light, compact, and packable. Over the years I’ve reinserted the D3O impact pads only a handful of times when riding my Honda NSS 300 Forza scooter on a rainy day. 

Since I don’t need them, I would prefer Klim to make the D3O pads optional, as they do for the Klim Raptor GTX Overshell, allowing for a small price reduction of the Traverse.  

Klim recommends combining the Traverse shell with the Klim Tactical Pro Armored Long-Sleeve Shirt and Tactical Pants. Apart from body armor, I always wear knee braces when riding off-road. 

Alternative: If you want a lightweight rainproof shell with more abrasion resistance, consider the Klim Raptor GTX Overshell Jacket and Pants. The Raptor shell features the ultra-abrasion-resistant SuperFabric on shoulders, elbows, and knees, and thicker, more durable 840D Cordura on the inner knee, boot panels, and seat of the pants. However, these reinforcements make the Raptor GTX Overshell thicker, bulkier, and less compact when packed than a Traverse without the D3O pads. 

The Price Tag: Klim gear isn’t cheap, and the Traverse is no exception. However, the price tag includes the lifetime Gore-Tex “Guaranteed to Keep You Dry” warranty. That’s worth a lot, especially compared to other brand shells. Given its proven multi-year durability and performance, the cost-per-wear becomes much more reasonable than replacing cheaper rain gear multiple times every year. Think of it as an investment that yields annual dividends over many years. The REV’IT! Component H2O and Mosko Moto Rak Pullover are comparable shells at similar price points and functionality. 

Limited Pockets: It has the basics (hand pockets, chest pocket, internal pocket), but fewer than you’d find on a touring or ADV jacket. However, fewer pockets mean fewer seams and zippers, reducing potential failure points for water ingress and keeping the design cleaner and lighter. You can also supplement with a backpack (like the Klim Arsenal Backpack series) or a Mosko Moto tank bag or tail bag if you need to carry more stuff.

Can Still Get Warm: Despite the vents, in slow, technical, high-exertion riding in hot, humid weather, you will sweat. It’s a waterproof membrane, after all. However, it’s still vastly better than wearing a non-vented rain suit in those conditions. You can also just take it off and stow it!

Need-to-Knows & Fun Facts

• Sizing: Generally follows Klim’s typical “American” cut – generous and designed for layering. Check the Klim Size Chart. Tall and short pant sizes are usually available.
• Layering is Crucial: This is a shell, not an insulated suit. Your comfort across different temperatures depends entirely on your base and mid-layers. Plan accordingly.
• Gore-Tex Care: To maintain performance, wash it periodically with a tech wash (like Nikwax Tech Wash) and tumble dry on low/medium heat to reactivate the DWR coating. Don’t use regular detergents or fabric softeners!
• Minimalist Design: The lack of some features (like tons of pockets and vents) is a deliberate choice to keep it light, flexible, compact, and leakproof for its intended dual-sport/off-road use.

How Does it Compare

VS Mosko Moto Rak/Basilisk

Mosko gear is known for extreme toughness and innovative features, often with a different design philosophy, fit, and characteristics. Choose Mosko Basilisk if you prioritize maximum abrasion resistance and unique features; choose Traverse for proven, straightforward Gore-Tex performance and reliability.

Basilisk IR Armored Adventure Motorcycle Jacket

The Basilisk IR Jacket is a minimalist, high-performance shell built for serious off-road adventure.

Pros:

• CE-Level 2 impact protection
• Waterproof yet breathable shell
• Lightweight and easy to pack

Cons:

• Limited availability due to import changes

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 The Mosko Moto Rak Pullover (name derived from Anorak) sells for the same price ($479) as the Traverse Jacket, its Klim equivalent.

The Basilisk IR Jacket is more expensive ( $721) due to its large area of SuperFabric, making it extremely abrasion-resistant.

VS REV’IT! Component H2O

The REV’IT! Component 2 H2O offers a slimmer, more European fit and uses its proprietary Hydratex waterproofing. Compare long-term waterproof durability reviews carefully against Gore-Tex’s track record.

REV'IT! Component 2 H2O Jacket

The REV'IT! Component 2 H2O Jacket is a lightweight, waterproof shell built for serious off-road riders who demand comfort and protection.

Pros:

• Waterproof Hydratex 3L membrane keeps you dry in harsh conditions
• Stretch ripstop fabric offers flexibility and comfort on rugged trails
• SEESMART CE-level 1 armor provides lightweight impact protection

Cons:

• Runs small and may require sizing up for proper fit

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VS Klim Carlsbad

The Klim Carlsbad is the Traverse’s more expensive ADV sibling, featuring integrated D3O armor, more pockets, and slightly different venting/materials. Choose Carlsbad if you want an all-in-one armored Gore-Tex suit; choose Traverse if you prefer a lighter, simpler, more compact shell.

Klim Carlsbad Jacket and Pants

The Klim Carlsbad Jacket and Pants are built for adventure riders seeking rugged, weather-resistant gear with excellent mobility and protection.

Pros:

• Gore-Tex performance shell offers guaranteed waterproofing
• Abrasion-resistant fabrics and CE Level 2 armor enhance durability and safety
• Multiple vents provide adjustable airflow for varying climates

Cons:

• Premium pricing may be out of range for budget-conscious riders

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VS Klim Raptor GTX Jacket

The Klim Raptor GTX Overshell Jacket and Pants are a step up from its lighter sibling, the Traverse. Also part of Klim’s off-road catalog, the Raptor GTX is a more rugged rainproof shell, upgraded with SuperFabric reinforcements on impact zones to make it more abrasion-resistant. 

Klim Raptor GTX Overshell Jacket and Pants

The Klim Raptor GTX Overshell Jacket and Pants offer elite weatherproofing for serious adventure riders.

Pros:

• Gore-Tex Pro shell for waterproofing
• Superfabric for abrasion resistance
• Fits over armored layers

Cons:

• No built-in insulation

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The Final Verdict: Is the Klim Traverse GTX Worth It?

After five years of intensive (ab)use, covering thousands of miles across tricky terrain and in unforgiving weather, my Klim Traverse suit is still intact, waterproof, and with all zippers fully functional. It looks surprisingly good given the harsh treatment my riding (mis)adventures have inflicted upon it. Its durability has exceeded my expectations. If you’re looking for rain gear whereby reliable waterproofing, flexibility, packability, and durability are paramount, don’t look any further. It’s not flashy and doesn’t have every bell and whistle, but it does its core job – keeping you dry and protected from the elements – exceptionally well, year after year.

This gear is PERFECT for:

• Serious enduro/dual-sport riders tackling tricky trails in inclement weather.
• Riders who prioritize bombproof waterproofing and long-term durability.
• Those who prefer to customize their protective armor system separately.
• Multi-season riders who understand and utilize layering systems.

This gear is NOT the best fit for:

• Primarily street/ADV riders who need a higher level of abrasion protection.
• Strictly budget-conscious buyers (though consider the long-term value).
• Touring/Street/ADV riders who need more built-in storage (internal and external pockets) and creature comforts.
• Riders in hot climates who rarely see rain (for whom mesh is better).

Is it worth the investment? Absolutely! At least if your riding demands gear that won’t let you down when the weather turns nasty. It might not make you ride like a champ, but when that mother of all rainstorm hits, you’ll be glad you’re wearing it. It just works.

Klim Traverse GTX Jacket & Pant Key Features

Jacket:

• Shell/Construction: GORE-TEX PERFORMANCE SHELL (Guaranteed To Keep You Dry®), 500D Cordura® overlays on shoulders/elbows/forearms, 3M™ Scotchlite™ carbon black reflective material.
• Armor System: Removable vented D3O® Level 1 armor in shoulder and (adjustable) elbow pockets. Pocket for optional back protector (compatible with D3O® Level 1 & 2 – back protector sold separately).
• Ventilation: Two 13-inch/33-cm-long armpit vents (with mesh and dual waterproof YKK zippers), velcro collar tab retainer to keep the collar open for ventilation and prevent it from flapping in the wind.
• Storage: 2 large waterproof YKK zippered hand pockets, 1 large waterproof zippered chest pocket, 1 large internal zippered chest pocket with headphone port.
• Fit/Comfort: Breathable mesh lining. The chassis is longer in the back for comfort and mobility, articulated fit, adjustable collar with elastic cinch pull cord and velcro tab retainer for ventilation, bottom hem cinch cord, and adjustable velcro cuffs.

Pants:

• Shell/Construction: GORE-TEX PERFORMANCE SHELL (Guaranteed To Keep You Dry®), 500D Cordura® overlays on knees/seat/lower leg, heat-resistant leather panels on inner knees. 3M™ Scotchlite™ carbon black reflective material.
• Armor System: Removable vented D3O® Level 1 hip and (adjustable) knee armor (upgradable to Level 2 – sold separately).
• Ventilation: 2 frontal intake vents and 2 rear exhaust vents on the thighs, with mesh and waterproof YKK zippers.
• Storage: 1 waterproof YKK zippered large cargo pocket.
• Fit/Comfort: Breathable mesh lining, adjustable waist velcro cinch straps, articulated seat and leg profile for rider position, over-the-boot adjustable cuff design with 3 velcro strips, waterproof zippered gusset fly, and double snap button closure.

You can find the Klim Traverse Klim Traverse GTX Jacket and Pants here.

Klim Traverse Jacket

Klim Traverse Jacket and Pants offer rugged, lightweight protection built for off-road adventure with all-weather performance.

Pros:

• Gore-Tex waterproofing keeps you dry in all conditions
• Durable 500D Cordura reinforcements for high-impact areas
• Lightweight design enhances mobility and reduces fatigue

Cons:

• Back protector for jacket sold separately

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The post Klim Traverse GTX 5-Year Review: Still Waterproof? first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

Here are three things I love about this jacket:

• AA-rated protection in a featherweight package: Seriously, this jacket is thin and supple, yet it punches way above its weight in safety.
• Style that turns heads: Prepare to be stopped on the street, not for your bike, but for your jacket. This thing is a fashion statement, disguised as moto gear.
• A brand that puts riders first, for real: Lifetime crash protection warranty? That’s not just marketing fluff; it’s a commitment to riders that speaks volumes.

I’ve just spent over 500 miles putting the Pando Moto Falcon Aviator jacket through its paces on my BMW M 1000 R, and let me tell you, this jacket has blown me away. If you’re after a tech-heavy breakdown, you can find those elsewhere, including Pando Moto’s own website. But I’m here to give you the real rider perspective – what it’s like to actually live with this jacket, from weekend blasts to the daily grind.

If you’d rather watch this review, here’s my original video on the topic:

Premium Feel, Premium Protection

From the moment you lay eyes on the Falcon Aviator, one word comes to mind: premium. It’s not just a feeling; it’s evident in every detail, from the luxurious leather to the top-notch safety certifications. This jacket boasts a double-A safety rating, meeting the latest standards as of 2024. Now, usually, when you hear “AA-rated leather jacket,” you picture something thick, stiff, and about as comfortable as cardboard. But the Falcon Aviator completely shatters that stereotype.

It’s surprisingly thin and incredibly comfortable, which is not something you typically associate with high-rated protective gear, especially in this classic Aviator style. You might even mistake it for a fashion bomber jacket at first glance, given their similar aesthetics. Bomber jackets are often A-rated, but achieving this level of softness and lightness usually means sacrificing durability. Not here.

Pando Moto Falcon Aviator Leather Jacket

Stylish yet protective, this jacket looks great on or off the bike. Get the back armor that fits here.

Pros:

• Durable & soft 1.12mm thick goat leather
• Includes D3O Ghost elbow & shoulder armor
• Warm detachable lining

Cons:

• Back armor sold separately

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Pando Moto has achieved this remarkable combination of comfort and protection thanks to the use of supple goatskin leather. This premium material provides exceptional abrasion resistance without the bulk and stiffness of traditional cowhide. And speaking of protection, the Falcon Aviator comes equipped with Level 1 D3O Ghost armor in the elbows and shoulders.

If you know D3O Ghost armor, you know it’s the gold standard for low-profile impact protection. It’s incredibly thin and flexible, molding to your body for all-day comfort. Honestly, you barely notice it’s there. Unless you’re wearing just a t-shirt underneath, then you might get a slight rub sometimes. There’s also an optional pocket for a QuatroFlex Level 2 back protector.

QUATROFLEX Motorcycle Back Armor

Lightweight, CE Level 2 certified protection for superior impact absorption. 

Pros:

• High-impact memory foam
• Fits most PANDO MOTO jackets
• Multi-layer design for shock dispersion

Cons:

• Not compatible with older M65 Camo & Capo Cor models

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The QuatroFlex is another excellent protector, similar in style to those found in REV’IT! jackets. It offers robust back coverage while remaining comfortable and non-intrusive. It’s a ¾ length protector, intentionally designed to leave the coccyx area uncovered. Pando Moto likely made this choice to prevent the protector from riding up and compromising the jacket’s stylish silhouette.

Style That Doesn’t Compromise

Let’s circle back to that goatskin leather. It’s clear that style was a top priority in the design of the Falcon Aviator. Looking at Pando Moto’s broader range (read the review of Pando Moto Commando Jacket), it seems they’re committed to striking that balance between style and safety, minimizing compromises in either area. And I, for one, am thrilled they made that choice.

You really can’t appreciate through the camera how incredibly soft and comfortable this leather is. Wearing it open, off the bike, it’s undeniably a stylish piece. Yet, it still delivers that crucial AA safety rating, typically reserved for much heavier, bulkier leather jackets. The leather itself is a bovine leather, boasting a beautiful, natural texture that will only get better with age.

I’m telling you, this leather is a game-changer. It’s soft, malleable, and perfectly complements the jacket’s stylish aesthetic. Off the bike, you can easily wear this jacket as a fashion piece, and most people would never guess it’s motorcycle gear. I’ve genuinely never received so many compliments on a motorcycle jacket. Riders are always feeling the leather, surprised to find armor underneath.

It truly blurs the lines between fashion and function, and that’s the genius of what Pando Moto has achieved here. It functions flawlessly as a motorcycle jacket while being a genuine style statement off the bike. In my experience reviewing jackets, style often takes a backseat to outright motorcycle functionality. To have a jacket that prioritizes style yet performs exceptionally as protective riding gear is a rare and impressive feat. Kudos to Pando Moto for nailing this balance.

When it comes to styling, while the Aviator aesthetic naturally lends itself to classic and retro bikes, I believe this jacket transcends categories. It looks fantastic with all types of bikes. Picture this with jeans and trainers – it would look just as sharp on my M 1000 R as it would on a classic roadster. It’s an obvious choice for retro, classic, or bobber riders, but even if you ride a sportbike or supersport, I urge you to consider the Falcon Aviator.

Zipped up, it presents a clean, slim profile that works surprisingly well with a sporty aesthetic. Pair it with jeans, trainers, or even sportbike boots over jeans and gauntlet gloves – this jacket pulls off that look effortlessly. And because of the malleable 1.12mm goatskin, it’s easy to layer a hoodie underneath for a more casual vibe.

