fall

Women's Waterproof Jackets for Fall/Winter ish

Olympia's New Durham Jacket is waterproof and warm (to a point)

Olympia's New Durham Jacket is waterproof and warm (to a point)

Living on the East Coast, winter has a completely different meaning. For those of us over here in 40F temps with windchill, we need more than just a waterproof jacket. But I think for the majority of riders who tend to stop riding before ice starts to take over the pavement, a jacket like this one fits just right.

Olympia has always been a brand to offer slightly higher than entry level priced gear but this season they've introduced a jacket ($199) and matching pant ($169) that offers new riders something to get started with. The Durham has a waterproof, integrated (non removable) shell and removable thermal liner. With reasonable "winter" temperatures (think winter in the Bay Area, Fall in Philadelphia) I think this jacket is perfect.

If you need a hardcore, winter worthy coat then I'd opt for the ladies Ranger instead. Match this with the toasty ProMax pants and you'll have a great outfit for this season. (A slightly less toasty pant would be the Expeditions since there isn't a thermal liner)

Revit's Monroe Jacket (in Olive Green, pretty!)

Revit's Monroe Jacket (in Olive Green, pretty!)

On the slightly higher priced scale ($299), the Monroe also offers an integrated waterproof (non removable) membrane with a removable thermal liner. You'll find the fitment to be a true European cut with a slightly slimmer body/chest and shoulders. And of course the standard Revit fit which offers a long sleeve and torso. And if you're a hardcore winter riding citizen, then I'd recommend something more robust like the Neptune which offers additional wind protection with the Gore-Tex membranes. 

A quick pic of the Monroe in person, live at the Revzilla Gear Boutique in Philly. 

A quick pic of the Monroe in person, live at the Revzilla Gear Boutique in Philly. 

I'm a perfect 36 in this and as a Rev'it fan I'd certainly buy this IF I needed another jacket to fill my closet (which fortunately, is impossible to squeeze in another at this point :P) I never thought I'd wear a green jacket but this one is so pretty in person I really love how it looks and fits. The matching toasty Factor pants ($199) are a nice match to this cold weather outfit. (for a less toasty pant I would recommend the Enterprise ($169) since they don't have a thermal liner) I wouldn't say that this jacket is for the snow but will certainly get you down to similar temperatures as the Olympia option above. 

So for less than $500 you can get yourself pretty toasty and cozy for the upcoming winter riding season. Of course, other colors are available in both jackets as well. But if you are truly riding in extreme temperatures, none of these will offer you the warmth that Heated Liners can bring when you start hitting lower digit windchill temperatures. 

New Revit Women's Gear for Spring

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If we're lucky, Spring will come early to us in the Northeast. It's definitely been a warm winter, with only one real snowstorm having come through a couple weeks ago. So let's get a jumpstart on Spring with all New Gear from Revit and Dainese! 

Let's start with my favorite brand Revit and a few new Jacket and Pant Combos as well as some great gloves:

Airwave 2

$229.99 Jacket, $209.99 Pants

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The popular 2 piece Airwave suit is back in its second revision. Above is one of the colors, which I really like. You will also find black and 3 other silver combinations for the jacket and finally a silver option for the pants! The last version was only offered in black and all white (why??).  I'm loving all the new color options as well. In addition to the 2 silver combos above, you can also find black, white/black and silver/fuschia. And the best part, Short and Tall Sizing is now available in the pants! The previous version did not have these options. Thank you Revit for making more available to us. Take note, if you're trying to sell women's motorcycle gear to the Masses, then you better step up your game and make everything fit women as well as Revit does.

One major change that I'm not too happy with is that they've removed the full inner zipper from the crotch to the ankle. I think this was a huge mistake but I'm anxious to see how well they fit. They probably have a slimmer fitment since they're not designed as overpants anymore, whereas the previous version fit much looser.

And yes, the price has gone up a little on the jacket and pant, but the pants now include Seesoft Hip Protectors (which are thinner than the Tryonic Hip Protectors offered in their other pants)  along with the Knox protectors at the knees!

