RST Brooklyn womens motorcycle jacket review

RST Brooklyn womens motorcycle jacket | £119.99 | www.rst-moto.com/ 01773 864420 | Tested by Helen Milbank

While John (husband and editor of MoreBikes) is out on a bike almost every day, my trips as a pillion tend to be far less frequent. I’ve been riding around in begged, borrowed and (ahem) stolen kit for the past decade, but to really enjoy a ride you need to be in good-fitting, decent quality gear.

The RST Brooklyn jacket is well designed and great value, offering a removable lining, reflective panels, good quality zips and a waterproof, breathable membrane. I haven’t had to endure any really heavy soakings, but so far I’ve had no problems with the rain getting in. Of course, I’m generally nicely tucked behind John, so I leave him to take the brunt of the elements.

At the price, it’s understandable that there’s no back protector included, but there is a pocket for one, and the elbows and shoulders come with removable CE-approved armour. I’m quite short in the arm, but once I’ve tightened the cuffs the elbow protection falls into place nicely.

There are zipped vents built into the shoulders and back, and three (rather small) zipped pockets on the outside, with one inside (or two with the lining in).

The elasticated waist offers a great fit with plenty of Velcro adjustment, along with zips at the hips and poppers on the arms. The collar has a nice soft feel to it, but I’d have preferred the ability to tweak how tight it is – a single popper means it’s either open or closed.

At the price, this is a wonderful bit of kit, and suits our trips perfectly. Combined with the £89.99 Brooklyn trousers, it an excellent value way to get protected.

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