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PRODUCT:
Women's Vented Touring Jacket REVIEWER:
Petra Lattmann, VTwin Mama
REVIEW
CONCLUSION: REVIEW
SPECIFICS: I'm 5'10", 185 lbs, and have not worn a fitted jacket since an original purchase back in mid 1980s when I was a few pounds (!) lighter, so I started off by making a judgment mistake on sizing. The XL was a bit short in arm length and tight through my shoulder blades, but the delivery of the XXL brought great joy . . . slipping it on was instant nirvana. Lesson learned: don't jazz on what the size label says . . . look at the sizing chart and go for proper fit! This is a serious jacket for riders seeking protection on the road. The thick cowhide feels substantial and one way I judge this (besides the 1.2-1.4mm specifications) is that I'm glad I have saddlebags to store the jacket when I'm going to be walking around for a while. The fit felt fine right away . . . a bit of elastic in the front . . .
and back panels . . .
and expandable ribbing at the bottom sides, and adjustable Velcro waist adjustment . . .
and the jacket hugged me like a custom fit. The expansion joint at the shoulders means that arm length stays put even when reaching out and there was no tugging through the shoulders. The real proof of fit was on the ride though. No matter how I moved while riding, the jacket stayed snugged up without riding up. That's because there is no bottom band . . . yet no wind went up the jacket because the ribbed bottom (at each side) kept everything properly tensioned.
One comment on the neckline.
I really like a secure neckline as I dislike anything (big bugs) whacking me in the neck and windpipe or wind whistling through when temperatures are chilly . . . but I have to admit that it took me a few tries to figure out how to snap that top band into place . . . the snap is strong and just pushing on it didn't do the job . . . I have to reach inside with one thumb and push with the other . . . but I got the hang of it. Minor learning curve. Although my two test riding days were mid-temperatures (mid 60s rising to the 70s) I did try different combinations of the four zippered body vents (two front, two back) and Thinsulate liner. With the liner in place I was comfortable, but as the temperatures rose, opening vents provided some mild circulation. Removing the liner and opening the vents allowed the inner mesh shell of the jacket to really move some air throughout. And the bottom arms also incorporate a mesh insert when you open the zippers. I like having "cooling" options without sacrificing thick outer leather. I'll also note that I was able to add a sweatshirt layer to my normal T-shirt (and silk underwear layer if necessary) with no problems as the side Velcro adjusters accommodated this thicker personal layering. This impressed me! The outer pockets aren't real deep, but two deep inner pockets (one snap, one zip) to secure important items worked just fine. So, how did I feel in terms of style? Let's face it . . . good looking, feminine-styled riding gear is as much a part of the enjoyment of riding as the ride itself! Despite my love of fringe (during my Harley riding days), I felt the clean lines of this jacket more fully embodied the style of my BMW . . . I'm feeling very continental . . . and loving it! Fox Creek Leather also included very specific return and exchange policy instructions (I like having things spelled out) as well as a leather care guide. The company's products come with a Lifetime Guarantee and covered repairs can be arranged locally or back at headquarters. If there's a fit issue, a toll-free number allows you to call in and discuss your needs. If you haven't looked at Fox Creek Leather, definitely consider an online visit! Jackets, chaps, vests, gloves . . . and a company that cares about your experience with them.
Friday, January 5 In response to VTwin Mama's review of a Fox Creek Leather jacket: Saw your review on the Fox Creek jacket -- just wanted to chime in and tell everyone that I own two pair of gloves that I wouldn't trade for anything!! I have the Women's deerskin, fleece lined gauntlets that work in 45 up to 70 degree weather. They are undoubtedly the most comfortable gloves I've ever owned (run a little small!). I also ordered a larger size in the men's line of the same type of glove to wear with a glove liner for the "under 40 degree" weather. Shipping is super fast and I have been VERY pleased with their stuff. P.S. That jacket looks AWESOME on you!! – Denise Porterfield (note from Mama: I think so too! I'm glad to hear that your experience with Fox Creek Leather has been wonderful . . . I've got a pair of the regular women's deerskin gauntlets from FCL that I've sent to Nanci Rogers of Ace High Leathers in CA to get a bumblebee bling design to match my Bumblebee BMW R1200C. I'll be reviewing both the gloves and Nanci's work when those come back! One note about FCL gloves . . . they indicate in their return policy that if gloves you ordered didn't fit, return them with a tracing of your hand, fingers spread apart, and they'll get it right for you! You can do that even before hand if you want to work on correct fit right off the bat!)Just wanted to say you look great in the new jacket. What a perfect fit on you! The smile shows how much you love it. Lookin' good, – Debby (note from Mama: thanks! I think the flexibility of the gentle elastic, ribbing, and side adjustment do a nice job of "customizing" the fit . . . and you don't have to be a "skinny mini" to look great! Ok, maybe we already understand that last point, but finding the right fit for different body shapes can be a challenge sometimes!) |