Tornado 2

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$339.99 Jacket, $359.99 Pants

Don't worry, you can also get the almighty color black in this outfit as well. Again, Revit has provided us more options by adding short and tall sizes for the pants! Woo hoo. In the pants you're getting better armor than the Airwaves with Seeflex level 2 CE protection at knees and Seesmart CE-level 1 protection at hip. There also appears to be seat grippers on your butt. The overall functionality of the outfit remains the same, with a 2-in-1 thermal and waterproof liner (so one liner that comes out, not two). This makes the outfit much better suited for non humid, wet summer riding. You'll need to wear rain gear over the top so you're not sweltering inside.

I'm hoping they adjusted the fitment along the forearms and made them a bit slimmer in the smaller sizes.

 

Outback 2 Jacket and Enterprise 2 Pants

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Jacket $349.99, Pants $199.99

The Outback and Enterprise has been in Revit's Mens Lineup for a few seasons now, but hasn't been entered into the women's lineup until this season. The Enterprise 2 Pants feature an integrated waterproof membrane, and a functional cargo style pocket on the right thigh. They were smart this time around and added thinner Seeflex Hip Protectors again so as to not increase volume which then adds almost an extra size around the hips. These pants are also offered in black and short and tall sizes!

The Outback 2 jacket has 2 removable liners to give you 3 full seasons, maybe 4 depending how mild your summer and winter seasons are.  I've always felt that Revit does the best job when it comes to pants, they know how we need riding pants to fit. They know exactly how to articulate them so when we put our feet up on the pegs, they don't rise up as much as other pants can. They know how to make them so comfortable when you're riding for 8-10 hours a day you have no idea you're wearing them.

GLOVES

Revit has 5 new women's gloves for Spring. Unfortunately I think they got rid of one glove that was really one of the best gloves in their lineup, the Bomber. It was a fantastic short cuffed summer glove, and offered a lot of protection at that level. That's the only thing that disappoints me slightly about the glove offerings, but there's definitely an alternative in the lineup.

And they're finally offered in XS! Let's start with street and then go to the lighter options.

Summit 2 H2O

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$139.99. The Summit 2's are a follow up to the popular Summit gloves. I thought these were the best street gloves for women, given how versatile they were being waterproof. They were great for fairly year round riding (except extreme heat and cold). The newest version still has the same features that I think made the last versions great; palm sliders, hard knuckle protection and even a pinky protector. They aren't a winter glove (think 50s-60-70s before windchill) and aren't a summer glove (80s-90s+) but work well for those in between temperatures.

 

Chevron 2

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At $119.99, the Chevron 2s are the ideal summer weight, short cuffed glove. I'm personally not a fan of short cuff gloves as I much prefer more wrist protection. However, if you're looking for a shortie, this offers a palm slider (which wasn't offered on the last version) and hard knuckle protection. Two things that are nice to have while riding on the street. Don't worry, it's also offered in black.

 

Monster 2

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$129.99.  The Monster 2's are like a Bomber, but lacking a palm slider and wrist strap. I think Revit is trying to appeal to the hipster / urban / city / fashion crowd by adding quilting and a brown option (black too). Other brands have tried to make stylish gloves that offers some protection but the one thing they lack is the fact that they're not Revit, and Revit knows how to make gloves. I just wish they had a palm slider, given the price point. But if you need that protection then that's what Chevron 2's are for.

 

Fly 2

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$89.99. The Fly 2's are your more affordable summer glove, at a lower price point. Not a lot going on, just a simple leather glove with some hard knuckle protection. No surprises here.

 

Striker 2

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$89.99. The Striker 2's are also new in the women's lineup, for the dual sport / adventure enthusiasts. These lack a hard palm slider for pavement so be careful if you're trying to wear these on the street. Otherwise I like what they have to offer, leather palms and light textile mesh on top with some hard knuckles and a secure wrist strap.

 

Neutron 2

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$79.99. For $10 less than the Striker 2 you'll get softer knuckle armor but otherwise not much different. Leather palms and a light textile mesh on top for summer dual sport / adventure riding.

 

Scorpion Zion Adventure Touring Jacket

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Over the next few weeks I'll be reviewing the Scorpion Zion Touring Jacket. This $299 jacket from Scorpion is a multiseason, multilayered jacket that offers you flexibility in various climates. With 2 removable liners (one waterproof, one thermal) you can go from hot to cold temperatures easily by adjusting your layering and closing or opening your vents.

