The technological breakthrough that gave birth to Aerostich’s waterproof Transit suit is Pro Shell leather, a truly revolutionary material. Invented by R.L. Gore—of wind and waterproof Gore-Tex fame—the triple-layer Pro Shell sandwiches a Gore-Tex membrane between specially manufactured, perforated leather and a webbed, nylon lining. During processing and tanning, the 1.2mm cowhide is impregnated with water repellants in two stages, giving it a lifetime of moisture-shedding abilities.
The tiny holes throughout the suit don’t vent; instead, they pull water out of the leather in inclement weather and also wick moisture from skin. The material also gets a unique, solar-reflective TFL Cool treatment that, according to the manufacturer, makes the suit up to 30 degrees cooler than traditional leather gear. Flexible, TF5 impact armor is provided in the shoulders, elbows, knees and as a back protector. The jacket has five pockets; the pants two. All but one of the exterior pockets has waterproof zippers.
Tested in all weather conditions with temperatures in the 30s to the 90s, the Transit has made obsolete the duct-taped trash bags I unceremoniously wrapped around myself in the 1980s before discovering rain suits. On my weirdly proportioned body, the 40 short jacket’s upper arms are a bit too long, but the 32-in.-waisted trousers are perfect length—though they bunch a bit when riding. The Transit pants do have 25-in. waterproof zippers on the outside of each leg that make getting in and out a breeze.
The main complaint is the Transit’s short collar. In wet weather, it allowed water to seep into the neck (though wearing a waterproof bandana can mitigate this). I also found the Velcro-backed wrist closures bulky, and the pant pocket openings a tad tight. Being the company’s first leather suit, these design flaws are understandable—and easily fixable. Even with these foibles, the waterproof garments are tremendously useful.
The Transit suit is beautifully detailed, ruggedly constructed and fully equipped. It has fully supplanted my rain suits, and is truly fit to be Aerostich’s new flagship garment.
Aerostich Transit Suit
Two-Piece: $1497
Jacket only: $847
Pants only: $747
www.aerostich.com
Rating Four out of five stars