Weathering the Ride: Ventilation and Warmth

Ventilation on the Falcon Aviator is straightforward: a single, prominent vent runs down the center zip.

Everything else is sealed tight with ribbed cuffs and a full-length zipper, making it effectively windproof. This windproof construction contributes to a surprisingly warm feel for such a lightweight jacket. However, it’s important to note that while windproof, the Falcon Aviator is not waterproof.

Pando Moto has thoughtfully included an internal waterproof pocket, perfect for safeguarding electronics if you get caught in a downpour.

I experienced a light rain shower while wearing the jacket, and it held up fine; water beaded off, and nothing soaked through.

During my 500-mile test, I rode in temperatures as low as 4°C (39°F) on chilly morning commutes and as high as 20°C (68°F) on sunny days. Pando Moto provides a zip-in thermal gilet (vest) liner with the jacket.

This quilted, detachable liner adds a noticeable layer of warmth to the core, but leaves the arms uninsulated. With the thermal liner in place, I’d estimate the comfortable lower limit for this jacket to be around 8°C (46°F). Below 12°C (54°F) with the liner, you’ll likely want to layer up for extended rides. Below 10°C (50°F), full-length thermal layers become necessary to keep your arms warm, whether it’s a simple jumper or a more dedicated thermal mid-layer.

Experienced year-round riders typically have their own layering systems dialed in, and Pando Moto seems to recognize this. Hence, the inclusion of a versatile gilet liner rather than a full-sleeve thermal lining. For colder conditions, riders can easily remove the gilet and incorporate their preferred mid-layers.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, I experienced a surprisingly warm, sunny day of 20°C (68°F) shortly after getting the jacket. This pushed the upper limit of the jacket’s comfort. While moving, airflow was adequate, but in stop-and-go traffic, I had to unzip the jacket slightly to get some relief. Off the bike, with the jacket fully open, it was perfectly comfortable. I’d say 20°C is realistically the warmest you’d want to push this jacket. At that temperature, I was wearing the jacket without the thermal liner, just over a t-shirt.

Crash Replacement Guarantee

I’m genuinely impressed with Pando Moto’s philosophy. Their motto, “Engineered by Riders,” is even printed inside the back of the jacket.

Initially, I dismissed it as typical marketing speak – every brand claims to design “for riders, by riders.” However, after thoroughly testing the Falcon Aviator, it’s clear that someone who actually rides has had significant input in its design. They haven’t compromised on rider-centric details, and that’s what makes this jacket truly exceptional.

It’s safe to say Pando Moto takes their brand and products seriously. The Falcon Aviator comes with a standard 2-year warranty against manufacturing defects. But what truly sets them apart is their lifetime crash protection warranty.

Yes, you read that right – lifetime. If you have an accident, send them photos and details of the damage, and they will replace your jacket with a new one, or an equivalent model if your specific jacket is no longer in production. Why would they offer such a warranty? They state it’s for R&D purposes. Crashes are never ideal, and no two are the same. Pando Moto’s willingness to invest in this program demonstrates a real commitment to understanding crash dynamics and continually improving their gear. It speaks volumes about their dedication to rider safety and product development.

Rider-Focused Features: Details That Matter

Let’s dive into some specific features that highlight the rider-centric design of the Falcon Aviator. First, the zippers. These are beefy YKK zippers with substantial tassels, especially on the main side pockets and even the small arm pocket.

If you don’t want the arm pocket tassel flapping around, they’ve even included a small ribbon to tuck it away – a tiny detail, but indicative of thoughtful design. You can tell a rider designed these zippers because they are glove-friendly. Operating zippers with gloves on is a constant frustration, and Pando Moto has nailed it here.

Next, the wind-stop cuff.

I’ve reviewed many bomber-style jackets that lack this feature, and it’s a major oversight. They often rely on thick padding for warmth, but then cold air blasts straight through the zipper. It’s pointless. Pando Moto has intelligently addressed this with an integrated wind-stop along the zipper sitting behind it.

There’s also an extra layer of leather around the zipper for the bottom third of it which serves two purposes: keeping the zipper from scratching your tank and acting as a tactile stop point for the zipper so you can open it for airflow and close it back up again with one hand while on the bike, without accidentally fully unzipping the jacket. Beautifully done.

Now for the ribbing at the cuffs and the waist: You might wonder why Pando Moto would invest in such high-quality ribbing, but it makes a real difference. This material is designed to resist stretching and losing its shape, even in wet conditions. If you get caught in the rain, the ribbing will maintain its form over time. In my 500 miles of testing, it’s held its shape remarkably well. Velcro still adheres to it, but not as aggressively as on some cheaper ribbing materials.

This robust ribbing does mean that fitting short cuff gloves over the jacket cuff takes a fraction longer, but I gladly accept that minor inconvenience for the superior seal and secure fit it provides.

Finally, a fun, subtle detail: a small Velcro patch on the arm is removable, allowing you to add your own custom patch.

A nod to the Aviator jacket’s heritage, and a bit of fun personalization for riders.

You might have noticed I’m not really nitpicking this jacket. I’m struggling to find genuine negatives. Pando Moto clearly set out to create a specific type of jacket – an AA-rated, comfortable, stylish Aviator – and they’ve absolutely nailed it.

The only limitations are inherent to the jacket’s design. Being a thinner leather jacket, it’s not designed for extreme sub-freezing temperatures. And because it’s sealed for windproofing, ventilation is limited to the central zipper vent. Adding more ventilation would compromise the style and potentially the safety rating. Pando Moto has smartly positioned this jacket for a 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) temperature range, covering three seasons in many climates. They’ve executed this design brief exceptionally well, creating a truly well-thought-out, comfortable, and stylish piece of riding gear.

Sizing and Fit

For sizing reference, I’m 5’10”, with a 42-inch chest and 34-inch waist. I’m wearing a size large.

I typically wear a large in most jackets, occasionally an extra-large if the sizing runs small. The Falcon Aviator, I’d say, runs about half a size small, maybe a touch less. I can squeeze into a medium, but it feels a bit restrictive for riding. The large fits me perfectly, providing room for the thermal liner or a thin base layer underneath.

Final Verdict

That wraps up my review of the fantastic Pando Moto Falcon Aviator leather jacket.

If you enjoyed this review, check out my other videos. If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below, and I’ll be happy to answer them. As always, thanks for reading.

The post Pando Moto Falcon Aviator AA Leather Jacket Review first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

So when I picked up the Pando Moto Commando UH, I was skeptical. Another AAA-rated mesh jacket? Either uncomfortable or unsafe, so which one is it?

Neither.

I ride in 100°F+ Thai heat in this thing, stopping at intersections, weaving through traffic, and I’m as comfortable as I am in a t-shirt. The mesh actually works—even at low speeds. And it’s equally comfortable on longer rides. Built with some of the toughest abrasion-resistant materials out there, packed with CE Level 2 D3O armor, and designed to be worn alone or as a protective underlayer.

But trust me on these:

1. If you think mesh can’t flow enough air, you haven’t worn this jacket. Even at a stoplight, breezes cut through and keep you cool.
2. There is not just “AAA material” in this jacket—the entire garment passed the CE 17092 AAA certification, meaning the seams, stitching, and entire construction can withstand slides up to 75 mph / 120 kph.
3. It fits under almost any jacket without snagging, making it a versatile layer for urban riders, commuters, and even e-bike or casual riders. 

If you’re tired of mesh jackets that still leave you sweaty, or if you want the highest level of abrasion and impact protection in a featherweight package, you’re going to want to see what makes this jacket different. Let’s break it down.

Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket

CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style. Full review here.

Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.

Pros:

• Material 15x stronger than steel
• Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
• Excellent airflow
• CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders

Cons:

• Back protector sold separately

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Best when paired with Pando’s CE AAA rated leggings below.

Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings

Perfect leggings for casual riding and summer heat without sacrificing protection. CE AAA rated up to 75mph highway slide on asphalt.

Wear jeans, hiking pants, pajamas on top - I don't care, it's your style not mine. Full review here.

Get 15% off when you buy direct on Pando Moto's site with code ROAD15.

Pros:

• Super flexible and breathable
• Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit
• Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor

Cons:

• None

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What I Love

When it comes to motorcycle gear, lab-tested specs don’t always tell the full story. So I put the Pando Moto Commando UH through the trifecta torture test: city commuting, overnight rides, and scorching midday errands in Thailand. 

What I was hoping for was a garment that would fade away, something I could wear casually on the bike that would add as little time and fuss to my day as possible. Happy to say I found exactly that, with a few exceptions that I’ll get in to. 

Flows Air like Nothing Else

I first took the Commando UH out for a quick ride to lunch in the middle of the afternoon here in Chiang Mai. Temperature? A sticky 95°F (35°C) without a cloud in the sky. Normally in a standard mesh jacket, I’d feel my back start to sweat the second I stopped at a red light. Even in a thick cotton t-shirt! But this jacket? It was almost like I wasn’t wearing one at all.

Pando did a number on this design on two fronts: The 3D Cordura mesh across the chest and inside the arms lets air flow through even at a standstill. I felt light breezes cutting through the fabric while waiting at a light—something I’ve never experienced with any other armored mesh jacket.

Even the main Balistex fiber that makes up the bulk of the protection in this jacket is so lightweight and stretchy you can see light come through it – yet it will withstand a slide at 75mph. The upside for me at the stoplight is no back sweat. 

But beyond airflow, I noticed something else that made this jacket the perfect choice for a quick errand or lunch: how easy it is to slip on and off. 

This is the kind of jacket you forget you’re wearing – instead of forgetting to wear!

Easy to Layer

Next up, I took this jacket on a 200km overnight trip into the mountains north of Chiang Mai, Thailand. Temperatures dropped to around 60°F (15°C) at night, and for the first time in a while, I was actually cold while riding in an armored jacket. That’s how much air this thing flows. 

Keep that in mind – you are going to want to layer another jacket over this, unless you’re riding in Florida. 

The good news? Layering is effortless. I threw my denim jacket from Lusso Leather over the Commando UH and kept on riding comfortably. Unlike some armored shirts, which feel tight or restrictive under another jacket, this one works seamlessly as an underlayer—even with sturdy CE Level 2 armor.

There aren’t any points that snag, and the stretch of the fibers used throughout makes it easy to toss on and take off another layer. A lot of armored jackets feel stiff or bulky when layering, but this one moves like a second skin. The thumb loops are easy to pull over your gloves and keep the sleeves solidly in place too. 

The Commando UH is as good on its own in the heat as it is layered under a heavier jacket for cooler rides. It’s on par with the Bowtex Elite and Knox Honister, but flows more air than the last Bowtex iteration I have (from 2023).

Smart Design and Sturdy Build Quality

When it comes to motorcycle gear, there’s a big difference between a jacket that “feels” protective and one that’s actually tested for high-speed crashes. When you look at the Pando Moto Commando UH, your initial reaction might be the same as mine: the material looks the same as a pair of yoga pants. 

But when you hold the garment, you can feel just how strong the material is and how much care went in to construction and design. All that came together to earn this piece a AAA rating in the CE 17092 rating standard, the highest possible rating which certifies the garment as protective for abrasion up to a 75 mph / 120 kph slide on asphalt. 

Knockoff brands throw high-strength materials into a jacket and call it “protective.” But here’s the problem: if the seams split open or the zipper fails, all that tough fabric means nothing. Pando Moto didn’t just use Balistex UHMWPE (15x stronger than steel) for abrasion resistance—they built the entire jacket to exceed CE AAA certification.

What does that mean in reality?
✔️ Certified for a 230ft (70m) slide at 75mph (120km/h)
✔️ Tested to hold up better than that CE AAA standard: to 300ft (90m) at speeds up to 84mph (135km/h)
✔️ Triple-stitched seams tucked inside the garment to prevent splitting on impact
✔️ Sturdy zipper which also had to survive the rigors of a highway slide to get that CE AAA certification

While most riders (hopefully) never have to put that to the test, it’s reassuring to know this jacket isn’t just a “better than nothing” mesh layer—it’s engineered to save your skin if things go sideways.

But abrasion resistance is just one half of the equation—the other is impact absorption. The Commando UH comes with D3O CE Level 2 armor in the elbows and shoulders, and if you’ve never used D3O before, it’s worth understanding how good this stuff is.

D3O is a soft, flexible material under normal conditions, but the second it takes an impact, it stiffens up instantly to absorb and disperse energy. To test this, I did a hammer impact test on my hand with the armor on top. I didn’t do a control test because, well, I like having intact hand bones. With the armor on top, my hand returned to the world unscathed. I also tested hitting a piece of fruit—let’s just say the results were very different. Check those out on the video on the It’s Better On The Road YouTube channel.

And unlike many armored jackets with loose-fitting sleeves, the armor stays locked in place thanks to the bi-stretch fiber throughout this jacket that hugs the wearer tight, no matter the riding position. In a crash, that means your protection stays where it needs to be. 

Beyond safety, the Pando Moto team put a lot of thought into user-friendly design in this garment. For instance, behind the zipper at the top you get a little tab to keep that zipper from grabbing your shirt or otherwise not zipping up nicely. That material extends over the top of the zipper and to the front, keeping your neck from rubbing against the top of the zipper. That’s the kind of design accent I expect on a jacket in this price range. 

And finally you have the MOLLE System over the abdomen – personally I’m not a frequent user of Molle bags, but I can see the appeal. If you want to attach an extra pouch for cameras / phone / wallet to the front of the jacket, or even a holster, you have plenty of options for placement on the front of the Commando. 

Pando Moto even sells a pouch that fits this jacket, allowing you to attach a phone case, tool holster, or even a small hydration pack. Whether you use it or not, it’s a nice option to have.

Now let’s get in to the drawbacks on this jacket. 

What I Dislike

No piece of gear is perfect, and while the Commando UH does a lot right, there are a few things I wish Pando Moto had done differently. None of these are deal-breakers, but they’re worth considering depending on your riding style and what you expect from a protective jacket.

No Belt Loops

One of the first things I noticed after putting this jacket on was the lack of belt loops. For a lightweight armored layer that’s designed to be worn both alone and under other jackets, in my opinion this is a big omission.

Why does this matter? In a crash, a jacket without belt loops can ride up, leaving your lower back and stomach exposed to the pavement. Pando Moto tried to address this with a silicone grip strip at the hem, but let’s be honest—that’s not going to do much at high speeds.

For a jacket that’s otherwise so well thought out, I wish they had followed Bowtex’s lead and added reinforced loops to attach to a belt or riding pants. It’s a small fix that would have dramatically improved security in a slide.

A Shorter Fit

If you’re over 6 feet (183cm) tall, you might find this jacket a little on the short side. It’s not dramatically cropped, but it doesn’t have the extra length that I prefer in a riding jacket—especially compared to the Bowtex Elite, which runs longer in the torso.

Especially for taller riders on sportbikes, you may want to look at other options that are cut for the sport riding position with a longer tail. 