It also has a rather long adventure style cut, with a slightly longer sleeve length and elongated torso. If you're searching for a jill of all trades outfit to take you from spring to summer to fall, this suit might just do it. Although I'm only testing the jacket I'm sure the pants will perform in the same way.  I'm actually fitting into an XS, although I've dropped a few pounds these past couple of months. I'm down to 125-127lbs from 135-140lbs, and was worried the XS might be too big. But the fit is actually perfect for my broader shoulders and freakishly long arms (for someone 5'3").

 

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Stay tuned for a detailed, full length review exclusively on Women Riders Now.

Summer Jackets for Tall Women Riders

revit airwave womens summer motorcycle jacket Longtime reader Fiona needs help finding an outfit for an incredible adventure! Lucky Girl. Check out her story and gear story:

Height and Weight: 5'11", 155 lbs

Chest, Waist, Hip Measurements: 36, 30, 39 (over clothing), 32" inseam (need about 33-34" when I get on the bike)

Message:

Hi Joann,

I've read your blog since probably the beginning of my riding career way back in 2007. Thanks for being such a great resource for all these years.

I am getting ready to buy some new mesh gear for a sweet 6-week adventure on my KLR, around the Southwest and on to the East Coast. My problem has always been finding women's gear that is long enough for me, as I'm tall with broad shoulders and a 32" inseam. For years I've dealt with my Fieldsheer gear being a couple of inches too short in the sleeves and pant legs, because if I went up in size to get enough length, the whole kit would be falling off my body.

I want my new gear to fit well, and I'm looking for a light-colored jacket and pant set (but will take any color if something actually fits!). I love the look of the Rev'it Airwave jacket and pants that you've reviewed, but will they be long enough for me? Are there other mesh or textile jackets and pants that us tall girls should consider?

I live in a very remote area of the US, where few retailers even ship, so there's no chance of trying anything on before I order. Although it seems there are manufacturers that make "tall" sizes, I don't see any way to order these online -- do I have to contact the manufacturer directly, or can I place a special order with the retailer?

I'm hoping to minimize the amount of back-and-forth and $ wasted on return shipping as I try to get the best fit. I appreciate any recommendations you can offer; thank you!

Fiona

Airwave

I think the Revit Airwave jacket in size 38 (above) is a great option for you, I would mostly be concerned with sleeve length, not so much body length. The nice thing about this jacket is the longer torso and arm length.

revit airwave womens summer motorcycle jacket

As far as pants, Airwaves do run a bit long but aren't offered in long sizes. The standard inseam might be too short for you.

Sand

If you're open to a multiseason pant, I would actually recommend the Revit Sand Pants in 38 Tall (available in silver). These pants are the newest version of the old Ventura which I found to breathe very very well in hot weather.  There are two liners, one waterproof and one thermal; each is removable to really adapt to changing temperatures. The fit on these is tailored, slimmish through the legs but definitely not skinny. There's a vent on each thigh for a little airflow as well.

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The armor in these are substantial, CE and EN Rated Tryonic Seesoft. If you have a curvy hip, then order a size 40 Tall instead. If you have fairly straight hips, you will be fine in 38. If you like a tailored, tapered fit, then I would go with these or the Airwaves.

You most definitely do not have to contact the manufacturers to order the tall size in these! They're available at Revzilla. :)

Another option is the Olympia Airglide for a generous, curvy fit through the butt/hips/thighs. These run 3-4 inches long, and are too long for most of us shorties. You will have plenty of inseam on these for sure. They also fit true to women's size (US 6, 8, etc). I would recommend a size 6 since they're curvy and forgiving through the thighs. If you think you need extra room in the thighs/butt/hips then order these instead of the Rev'it above. The legs are also a bit roomier, so if you prefer a more relaxed fit you will love these.

Airglide

Olympia Airglide 3 Women's Motorcycle OverPants

 

 

 

Why Doesn't This Motorcycle Jacket Fit Me?

womens motorcycle jacket fit olympia airglide 4 mesh textile 4 season  

There's a very good chance ya just need to bend forward a bit, bring your shoulders in and your tummy back.

