scooter

Multiseason Jacket for SoCal Scootering?

dainese_arya_womens_jacket Reader Melissa is searching for the ultimate stylish, versatile riding jacket for zipping around town on her scooter in Southern California (lucky girl). I gave her a few ideas which I think will work well and look great. 

Your website is super great!!!! Thank you for putting together all of this information. I have been going through it for a while as I didn't want to take your time without first reading all the information you've provided.

I've been riding a scooter for a couple years but have never had a jacket that fits me (I got one with the scooter and have worn it). I know, terrible. I am looking to purchase one now. My priority is safety and non leather. I'm also interested though in something that will do well in various weather conditions. I live in Long Beach, CA so the weather is usually nice; however, like you, I'm often COLD, particularly on morning rides to work. But then I would love it if one jacket would also serve me well in the summer. Is this too much to ask??

The ones I've found through your site that I like are:

  • spidi: maybe the street tex lady, dynamite tex, I don't know, I like a number of theirs style-wise
  • Corazzo 5.0 but I'm not sure this would be warm enough and maybe the sky ladies textile jacket (not too sure about this one though). This is based on what you've said about safety and also on my preference in style, I don't like to do a lot of advertising for companies :-)
  • Style-wise I've liked the spidi jackets most of what I've seen but it's hard to tell online and I'm totally open to suggestions!
  • I also like that the corazzo is made in the usa.

If you have input I would LOVE to hear it! No hurry though, I appreciate any time you have reply whenever that may be. Thank you. Melissa

(5'2", 35.5 bust, 29.5 waist, 36 hips)

 

Hello Melissa,

Thanks for your email!
based on your measurements and riding conditions, you are probably not going to fit any of the ones you recommended. My rec for you is one of the following (each has more colors as well):

1/ Revit Tornado, size 36

It's a meshed jacket on the outside with a removable thermal, waterproof liner on the inside. If you think that'll still be too cold, then I would recommend #2 or #3.
revit_tornado_womens_jacket

2/ Revit Indigo jacket, size 36

The outer shell is solid, but lightweight. It has 2 removable liners instead of 1 like the tornado. One is waterproof and the other one is warm.
revit_indigo_womens_jacket_silver

3/ Dainese Katy Jacket, size 40

(their sizing is different from Revit)
It's not waterproof, just warm with the removable thermal liner.
dainese_katy_womens_jacket

4/ Dainese Arya Jacket, size 40

This one is a bit more expensive than Katy because it's a different fabric that has a stretchyness to it, along with water repellency. Also designed for more than just city riding. Whereas Katy is designed as a City jacket which implies less abrasion resistance for highway speeds.

dainese_arya_womens_jacket
#1 is the best option for the most ventilation in the summer temperatures (~80s-90s). Whereas #2-#4 are ideal for ~50s-60s-70s. If however, you're one of those who even gets chilly at 80 then you'll absolutely love these options instead :D
Each one is minimally branded but every jacket will have branding so it's impossible to avoid. But I think these fit the simple bill. And it's up to you to upgrade each jacket with a proper back protector, which I can definitely recommend if you need options.
Although I do like the brands and styles you mentioned, the bottom line is that at your size none of them offer the versatility you're seeking. Also, I find that at your measurements, these brands I've suggested do the Best job in terms of tailoring and fitment for petite body types. Alpinestars is also another brand that does a great job. However, they don't have a jacket that fits your needs as well as Revit and Dainese. When you put on a Rev'it or Dainese, there's no denying the fit and I just know that you'll love how all of them look and feel.
I know they may not fall exactly in line with your style requirements, but if you want to achieve the best fit (which is tied directly to the safety aspect of the garment) then I would really consider one of the options above instead.
Happy Scootering!

Looking for Fitted, "not gear" Looking gear

alice-1-928x1024.jpg

Requirements:

  • On the fitted, less unisex/androgynous side. 
  • Like the "not gear" look, but prefer white or lighter for visibility. But I'd consider darker. 
  • Would like to top out at $200. Less is always better. It's my first jacket; it doesn't have to be my only. But one jacket that does a good job with a layer or two under or over would be great.

