UPDATE 6/1: SOLD! that was fast. :)
Gotta clean out the closet! I have these Dainese pants that are simply way too big for me now. Check out my eBay Auction here and get a really good deal on one of the best fitting pairs of women's motorcycle pants on the market.
Longtime reader Fiona needs help finding an outfit for an incredible adventure! Lucky Girl. Check out her story and gear story:
Height and Weight: 5'11", 155 lbs
Chest, Waist, Hip Measurements: 36, 30, 39 (over clothing), 32" inseam (need about 33-34" when I get on the bike)
Message:
Hi Joann,
I've read your blog since probably the beginning of my riding career way back in 2007. Thanks for being such a great resource for all these years.
I am getting ready to buy some new mesh gear for a sweet 6-week adventure on my KLR, around the Southwest and on to the East Coast. My problem has always been finding women's gear that is long enough for me, as I'm tall with broad shoulders and a 32" inseam. For years I've dealt with my Fieldsheer gear being a couple of inches too short in the sleeves and pant legs, because if I went up in size to get enough length, the whole kit would be falling off my body.
I want my new gear to fit well, and I'm looking for a light-colored jacket and pant set (but will take any color if something actually fits!). I love the look of the Rev'it Airwave jacket and pants that you've reviewed, but will they be long enough for me? Are there other mesh or textile jackets and pants that us tall girls should consider?
I live in a very remote area of the US, where few retailers even ship, so there's no chance of trying anything on before I order. Although it seems there are manufacturers that make "tall" sizes, I don't see any way to order these online -- do I have to contact the manufacturer directly, or can I place a special order with the retailer?
I'm hoping to minimize the amount of back-and-forth and $ wasted on return shipping as I try to get the best fit. I appreciate any recommendations you can offer; thank you!
Fiona
I think the Revit Airwave jacket in size 38 (above) is a great option for you, I would mostly be concerned with sleeve length, not so much body length. The nice thing about this jacket is the longer torso and arm length.
As far as pants, Airwaves do run a bit long but aren't offered in long sizes. The standard inseam might be too short for you.
If you're open to a multiseason pant, I would actually recommend the Revit Sand Pants in 38 Tall (available in silver). These pants are the newest version of the old Ventura which I found to breathe very very well in hot weather. There are two liners, one waterproof and one thermal; each is removable to really adapt to changing temperatures. The fit on these is tailored, slimmish through the legs but definitely not skinny. There's a vent on each thigh for a little airflow as well.
The armor in these are substantial, CE and EN Rated Tryonic Seesoft. If you have a curvy hip, then order a size 40 Tall instead. If you have fairly straight hips, you will be fine in 38. If you like a tailored, tapered fit, then I would go with these or the Airwaves.
You most definitely do not have to contact the manufacturers to order the tall size in these! They're available at Revzilla. :)
Another option is the Olympia Airglide for a generous, curvy fit through the butt/hips/thighs. These run 3-4 inches long, and are too long for most of us shorties. You will have plenty of inseam on these for sure. They also fit true to women's size (US 6, 8, etc). I would recommend a size 6 since they're curvy and forgiving through the thighs. If you think you need extra room in the thighs/butt/hips then order these instead of the Rev'it above. The legs are also a bit roomier, so if you prefer a more relaxed fit you will love these.
Another Joann needs help with gloves and a leather jacket. Let's see what we can come up with to help her out!
Height and Weight: 5' 5", 175 lbs
Chest, Waist, Hip Measurements: C 41, W 40, H 44
Message:
Hi! In my crazy search for new gear I came across your site and I have been following you on FB. I need a good leather jacket with armor, and I do not want all black, preferably with some white. Price doesn't really matter, I want good stuff for street riding. All of the women's gear stocked in this town is for skinny girls with styling for 20 year olds so I have to buy online. Most of what I like (fairly simple) is not available in my XL, size 14. I love the Revit Zena, but I think it will be big enough for me. From you notes it sounds like Dainese will not fit me either :( I'm looking at the Icon Hella. Do you have any suggestions?
Also, what are your favorite gloves? I have medium sized hands.
I just bought a 2014 Street Triple, cosmic green, in January. My son has the R, but it is just too tall for me to be comfortable and I probably won't ride hard enough to ever really know the difference. My local dealer even lowered it by almost an inch. Love it! Breaking it in has been painfully slow but I only have another 400 miles to go before I can max out on rpms. It's going to be a great summer.
Thank you for all of the information you have up!
Joann
Thanks so much for the follow! Let me see what I can do to assist in your search.
It might be a little difficult but I have a couple ideas. First off, I think you're right about the Xena. The waist may be too small for you. It's certainly worth ordering, since the bust fit will be nice for you. But, I am slightly concerned about the waist size. One thing about Rev'it overall is the sleeve lengths are longer, so I would also be worried that at a 46, it would be too long in the sleeves for you as well. But, I fit into a 38 and I have a 31" waist, which puts me in a very different size. So I would recommend ordering a 46 to try it on.
As far as the Icon Hella goes, I would definitely recommend that as an option for you. Given the size charts, I would probably order XL.
Here are a couple more ideas for you:
I know you want white, but this may fit you better. You can always throw a reflective vest on top for more visibility. You'll probably be a Plus S. This will be a better option for shorter sleeve length. Not versatile for multi season riding, but a good mild weather jacket.
I know what the size chart says, but this jacket fits VERY boxy and straight from shoulders to waist. It flares a bit at the hips so that should also work for you. Remember that the sleeves run a bit long on this one. I have monkey arms, so long sleeves work well for me.
As far as gloves go, these are my current favorites:
Hope this helps!
I am selling my gently used Revit Ignition Women's Jacket. I've had this one for 6 years! But haven't worn it daily for 3-4 years.
My review of the very same jacket is here. It served me well back in San Francisco, as it was the only jacket I wore through all 4 seasons (with a heated liner to get me through winter).
It's a Euro 38 / US 4.
Asking $100 (free shipping included)
If you have any questions about the fit and whether it will work for you please post a comment and I'll reply asap. Or use the contact form and shoot me an email with any questions you may have.
She's still in good shape, the waterproof liner and vest are included. And the liner was replaced a few years back, because it started leaking. I never crashed in it, just a couple small scuffs on the shoulder from being in the closet and normal wear and tear for leather. It's completely broken in, and super comfy. It basically has the newer hydratex membrane. Both in good shape. The shoulder and elbow armor are still inside and you just have to supply your own back protector.
Options for a back protector include:
Thanks for looking!