Then voila! Your jacket zips up perfectly. Remember that proper fit is always in riding position; never standing up!

Wear This, Not That: Leather Jacket

Screen Shot 2014-10-30 at 10.12.51 PM Looks like a "motorcycle jacket". Feels like one, is this good enough to wear on your motorcycle?

I'm a sucker for a cool looking motorcycle jacket just like the next person. But, I value my body much more than that. The fact is this jacket is NOT good enough for riding on the front (or back for that matter) of a motorcycle. Here's why:

wear this not that casual clothes

Anything can be labeled as motorcycle gear. Anything. I can make a jacket today and call it a motorcycle jacket without anyone enforcing standards or minimum safety requirements in order to sell it to you.

That's the problem with all of this casual motorcycle inspired gear. It has NOTHING to do with you falling off your motorcycle, pure and simple. It's not about racing, it's not about touring thousands of miles, it's all about you separating from you bike. If you're in denial about that, then that's a completely different issue. But the fact is, you could very well fall off and probably not because you did anything wrong. That's why I wear all this stuff, because I have no idea what could happen to me.

So what's a nice alternative? For $30 more, the REV'IT Roamer Jacket is a much safer, stronger alternative. Extras like body armor, abrasion resistant leather, precurved arms (more comfort in riding position) and a removable thermal liner are included. The seams are also constructed in such a way that the jacket will stay together and hold its structure in case something happens. A LOT of thought, time and money has been spent to provide something that will work in case you are separated from your motorcycle. That's it's primary job.

Along with all these features, you have a beautifully fit jacket that will look great on or off the bike. Of course, its not as light and thin as the casual Nordstrom option, so no, it's not going to fit or feel exactly the same.

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The Roamer is ideal for Fall, Spring and mild winters (California, Florida, etc.). The leather is softer, and more forgiving so you don't have to spend as much time breaking it in. I like the Roamer because it's a little more relaxed than it's sportier counterparts.

 

Women's Motorcycle Jackets for Fall

revit legacy goretex womens motorcycle suit Fall is coming..... much sooner than most of us would like. So if you need a new jacket for Fall, here are a few ideas to get you started. 

 

Scorpion Dominion

$239.95. Sizes XS-2XL. The Dominion features a waterproof membrane and removable, full sleeve thermal liner. One thing I appreciate from Scorpion is the fact that all of their women's gear features CE and EN rated SAS-TEC armor at the shoulders and elbows. You'll only need to upgrade your back protector! The fit seems to run on the long side, longer arms and torso. There's very little ventilation on this so you won't be able to push this past early Spring. Nice price for a Fall weather jacket!

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Alpinestars Stella T-Jaws WP

$269.95. S-2XL. The T-Jaws is a sporty, waterproof jacket with a removable full sleeve, thermal liner. It's hard to find winter gear that's cut specifically for sportbike riding. After all, who rides their sportbike in the Fall or for more than 15 minutes at a time? (ME!) Perfectly fit for your more aggressive riding positions.

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Dainese Elysee D Dry

$369.95. Size Euro 38-54 (~US 0-16) The Elysee D Dry jacket is a jacket with a really simple, clean look. Something that would work well around town if you don't want a "motorcycle" look. To me it looks like a casual, winter coat. But the bonus is that this one is waterproof, fully armored on the shoulders and elbows and abrasion resistant. If only I needed *another* jacket....

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Alpinestars Stella Bogota Drystar

$349. S-2XL. The Bogota is all new for Fall 2014, it's more ventilated than the Andes, with extra vents to help you push this through 4 seasons. In my mind it's better as a 3 season cold jacket (Fall, Winter, Spring) but if you live somewhere with mild summers you could definitely wear it year round. There's even a matching pant! I think the fit on Bogota is a bit slimmer (like New Land) than the Andes as well.

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Icon 1000 Fairlady

$535. XS-2XL. I'm not normally an Icon fan but I actually like the Fairlady. The fit is nice and they're using a really nice grade of leather to make this jacket fit and feel more luxurious. If you like brown, this one's available in that color as well. The high collar and vest liner helps but you'll need to wear a good winter baselayer to keep you warm.