I prefer a more fitted jacket. For example, I was able to try on the Dainese Air-Frame. The women riders in the store assured me that the 38 (or was it 40?) was the size I needed ("that's how it fits me, too," each said). And it might have been the best size for the elbow armor, but, wow--just way too snug across the bust. The next size up was fine, but they thought the armor in the elbows moved a bit too much. So maybe the Dainese brand just isn't for me (5'4", about 110, but C-D bust). I do like the shape of the Alice (based on the video), but it doesn't look like the bust would fit any different. Same thing with the Ignition 2. Really like the look (on the RevZilla vid and based on your blog), don't really want to spend that much, especially because I question the fit. 

The Alpinestars seem to give me a bit more room in the bust. Most of their jackets are way to branded for me, though. 

I've looked at photos/descriptions/videos/reviews of a million jackets. And have been able to try on a few. 

I just stumbled upon the Fieldsheer 3.0. Difficult to tell about fit without seeing it on someone. One reviewer said it was a potato sack.

And I do like the look of the Spidi Netix in white. But I'm not sure, without buying the thermal liner, it will be enough to carry me into the fall/winter/spring in San Diego.

Keep in mind that at your weight and size, your choices are very very limited. If you're 110, and a C/D bust, then you technically are a 40 (they dont offer 38 really) but because your bust is larger than your overall size, you may have to go up to a 42 to accommodate your bust. also, remember that all of the Dainese jackets are shorter across the front on purpose. so make sure that you are checking that fit in riding position, NOT standing or front of the mirror. They're all designed to be more comfortable with arms forward and out, reaching for your handlebars. It's definitely doesn't feel normal, compared to shopping for casual clothes. I think for you, it's partly getting used to this new kind of clothing and adjusting to a fit that's more ideal for riding position. However, that being said I can definitely understand the bust still being too tight because generally speaking, Dainese jackets do not have a very generous fit in the bust if you're larger there proportionally to the rest of your body.

And going up in size for the bust means a looser fit everywhere else. Unfortunately your proportions are backwards for gear manufacturers. You'll have to increase your budget quite a bit as well, $200 for something that fits you is almost impossible except for the Dainese Air Flux at $199. If you can wear a sports bra, I highly recommend doing so for riding because it'll reduce your bust size a bit to help the jackets fit more comfortably. European manufacturers are the *only* ones who make size 0s because American woman are an average size 10-12.

Do not go with the Ignition 2, even a 34 won't work for you. It's a very VERY boxy cut. If you want to keep the fit for the shoulders/elbows/arms, then you'll need to size down to 34 Revit or 40.  I think you may fit a Revit Xena; I know it doesn't fit your aesthetic but you will have to give up one or more of your requirements to get something that actually fits you and will protect you. Unless you start lifting weights and increasing your muscle mass :)

The Revit Indigo is multi layered, a removable waterproof and removable thermal liner. Since it's multi season, you're paying more than $200. It's a fantastic jacket, and will work mostly year round except in extreme heat or cold temps.

Another option, although bust may be too snug in a 38: http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/alpinestars-womens-vika-leather-jacket-2012

You could do 40 in this one, since it runs really narrow. It would probably fit your bust better but still have a slender, fitted cut. http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/alpinestars-womens-vika-leather-jacket (this is the 2014 version of the vika, thus more $)

As far as the Spidi Netix, it's strictly summer so you'll need some sort of windblocker or thermal layer inside to keep you warm through the winter. If you had something like a North Face Windproof Jacket underneath, I could see that working in San Diego. But anything with mesh will allow a lot of wind to go through. I would recommend Spidi's liner, they work really well.

What's new from Alpinestars, 2014

alpinestars new land goretex jacket womens motorcycle waterproofalpinestars_new_land_pants_hiviz

Alpinestars just announced it's 2014 collection, which includes quite a few options for women. I just love it when companies release new products for us. Here are my favorite pieces in the collection. Let's start with a couple lightweights and then I'll tell you more about the gorgeous touring outfit above. Everything is slated for September release. For now, you can preorder but most you won't see delivery until sometime in September.

Cassie and Francie Jackets

For the city moto / scooter crowd, these two are fully armored (including back and chest protection), adding another level of protection which your casualwear just doesn't provide. It's difficult to find gear that doesn't look like motorcycle wear, but has some of the protective elements of real gear. Now, these aren't as robust as your typical touring jacket, but for city speeds (think 25-40mph), these will do the job. And typically, when you're a city rider, I would be more worried about the impact injury than abrasion. 

