I have a Hein Gerrick leather coat I bought in 91 that has an aluminum flake liner and I can ride in just about any temps and be OK. I also have heated gear. I need a jacket for in between weather. When I look at the HD stuff, they don't use BIG heavy zippers anymore, it's all made in China, and the textile reflective type I want is almost $400. HD has always been pricey but they used to sell really great coats made for bikers not fashionistas.
Anybody have an alternative idea for buying a textile, not leather, reflective jacket? There has to be somebody out there who still makes a jacket designed for riding. For instance, zippers you can operate with gloves on.
I probably can't avoid the made in China part but for $400 I expect a coat that'll last forever, like the Hein Gerrick, and that is fully functional. My riding gear is for when I'm riding. I don't wear it for walking around clothing.
ICON jackets are top notch quality wise, great protection is available.
I don't know where they're made but, the zippers and snaps are first rate, so is the comfort.
I don't know about the textile jackets, but for leather you can't beat Langlitz
anything breaks or tears they fix it. They are not cheap tho. http://www.langlitz.com/jackets/
Yes, the textiles will protect you.. IF they are quality. Did about a 30-35mph lowside in a Joe Rocket jacket.... melted the material, and the cinch snap got so hot, it burned into my arm. and still got some rash for my efforts... though, admittedly not as bad if I was in a t-shirt or something.
I have had the the same jacket for about 3 years. I have worn the jacket in weather as warm as low 80's with the lining removed. Just open the vents in the front and the back of the jacket.
With the lining in the jacket, I've ridden over an hour in low 20's with no discomfort.
I also ended up taking all the armor out of the jacket.
I have only worn mine once. I do notice the armor. I would like to leave it, figuring why not have it. Supposed to be hot next week, have to see.
I did buy it for protection, figuring I would a jacket more if it was cool. Plus it is a good place to a carry a gun. I don't want to be screwing around with a holster at work.
I just bought a mesh, so no vents. I may look into a textile one, lighter then leather. Strapping to leathers on the tourpak is alot of weight, and takes up alot of room.
Ya I bought one few weeks ago somewhat on a whim. I was looking at them on line. Then stopped at J word dealer on a hot day. Has been cool since. But it really did let the air in.
Probably is, if you are touring cross country, you have to be prepared for the coldest. The mesh jacket does have a zip in wind breaker. But I haven't tried it to see how it does.
The other thing that has got me thinking about textiles, is not carrying rain gear, or not needing it until you have a big storm. Granted leather does decent, especially when oiled, it takes a long time to dry.
I have also wondered about upland bird hunter pants, which have nylon the front. Be fine for most light stuff. Plus may help you when you hit a wall off rain, and have to find a place to pull over.
I am going to try a pair of these for grouse hunting. Though I have found dicky or carhartt to be pretty good in the bush. Actually jeans are pretty good too, unless you are in some thorny stuff, even then not that bad.