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Taichi Drymaster Prime

Check out my recent blog post about the Drymaster here.

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RS Taichi Drymaster Prime All Season Jacket

taichi_drymaster_prime_allseason_womens If you aren't familiar with RS Taichi, they're a little known brand from Japan that makes high quality, premium motorcycle gear.

Unfortunately they don't offer very strong options for women, specifically leather or a lot of highly technical riding gear but they do offer a few textile jackets and pants for us. I have a pair of these Crossover Mesh Pants which I only wear on really hot, humid days to and from work.

I recently discovered the All Season Jacket above, and was thrilled to see it's offered in a women's specific size. It has an integrated waterproof membrane, has large, direct ventilation, sealed zippers and a removable insulated liner. It's called "All Season" due to the venting scheme. Full armor also comes with the jacket including shoulders, elbow, back and chest.

Look out for a full review in an upcoming issue of Sportbikes Inc Magazine!

 

Women's Leather Motorcycle Jackets in White

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So you're shopping for a sexy leather jacket. But you HAVE to have a white one. I know you're out there, even though there aren't many of you. White isn't as common, although I have found that riding in my white leather jacket in 90+ degree temps that it works *really* well. There may not be 10 to choose from, but here are a the ones that you should check out!

Most of these are certainly more on the sporty side. But remember, you can wear *anything* you want on *any* kind of motorcycle you want. It doesn't matter. It comes down to what's comfortable for you, what works best for your riding lifestyle and overall comfort on the bike in riding position.

Dainese - Laguna Evo Perforated 

MSRP $499.95. Sizes 40-54 (~US 2 - 16). What's really fantastic about this jacket is that it comes in a Non-Perforated version! It's exactly the same, but without perforations for cooler weather. There aren't any other brands in my list that offer 2 versions of the same jacket. I also love that it comes with a removable, full sleeve thermal liner (in both versions). So you can push it to Fall (East Coast), or year round riding (West Coast).  The fit is fantastic, a nice hourglass shape that looks beautiful on everyone. *If* I needed another leather jacket, this would be near the top of my list.

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Dainese - Racing 

MSRP $599.95. Sizes 40-52 (~US 2 - 14). I LOVE this jacket. If only I *needed* another one. She's definitely #1 at the top of my list. Something about this jacket when you put it on makes you feel SO fast (and hot!). It's probably the best women's leather jacket on the market right now, fully ready for the track with the titanium sliders on the shoulders and aggressive race fit. The sleeves run a bit long and the length is a longer as well. I can actually fit a size down in this to a 40. I'm normally a 42.

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Rev'it - Galactic

MSRP $499.95. Sizes 34-46 (~US 2 - 14). Read my review of the Galactic including features, fit and what it has to offer for summer riding. It's my all around summer jacket, I love it and you will too!

revit galactic womens leather jacket

 

Rev'it - Xena

MSRP $449.99. Sizes 34-44. The Xena is Rev'it's sporty leather jacket for women. The fit is a nice hourglass shape, not too long and not too short. It has a few perforations here and there, and it has a fantastic matching pant. The only downside is the pant is also white with Kawi green. (Sorry Honda, Aprilia and Ducati gals!) This outfit in a 38 (top and bottom) fit me perfectly. I'm normally 36 in Rev'it but this outfit is running a bit narrower than usual.  Of course, I really love this one too and would love to have it in my closet as well. But the husband will kill me....

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Alpinestars Stella GP Plus 

MSRP $499.95. Sizes Euro 46-50 (~US 12-16). I like the flat collar the aggressive cut. It fits really well if you have an average  - short torso. I love the fit, not too long and not too short. Very light for summer riding. It has a few perforations but it isn't heavily perforated. The stretch panels help with breathability but it'll definitely be toasty in really hot summer temperatures. I fit perfectly into a Euro 40. Unfortunately the matching bottoms aren't white.

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Roland Sands Design - Maven

MSRP $580, Sizes S-3XL. The Maven isn't flat white, but it's cream. Quite lovely in person, really. The Maven is great if you're looking for a casual, cafe style jacket that you can fully armor out. The fit is a bit tough in the bust, so if you need a bit more room there I would order up a size. This one also comes in 3 other colors including Oxblood red.

 

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