They may have started out as novelty items a decade ago, but mesh jackets have definitely gone mainstream. They’re a godsend if you like to ride in hot weather but still want some level of safety. Of course, you’ll find varying levels of functionality and quality available on the market.
For this guide, we assembled the latest styles from major manufacturers, though we made sure to choose only those examples with armor, adjustability and reflectivity. The ‘heavyweight’ designation refers to both the garment’s weight as well as functionality.
We took each for a whirl through the Oregon countryside to see if their vaunted ventilation really worked, and found many viable options, in varying levels of protection and comfort. (All jackets are waist-length unless specified otherwise.)
Tourmaster Sonora Jacket $210
If it’s one of the heaviest and priciest jackets here, that’s because the Sonora rocks a full menu of features. To start, a 3⁄4 length jacket is a rarity in the mesh world, as is the zip-out, double-inner liner that’s insulated, windproof...and waterproof. But the two-liner concept isn’t without its pitfalls; we stopped counting the zippers after awhile (though there is a handy two-way exterior zipper as the main jacket closure). We like the Velcro cuffs, which offer more adjustability than zippers (though they’re bulky), and the Sonora’s reflective rear triangle. The Sonora also sports two adjustment straps for each arm and one for the waist. The jacket’s open weave 680 denier Carbolex mesh lets plenty of air through, so there’s ventilation at any speed, and there’s storage galore on the Sonora, including two chest map pockets. Some may find this to be more jacket than they need for occasional warm-weather forays, but if you’re a serious rider who doesn’t want to rely on the forecast, the Sonora will be a boon. (Also in women’s sizes.)
www.tourmaster.com
What’s nifty: Stout backpad; super versatility
What’s not: Jacket length a compromise.
ICON Hooligan 2 Mil-Spec $195
The Hooligan2 Mil-Spec jacket builds on the standard Hooligan2, with a mesh chassis that’s smooth and tightly woven. The tighter weave made it tougher for small gusts to sneak through under 20 mph, but over 25, airflow was plentiful. This is serious riding gear in its own right, with added ballistic elbow overlays, flex panels, and stout CE elbow and shoulder armor that’s securely positioned. The Mil-Spec treatment includes a bright, color-blocked exterior and reflective paneling, which meets US Military base guidelines for motorcycle upper body garments. The Hooligan 2 has a relaxed fit (and says so on the tag), which meant our size Medium ran a bit large; with the liner out, it was that much roomier. There’s also a stout, removable dual-density foam back pad, and an internal zippered pocket for small items. The removable insulated wind-resistant liner is quilted and way warm (though not waterproof), but it’s also a bear to remove from the jacket. You can get the Hooligan2 in a women’s version as well.
www.rideicon.com
What’s nifty: Can’t miss, eyeball-searing color; good reflectivity; solid armor
What’s not: Baggy fit; non-adjustable cuffs; no arm/waist adjustment
Scorpion Ven-Tech Jacket $170 - $195
Scorpion’s Ven-Tech jacket brings stout construction in the form of poly mesh with ballistic nylon panels, and a similarly tight weave to the Icon. The removable liner is wind-resistant and not what we’d call robust, but the CE-approved armor at the shoulder and elbow has the bonus of being ventilated, and there are ballistic fabric reinforcements over the elbows. Side adjustment tabs tailor the fit, and two hand-warmer pockets are positioned down low, with an internal pocket for trinkets. Like everyone else in this bunch, the Ven-Tech has reflective material on the arms and back, and a handy PE foam backpad. Velcro adjustment tabs help cinch both sleeves down, as well as on the hip. There’s fairly good air flow through the medium weave mesh, with a decent amount even at speeds below 25mph. Scorpion also offers the similarly configured Jewel and Nip Tuck jackets for women.
www.scorpionusa.com
What’s nifty: Nice fit, adjustability, decent airflow
What’s not: Itchy neck; nonadjustable cuffs; bare-bones liner; skimpy backpad