Mesh – Airflow VS Protection

This is the one real concern I have with the Commando UH. The chest and inner arms are made from highly breathable mesh, which makes it one of the coolest AAA-rated jackets you can wear. And that mesh is Cordura, a super strong fiber used in many high-end motorcycle jackets that are CE AA or AAA rated. 

But here’s the issue: the chest and inner arms aren’t categorized as “Zone 1” slide zones, meaning they’re not held to the same standard as the back and outside of the arms when it comes to abrasion resistance for that CE AAA certification. So if that mesh does happen to slide on asphalt while you’re going under 75 mph / 120 kph, there’s a chance it could tear open and compromise the rest of the jacket. 

Now, to be fair—the CE rating is designed this way precisely because sliding on your chest or inner arms is highly unlikely in a crash. And, the material Pando Moto used here still had to hold up in the overall garment CE AAA certification. 

I reached out to Pando Moto about this choice of material on the chest – here’s what they said: 

“The front and inner area of the arms are in CE Zone 3 for jackets which means in a crash these areas are low risk. This fabric is tested for Zone 3, which is carried out at 28 mph / 45 kph. This fabric passed the test with 2 seconds for time to stop and 11.5 meters of slide distance.”

It’s a tradeoff—incredible airflow versus an extra safety margin. And while I love how well this jacket breathes, it’s something to keep in mind if you prioritize maximum abrasion resistance. This is one reason Bowtex uses Dyneema throughout their entire garment. 

Need to Know

Before you pick up the Commando UH, there are a few key things you should know to get the most out of this jacket. These aren’t necessarily pros or cons, just important details that could affect how you wear and use it.

BYO Back Protector

While the Commando UH comes with CE Level 2 armor for the elbows and shoulders, it does not include a back protector. However, it does have a large pocket designed to fit one, and Pando Moto makes a Quatroflex CE Level 2 back protector designed to fit perfectly in this jacket.

If you’re planning to use this as your main riding jacket, I highly recommend adding the back protector. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference in overall safety. Or even better, use an abrasion-resistant airbag like the Tech Air 3 over top!

Get the Quatroflex CE Level 2 back protector here (use code ROAD15 for 15% off):

QUATROFLEX M-XXL Motorcycle Back Armor CE Approved

Quatroflex M-XXL – Premium CE Level 2 back armor for maximum protection.

Pros:

• Four-layer impact-resistant memory foam
• Lightweight at just 250g
• Fits most PANDO MOTO jackets (M-XXXL)

Cons:

• Not compatible with older M65 Camo & Capo Cor Shirt models

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Wear a T-Shirt Underneath

The Commando UH is designed to be a second skin, but I still found it most comfortable with a t-shirt underneath. If you’re riding in extreme heat, you can wear a moisture-wicking t-shirt to stay extra cool.

Pairs with the Pando AAA Leggings

One of the best ways to complete a lightweight yet fully AAA-rated riding setup is to pair this jacket with Pando Moto’s AAA Leggings. If you want a setup that flows air, feels comfortable, and still meets the highest safety standards, this combo is hard to beat.

The leggings offer full lower-body protection while staying slim enough to wear under jeans or riding pants. If you’re considering the Commando UH, check out the Pando AAA Leggings as well (I reviewed them here) – they’re a great match. 

Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings

Perfect leggings for casual riding and summer heat without sacrificing protection. CE AAA rated up to 75mph highway slide on asphalt.

Wear jeans, hiking pants, pajamas on top - I don't care, it's your style not mine. Full review here.

Get 15% off when you buy direct on Pando Moto's site with code ROAD15.

Pros:

• Super flexible and breathable
• Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit
• Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor

Cons:

• None

Check Price on Pando Moto Check Price on Revzilla

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Get 15% Off This Jacket

If you’re looking to get the best deal on this jacket, buying directly from Pando Moto is the way to go thanks to our discount code ROAD15, which gets you 15% off your order.

Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket

CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style. Full review here.

Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.

Pros:

• Material 15x stronger than steel
• Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
• Excellent airflow
• CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders

Cons:

• Back protector sold separately

Check Price on Pando Moto Check Price on Revzilla

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Comparisons

When looking at lightweight, highly protective motorcycle underlayers, three big names come to mind: Pando Moto, Knox, and Bowtex. All three brands make AAA-rated gear that balances comfort, flexibility, and top-tier protection, but they take slightly different approaches.

Since I have firsthand experience with Pando Moto and Bowtex, I’ll speak to those two. There’s no outright winner—the best choice depends on your riding style and priorities.

Both the Pando Moto Commando UH and the Bowtex Elite are AAA-rated armored layers designed to be worn alone or under other gear. They offer excellent protection for city riders, commuters, and anyone looking for a lightweight alternative to bulky armored jackets.

So what’s the difference in their jacket products?

✔️ Bowtex has belt loops, Pando Moto does not. Bowtex has the edge here—their belt loops attach directly to your riding pants, reducing the chance of the jacket riding up. Pando Moto uses a silicone grip strip instead, but in my opinion that’s not as secure as a loop system. That said, Bowtex’s loops may not stay intact in a crash and there is no loop on the rear – only on the left and right sides.

✔️ Though both are CE AAA rated, Bowtex uses Dyneema throughout the entire garment. I’m not a material scientist so I can’t wax poetic about the differences between Dyneema (used by Bowtex) and Balistex (used by Pando Moto), but what I can say is that Pando uses a Cordura Mesh on the chest and inner arms (unlikely to be slide zones in a crash) that doesn’t need to pass the same abrasion test as the slide zones on the outer arms and back. Whereas Bowtex uses the same Dyneema material that passes on those critical slide zones throughout the entire jacket. On the other hand…

✔️ Pando Moto flow air much better than Bowtex. If you’re riding in hot climates or want maximum ventilation, Pando Moto’s full-mesh chest and arm construction allows significantly more air to pass through than Bowtex. While Bowtex is breathable, it doesn’t flow air nearly as well as the Commando U – it’s especially noticeable to me when at a stop.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either brand. 

Be Careful With Knockoff AAA Gear

One thing to watch out for when shopping for protective gear is knockoff products that claim “AAA-rated” materials—but haven’t actually been tested as a full garment.

Some cheaper brands advertise “AAA fabric”—but that doesn’t mean the jacket itself has passed AAA testing. CE AAA certification isn’t just about the fabric—it tests the entire construction of the jacket, including seam strength, stitching, zippers, and overall durability in a slide.

If the stitching fails or the seams burst open on impact, the jacket is worthless—no matter how strong the fabric is.

This is where Pando Moto and Bowtex stand out—the full garment is certified, not just the material. When shopping for protective motorcycle gear, always look for full CE AAA certification on the product itself—not just claims about the fabric used.

Pando Moto Commando UH Jacket: Worth It?

After testing the Pando Moto Commando UH in the real world—from scorching city streets to long-distance rides—I can confidently say this is one of the best armored layers available for riders in hot climates, or city commuters looking for layering flexibility.

It does exactly what it’s designed to do: offer full CE AAA protection while being as invisible as possible. The ventilation is unmatched, the armor stays in place, and  the fit and stretch make it comfortable to wear all day—whether on its own or as a protective underlayer.

Who Should Buy the Commando UH?

• ✅ City riders & commuters who want lightweight, flexible protection without bulk.
  
• ✅ Hot weather riders looking for the best airflow possible in a CE AAA-rated jacket.
  
• ✅ E-bike & scooter riders who need extra abrasion resistance on short urban rides.
  
• ✅ Anyone who layers their gear—this fits under anything without restricting movement.

For me, this jacket solves a major problem. Living in Thailand’s heat, I’m often tempted to ride in just a t-shirt. This changes the equation. It’s so light and breathable that there’s no excuse to go unprotected anymore.

Pando Moto absolutely nailed the balance of protection, comfort, and airflow in the Commando UH. If they add belt loops in a future version, it’ll be near perfect. But even as it stands, this is one of the best mesh motorcycle jackets you can buy if you ride in the heat or just want something lightweight that isn’t going to disappear in a slide. 

Get the Set

Pair the Pando Moto Commando UH jacket with the leggings for a full set of abrasion protection. I also own the leggings and love them. 

Jacket	Pants
Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket	Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings
CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style.	CE AAA leggings you can wear anything over top of. All day comfort with airflow that can keep you cool in the most punishingly hot conditions.
Material 15x stronger than steel Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket Excellent airflow CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders	Super flexible and breathable Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor
Back protector sold separately	None
Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Revzilla
Check Price on Pando Moto	Check Price on Pando Moto

Jacket

Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket

CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style.

• Material 15x stronger than steel
• Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
• Excellent airflow
• CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders

• Back protector sold separately

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Pando Moto

Pants

Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings

CE AAA leggings you can wear anything over top of. All day comfort with airflow that can keep you cool in the most punishingly hot conditions.

• Super flexible and breathable
• Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit
• Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor

• None

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Pando Moto

The post Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket Review: Better than Mesh? first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

Ready to get a heated jacket? Consider these:

• More heating zones doesn’t always mean a warmer jacket. Companies boast about zone counts, but heating element quality and power output matter way more. A jacket with fewer, more powerful, and strategically placed zones can be warmer than one with tons of weak, poorly positioned elements. Don’t get caught up in the zone number hype.
• Battery life claims are often wildly misleading. Those “10-hour battery life” claims? Usually on the lowest setting in ideal conditions. Actual usage on high heat? Expect significantly less. Don’t believe the marketing hype; dig into tests and understand heat level vs. battery life trade-offs.
• For you motorcycle riders – heated jackets don’t mean tethering to your bike. While plug-in 12V systems are the classic, many newer heated jackets are powered by slim batteries that tuck away inside the jacket itself, providing all day warmth without a tangle of wires. And, you can wear them off the bike. 

Best Heated Jackets for Every Scenario

Before we get to specific jackets suited for both men and women, let’s quickly break down what kind of heated jacket might be your best riding buddy (or hiking pal, or everyday winter warrior).

• Everyday Use: Comfort, consistent warmth, and versatility are paramount. You need a jacket that can handle daily wear, whether you’re commuting, running errands, or just braving a polar vortex to get the mail.
• Hiking: Lightweight, packable, and breathable is the name of the game. You’ll want a jacket that moves with you, won’t weigh you down on the trail, and can adjust to your needs whether you’re hoofing it or sitting down for a breather. Battery life is key for longer treks.
• Hunting: Sitting for hours in the blind, you want something that’s going to keep you warm while stationary without hot or cold spots. Insulation is key. If you’re after turkeys, camo helps too.
• Motorcycle Riding: You need a lightweight, reliable heat source that can stand up to wind chill at speed. It has to have a reliable battery or be able to plug in to your bike’s battery for endless warmth. 

Here are the top picks laid out, but we have a few more options in the article below (like a fleece from Venustas).

Everday	Hiking	Hunting	Motorcycle Riding
Venustas Men's Heated Jacket	ORORO Mens Soft Shell Heated Jacket	TIDEWE Mens Heated Jacket	Gerbing 12V Heated Jacket Liner
Pros: Enlarged heating zones for full-body warmth Long-lasting battery doubles as a power bank Waterproof design with multiple storage pockets	Pros: Four heating zones: Collar, pockets, and back Three heat settings: High, medium, low Up to 10 hours of warmth with a 7.38V battery	Pros: Long-lasting warmth with adjustable heat settings 100% waterproof and windproof for outdoor protection Includes a power bank for heating and phone charging	Pros: Plugs directly into your motorcycle for unlimited power Pre-wired for heated gloves and other gear Slim fit design slips under any riding jacket
Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Revzilla

Everday

Venustas Men's Heated Jacket

Pros:

• Enlarged heating zones for full-body warmth
• Long-lasting battery doubles as a power bank
• Waterproof design with multiple storage pockets

Check Price on Amazon

Hiking

ORORO Mens Soft Shell Heated Jacket

Pros:

• Four heating zones: Collar, pockets, and back
• Three heat settings: High, medium, low
• Up to 10 hours of warmth with a 7.38V battery

Check Price on Amazon

Hunting

TIDEWE Mens Heated Jacket

Pros:

• Long-lasting warmth with adjustable heat settings
• 100% waterproof and windproof for outdoor protection
• Includes a power bank for heating and phone charging

Check Price on Amazon

Motorcycle Riding

Gerbing 12V Heated Jacket Liner

Pros:

• Plugs directly into your motorcycle for unlimited power
• Pre-wired for heated gloves and other gear
• Slim fit design slips under any riding jacket

Check Price on Revzilla

All of these jackets feature three heat levels – the industry standard – aside from the 12V vehicle plug-in option which has many more. Most of these jackets are washable – just remove the batteries and they can go in the washer and dryer.

Best for Everyone: Venustas Heated Jacket

This is the heated jacket that can do it all – maybe not the best option for each individual use case, but certainly the best for daily use: walking the dog, some hiking, a bit of camping, and riding a motorcycle around town. 

The best all-around heated jacket is the Venustas Heated Jacket. This jacket strikes a balance between performance and everyday wearability.

Venustas Men's Heated Jacket

Venustas Men’s Heated Jacket delivers all-day warmth with advanced heating technology and insulation.

Pros:

• Enlarged heating zones for full-body warmth
• Long-lasting battery doubles as a power bank
• Waterproof design with multiple storage pockets

Cons:

• Charger not included in the package

Check Price on Amazon

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Quick Facts: 

• Run Time on Highest Heat: 6 hours
• Heating Zones: Chest, back, and collar
• Separate Battery: With USB Type-C input and Type-A output, so you can charge a phone with it too. 

Key Features:

• Upgraded 7.4V Battery with 4800mAh: Offers improved battery life and consistent heat output. Users often point out that Venustas provides a good run time for the price, almost 6 hours in testing. 
• Four Heating Zones (including collar): Strategically placed zones warm your chest, back, and even neck. That collar heating is really nice for keeping the cold from getting to the often exposed neck. 
• Lightweight and Stylish Design: Looks right casually or on a hike, without screaming “technical gear.” It’s designed to blend into your everyday wardrobe, so you can wear it to the coffee shop or the office without looking like you’re geared up for an expedition.
• Two Year Warranty on Heating Elements: Should you need it, they’ll replace the heating elements. So feel free to put this jacket through it’s paces!
• Several Cut Options: Get a classic jacket, puffer, or fleece. Several options come with removable hoods and different levels of wind and water resistance. 

Our contributor Carl uses his Venustas vest for winter motorcycle rides and walks around the neighborhood. He wanted a heated jacket that could handle both, and Venustas delivered with its lightweight and easily hidden battery that tucks in by the lower back.