Cassie: $379.95, XS-2XL

  • Advanced poly-fiber and synthetic wool main shell incorporates performance thermal down insulation to offer optimal warmth while being light, bulk-free and without restricting movement.
  • Removable CE certified shoulder and elbow protectors offer class-leading riding protection.
  • Padded chest and back compartments (no one ever offers this feature, except RS Taichi from what I've seen) on jacket allow for Bio Armor chest and back protection accessory upgrade.
  • Easily detachable hood
  • External pockets with snap button and zip closures and internal water-resistant document pocket.
  • Reflective detailing for visibility.
  • Gun metal finishing trim on button and pull chord tabs.
  • Snap connection loops for attachment to Alpinestars riding pants and jeans. 

Francie: $269.95, XS-2XL

  • Diamond rip-stop main shell construction incorporating performance thermal insulation that offers optimal heat while being light, bulk-free and without restricting movement.
  • Removable CE certified shoulder and elbow protectors offer class-leading riding protection.
  • Padded back compartment allows for Bio Armor chest and back protection accessory upgrade.
  • Storm hood comprises elastic edging to secure hood in windy conditions.
  • Adjustable interior gator with snap button connectors forms barrier against wind and helps secure jacket to the body.
  • Convenient exterior pockets with zippers, plus inner mesh pockets and water-resistant inner wallet pocket with easy-locate red zip.
  • Main, frontal zipper, incorporates zip garage (no idea what this means) to help secure zip and avoids skin contact irritation.
  • Elastic cuff edges with thumb grip to secure sleeve in place and help seal out elements.
  • Waist and back shock cord adjustment for highly personalized fit on and off the bike.
  • Brushed fiber collar interior for comfort, plus shock cord adjuster.
  • Reflective detailing for improved garment visibility.
  • Snap-button loops to attach to Alpinestars pants or jeans.

 

Quasar Mesh Jacket

The Quasar appears to be a fully ventilated jacket for summer/spring riding. No removable liners, just lots of ventilation for maximum comfort while riding in hot conditions. I especially like the light gray color option.

$249.95, XS-2XL

  • Constructed with durable and abrasion resistant 600 Denier Polyester Fabric with extended mesh panels on the torso and arms providing substantial airflow when riding for superior comfort in warmer weather conditions.
  • Sport fit with pre-curved sleeves for enhanced riding comfort.
  • CE-certified Bio-Armor elbow and shoulder protectors for added impact protection.
  • Chest and Back protector compartments with advanced poly-foam comfort padding (CE-certified Bio-Armor back protector insert (available as accessory).
  • Internal waist connection zipper allows attachment to selected Alpinestars leather and textile pants.
  • External zipped hand pockets, plus internal pockets and waterproof wallet pocket.
  • Sleeve volume adjusters on biceps and Velcro cuff adjustment for improved fit.
  • Accordion stretch inserts on elbows for improved fit in the riding position.
  • Premium YKK® zippers used throughout the garment.
  • Reflective details for improved nighttime visibility.

 

AST-1 WP Pants

I believe the AST-1 is the updated version of the Stella ST-5 pants. It looks like these have an integrated waterproof membrane (breathable) so they're going to be a better for your spring/fall riding seasons. But if you live in a mild climate like San Francisco, these would work well year round. I especially like the subtle storage pocket on the front thigh. Of course, these have armor at the hips and knees.

$179.95, XS-2XL

  • Specifically constructed for an optimized women’s fit Alpinestars’ Stella AST-1 Waterproof Pants gives the rider peace of mind with a combination of practicality and performance.
  • The pre-curved leg construction and articulated knee design enhance comfort and mobility, while extra protection is afforded by strategically placed ballistic nylon reinforcements. (i.e. Incredible Fit!)
  • Multi-fabric poly-shell construction yields the optimal combination of durability, protection and weight.
  • Protection against the elements provided by an integrated 100% waterproof and breathable membrane.
  • Pre-curved legs and an articulated knee construction enhance freedom of movement while riding.
  • Impact protection provided by removable CE certified knee protectors.
  • Ballistic nylon reinforcements on the thighs, knees and seat area.
  • Integrated high visibility reflective piping enhances rider visibility in poor light conditions.
  • Internal hip compartments are lined with ergonomically tapered PE comfort foam for superior riding comfort.
  • Adjustable waist and secure sliding hook closure for a snug, tailored fit.
  • Extended zippered boot gussets ensure a tight seal around the ankle and facilitate fitting and removal.
  • External flat storage pocket.

