I dropped by the DStore in San Francisco today and tried on a few waterproof jackets to get ready for the wet and cold weather coming upon us. I don't mind riding to work with a light rain but would really like to arrive dry and in style! Whether you're riding a motorcycle or scooter, these will keep you warm and dry, as they're all waterproof. So here are the 3 jackets I tried on. If you've never tried on a Dainese jacket, it's a lot like putting on a cashmere sweater for the first time, or climbing into a brand new Mercedes convertible. Everything feels good and looks good. And of course, has the protection and features you need while riding.
'D-Dry' refers to Dainese's waterproofing technology. Some of these use D-Dry and some use GORE-TEX®, so that's mainly why you'll see the difference in price points.
Xantum D-Dry
MSRP $299.99 I don't know why this is not on the Dainese website. Although Revzilla doesn't have it on their website, if you give them a call, they can probably special order it for you. They can probably beat KneeDraggers' pricing as well.
Don't be fooled by the color of this jacket. It makes it look far different than it does in person. The all black version is much simpler and neater. It also comes in a dark grey accented version where the blue is on this one. The fit is amazing. It's not too short, not too long. I have such a short torso, I have a hard time finding jackets that fit exactly where I want them. It has a removable, full sleeve thermal liner and is waterproof in the shell. If you look at Image 6 on KneeDragger's website, you'll also notice what appears to be a dark grey seam across the back of the jacket from armpit to armpit. This is actually a reflective seam. You'll also notice on the cuffs what appears to be a 'W' shaped stitch. It's a funky little detail that makes it stand out a little bit. I am so sad that Scuderia only has a size 40, (which is too small for me) in stock. I look forward to trying on a 42 again when these come in. I just hope it comes in before the next storm hits!
Darma GORE-TEX®
More Pics on Dainese.com
Although Revzilla doesn't have it on their website, if you give them a call, they can probably special order it for you. They can probably beat KneeDraggers' pricing as well.
MSRP $499.99
The Darma is a brand new edition for 2010. The fit is a little different than the Xantum. It's 3/4 length, with a longer torso and slightly longer arms. It's also a touch narrower through the waist. I also thought I felt a little bit narrower in the shoulders as well. I really really loved how this fit, without the liner. The thermal liner does have Unfortunately the cut is just too narrow for my wide torso. :( I really liked the clean style of this one too. Not bulky, fitted and cut close to the body. It doesn't really look like a riding jacket, imo. Although Dainese's website shows this jacket in Sand, it currently is only available in Black. I highly recommend this one for the long and narrow ladies.
Steven D-Dry
MSRP $399.99
The cut on the Steven feels a little looser in the arms, shoulders and chest than the Darma and the Xantum. It's also a pretty clean style, but the fit just wasn't as perfectly fitted on me like the Xantum was. But it's definitely another great choice in the Dainese lineup.