Men's Jacket	Men's Puffer	Women's Jacket	Women's Fleece
Venustas Men's 3-in-1 Heated Jacket	Venustas Men's Heated Puffer Jacket	Venustas Womens Heated Jacket	Venustas Women's Fleece Heated Jacket
$249.98$219.99	N/A	$269.98$199.99	$189.99$139.99
Pros: Three-in-one design for various weather conditions Five heating zones for even warmth distribution Extra battery pack for longer heating duration	Pros: Six heating zones for full-body warmth Up to 13 hours of heat with an extended battery Water-resistant and machine-washable for easy care	Pros: 30% larger heating panels for superior warmth Up to 10 hours of heat with adjustable settings Includes an extra battery for extended outdoor use	Pros: Five heating zones for full-body comfort Up to 10 hours of warmth with adjustable settings Machine washable and durable with YKK zippers
Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon

Men's Jacket

Venustas Men's 3-in-1 Heated Jacket

$249.98$219.99

Pros:

• Three-in-one design for various weather conditions
• Five heating zones for even warmth distribution
• Extra battery pack for longer heating duration

Check Price on Amazon

Men's Puffer

Venustas Men's Heated Puffer Jacket

N/A

Pros:

• Six heating zones for full-body warmth
• Up to 13 hours of heat with an extended battery
• Water-resistant and machine-washable for easy care

Check Price on Amazon

Women's Jacket

Venustas Womens Heated Jacket

$269.98$199.99

Pros:

• 30% larger heating panels for superior warmth
• Up to 10 hours of heat with adjustable settings
• Includes an extra battery for extended outdoor use

Check Price on Amazon

Women's Fleece

Venustas Women's Fleece Heated Jacket

$189.99$139.99

Pros:

• Five heating zones for full-body comfort
• Up to 10 hours of warmth with adjustable settings
• Machine washable and durable with YKK zippers

Check Price on Amazon

06/07/2025 04:51 am GMT

Best for Hiking: Ororo Classic Heated Jacket

For hikers and anyone who values freedom of movement, the Ororo Classic Heated Jacket is a top contender. This jacket is all about lightweight warmth and versatility, styled in a technical jacket that moves with you on the trails. 

A taller collar with detachable hood and adjustable hem feels just like your favorite technical jacket, except you won’t need a mid-layer, scarf, or even a shell given the heating elements in the chest, back, and collar and the wind and water resistant outer shell. 

Quick Facts: 

• Run Time on Highest Heat: 6 hours
• Heating Zones: Chest, back, and collar
• Separate Battery: With USB Type-C input and Type-A output, so you can charge a phone with it too. About the same size battery as Venustas. 

Key Features:

• 7.4V Battery System with 4800mAh: Provides hours of cordless heat with a perfect for hiking and daily use. 
• Four Heating Zones: Focuses warmth on your chest and back, keeping your core cozy without overheating you during activity. Collar can be switched on and off as well, making a scarf unnecessary. 
• Lightweight and Packable: Won’t weigh you down on the trail and easily stuffs into a backpack when not needed. 
• Water and Wind Resistant: Protects you from light rain and wind chill.
• USB Charging Port: The battery pack doubles as a portable charger for your phone – a lifesaver on the trail.

What really stands out about this jacket versus others is its technical styling and features. Battery-wise, you’re looking at a very similar experience to the Venustas jacket, but the adjustability, weather-resistance and styling are much better fit to the needs of hiking. 

Best For: Hikers, walkers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a lightweight, versatile heated jacket for everyday cold weather comfort.

Men's	Women's
ORORO Soft Shell Heated Jacket	ORORO Women's Heated Jacket
Pros: Four heating zones: Collar, pockets, and back Three heat settings: High, medium, low Up to 10 hours of warmth with a 7.38V battery	Pros: Fast heating with up to 10 hours of battery life Slim fit design for a flattering look Wind and water-resistant for outdoor protection
Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon

Men's

ORORO Soft Shell Heated Jacket

Pros:

• Four heating zones: Collar, pockets, and back
• Three heat settings: High, medium, low
• Up to 10 hours of warmth with a 7.38V battery

Check Price on Amazon

Women's

ORORO Women's Heated Jacket

Pros:

• Fast heating with up to 10 hours of battery life
• Slim fit design for a flattering look
• Wind and water-resistant for outdoor protection

Check Price on Amazon

Best for Hunting: TideWe Heated Jacket

Just looking at this jacket you can tell who it’s for. The TideWe jacket is a similar offering to Venustas and Ororo in that it’s powered by a separate rechargeable battery pack, but you get a bigger battery that’s not as comfortable to carry when moving – but perfect for long stretches sitting and waiting. 

It’s also quite a bit cheaper than the others! But don’t let the low price fool you; this jacket delivers surprising heat and features for the money.

Quick Facts: 

• Run Time on Highest Heat: 3 hours (10 on low)
• Heating Zones: Chest, back, and collar
• Separate Battery: With USB Type-C and microUSB inputs and two USB Type-A outputs

Key Features:

• 5V Battery System with 10,000mAh: Provides hours of heat and some phone charge as well – this battery has two ports so you can charge a device while your jacket is heating. 
• Two Piece Design: The inner liner carries the heating elements, with an outer waterproof shell with sealed seams and a hardened brim hood that comes in black or forest camo. 
• Three Heating Zones: The inner fleece shell delivers warmth to the chest and back, with temperatures ranging from 100F (low) to 130F (high) – necessary when you’re stationary in frigidly cold conditions. 
• Two USB Charging Ports: Power your heated gear while also powering up your phone or another device at the same time. 

Best For: Hunters and budget-minded buyers looking for a solid heated jacket lacking some of the bells and whistles of Venustas or Ororo. Pick up some heated hunting pants as well. 

TIDEWE Mens Heated Jacket

TIDEWE Men’s Heated Jacket keeps you warm and dry in any weather with its 3-in-1 versatile design.

Pros:

• Long-lasting warmth with adjustable heat settings
• 100% waterproof and windproof for outdoor protection
• Includes a power bank for heating and phone charging

Cons:

• Battery life may be shorter on the highest setting

Check Price on Amazon

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Best for Motorcycle Touring: Gerbing 12V EX Pro Heated Jacket

This jacket is built for one thing and one thing only: absolute, unwavering warmth on your motorcycle. The Gerbing 12V Heated Jacket is not messing around. This goes way above and beyond what a 7V portable system can deliver – it’s a personal furnace you wear under your riding gear.

Quick Facts: 

• Run Time on Highest Heat: Unlimited, with its highest heat at 135F
• Heating Zones: Chest, back, collar, and sleeves

Key Features

• 12V Power System: This Gerbing jacket plugs directly into your bike’s battery, giving you virtually limitless heat. Say goodbye to range anxiety. The jacket plugs into a Gerbing temp controller unit that then connects directly to your bike’s battery. 
• Extensive Heating Zones: Seven Microwire heating zones target your chest (x2), back (x2), collar, and sleeves (x2). You’ll be enveloped in warmth from head to torso to arms. You also get glove connections at the end of the sleeves so you can attach a pair of Gerbing heated gloves. 
• Compatible with Multiple Vehicles: You can plug this jacket into a motorcycle, but also a snowmobile, ATV, boat, or even an airplane for unlimited heat. 
• Premium Construction: YKK zippers and an elastic cuff at the wrists keep the heat in and the cold out. 

Keep in mind this jacket is not a protective motorcycle jacket – you’ll still want something else over top for impact and abrasion protection. This jacket is meant to be worn underneath another motorcycle jacket. 

You will need a Gerbing Battery Harness and a Gerbing Temperature Controller to get the jacket running, but you’ll never have to worry about battery life on a ride or adventure. 

Gerbing also offers 7V options with portable batteries like the Gerbing 7V Khione 2.0 Heated Puffer Jacket, but they won’t provide the range and max heat output of a 12V bike connected system. 

Best For: The hardcore rider who is putting in serious miles in the cold, especially when you may be far from a power outlet for longer than expected. 

Gerbing 12V Heated Jacket Liner

The Gerbing 12V Heated Jacket Liner keeps you warm in any riding condition with Microwire Technology and seven heating zones for full coverage.

Pros:

• Plugs directly into your motorcycle for unlimited power
• Pre-wired for heated gloves and other gear
• Slim fit design slips under any riding jacket

Cons:

• Heat controller and battery harness sold separately

Check Price on Revzilla

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Gerbing 12V Heated Pant Liner

The Gerbing 12V Heated Pant Liner delivers all-day warmth with Microwire Technology and four heating zones for full lower-body coverage.

Pros:

• Plugs into your motorcycle for unlimited power
• Pre-wired for heated socks or insoles
• Lightweight design fits under any riding pants

Cons:

• Heat controller and battery harness sold separately

Check Price on Revzilla

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Best for Adventure Riding: Klim Aggressor eFire Heated Shirt

If you demand the best of the best, and are willing to pay for it, the Klim Aggressor eFire Heated Shirt is in a league of its own. This isn’t exactly a heated jacket, it’s a super lightweight heated shirt powered by a slim battery that tucks inside. 

Perfect for adventure riders who need maximum mobility and ultralight gear. 

Quick Facts: 

• Run Time on Highest Heat: 2.5 hours (8 on low)
• Heating Zones: Chest and back
• Separate Battery: With USB Type-C and microUSB inputs and two USB Type-A outputs

Key Features:

• 7.4V Battery System with 2,250mAh: Provides enough heat for a day ride while being significantly smaller than the typical portable battery for a heated jacket – about half the size of the one that comes with Venustas and Ororo jackets. 
• Lightweight and Breathable Material: This shirt is designed to add heat but also let it (and your sweat) wick away – exactly what you want when you’re going at high intensity in a cold climate. Sweat kills faster than cold. 
• Two Heating Zones: Chest and back. This layer prioritizes trapping your natural heat with a waffle pattern instead of sticking heating elements everywhere, thus making it super slim and easy to layer. You still get three heat levels.  

Interested in more base layers? See our guide to layering on your rides. 

Best For: Adventure and off-road riders tackling cold conditions. As long as you can keep the battery charged up, this shirt gives you the flexibility to take on hard enduro or adventure rides in the harshest conditions.

Klim Aggressor eFire Heated Shirt

$199

• Gridded fabric design traps heat
• Flat low-profile seams for excellent minimum-bulk layering
• Engineered specifically for power sports
• Poly-spandex blend
• Anti-microbial
• Moisture-wicking

Check Price on Revzilla

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Buying Guide: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Okay, so you’ve seen some top contenders. But how do you choose the heated jacket that’s perfect for you? Here’s a quick buying guide to help you dial it in:

• Power Source: Battery vs Plug In
  • Battery Powered (5V or 7V): Cordless freedom, versatile for on and off-bike use. Battery life is a factor, usually ranging from 3-10 hours depending on how hard you crank the heat. 
  • External Power Source (12V): Maximum heat, unlimited power, best for serious cold and long motorcycle rides. Requires bike connection.
• Heating Zones: More zones generally mean more even and comprehensive warmth. Consider zones in the chest, back, collar, and sleeves.
• Heat Levels/Control: Look for jackets with multiple heat settings and easy-to-use controls (especially for motorcycle riders).
• Material and Construction: Durability, water resistance, wind resistance, and breathability are all important, especially for motorcycle and hiking use.
• Fit and Layering: Consider how the jacket will fit with your other layers. Liners are designed to be slim; standalone jackets may have a more relaxed fit.
• Battery Life (for Battery-Powered): Check battery life ratings and consider your typical use case. Extra batteries can be a good investment for longer adventures.
• Safety Features (for Motorcycle): Look for integrated armor if you want added protection.

Heated Jacket Comparison: Quick Glance

Warmth Awaits: Your Next Adventure Starts Here

Don’t let cold weather dictate when and how you ride, hike, or live your life. A heated jacket is an investment in comfort, safety, and extending your adventures into the frosty months. Whether you choose the Gerbing for ultimate motorcycle warmth, the Ororo for hiking freedom, the TideWe for budget-friendly heat, the Venustas for everyday versatility, or the Klim for the lightest weight, you’ll be equipped for the next adventure (or dog walk!)

Stay warm out there!

What are your experiences with heated jackets? Share your stories and recommendations in the comments below!

The post The Best Heated Jackets for Walks, Rides, Hikes and Hunts first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

There’s also the comfort issue; if I was just zipping across town to go to lunch, I’d rather not wear motorcycle pants I have to strip off at my destination. 

However, road rash is also no fun. 

So when I saw what Bowtex built with the Bowtex Elite protective underlayers, I was itching for a pair. Thankfully, our Senior Editor JM Staelens gifted me his old set, which fit just right. 

Rather watch this? Here’s my full review in video form.

Designed to bridge the gaps between comfort, style, and protection, the Bowtex underlayers are a revolution for riders who hate the bulk of traditional armored clothing, yet still want to survive a highway slide (which Bowtex will)

Here’s why I love the Bowtex Elite:

1. You’ll forget you’re even wearing it. This underlayer is as close as you’ll get to riding in your pajamas while still packing a CE AAA rating that means key abrasion zones will survive a 75 mph (120 kph) slide on asphalt. 
2. You’ll stay cool in the heat (and warm in the cold). This is one of the most breathable protective layers out there, even in 100°F weather, making it a lifesaver for those hot summer days. Plus you can layer whatever you want over it, so it’s good for cold weather too. 
3. You won’t look like a motorcycle rider. If you’re tired of looking like an armored turtle just to please your wife, the Bowtex Elite have your back: wear them under your favorite jeans and jacket, so you don’t have to choose between safety, style, and comfort.

I’ve taken this underlayer through city commutes, countryside twisties, and everything in between in both hot and cold weather, dry and wet. Here’s what makes it a game-changer—and where it might fall short for certain riders.

Our Pick

Bowtex Elite Shirt and Pants

The Bowtex Elite is a strong, abrasion resistant and slim-fitting armored underlayer that's also breathable and lightweight. The best in its category that I've tried. CE AAA rated for slide and impact resistance - same as a MotoGP race suit. And you get 5% off with the buttons below! That's dinner on us!

Pros:

• CE AAA safety rated - same as MotoGP race suit
• CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders, knees, hips
• Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
• Mesh all around for airflow
• Belt loops to hold the shirt down

Cons:

• Meant to be layered with casual jacket / pants

Shirt (5% off!) Pants (5% off!)

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

How I Wear Bowtex

It should go without saying that your safety is your responsibility; don’t take the opinion of a guy on the internet as fact. But I can tell you from my experience how and when I wear Bowtex, and if you’d like to vent, drop it in the YouTube comments.

The Bowtex Elite is an armored underlayer designed for motorcyclists who prioritize safety, versatility, and comfort. It is not made for track racing or excessive speeds over and above what’s legal on most roads.  

Made from ultra-durable materials like Dyneema and Kevlar, it offers abrasion resistance that rivals (and exceeds) full-on motorcycle jeans, but with the flexibility and breathability of a lightweight base layer. The CE AAA rating the Bowtex Elite earned means the key abrasion zones on the garment can survive a slide of 75 mph (120 kph). That’s an insane amount of abrasion protection. 

And while the Bowtex set is shipped with CE Level 1 armor at the hips, knees, chest, back, and elbows, it’s designed to be thin and flexible rather than provide maximum impact protection or coverage. 

