How to buy textile gear
Waterproofing options
There are several considerations: the level of water-proofing and the level of breathability.For example, you could consider a plastic bin bag which is 100% waterproof but also 0% breathable so you might be dry from the rain but not sweat!
Plus, there is the factor of just how the clothing is constructed and where the waterproofing is:some basic clothing is just treated with a water repellent and others have a separate water-proof layer that can even be removeable for convenience.This type of gear gets wet and heavy but keeps you dry. Then there is the top range technical solution “laminate” where the waterproof layer is bonded to the outer layer and this has the advantage of then keeping the rain out “like water off a duck’s back”.This last type is the most expensive and then anything with specifically “Gore-Tex”, probably the most expensive of all but also probably the best.
Layers and how they work (inners and outers etc)
There are 2 key options of layers within a jacket: a thermal layer, a waterproof layer and combinations of them. An additional factor is that they can be removeable giving multiple comfort options from not waterproof and cool through to water-proof and warm! There are often “special/larger” pockets to conveniently store any layers removed while out where you might have gone out over dressed!Finally, with the current trend of looking good in your gear off the bike as well, manufacturers are even making these layers look great when worn separately.
It’s also worth reminding that all riders that ideally you should always wear an appropriate base-layer that “wicks” away any sweat and also keeps you on the layer closest to the skin.
Good bits to look for (braces, waterproof air vents etc),
You should always check what armour is included at the key impact points.Back armour is normally not included so make sure there is a pocket and what price/options are available to fit it.PLUS always make sure that if you feel something in the back it is indeed proper CE approved armour and not just an insert to make the garment look better on the hanger!
Its also important that there is a way to connect the jacket to trousers, otherwise in an accident your exposed back ruins the whole point of any protection!There are normally joining zips or at least a loop to go around your belt.
With regard to venting there are a couple of considerations:it’s important to be clear on whether the jacket is still waterproof with vents open or not as both options are possible.Plus are there inlet and exhaust vents to allow a proper flow of air through the clothing.
The ultimate feature/option is an airbag and these are also now available as an integral part of jackets such as the Dainese D Air Cyclone and the new D Air Carvemaster 2.
Finally, what adjustors are included, for comfort when sitting on the bike and for fit when layers are removed.It is important to make sure the clothing still fits well and most importantly the armour always stays in the right place.
Fit options around gloves
Depending on you glove type (long or short) you have options to whether you fit your gloves inside the sleeves or outside.Just bear in mind that normally fitting them on the outside could men that water can run into the glove!There are numerous adjustments on the sleeves from poppers to Velcro.Some jackets also have textile loops for your hands to fit in and keep the jacket sleeve pulled down.
The most expensive suits and what sets them apart.
The top of the range Rukka Nivala and brand new Dainese Antarticaare for sure in this category! Common features are:
- The highest level of at least 5 year guaranteed Gore-Tex water-proofing (laminate) and breathability
- Full armour including back protectors (and with Rukka a chest protector as well)
- Goose-down removeable thermal layers
- Plus, the most technical and highest level abrasion protection, Armacor for Rukka and Trixior for Dainese
- (Note: when purchased from us both also have replacement loan gear in the event of a warranty issue!)
Four product examples:
RST Ventilator V £179.99:
Very popular and yes, despite the name an all-season shorter jacket (and matching trousers) packed with features:For protection you get full 5 piece armour including a back protector.For comfort you’ll find multiple large vented panels, a removable thermal lining, adjustable sleeves (for when any layers removed) and separate removable waterproof lining to enable every combo!There are also specific matching trousers with a joining zip.
Richa Infinity £199.99
Dainese Tempest 2 £269.99
Following the successful Tempest D-DRY Jacket is the Tempest 2.A 2-layer waterproof yet breathable longer touring jacket.Thanks to D-DRY 20.000mm water repellent membrane and removable thermal jacket, practicality and comfort are guaranteed in every cold and rainy circumstance. The inner jacket can be worn separately, to keep the rider warm yet fashionable off the bike! The Cordura construction, combined with D-Stone inserts on high impact areas and removable composite protectors on elbows and shoulders provide the essential Dainese safety standards. Two inlet vent zips on chest and two extraction vent zips on the back allow the perfect temperature regulation in warmer days. Also available with matching trousers and a ladies version.
Halvarssons Prime £399
High quality Swedish Gear with great combo of safety and comfort: particularly tough “HI-ART” reinforcement for up to 400% more abrasion resistance than comparable textiles, Outlast and Thinsulate climate regulation and with plenty of ventilation in the warm.The reflective panels are cleverly hidden and subtle until needed being in the black of the material and it also includes, but removeable, standard high-viz “bib”.