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Riding Jacket

A jacket is worn at all times whilst riding. This is one of the primary pieces of protection and incorporates armour in the shoulders, elbows and back. The fabric is tough and abrasion resistant. Other important criteria is comfort in terms of breathability/warmth and practicality in terms of pockets and waterproofing.

The jacket of choice was the Hein Gericke Tourag Rally Gore-Tex. This is a 2-3 year old model as the current models are not as good. They are either too warm or have the Gore-Tex membrane built into the main jacket. Gore-Tex is excellent for breathable waterproofing, however will only efficiently transfer moisture to the outside if it is cooler outside than it is inside the jacket. In many of the countries to be visited, this will not be the case.

The chosen jacket has many pockets (including some waterproof pockets), good abrasion resistance, unzippable venting at the chest and on the arms and back as well as a pocket to put a hydration bladder in to. There is a waterproof Gore-Tex lining that is only worn when it is raining or very cold. Otherwise, it is stored in a stuff-sac in the panniers.

14,000 mile update: This really is one of the best jackets for the job. The venting ensures that whatever the temperature, I am kept relatively cool. As you might expect, when I am not moving, it becomes very warm, but given the option, I would choose it again. Jim rides with the BMW jacket and finds that too hot to wear in India. I have sent home the Goretex lining as it is too hot and bulky as luggage. When it rains, I now either just get wet (as the wind and heat dry it out pretty quickly) or, I use my Goretex Berghaus jacket in heavier rain.

Front

Back (with hydration pocket at the bottom)

Venting zip on the chest (hydration mouthpiece also on chest)

Venting zip on the sleeve

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