This all makes Bowtex perfect for:

• Touring: Spending hours in the saddle? This underlayer is lightweight, breathable, and so comfortable you might forget you’re wearing it. Wear whatever you like on top.
• Urban Riders: Slide it under a pair of jeans and your favorite jacket for a stylish yet protective ride through the city.
• Summer Rides: Ditch the swamp of riding in heavy leathers: The Bowtex Elite’s cooling properties make it a fantastic choice for hot weather.

I find myself wearing underlayers like Bowtex when I go out for dinner or I’m on a tour that features much more than just riding; like cruising around Japan to onsens and fish markets. 

What is Bowtex NOT for? Track days and spirited street riding where speeds push beyond 75 mph. A proper track suit, tight helmet, and airbag are much better suited to that environment. 

Now that we have that out of the way…

What I Love

It’s a lot…

All-Weather Comfort and Versatility

The Bowtex Elite truly shines as an all-season, all-conditions underlayer – mostly because it’s as thin as can be, allowing you to layer whatever you want on top. Over the past year, I’ve ridden with this set in everything from cold, crisp mornings in Japan to the sweltering, humid afternoons of Thailand. 

In Japan, where temperatures dipped and layering was key, the Elite fit seamlessly under a Patagonia R1 and a Rab jacket, plus my favorite pair of jeans. I was even able to sneak a layer of long underwear underneath them for even more comfort and warmth. These layers were enough insulation to keep me warm without overheating when I stopped for a coffee. Sometimes I unzipped the Bowtex shirt at a stop, but often I kept it on. 

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Thailand’s relentless heat and humidity were a real test. Riding in over 100°F (40°C ) temperatures, I feared the Elite would trap heat, but its lightweight, breathable fabric proved otherwise. Air flows freely through the underlayer when I’m moving, and wearing it under a light dirtbike jersey means the black material doesn’t suck in any heat from the sun. 

CE AAA Protection in a Featherweight Package

The Bowtex Elite’s AAA abrasion rating is its crowning achievement. This is the same rated level of protection you’d find in a MotoGP racing suit, so theoretically on a highway-speed slide you’re getting the same protection. 

What’s incredible is how thin and lightweight the material is. Hold it up to the light, and you can see through the weave—yet it’s tough enough to withstand a slide at 75 mph on asphalt. That’s a level of protection you don’t expect from gear this unobtrusive.

One of the standout moments in my experience was watching footage of the Bowtex founder being dragged behind a bike while wearing this gear. If that’s not confidence in your product, I don’t know what is. This toughness doesn’t just live in marketing—it’s real-world proven.

Ergonomically Thought-Out Design

The Bowtex Elite has a host of thoughtful design features that enhance its usability. For instance, the thumb loops on the shirt ensure the sleeves stay in place, even during a slide. Similarly, the pants come with belt loops that you can attach to your jeans, preventing the underlayer from riding up—a small but significant touch.

Another feature I appreciated was the placement of armor pockets. The shirt and leggings come equipped with CE Level 1 pads for shoulders, elbows, back, chest, knees, and hips. I upgraded mine to CE Level 2, and the pads stayed perfectly aligned, even after hours of riding. The seams, triple-stitched for durability, add to the confidence I have that this garment is not coming apart in a crash. 

It’s also very easy to clean this set, and I notice very little wear and tear from washing. Just take out the armor and toss it in a washing machine on cold. Fresh as a daisy. 

Stealthy Style for Urban Riders

The Bowtex Elite is perfect for riders who want safety without sacrificing style. One rainy day here in Chiang Mai, I layered the Elite under my favorite pair of jeans and a casual jacket. When I got to my destination—a bustling café—no one could tell I was wearing AAA-rated protection. Even after hours off the bike, I didn’t feel the need to change out of my gear. It’s that lightweight and discreet.

This aspect of the Elite is particularly appealing for urban commuters or anyone who needs to transition between riding and everyday life without lugging around bulky gear. Whether grabbing dinner with friends or running errands, the Bowtex Elite ends the trade-offs between comfort, style, and safety. 

What I Don’t Like

While the Bowtex Elite is an impressive piece of gear, there are a few aspects that left room for improvement.

Elasticity Concerns in the Waistband

One of the most noticeable drawbacks was the waistband on the leggings. After several months of consistent use, the elastic started to lose its stretch, which made it harder to keep the leggings snug, especially when worn without a tighter pair of pants and a belt. 

However, Bowtex has addressed this in their next iteration of the product by adding a drawstring for a more secure fit.

Lack of Pockets for Standalone Use

The minimalist design of the Elite means no external pockets on either the shirt or leggings. For riders like me who occasionally wear the underlayer (especially top) as standalone gear on short rides or super hot days, I found this occasionally inconvenient.

While this isn’t a design flaw—since the Elite is meant to be worn under regular clothing—it’s a limitation I couldn’t shake.

Warmth in Extreme Heat

Although the Elite is highly breathable when moving, it doesn’t perform miracles when you’re stationary in extreme heat and sun. At stops, the lightweight material becomes less effective at keeping you cool, and the added armor traps heat against the skin. Riders in tropical or desert climates might want to pair the Elite with a highly ventilated light layer on top, like a mesh jacket or a dirtbike jersey. 

Differentiation with Bowtex

The Bowtex Elite stands out in several ways, but it’s essential to see how it compares to similar options on the market. Whether you’re debating between brands or deciding if it’s the right gear for you, here’s a breakdown of what makes Bowtex unique versus its competition. 

Unparalleled AAA Protection in an Underlayer

The Bowtex Elite is among the very few underlayers that achieve a AAA abrasion rating. This level of protection is rare for gear designed to be worn discreetly under casual clothing, though it is becoming more common with Pando Moto, Knox and a few others starting to level up their garments to match that AAA rating. 

I am also a big fan of the Pando Moto Skin UH AAA leggings, though they do not use their tough Balistex fiber all around the garment like Bowtex does with their Dyneema. Pando puts a thinner, more flexible and breathable material on the inside of the legs, as CE AAA testing criteria doesn’t hold that part of the garment to as high an abrasion resistance standard. 

Style: In The Garment or Outside? 

Bowtex takes a fresh look at the style debate in motorcycle gear (for those who care). 

Instead of working great style into the gear itself, just wear whatever you want on top. I think that’s a win not just for style, but for practicality in different weather conditions; I can layer on whatever technical jackets or rain clothes I like best, and also use them for non-riding (hiking, daily use, etc). That allows me to stretch my dollar further and get more use out of solid pieces like the Patagonia R1 and Rab Microlight jackets.

Worth it?

The Bowtex Elite is a remarkable underlayer that blends high-level protection with everyday comfort. Over a year of testing, it proved versatile across diverse climates, offering AAA-rated abrasion resistance in a lightweight, breathable package. It excels for riders who want protection without bulky gear, sliding seamlessly under regular clothing while keeping you safe.

However, it’s not perfect. The version I tested has wear issues with the waistband that affect fit, and the lack of standalone features like pockets may be inconvenient for some. It also doesn’t provide much warmth on cold rides, so layering is essential in cooler weather.

If you’re after gear that prioritizes safety, comfort, and adaptability for touring and commuting, the Bowtex Elite is an outstanding choice. It’s a worthwhile investment for riders looking to elevate their gear without sacrificing mobility or style.

Our Pick

Bowtex Elite Shirt and Pants

The Bowtex Elite is a strong, abrasion resistant and slim-fitting armored underlayer that's also breathable and lightweight. The best in its category that I've tried. CE AAA rated for slide and impact resistance - same as a MotoGP race suit. And you get 5% off with the buttons below! That's dinner on us!

Pros:

• CE AAA safety rated - same as MotoGP race suit
• CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders, knees, hips
• Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
• Mesh all around for airflow
• Belt loops to hold the shirt down

Cons:

• Meant to be layered with casual jacket / pants

Shirt (5% off!) Pants (5% off!)

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

The post Bowtex Elite Protective Underlayer: The One Layer to Rule Them All first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve found a jacket that checks all the boxes on paper—highly protective for both impact and slide, well-ventilated, practical, and great colorway—only to try it on and realize it fits like a cardboard box.

And when I do find a jacket that fits right? I’m usually in a department store, and that jacket skimps on all the important stuff that makes a motorcycle jacket what it is.

So you can imagine my excitement when I found out the custom leather jacket company Lusso Leather makes custom-fit motorcycle jackets.

Design Your Own Motorcycle Jacket

Specify the exact design you want from materials, pockets, cuffs, patterns and more or share pictures of a jacket you want recreated. Options for armor pockets, mesh and kevlar linings, and more for added safety. If the fit is wrong, they'll redo it.

Design Now Get an Underlayer

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Now, before you yell at me in the comments: “That’s not CE rated! Pantyhose over my head provide more protection!” First off, I’m sorry your mommy won’t let you ride a real bike, otherwise you’d have processed those hormones and would act like a normal adult human.

I know it’s not CE rated, hence why I reserve this jacket for riding around town or just going out to dinner (not even on the bike). I also own a Bowtex Elite undershirt (long term review here) that is CE AAA rated which means it’ll withstand a slide at 70mph on the highway. I’ll often wear that underneath this jacket.

Another option I just picked up and will review in the coming months is the Pando Moto Commando UH undershirt, a similar CE AAA rated undershirt. I’ve already tried Pando’s leggings and LOVE them. Full review here.

Back to the review of Lusso Leathers’ custom jackets…

Since I spend most of my time riding Thailand’s sweltering streets, I stay away from wearing leather jackets. I’m well aware of the tried-and-true protection leather provides, but I also know heatstroke is a killer on a motorcycle. So when Lusso’s founder Hannan told me they can make a kevlar-lined denim jacket for me, I snapped at the opportunity.

I’ve had a few months to test out this jacket, and from Thailand’s hot and humid plains to cool mountain rain, I’ve already put it through a lot. And ironed some patches on it!

Let me tell you—it’s the first time I’ve found a jacket that fits perfectly and actually holds up to real-world riding demands. I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the comfort, fit, and airflow this jacket provides.

In fact, as I write this I am sitting in a hotel lobby in Amsterdam, where it is cold and rainy, and I am wearing this jacket. It is so comfortable and looks so good I am wearing it as a standard jacket, and it’s performing just as well at keeping me cool in 90+ F Thai weather as it is in 50 F Amsterdam fall weather.

So let me solve your fit problems once and for all and show you why the Lusso Leather custom denim jacket is an excellent option for a light motorcycle jacket. And most importantly, I’ll go through how Lusso Leather delivers on the finer details, not just to fit this jacket to your exact measurements but to make a garment that can hold up in a crash.

Even if you don’t ride in it, a leather or denim jacket from Lusso Leathers will be a great addition to your wardrobe.

Let’s go through:

1. Style, Fit, and Comfort: How Lusso gets it right
2. Protection: What Lusso puts in to every motorcycle jacket
3. Limitations: What I don’t like about my custom jacket

Style, Fit, and Comfort with this Custom Jacket

Right off the bat, let’s talk about the most stand-out feature of Lusso’s jackets: custom fit. The experience of wearing something designed specifically for you is unmatched. No more choosing between baggy stomach or pinched shoulders.

I sent Lusso Leather my measurements (waist, chest, torso length, sleeve length at least), and they came back with a jacket that fits like a glove on the first try. And I got to specify a bunch more details…

What style? What color and shade? Buttons or zipper? How many pockets? What type of liner?

With Lusso, you get standard templates for inspiration but you aren’t limited to them. Want to recreate the look of an old jacket you had to retire? Send them a photo, and they’ll replicate it, adding your choice of materials and finishes. This is exactly what I did with an old jacket I wanted to replace.

In this case, I opted for denim with a Kevlar lining, but they also offer a range of leather options (and they know which leathers to avoid for motorcycling). You can tweak every detail, from button vs. zipper closures to cuff style to pocket designs and liner materials.

For my jacket, I surfed Pinterest for 10 minutes and screenshotted a couple jackets. Sent one email with two pictures of the best example I found and said, “Make me something like these”. What I got was spot on and completely custom. I got the look I was going for even though I am nowhere near a fashion designer.

Trying it on, I found a denim jacket that looks just as sharp off the bike as it feels comfortable on it. After I wore it a few times I noticed I was picking up a lot of compliments; the relaxed style means I don’t look like I’m wearing a heavy-duty motorcycle jacket. Now I probably wear this jacket more off the bike than on it!

But how does the jacket perform when riding? It’s easy to find a jacket that fits when you’re having a beer. But what about on the bike?

I had a chance to really test this jacket on a five-day ride through Thailand’s mix of heat, mountain cold, and rain, I found the jacket to be surprisingly adaptable to the different climates.

While it’s not waterproof, the thick denim and kevlar did a good job of keeping me dry in the brief downpours we rode through.

But I was most surprised by how well the jacket flows air. I was expecting it to be a bit stuffy, like my older and much thinner standard denim jacket. However, the mesh liner created a nice space between my body and the jacket where wind could flow in, so I found it very comfortable in the heat.

Had I opted for elastic cuffs or a different cinch style than buttons, I could probably seal that off and design a jacket equally perfect for cold weather riding.

Protection: Is this a Real Motorcycle Jacket?

If you’ve ever been in a motorcycle crash, you know that fashion means nothing in the hospital.

A custom jacket is all well and good in the bar, but to be a real motorcycle jacket a garment has to be able to withstand the extreme forces of a motorcycle jacket. Forces that rub away thick materials like they’re toilet paper, tear seams like cotton candy and snap bones like toothpicks.

Let’s get the obvious part out of the way first: Lusso Leathers’ custom motorcycle jackets are not CE rated for safety. However, what I can say is that the founder Hannan knows his stuff. He’s a sportbike rider himself, and when I quizzed him on the spot over the phone on different aspects of jacket construction he schooled me right back on a couple points.

First comes the material: Lusso Leathers usually uses 1mm+ thick cowhide for their leather jackets, still the best material on the market for abrasion resistance. For my denim jacket, they lined it with kevlar for similar abrasion and heat resistance to leather.

Second comes the seams: Lusso Leathers uses high-tensile strength ballistic nylon thread that’s triple stitched on the protective material to withstand tearing.

Third comes the impact protectors: The jacket also features pockets for adding your own armor in the elbows, shoulders, and back, which is essential for impact protection. I’ve fitted mine with D3O armor—thin, flexible, and nearly invisible, so you don’t sacrifice style for safety.

Another often-overlooked factor in safety is of course the fit. An ill-fitting jacket can shift around during a crash, leaving you vulnerable. Lusso’s tailored fit ensures the jacket stays put, so the armor remains correctly positioned. Also, if you opt for visibility upgrades like reflective piping or brighter fabric panels, you’re adding another layer of passive protection for night rides.

Limitations of this Lusso Leather Custom Jacket

As great as this jacket is, it’s not without its limitations. First and foremost, these jackets are not CE-rated, which might be a dealbreaker for you. However, I have a solution…

Recommendation: If you love the idea of an affordable, perfectly fit and custom-styled motorcycle jacket but don’t want to sacrifice protection, consider wearing this jacket over a protective underlayer like the Bowtex Elite. The Bowtex Elite is a base layer made of Dyneema (a special Kevlar) that’s CE AAA rated to withstand highway-speed slides, giving you the best of both worlds: Lusso’s perfect fit and design with high-level protection underneath. It’s an easy upgrade that keeps your favorite custom jacket functional for serious rides.

