PAGE 93
SPRING 2019 ISSUE 01 / VOL . 04
graded on a curve
PRODUCT REVIEWS
PHOTO BY KEVIN WING
Fly Racing Airraid Jacket
WITH SUMMER JUST AROUND THE CORNER , many of us are gearing up for longer days and warmer temperatures , conditions that are ideal for motorcycling . Leave the heavy jackets and gloves in the closet , forget about the heated grips and lower the windscreen , it ’ s time to ride !
Even when the mercury rises and humidity becomes stifling , we need to wear appropriate gear , which means an abrasion-resistant , armored jacket , pants and gloves , sturdy boots and a full-face or modular helmet . With today ’ s lightweight , technical materials and reasonably priced motorcycle apparel , there ’ s really no excuse for riding around in a T-shirt , regular jeans and tennis shoes . If you haven ’ t worn mesh riding gear , you ’ ll be surprised at how comfortable it can be on even the hottest days , and it protects your skin from not only road rash but also the ravages of wind and sun , which can cause dehydration and sunburn .
For maximum airflow , Fly Racing ’ s Airraid Jacket uses abrasion-resistant mesh with diamond-shaped perforations on the chest , back and panels along the upper arm . For high-impact areas and added strength , the Airraid uses abrasion-resistant nylon for the collar , yoke , shoulders , forearms and sides of the torso . Inside the jacket are CE Level 1 armor on the shoulders and elbows , perforated foam chest pads , a perforated foam back pad ( which can be upgraded to CE Level 1 for $ 24.95 ), an athletic mesh lining and a removable HydraGuard breathable , waterproof liner .
The Airraid has a waist-length sport cut with an