Tested by: Justin
Miles Used: 1,000+
Price: $179.95
A nice jacket will net you numerous compliments but no coat in my closet has evoked as much positive praise as this one. People really dig it, and at a recent bike night one guy's words of praise stood out from the rest. "Dude, if I wore jackets I'd definitely rock that."
In awe of his carefree attitude toward gear I asked him if he'd ever biffed it on a BMX bike as a kid. He replied, "Oh yeah. I got road rash for days and it hurt like hell."
I promptly asked him if hitting the pavement at 20 mph on a BMX bike hurt that bad, what about 80 mph on a motorcycle? After a brief pause he answered much in the same way others have, "Never thought of it that way. I suppose you're right. I better get a jacket."
Soapbox aside, this Speed and Strength coat proves that a great jacket doesn't have to cost a fortune. Among other useful features, it sports a removable thermal vest for the chilly rides and offers arm and shoulder vents for steamy days. Protection from the thick textile construction is good and the soft armor in the arms, shoulders and back are must-haves in a tip-over.
I've worn this jacket for over 1,000 miles in everything from freezing to boiling temps and it's been a versatile partner. Whether I'm back-road bombing or commuting to work I've found this jacket to be one of my faves.
Though gripes are minimal, I do wish it had larger rear vents. I'm being truly picky here since the ventilation is far better than other jackets in this price range, but the intake vents work so well I wish the exhaust could keep up.
For the money this thing is killin' it. If you're looking for a dope jacket that's top rate in construction, gets fashion praise across the board and is safe as a tank...then here's your Weapon.
Contact: www.ssgear.com