Our Pick

Bowtex Elite Shirt and Pants

The Bowtex Elite is a strong, abrasion resistant and slim-fitting armored underlayer that's also breathable and lightweight. The best in its category that I've tried. CE AAA rated for slide and impact resistance - same as a MotoGP race suit. And you get 5% off with the buttons below! That's dinner on us!

Pros:

• CE AAA safety rated - same as MotoGP race suit
• CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders, knees, hips
• Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
• Mesh all around for airflow
• Belt loops to hold the shirt down

Cons:

• Meant to be layered with casual jacket / pants

Shirt (5% off!) Pants (5% off!)

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Still wouldn’t wear this combo to the track, but I feel a lot better on the highway with the Bowtex underneath. There’s also the Pando Moto Commando UH if you want an option that ships for free in the US. And you can get 15% off with code road15.

If there’s one other nitpick I have, it’s with the button closure. This was completely my fault, I specifically called out I wanted buttons to match the jacket I was replacing. While buttons add a vintage denim aesthetic, they are not secure in a crash. For my next custom motorcycle jacket, I’ll definitely opt for a reinforced zipper closure. This is a big part of why I mostly wear this jacket around town and not out on longer rides on bigger bikes.

Is a Lusso Leather’s Custom Jacket Right for You?

If you’re looking for a versatile, stylish, and protective motorcycle jacket that looks just as good off the bike, Lusso Leather’s custom jackets are an excellent choice. If you’re in a hot climate like me, the denim jacket is a big win.

It’s perfect for riders who prioritize comfort and fit for casual riding. While it may not be your go-to track-day jacket, it excels in city commutes and relaxed rides. The fact that it’s custom-made means it fits better than any jacket you’ll pull off a rack. It’s also remarkably affordable for what you get.

The custom fit alone makes it hard to go back to standard jackets, and the Kevlar lining gives you that extra peace of mind without compromising on style. For me, it’s a staple I’ll be wearing on and off the bike for years to come.

Design Your Own Motorcycle Jacket

Specify the exact design you want from materials, pockets, cuffs, patterns and more or share pictures of a jacket you want recreated. Options for armor pockets, mesh and kevlar linings, and more for added safety. If the fit is wrong, they'll redo it.

Design Now Get an Underlayer

We may earn commissions if you make a purchase. This keeps our site ad-free and never sponsored.

Pros:

• Perfect, tailored fit for great style on and off the bike
• Incredible customization options: Basically get anything you want made
• Mesh inside is great for airflow in the heat (90F+)
• Decent jacket off the bike for any weather (depending on your customization choices)

Cons:

• Not CE-rated
• Button closure isn’t crash-friendly (my fault)

If you’re after a jacket that perfectly suits your body and riding style, I’d recommend reaching out to Lusso Leather for a custom order. It’s a piece you won’t regret adding to your gear closet.

The post Lusso Leather Review: Is this THE Perfect Fitting Motorcycle Jacket? first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

I tested the Klim Badlands Pro A3, both jacket and pants, on a six-week adventure ride across Europe. Here’s what I found:

1. Its versatility for different weather conditions is superb; a rare trait even for an adventure suit. 
2. Its protection level is second to none in the adventure gear category. Unless you want to wear MotoGP leathers on the trails, it doesn’t get better than the Badlands Pro A3.
3. This suit includes it all: no need to layer abrasion protection over impact protection. That’s a HUGE convenience when out on a long adventure ride. 
4. The price is indeed steep; but a lot cheaper than a hospital visit (and I have the receipts to prove it).
5. This suit looks the part – but for that, pictures are a thousand words. 

The Best Adventure Jacket	The Best Adventure Pants
KLIM Badlands Pro A3 Adventure Motorcycle Jacket	KLIM Badlands Pro A3 Adventure Motorcycle Pants
The Klim Badlands Pro A3 has everything you need from an adventure suit: rugged protection, versatility to fit any conditions, comfort for long days, and endless customization. This is the best adventure jacket on the market.	Perfectly suited for any adventure ride, from long hours on the highway to hard enduro in the backwoods. Ride in comfort anywhere from the deserts of Morocco to the jungles of Vietnam.
5.0	5.0
Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Revzilla
Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon

The Best Adventure Jacket

KLIM Badlands Pro A3 Adventure Motorcycle Jacket

The Klim Badlands Pro A3 has everything you need from an adventure suit: rugged protection, versatility to fit any conditions, comfort for long days, and endless customization. This is the best adventure jacket on the market.

5.0

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

The Best Adventure Pants

KLIM Badlands Pro A3 Adventure Motorcycle Pants

Perfectly suited for any adventure ride, from long hours on the highway to hard enduro in the backwoods. Ride in comfort anywhere from the deserts of Morocco to the jungles of Vietnam.

5.0

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

A New Standard in Adventure Riding Gear

When Klim launched the Badlands Pro A3 Jacket and Pants, they set a new benchmark for Adventure gear in several ways, from the first CE AAA-rated garment (same level as modern track leathers) featuring GORE-TEX waterproofing to a kidney belt system to keep the weight of the garment (and pockets contents) off the riders shoulders. 

Keep these in mind as you consider whether the Klim Badlands Pro A3 is for you. 

Key Elements:

• Material Composition: 3-Layer GORE-TEX Pro Shell, Vectran, CORDURA, SuperFabric, leather (more on these materials further in the article). Lining is Klimatek cooling mesh that’s moisture-wicking and breathable.
• Armor: D3O CE Level 2 that’s vented for airflow (Klim Aero Pro) at the elbows, shoulders, knees and hips. You also get a D3O CE Level 2 back pad (Viper Pro) AND tailbone pad. Chest pads are also included, made from thin sheets of Poron XRD impact protection foam, but they aren’t CE rated unfortunately. I replaced them with D3O CE Level 1 chest pads separately available from Klim.
• Ventilation: 18 vents in total, 12 on the jacket and 6 on the pants. You can go from all-mesh airflow to parka insulation and everything in between. 
• Storage: Jacket has 10 external and 4 internal pockets as well as a hydration bladder pocket in the back. Pants have just 2 large cargo pockets. More than I’ve ever seen on an adventure suit.
• Fit: Slack and roomy, just as you want from an adventure suit. However, you have several cinch cords and adjustment points to hold the sleeves and waist in place, and a kidney belt inside to support the weight of the jacket, pocket contents, and hydration bladder. 

What I Love:

• Similar protection as a race suit: This suit is rated to withstand 75 mph slides on asphalt (CE AAA) and has the top impact protection rating in the industry (CE Level 2) on almost all pieces of armor included. 
• Best waterproofing available on any garment: 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro. This isn’t just rare on motorcycle gear, it’s rare on any kind of outdoor gear. 
• Trail and adventure ready: With all-season versatility, tons of storage and customizable ventilation this jacket will suit you well whether you’re riding frigid trails in Vancouver, crossing the deserts of Morocco or slipping through the jungles of Thailand. 
• Exceptional comfort: The kidney belt and adjusters available all around 
• Guaranteed crash damage replacement: if you’re a hard rider, this will more than pay for itself, and makes the price tag easier to stomach.

What I Don’t Like:

• Weight: The kidney belt helps here, but the Badlands is still a heavy piece of kit compared to lighter armor-only suits you might wear in hot weather for purely off-road riding. 
• Hydration bladder not included: Maybe I’m nitpicking, but this seems like a strange omission on such a premium piece of gear. However, this does allow you to buy the exact model you like and insert it, e.g., the Klim Hydrapak available in 2L and 3L volume.
• Kidney belt retention system: As it’s elastic, the kidney belt automatically retracts upon releasing the Velcro closure into a storage compartment in the liner of the jacket. The triple retention tabs sewn onto both ends of the belt sometimes don’t catch onto the holding straps to prevent the belt from retracting completely into its sleeve, requiring to ‘fish’ it out again.
• Price tag: The Badlands Pro A3 is a premium suit with a premium price to match – that said, it might save you in hospital bills (or worse) down the line. Keep in mind that the price includes a crash replacement warranty, which is a major bonus.

Let’s get into my impressions and review of this suit over my six-week ride in Europe, starting with what I was looking for and then going through the finer points of this jacket and pants set. 

What I Was Looking For in Technical Riding Gear

After my recent crash, I was looking first and foremost for the best protection available in an adventure suit. Although I’m predominantly an off-road rider, riding stretches of pavement is unavoidable on my multi-week/month-long ADV journeys. So I wanted a suit that could flex between not only different climates but different riding conditions as well. 

I only considered gear with CE Level 2 protectors, since I’m not a huge fan of breaking bones. For the outer shell, I was looking for technical fabric that could withstand the rigors of trail riding – from thorns to sharp rocks – without ripping. Abrasion resistance was a top priority aimed at protecting my skin in the event of a spill on pavement. CE AAA abrasion resistance is the gold standard here. 

The final piece I was looking for in regards to protection is quality workmanship. This can be easy to overlook at the sight of a bargain price tag, but, in my experience, it is equally important to those safety ratings above. 

Sturdy seams, ideally triple-stitched, with high-tensile strength thread are a must. Even with strong material a jacket can be peeled open like a banana and rendered useless if the seams are too weak to hold up in a real-life crash. 

Klim hit all these marks with flying colors on the Badlands Pro A3 suit. Not only did it receive a CE AAA rating certified to Europe’s rigorous EN17092-2 standard, it’s the first-ever garment to do that while incorporating GORE-TEX waterproofing. 

Before I get into the next aspect I was looking for – versatility – a quick aside on safety ratings. You can skip this by clicking here. 

A Quick Overview of CE AAA and the CE EN17092 Safety Ratings

Let me walk you through the word salad of European safety ratings, in case you aren’t familiar. The EN17092 is the harmonized CE standard for motorcycle clothing. “CE” stands for “Conformité Européenne” (European Conformity in French), which governs the safety ratings for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for various industries and uses, from electronics to motorcycle gear. The CE certification system is known for being the most comprehensive and rigorous in testing and rating a wide range of products and materials.

Under EN17092, products are classified into five rating categories: AAA, AA, A, B, and C. The A-class rates gear based on a combination of abrasion and impact protection, while B and C-class ratings focus solely on abrasion resistance and impact protectors, respectively. 

The C-class for impact protection armor is divided into two levels: Level 1, where the maximum force transmitted upon impact cannot exceed 18 kN, and Level 2, limiting the force to no more than 9 kN transferred through the material. Learn more about what these ratings mean in our article on motorcycle body armor.  

The regulation further categorizes the body into three zones of risk for impact and abrasion, from the highest risk (Zone 1) to lower-risk areas (Zone 3). For Zone 1, think elbows, shoulders, hips, and knees. For For Zone 3, think chest and inner thighs. 

The CE AAA certification is the highest rating achievable for impact and abrasion protection, typically found in leather racing suits and advanced base layers like the BOWTEX Elite made from innovative materials. However, none of these AAA-certified garments include the highly sought-after GORE-TEX label. 

Versatility is King in Adventure Gear

Beyond protection, I wanted to find an adventure suit that was truly versatile. 

I’m thankful that the rise in popularity of adventure (ADV) and dual-sport (DS) motorcycling has brought new and old manufacturers into the market to innovate on gear. However, still relatively few brands build excellent adventure gear. The key word here is ‘excellent’.

All of their failures hinge on one missing element: versatility. 

Adventuring is inherently unpredictable. An adventure rider might go out for a day ride in the desert, only to find a flat tire keeps them there until late at night – when temperatures drop to frigid levels. 

Planning for adventure means planning for anything. And this is where purpose-built motorcycle gear always fails to do the job. Adventure gear must flex from sticky hot asphalt cruising to rainy conditions in the jungle, to wiping out on sands and rocks, to freezing rain in the mountains. It must be comfortable for long highway rides at high speeds and slow, grueling peg-standing workouts climbing rough single track trails. 

This may be part of the reason ADV gear is becoming so popular: one piece of gear can suffice for many conditions and types of riding. That’s saved money, space, and time. 

It’s for these reasons that creating a standout piece of adventure gear is the pinnacle of motorcycle gear design, in my opinion. Manufacturers that build a great piece of adventure gear must demonstrate their knowledge of rider needs, comforts, and protection in all situations. 

Klim: A Legacy of Innovation

Klim’s reputation for quality didn’t appear overnight. From their humble beginnings in Idaho to becoming a household name in the adventure riding community, Klim’s “No Compromise” approach to quality appealed to me from the time I bought their first pair of off-road pants in 2004. They’ve continued to push the envelope in technical garments for off-road and adventure motorcycle riders ever since. 

The Badlands Pro line, introduced in 2011, quickly became a favorite among serious riders. But Klim didn’t just sit back in the saddle and count their cash. 

The Badlands Pro A3 is a key example of Klim’s relentless innovation – even as the market leader, they continue to set higher standards. The collaboration with material suppliers to achieve the BLP A3’s CE AAA rating with GORE-TEX waterproofing is a testament to Klim’s commitment to keep building better gear.

So what is it about riding in the A3 suit that impressed me so much? 

Klim Badlands Pro A3: The New Standard in Adventure?

Klim doesn’t just stuff the Badlands Pro A3 full of buzzwords – they studied the needs of adventure riders to create a tougher, lighter and more durable garment for all types of rides and intensity levels. 

Klim’s latest flagship ADV combo has set a new benchmark for high-end adventure riding gear. The Badlands Pro A3 isn’t just about looking tough; it’s about being tough, with advanced design and cutting-edge fabric technology. 

Thanks to a mix of innovative materials and a smarter design, this suit is stronger, lighter, and more resistant to cuts and abrasions than any other ADV gear out there. It’s not just hype—this has been confirmed by Klim, my own testing, and the impressive CE AAA rating.

Breaking the CE AAA Barrier

So why hadn’t any GORE-TEX ADV gear hit the AAA mark before? Was the competition just not trying hard enough? Or was it that no fabric had yet managed to combine maximum protection with enough breathability to meet GORE-TEX’s stringent standards? 

The challenge wasn’t just about making a super protective suit; it was about creating one that also allowed enough breathability for the GORE-TEX membrane to do its job. Without proper breathability, the membrane can’t effectively let water vapor escape, which is a dealbreaker for GORE-TEX certification.

You see, a brand can’t just throw a GORE-TEX label on to anything – that garment must be tested by the GORE-TEX team to certify that it breathes enough air to be considered worthy of the tag. 

Klim took on this challenge head-on, working closely with their suppliers to develop state-of-the-art materials. They had previously partnered with the makers of CORDURA, SuperFabric, D3O, and 3M Scotchlite for the production of the CORDURA-chassis CE AA-certified Klim Badlands Pro, which remains available in Klim’s catalog as the more budget-friendly alternative to the top-of-the-line VECTRAN-chassis CE AAA-certified Badlands Pro A3. Both versions are identical in terms of layout and features, they only differ in the main outer shell fabric that makes up the chassis, namely CORDURA versus VECTRAN.

