KIT: Blackbird ladies Dakota Nubuck Jacket

Kate Chorley has been looking for style and protection. Here’s her thoughts:

I’m not bothered about all-weather textiles or full-on race leathers. I want a jacket that looks good on and off the bike, but still offers plenty of protection. That’s what this Blackbird number does.

It’s made from top-grain cowhide leather which has been buffed/sanded to make it look like suede – and it features CE PU rubber armour in the shoulders and elbows and CE foam armour in the back. Not only are these cleverly disguised without causing any obvious lumps or bumps, but they are also easily removable using the Velcro pockets. That means you could easily switch them out for some more serious armour with no trouble, if you wanted to. The armour sits comfortably in the right places, too, and still allows for a full range of movement.

Over the years I have grown wary of ordering clothes online, frequently discovering that sizes are inconsistent and commonly on the smaller size. However, I was pleased to find the Blackbird jacket true to size, if not a little on the larger side. For ladies with a larger bust like myself, there is still plenty of breathing room (if you know what I mean).

I am highly impressed by the Dakota Nubuck jacket. Blackbird have evidently paid meticulous attention to detail when designing the item and it offers everything you could want from a mid-priced, style-focussed jacket. Its high-quality finish and design makes it feel more like a jacket you would find in a fashion store rather than a practical piece of motorcycle clothing and I propose that it is excellent value for money. And now I’ve applied the recommended waterproof treatment, I’m confident I will be wearing it for years to come.

Kate Chorley / £180 / www.saltflatsclothing.co.uk