 

New Land GTX Jacket and Pants

If you'v read my review of the REV'IT Legacy, you know that these riding outfits are few and far between. Like it's competitor, Dainese, Alpinestars knows how to create a suit that fits like a glove. The addition of GORE-TEX (GTX for short) provides a ton of versatility when it comes to riding year round especially between extreme temperatures. It's one of the best ways to ride between different climates and remain comfortable, warm and dry. Sadly, it also adds to the price point. But in my opinion, wearing GTX is an absolute necessity for year round riding. The materials used for both pieces consist of a Rip-Stop (it won't tear in a vertical direction, but zig/zag to prevent further damage), abrasion resistant TEFLON coated textile to provide maximum protection in major impact zones (shoulders, elbows, knees). The fitment on this outfit looks long and tall. I hope that I'll be able to see samples at some point to give you more details.

Jacket - $599.95, S-2XL

  • Ergonomically optimized and designed for women this jacket incorporates a TEFLON® engineered textile and a GORE-TEX® membrane to provide superb protection against the elements while being light, durable and breathable. Configurable and designed to accompany the Stella New Land GORE-TEX® pants, this jacket gives protection with CE-certified protectors.
  • Superior textile construction featuring GORE-TEX® membrane for protection against elements and breathability.
  • Rip-stop textile, tear-resistant TEFLON® coated shoulder and elbow areas for additional abrasion dissipation in key impact zones.
  • Arm air intakes and rear exhaust zippers, offers greater regulation of internal airflow for enhanced riding comfort for short and long-distances.
  • Removable long-sleeve thermal liner with fleece collar ensures comfort on hot or cold days.
  • Removable CE-certified Bio-Armor on shoulders and elbows is light, breathable and ergonomic for class-leading impact protection.
  • Chest and back pad compartments with advanced thermo-formed protective padding (CE certified Bio Armor back protector insert available as accessory).
  • Additional reinforced external padding zones on the back.
  • Reflective zones and colored piping increase rider visibility in poor or night-time conditions.
  • Neoprene comfort edges on collar and cuffs.
  • Internal waterproof pockets.
  • Elongated rear profiling for comfort and protection in the riding position.
  • Easy-find red internal lining zip and external pull-tabs for convenience.
  • Pre-curved, articulated sleeves with gusseted Velcro cuffs enhance fit and comfort in the riding position.  External storage provided by two chest pockets and two cargo pockets on the front of the jacket.
  • Non-aggressive micro-Velcro® used throughout the garment.
  • Premium YKK zippers with twin sliders on front zipper.
  • Optimized for use with the Stella New Land GORE-TEX® Pant with internal waist connection zipper.

Pants - $469.95, S-XL

  • Alpinestars Stella New Land touring pants incorporate a TEFLON® engineered textile and a GORE-TEX® membrane to provide superb protection against the elements while being light, durable and breathable.
  • Configurable and designed to accompany the Stella New Land GORE-TEX® Jacket, these pants give strategic protection with CE-certified knee protectors.
  • Superior textile construction featuring GORE-TEX® membrane for protection against elements and breathability. Removable long thermal liner with fleece collar ensures comfort on hot or cold days.
  • Strategically placed zippered air intakes and outlets for short and long-distance riding comfort.
  • Rip-stop textile, tear-resistant TEFLON® coated seat and knee areas for additional abrasion performance on key impact zones.
  • Removable CE-certified Bio-Armor on knees is lightweight, breathable and ergonomic for class-leading impact protection.
  • Reflective zones and colored piping increase rider visibility in poor conditions.
  • Easy-find red-tipped external zip pockets.
  • Pre-contoured leg construction with back and knee stretch panels.
  • Adjustable Velcro® waist closure for optimized fit.
  • Zip and Velcro® leg cuff closure fits around various boot models.
  • Optimized for use with the New Land GORE-TEX® Jacket with internal waist connection zipper.