However, a heavy-duty CORDURA fabric that’s sufficiently thick to achieve AAA abrasion resistance certification wouldn’t breathe enough for the GORE-TEX membrane to function adequately, i.e., to let sweat evaporate. To remediate the lack of breathability, Klim resorted to using VECTRAN instead of CORDURA as the main outer shell material for the Badlands Pro A3. 

VECTRAN is an exceptionally strong fabric woven from a high-tensile-strength multifilament polyester yarn spun from a liquid-crystal polymer. The result? A suit that not only meets, but exceeds the toughest tests out there while still providing waterproofing and breathability worthy of the GORE-TEX name and the coveted CE AAA rating.

The Price of Excellence

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—the price. 

Before I reveal it, you should know the price includes a replacement guarantee for gear damaged in a crash. Klim stands by that guarantee, and as far as I know no other brand offers this. 

The Badlands Pro A3 doesn’t come cheap, with an MSRP of $1,500 for the jacket and $970 for the pants. It’s a big investment, sure, but when you find yourself sliding across asphalt, the last thing you’ll be thinking about is the money you saved by skimping on gear. And when you’re done sliding, you’ll be glad you invested in the most protective ADV suit on the market. 

But the inclusion of the crash replacement warranty makes the hefty price tag a lot more acceptable. Although no one ever wants to send in a crash replacement warranty claim, knowing it’s part of the deal is reassuring for several reasons. Firstly, it indicates that Klim is confident that the VECTRAN chassis and SuperFabric armor will hold up in most crash scenarios without incurring damage. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be financially sustainable for Klim. Secondly, if the suit is to a large extent indestructible, it means it offers you maximum protection. Thirdly, if the suit does suffer damage, the replacement warranty will save you a lot of money.

So what did I put this suit through in order to make these claims? 

Putting the Badlands Pro A3 to the Test

To really put this suit through its paces, I packed it up and headed to Spain for a 6-week adventure across Europe’s most challenging terrains. Riding a Husqvarna Norden 901, I traversed the Sierra Nevada mountains, crossed the Algarve, and pushed north through the Pyrenees and the Alps. It was the perfect testing ground for the Badlands Pro A3, offering a mix of climates and conditions that truly challenged the gear.

And yes, my orthopedic surgeon gave me the green light, with a gentle reminder to go easy—a request my wife echoed, considering my last test ride in Thailand ended less than gracefully.

Collecting the bike from Lyndon Poskitt, a Dakar Rally legend and Klim and Husqvarna ambassador, I set off from Malaga through the Sierra Nevadas in Andalusia. I had already explored the Trans Euro Trail (TET) network in France and Spain last year, so I opted to take the Adventure Country Tracks (ACT) in Portugal and the Pyrenees this year. This network is similar to the Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) in the USA – both of which should be high on your bucket list. 

During my downtime on the trails, I researched more deeply into the specs of the suit I was wearing, from that VECTRAN outer shell to the SuperFabric abrasion zones and GORE-TEX layering. Here’s what I found. 

Specs VS Reality: Klim Badlands Pro A3

The Klim Badlands Pro A3 talks a big game – and I found it delivers even more. Let’s start with the shell. 

The shell and construction of the jacket and pants are about as detailed as it gets with motorcycle gear. 

The 3-Layer GORE-TEX Pro shell construction consists of the expanded PTFE membrane-backed VECTRAN, reinforced with ceramic SuperFabric abrasion zones on shoulders, elbows, forearms, and knees. You also get leather on the inner knees for better tank grip on the trails. 

VECTRAN fabric all around provides CE AAA-certified abrasion resistance (more on this below). All the details are finished perfectly, from 3M Scotchlite reflectors to YKK water-resistant zippers (double headed on the front zipper) and leather trim on the cuffs. 

So how does this word salad perform in the real world?  

Let’s start with the waterproofing: I rode in pouring rain for hours – had there been a leak, I would have felt it with the cold alpine winds blowing across my bike. Thankfully, the 3-Layer GORE-TEX Pro construction and YKK waterproof zippers did their job flawlessly. 

Klim is not selling you a marketing slogan here – the Badlands Pro A3 really does seal out the rain, without sealing in body heat and moisture. This is a remarkable achievement, given the jacket alone has 20 external zippers across vents and pockets, each with a hood at their termination point to keep even a dash of water from getting in. 

The GORE-TEX Pro 3-Layer Shell is a marvel of engineering – laminated together it moves like one layer, but allows the garment to seal out water while allowing moisture to wick away from the rider. There’s nothing as frustrating as the choice between getting wet from rain or wet from your own sticky sweat – most waterproof jackets only provide these two choices. The Badlands Pro A3 provides a third way – cool, dry, and comfortable in even the most wicked of storms. 

How about the materials on this suit – from SuperFabric to Vectran?

SuperFabric is a fascinating technology that applies perfectly for the needs of adventure riders hitting asphalt and trails. SuperFabric is a hi-tech hybrid material, taking advantage of the breathability and flexibility of a base layer loaded with a dense field of tiny round ceramic dots printed onto the base layer. 

These ceramic dots are astronomically harder than any fabric material – even leather. Imagine taking an industrial sander to a sample of leather and a piece of rock – which one will take more damage? 

SuperFabric gives you the wearability of a fabric with the abrasion resistance of a rock. It’s 10 to 15 times more abrasion resistant than aramid (Kevlar) and 5 times that of racing-grade leather.

The leather used on the inside of the knees on the Badlands Pro A3 is another testament to Klim’s knowledge of rider needs. Synthetic fabrics just don’t have the sticky gripping power (or heat resistance) of natural leather, so these patches allow the rider superior tank grip and bike control (without engine/exhaust pipe burns) when up on the pegs in tough off-road adventuring. 

Now to VECTRAN. The more affordable, original CE AA-certified Badlands Pro, Klim’s best-selling ADV suit which remains part of the catalog, utilizes CORDURA, a high-tenacity nylon fabric commonly used in various thicknesses in motorcycle textile gear construction. 

The VECTRAN fabric, used for the top-of-the-line CE AAA-certified Badlands Pro A3, improves on CORDURA significantly in that it is thinner, lighter, more flexible, and more abrasion/slash/tear resistant – all very important traits in adventure gear construction. 

What is VECTRAN? Compared to popular high-performance materials CORDURA and KEVLAR, it’s a technologically superior fabric made of polyester spun from a liquid-crystal polymer. So, how, and to what extent, does VECTRAN’s performance exceed that of CORDURA and KEVLAR? To do this, let’s look at the defining characteristics of each material, and see how they compare.

CORDURA is a high-performance, synthetic fiber-based fabric renowned for its durability and resistance to abrasions, slashes, tears, and scuffs. Made from nylon, it’s widely used in the production of outdoors and performance apparel and gear, like luggage, backpacks, motorcycle apparel, military clothing, etc.

KEVLAR started being applied for motorcycling apparel in the early 1990s. KEVLAR is the trademarked name for an aramid fiber made by DuPont. Aramid is the general name for an aromatic polyamide fiber with an extremely high tensile strength and a high strength-to-weight ratio – making it a popular choice for stopping punctures. Think bulletproof vests.

VECTRAN has the same tensile strength as aramid (Kevlar) but it is 3x more abrasion resistant. It combines cut/puncture resistance with abrasion resistance. It’s also more resistant to moisture and acidic and alkaline compounds than Cordura – meaning more durable despite the elements.

Klim backs up their material design with a crash damage replacement guarantee. Damage the Badlands Pro A3 in a crash and they will replace it free of charge. They clearly believe in its durability, or that guarantee would cost them too much to back it. 

Armor in the Klim Badlands Pro A3

When it comes to adventure riding, protection is paramount. The Klim Badlands Pro A3 takes this seriously with its top-notch armor system, designed to keep you safe without sacrificing comfort or mobility. Let’s dive into what makes this suit’s armor so impressive.

The Badlands Pro A3 is equipped with KLIM AERO PRO D3O CE Level 2 armor, offering high-level protection across various points of the body. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill foam padding; it’s a polymer suspended in liquid lubricant that turns hammer strikes into nudges. 

Jacket Armor Highlights:

• Shoulder Armor: KLIM AERO PRO D3O CE Level 2 vented 
• Elbow Armor: KLIM AERO PRO D3O CE Level 2 vented 
• Back Protection: D3O Viper Pro CE Level 2 back pad, vented
• Chest Pads: Comes standard with perforated XRD Impact Protection Foam, but can be upgraded to D3O CE Level 1 split chest pads for even better protection.
• Additional Features: Includes a kidney belt with easy access ports for adjustments and stowing.

Pants Armor Highlights:

• Hip Armor: KLIM AERO PRO D3O CE Level 2 vented 
• Knee Armor: KLIM AERO PRO D3O CE Level 2 vented and adjustable
• Tailbone / Coccyx Protection: KLIM AERO PRO D3O CE Level 2 armor

Why D3O Armor Beats Foam Every Time

D3O is not your typical foam padding; it’s a non-Newtonian material, meaning it’s soft and flexible during regular use but hardens upon impact to absorb and dissipate energy. This technology drastically reduces the force transmitted to your body, making it one of the best materials for impact protection.

The D3O Aero Pro armor has been specially developed for the Badlands Pro A3 to meet the breathability requirements set out by GORE-TEX. The open structure with large holes offers five times more ventilation than the widely-used standard options, without compromising protection. 

These new designs ensure that even with top-tier protection, you stay comfortable and cool. The armor is limb- and side-specific, optimizing coverage and stability during a fall. With internal mesh pockets and Velcro strips at the knees and elbows, you can easily adjust the positioning of the armor to fit your body perfectly.

Why the Armor Matters

In my own rigorous testing, I found the D3O armor not only met but exceeded my expectations. The Level 2 certification is the highest CE rating for impact protectors, and the D3O pads specifically developed for the Klim Badlands Pro A3 provide 44% more coverage than the standard options. Despite their size and thickness, the pads are surprisingly lightweight, thanks to extensive ventilation holes.

And yes, I’ve tested this armor in an unceremonious get-off. 

Let’s just say that my unscheduled test confirmed that the D3O armor does its job impeccably. The gear took the brunt of the impact, leaving the prosthetic received after my previous crash in Thailand intact. My fall was a replica of the one that landed me in a Thai hospital, but the impact absorbtion property of the protective D3O pads kept me out of the operation theater this time.  

As I had fallen on my recently reconstructed upper and lower limbs, I feared for a moment that I might have damaged my newly-fitted spare parts. But much to my surprise, I could move my limbs without feeling any pain. So, I got up and dusted myself off, lifted the bike up, and was on my way a few minutes later. 

That evening, I inspected the impact zones on the jacket and pant, and much to my surprise I couldn’t see any scratches, let alone damage. The only sign of contact was some dirt that got stuck between the tiny ceramic dots of the SuperFabric on the impact zones. After cleaning off the dirt with a wet brush, it was impossible to tell that my suit had been scraping over asphalt and dirt. Later, I even used a magnifying glass to inspect the SuperFabric’s ceramic dots, but there was no sign of visible scratches. 

Trust me, when you’re sliding along the pavement, the cost of the gear won’t enter your mind as it pales in comparison to the cost of surgery. Good gear pays for itself, and the Klim Badlands Pro A3 is no exception. 

Ventilation in the Klim Badlands Pro A3

When you’re out on the road, facing changing weather and temperatures, the ability to regulate your body heat is crucial. The Klim Badlands Pro A3’s ventilation system was one of the aspects that stood out during my cross-Europe test travels. It is the best-ventilated four-season suit I’ve ever worn.

The Badlands Pro A3 is equipped with an extensive array of vents designed to keep you cool when things heat up and seal out the cold when the temperature drops. Here’s what you get:

Jacket Ventilation Features:

• Wrist Vents: Two massive adjustable wrist vents with dual zippers allow you to control the airflow up into your sleeves precisely where you need it around your lower arms.
• Core Vents: Four vents on the core, two of which can double as pockets, provide significant airflow around your torso. 
• Bicep and Tricep Vents: Two intake vents on the biceps and two exhaust vents on the triceps ensure that air circulates effectively around your upper arms and arm pits.
• Back Exhaust Vents: Two vents on the back help to release hot air.
• Collar Tabs: A clever feature that allows you to keep the collar open, increasing airflow to the upper chest without the jacket flapping in the wind.

Pants Ventilation Features:

• Thigh Vents: Two intake vents on the thighs bring in cool air, while two exhaust vents release warm air.
• Lower Leg Vents: Additional side vents on the lower legs help to regulate temperature and provide further cooling. 

Is All This Ventilation Overkill?

You might think that all these vents are overkill, but they are essential for adapting to varying conditions. On a hot day, you might not notice just how much air is flowing through the suit, but as the temperature drops, the strategic placement of these vents becomes apparent. 

I noticed this clearly when riding up and down the mountain passes where temperatures were substantially cooler than in the valleys. The spacious fit of the Badlands Pro A3 ensures that air circulates freely around your torso and limbs, preventing any hot spots and keeping you comfortable.

Are these vents truly better than other adventure suits? 

I’ve ridden in all kinds of weather across five continents over the past fifty years, and I can confidently say that the Badlands Pro A3 offers the best ventilation I’ve ever experienced in an all-weather, four-season riding suit. The collar tabs, for instance, are a simple yet effective way to enhance ventilation around the neck and chest, a feature that many other suits lack.

Klim’s designers deserve high praise for nailing the ventilation system on the Badlands Pro A3. It’s not just about keeping comfortable; it’s about regulating your body temperature and hence maintaining alertness and poise on the bike, no matter the weather conditions. This suit lets you ride in comfort and safety, knowing that you’re equipped to handle whatever the road or trail throws your way.

Storage Galore: The Klim Badlands Pro A3

One of the standout features of the Klim Badlands Pro A3 is its impressive storage capacity. If you’re the type of rider who likes to have everything at your fingertips, this suit has you covered.

Jacket Storage Features:

• Hand Cargo Pockets: Two water-resistant, gusseted hand pockets with internal organizer compartments make it easy to keep smaller items sorted and accessible.
• Napoleon Pocket: A waterproof, externally accessible pocket ideal for storing important documents or electronics.
• Chest Pockets: Two vertical gusseted chest pockets, two vertical core pockets (which can also function as vents), a chest utility pocket, and an external MOLLE-compatible panel provide a multitude of options for stowing gear. I attached my Garmin inReach Mini2 Satellite Communicator/Personal Locator Beacon to the MOLLE utility chest panel.
• Internal Pockets: Inside the jacket, you’ll find two lower zippered stash pockets and a vertical chest stash pocket, perfect for valuablesa and documents.
• Specialized Pockets: The forearm has an emergency ID stat card pocket, and there’s a concealed document pocket behind the back pad, useful to hide passport and bike registration. A large dual-access gusseted back pocket can hold bulkier items like a midlayer or gloves.
• Hydration Compatibility: An internal compartment for a hydration bladder, with routing options for the hose, keeps you hydrated on long rides.