Look for my full review of this outfit in Late October after I get back from Ireland :D

 

Motegi Leather Race Suit

The Motegi features an all new design for the women's line, based on the popular men's version. Personally, I could do with less logos but it's hard to pass up an exquisitely made suit. It may not look like it, but women's Alpinestars suits are proportioned really well for women with curves. This suit is constructed of 1.3mm grain leather, and reinforced Aramid stretch panels where you need them, a ventilated back hump, perforated panels on the front of the chest and legs, and a removable mesh liner (a built in undersuit for moisture wicking breathability).

Size Euro 38-50, $799.95

  • Constructed with premium 1.3mm full-grain leather for unsurpassed abrasion resistance, comfort and durability.
  • Multiple-stitched main seam construction provides maximum tear resistance in the event of an impact.
  • High-density perforations on front panels offer optimum cooling performance.
  • Extended, reinforced Aramidic fiber stretch panels on the sides of the torso, arms, crotch and back of the knees.
  • Alpinestars exclusively profiled ventilated back hump is aerodynamically sculpted for superior air flow and reduced drag at high speeds.
  • Lightweight, contoured mesh calf panels enhance fit and ensure comfort underneath riding boots.
  • Removable, CE certified GP protectors in the elbows and shoulders feature injection molded profiles and dual density foam padding for exceptional protection against impact forces.
  • Alpinestars race-derived, CE approved GP-R knee protectors feature a floating construction for a precise fit in the riding position.
  • TPR reinforcements on the shoulder offer additional abrasion and shock resistance in a key impact area.
  • Integrated PE foam padding on the hips, coccyx, upper arms and sides of the torso further enhance fit and comfort while riding.
  • Snap connection system allows integration with Alpinestars CE level 2 certified Bionic Race Back Protector for the ultimate in protection.
  • Removable mesh liner features built-in stretch inserts to ensure a snug fit and is washable for extra convenience.
  • Premium YKK fasteners used throughout the garment including flat profile YKK® Semi Auto Lock wrist zippers.
  • Replaceable Alpinestars PU Sport kneesliders.
  • Reflective detailing on front and back for improved rider visibility.

alpinestars motegi leather motorcycle suit womens alpinestars motegi leather motorcycle suit womens

 

All items available for Preorder: Revzilla.com

New REV'IT Women's Motorcycle or Scooter Jackets

REV'IT Womens Motorcycle Jacket Vintage Cafe Wax CottonREV'IT Ladies Taksim Motorcycle Scooter Jacket Stylish Protective

 

One thing that many women riding motorcycles and scooters struggle with is finding riding gear that's stylish and safe. 

Gracia Ladies Jacket

Well, REV'IT has decided to throw their hat in the ring with 2 new jackets for Fall (with a couple more coming in the Winter, so stay tuned :D). The Gracia is a wax cotton, 3/4 length, waterproof jacket with a vintage look and feel. Offered in black and brown, this little number features a removable thermal liner and Knox lite armor in the shoulders and elbows. There's also a pocket for an optional back protector, which will fit Knox or TPro shaped armor. 

 REV'IT Women's Winter Motorcycle JacketsREV'IT Women's Winter Motorcycle Jackets

Taksim Ladies Jacket

The second option is the Taksim, offered in black and olive:

REV'IT Ladies Taksim Motorcycle Scooter Jacket Stylish ProtectiveREV'IT Ladies Taksim Motorcycle Scooter Jacket Stylish Protective

REV'IT Ladies Taksim Motorcycle Scooter Jacket Stylish ProtectiveREV'IT Ladies Taksim Motorcycle Scooter Jacket Stylish Protective

 

The Taksim is also waterproof, with a removable thermal liner and Knox lite armor in the shoulders and elbows. It has a pocket for an optional back protector. Don't worry, the (fake) fur hood is removable. 

Both of these are priced at $300 and are great options for riding around town on your scooter or motorcycle. I wouldn't recommend them for highway riding or touring/distance rides but definitely kickass alternatives for that short commute across town to work. 

I'm super excited to see these hit the floor at Scuderia soon (most likely October) and will post once I have some real people trying them on (myself included).