Pants Storage Features:

• Cargo Pockets: Two large thigh cargo pockets with billowed design for extra capacity.
• MOLLE Panel: An external MOLLE-compatible thigh utility panel offers additional attachment options.

With a total of 16 pockets, the Klim Badlands Pro A3 has the storage capacity of a large daypack, allowing you to carry everything you want easy access to. Stuffed with a bunch of energy bars and snacks, phone, maps, ear plugs, sun glasses, lip chapstick, SPF cream, EDC multitool, sun hat, woollen beanie, pair of (rain) gloves, toilet tissue, wet wipes, and a Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator, my pockets still had plenty of storage capacity left. However, with so many pockets, it’s easy to lose track of where you’ve put things. It’s worth developing a system to keep everything organized.

Fit & Comfort: Built for All-Day Riding

Klim is renowned for its generous fit, designed to maximize comfort and versatility, especially crucial in ADV gear where mobility and adaptability are key.

Jacket Fit & Comfort Features:

• Mobility Enhancements: Action-back gusseted shoulders and articulated seamless underarm gussets ensure freedom of movement.
• Comfort Liners: The jacket features a KLIMATEK cooling mesh full-sleeve liner and a moisture-wicking, breathable, antimicrobial mesh torso liner. The collar is lined with soft material for added comfort, and an adjustable cinch collar helps seal out the elements.
• Adjustability: Quick-adjust bicep and forearm straps, an adjustable bottom hem, and Velcro + zipper cuffs allow for a customized fit. The jacket-pant zip connection adds stability and protection as it prevents the jacket from riding up your back and exposing your skin when sliding across the pavement during a fall. This zippered connection helps to keep cold air out in combination with the integrated, removable kidney belt, which also provides lower back support.
• Layering Capability: The spacious fit allows for easy layering, ensuring you stay warm in colder conditions without feeling constricted. 

Pants Fit & Comfort Features:

• Mobility & Comfort: An articulated seamless crotch gusset and KLIMATEK cooling mesh in the armor pad pockets and behind the knees enhance comfort and mobility. The moisture-wicking, breathable, antimicrobial mesh liner helps regulate temperature.
• Adjustability: Velcro adjustable waist straps, quick-adjust knee straps, and a zipper + snap adjustable bottom hem allow for a precise fit. The pants are designed to fit over off-road boots, making them versatile for different riding styles.
• Weather Protection: A waterproof front zipper gusset adds an extra layer of protection against the elements.

The roomy fit of the Klim Badlands Pro A3 isn’t just for comfort—it’s a practical design choice that enhances ventilation and allows for effective layering. The extra space between the suit and your body helps air circulate, keeping you cooler in warm conditions and allowing space for thermal layers in the cold. For inclement weather, the Klim Merino Wool Mid-Layer and Maverick Down Jacket are the perfect accompaniment for the Badlands Pro A3.

Color & Sizing Options

When it comes to adventure riding gear, fit is part of functionality. The Klim Badlands Pro A3 doesn’t disappoint, offering a broad range of sizes and colors to suit various preferences and body types.

Sizing Options:

• Jackets: Available in sizes SM, MD, LG, XL, 2X, and 3X, the jackets are designed to accommodate a wide range of body types.
• Pants: The pants offer even more flexibility with regular sizes (30 to 42), short options (30 to 40), and tall sizes (32 to 38).

Color Options:

• Stealth Black: For those who prefer a sleek, understated look.
• Monument Gray – Petrol: A versatile, neutral option with a bit of flair.
• Petrol – Potter’s Clay: A distinctive color that stands out while still looking rugged and refined.

To help you find the perfect fit, Klim’s website provides a comprehensive sizing chart that’s proven accurate for me. For reference, I’m 6’3″ (190 cm) tall and, depending on the (festive) season, my weight fluctuates between 200 and 210 pounds (90 and 95 kg). The XL-Regular jacket and 36-Tall pants fit me perfectly. The sizing chart was spot-on for me, ensuring that the gear not only fits well but also allows for the full range of motion and comfort needed for long rides. 

Final Thoughts on the Klim Badlands Pro A3

Wearing this suit on the trails and the road makes me feel invincible – maybe that’s why I had an off! Everything from the D3O armor to the SuperFabric to the zippers and general construction of this suit inspires confidence all around. 

The best part about this suit is it melts away when I’m “in the zone” on the bike. The irony about a well-designed piece of gear is that the rider forgets it’s even there. No points to snag or constrain me as I’m cruising in the saddle or up on the pegs climbing a hill. Klim nailed it, not only in comfort and protection, but in flexibility, materials, and construction of these garments. 

And if it doesn’t fit you right off the rack, the adjustability in velcro straps, zippers, cinch cords, and kidney belt mean you’ll likely find a perfect fit for you and your riding style as long as the overall fit is generally correct. 

If you love what you’ve seen with the Klim Badlands Pro A3 but hesitate at the cost, consider how much your safety and comfort are worth to you, even for occasional rides. If you’re going to spend several thousand dollars every so often to fly and ride in some beautiful rugged terrain, an investment of a small fraction of that in a great suit that will last for many years, even decades, is a fair price to pay. The Klim Badlands Pro A3 is built to last and offers a level of protection and comfort that entirely justifies its price tag. 

And should you have a crash, the savings on hospital bills will surely more than make up for the cost of this suit. 

This is the most versatile, durable, weather-proof, feature-rich, protective, ventilated dual-sport/adventure suit on the market today. It pushes the boundaries in every way. Pick it up at the links below. 

The Best Adventure Jacket	The Best Adventure Pants
KLIM Badlands Pro A3 Adventure Motorcycle Jacket	KLIM Badlands Pro A3 Adventure Motorcycle Pants
The Klim Badlands Pro A3 has everything you need from an adventure suit: rugged protection, versatility to fit any conditions, comfort for long days, and endless customization. This is the best adventure jacket on the market.	Perfectly suited for any adventure ride, from long hours on the highway to hard enduro in the backwoods. Ride in comfort anywhere from the deserts of Morocco to the jungles of Vietnam.
5.0	5.0
Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Revzilla
Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon

The Best Adventure Jacket

KLIM Badlands Pro A3 Adventure Motorcycle Jacket

The Klim Badlands Pro A3 has everything you need from an adventure suit: rugged protection, versatility to fit any conditions, comfort for long days, and endless customization. This is the best adventure jacket on the market.

5.0

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

The Best Adventure Pants

KLIM Badlands Pro A3 Adventure Motorcycle Pants

Perfectly suited for any adventure ride, from long hours on the highway to hard enduro in the backwoods. Ride in comfort anywhere from the deserts of Morocco to the jungles of Vietnam.

5.0

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

Still not sure the Klim Badlands Pro A3 is for you? Check out the runner-ups for best adventure jackets and pants.

Here’s a list of all the other gear I wore on my 6-week journey across Europe on the Adventure Country Tracks (ACT), pictured throughout this article.

• Helmet: Nexx X.WRL Atika Helmet (until the next X.WRL model comes out, check out the Nexx X.WED3 ADV helmet)
• Boots: Gaerne SG-12 Boots
• Backpack: Klim Arsenal 30 Backpack
• Gloves
  • Klim Adventure GTX Short Gloves (Staff Pick at Revzilla)
  • Klim Badlands Aero Pro Gloves
• Mid Layers
  • Klim Teton Merino Wool 1/4 Zip Shirt
  • Klim Mojave Jersey
  • Klim Maverick Down Jacket
• Base Layers
  • Klim Tactical Short
  • Klim Aggressor Cool -1.0 Briefs
  • Klim Aggressor Cool -1.0 Long Sleeve Shirt
  • Klim Teton Merino Wool LS Shirt
  • Klim Aggressor Cool -1.0 Knee Brace Socks
  • Klim Vented Sock

For a review of several base layers worn on this trip, check out my Klim Base Layers overview.

The post Klim Badlands Pro A3 Review: The Ultimate Adventure Gear first appeared on It's Better On The Road.

Too hot, too cold, soaked straight through, sleeves flapping like I’m trying to take off.

Figuring out the best motorcycle jackets took a lot of trial, error, and a few miserable rides.

I’ve been through desert heat, mountain rain, and city gridlock in everything from mesh to leather to laminated Gore-Tex. Some jackets earned their spot. Others ended up stuffed in a duffel and forgotten.

This guide is just what’s worked, what hasn’t, and how to find a jacket that won’t let you down when the weather turns or the miles stack up.

What Jacket Actually Fits Your Ride?

Now, before we dive into specific jackets, let’s tackle some common assumptions and half-truths that still float around when riders start shopping for gear:

1. “Any mesh jacket is perfect for hot city rides as long as it has some armor.” Not so fast. While mesh is king for airflow, the quality of that mesh, its actual abrasion resistance, and the overall CE garment rating (not just the impact protectors) make a massive difference between a cool commute and a very unhappy skin-meets-pavement situation. “No sketchy trade-offs” only comes with quality construction.

2. “For those unpredictable warm-to-cool days, any jacket with a removable liner means instant versatility, right?” If only it were that simple. True adaptability means a shell with effective ventilation that actually flows air when the liners are out, liners that are genuinely useful for warmth or waterproofing (not just flimsy afterthoughts), and a design that doesn’t feel like wearing a plastic bag or a bulky suit of armor when layered up. Many “versatile” jackets miss the mark on at least one of these.
3. “My thickest winter coat is obviously the best for cold-weather riding – it’s super insulated!” That insulation won’t do you much good if 60-mph wind cuts right through it, or it soaks through at the first sign of rain, leaving you colder than before. For real cold-weather riding, a motorcycle-specific outer shell engineered for wind and waterproofing, combined with smart thermal layering underneath, is what truly keeps you warm, dry, and safe – not just any bulky coat.
4. “Airbag jackets? Aren’t those just for MotoGP racers or way too bulky and obvious for everyday riders?” Think again! While airbag tech started on the track, modern airbag vests are surprisingly sleek, can often be worn under your favorite riding jacket, and offer a level of impact protection for your torso that traditional armor alone just can’t match. They’re rapidly becoming a smart, (almost) invisible upgrade for everyday safety, not just for racers.

Top Picks: Best Motorcycle Jacket by Weather

These are the best motorcycle jackets I’ve either ridden in myself or seen trusted by riders who put down serious miles.

Best Overall	Best for 4 Seasons	Best for Cold Weather
Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket	Alpinestars Ardent 3In1 Adventure Touring Jacket	First Manufacturing Raider Jacket
CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style. It's the best hot weather choice. Full review here. Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.	A versatile four-season adventure jacket featuring a modular design with removable waterproof and thermal liners, CE Level 2 armor, and extensive ventilation for adaptability across varying climates.	Classic black leather jacket made from durable Diamond cowhide, with a zip-out thermal liner, armor pockets, and tons of storage, including concealed carry.
Material 15x stronger than steel Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket Excellent airflow CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders	Modular 3-in-1 design for year-round use CE Level 2 armor with AA CE certification Comprehensive ventilation system	Premium cowhide leather construction Extensive storage with 16 pockets Compatible with optional CE Level 2 armor
Back protector sold separately	Higher price point Bulkier fit compared to minimalist jackets Limited color options	Heavier weight compared to textile jackets Limited color options (available only in black) May require break-in period for optimal comfort
Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Revzilla
Check Price on Pando Moto	Check Price on Amazon	Check Price on Amazon

Best Overall

Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket

CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style. It's the best hot weather choice. Full review here.

Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD15 for 15% off.

• Material 15x stronger than steel
• Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
• Excellent airflow
• CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders

• Back protector sold separately

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Pando Moto

Best for 4 Seasons

Alpinestars Ardent 3In1 Adventure Touring Jacket

A versatile four-season adventure jacket featuring a modular design with removable waterproof and thermal liners, CE Level 2 armor, and extensive ventilation for adaptability across varying climates.

• Modular 3-in-1 design for year-round use
• CE Level 2 armor with AA CE certification
• Comprehensive ventilation system

• Higher price point
• Bulkier fit compared to minimalist jackets
• Limited color options

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

Best for Cold Weather

First Manufacturing Raider Jacket

Classic black leather jacket made from durable Diamond cowhide, with a zip-out thermal liner, armor pockets, and tons of storage, including concealed carry.

• Premium cowhide leather construction
• Extensive storage with 16 pockets
• Compatible with optional CE Level 2 armor

• Heavier weight compared to textile jackets
• Limited color options (available only in black)
• May require break-in period for optimal comfort

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

Top Picks: Best Motorcycle Jackets by Riding Style

Best for ADV/Touring	Best for Casual Riding	Best for Sport
Klim Badlands Pro A3 Jacket	First Manufacturing Raider Jacket	Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated Jacket
The Klim Badlands Pro A3 is a premium adventure jacket with a Gore-Tex Pro shell, CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance, and D3O Level 2 armor for top-tier protection.	Classic black leather jacket made from durable Diamond cowhide, with a zip-out thermal liner, armor pockets, and tons of storage, including concealed carry.	The Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated Jacket is a race-bred leather jacket offering top-tier protection and airflow for aggressive street and track riders.
CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance D3O Level 2 armor in shoulders, elbows, and back Extensive ventilation system with 12 vents	Premium cowhide leather construction Extensive storage with 16 pockets Compatible with optional CE Level 2 armor	CE AA-rated D-Skin leather with aluminum sliders Microelastic 2.0 and S1 stretch panels for mobility Localized perforation and 3D-Bubble liner for ventilation
Premium price point Heavier than some alternatives Hydration bladder not included	Heavier weight compared to textile jackets Limited color options (available only in black) May require break-in period for optimal comfort	Back and chest protectors sold separately Aggressive fit may be tight for casual riders Premium price point
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Best for ADV/Touring

Klim Badlands Pro A3 Jacket

The Klim Badlands Pro A3 is a premium adventure jacket with a Gore-Tex Pro shell, CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance, and D3O Level 2 armor for top-tier protection.

• CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance
• D3O Level 2 armor in shoulders, elbows, and back
• Extensive ventilation system with 12 vents

• Premium price point
• Heavier than some alternatives
• Hydration bladder not included

Check Price on Revzilla

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Best for Casual Riding

First Manufacturing Raider Jacket

Classic black leather jacket made from durable Diamond cowhide, with a zip-out thermal liner, armor pockets, and tons of storage, including concealed carry.

• Premium cowhide leather construction
• Extensive storage with 16 pockets
• Compatible with optional CE Level 2 armor

• Heavier weight compared to textile jackets
• Limited color options (available only in black)
• May require break-in period for optimal comfort

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon

Best for Sport

Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated Jacket

The Dainese Super Speed 4 Perforated Jacket is a race-bred leather jacket offering top-tier protection and airflow for aggressive street and track riders.

• CE AA-rated D-Skin leather with aluminum sliders
• Microelastic 2.0 and S1 stretch panels for mobility
• Localized perforation and 3D-Bubble liner for ventilation

• Back and chest protectors sold separately
• Aggressive fit may be tight for casual riders
• Premium price point

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Amazon