Alpinestars GP Plus R v3 Airflow Jacket
If you’ve ever gotten caught riding in sweltering heat wearing a motorcycle jacket not designed for airflow, you know how miserable that can be.
Alpinestars tackled this issue head-on with their GP Plus R V3 Airflow jacket. Made with premium leather and strategic perforations, this jacket provides crucial cooling without sacrificing protection.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the Kings Motorcycle Gear - best leather motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Alpinestars GP Plus R v3 Airflow
Key Takeaways
- Versatile comfort
- Premium protection
- Strategic perforations
After researching the top options for ventilated motorcycle jackets, the Alpinestars GP Plus R V3 Airflow kept rising to the top of my list.
Alpinestars is known for making high-quality riding gear, so I decided to give it a try. In this review, I’ll share my experiences with this jacket after putting it through extensive testing in hot weather.
Key Features of the Alpinestars GP Plus R V3 Airflow Jacket
- Premium 1.3mm bovine leather construction
- Localized perforations for improved ventilation
- High Resistant Stretch Fabric (HRSF) strategically positioned for comfort
- Included Nucleon Flex Plus CE Level 1 armor on shoulder and elbow
- Pockets for optional Nucleon KR-Ci chest and back protectors (sold separately)
- Accordion leather stretch panels on the back and shoulder
- HRSF polyamide stretch material on sleeves for an optimized fit and mobility
- Waist adjustment
- Low profile collar with soft edging and 3D mesh liner
- Two zippered hand pockets and two inner pockets
- Inner waterproof document pocket
- Strategically positioned perforations for maximum airflow
- Reflective inserts
- Meets CE Category II PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 – AA class for protective riding garments
Maximizing Airflow Without Sacrificing Protection
One of the key things I looked for in a ventilated jacket was meaningful airflow made possible through strategic perforations and vent panels.
The Alpinestars GP Plus R V3 Airflow delivers on this front with perforations placed along the front torso, back, and upper arms.
These perforations and stretch fabric panels provide constant airflow while riding. I immediately noticed a difference in cooling compared to my old jacket on the first ride.
The aeration noticeably improved my comfort in the heat without taking away from the jacket’s durability and resilience.
Despite being designed for airflow, the GP Plus R V3 Airflow still uses 1.3mm thick premium bovine leather across main sections.
This ensures abrasion resistance remains intact for important protection. The jacket also includes integrated CE Level 1 armor for impact absorption in the elbow and shoulder regions.
Finding the right balance between ventilation and safety was crucial for me, and this Alpinestars jacket provided the ideal combination. I felt cooler while maintaining confidence in its protective qualities.
Versatile Protection Across Riding Styles
Another key factor I considered when choosing a summer riding jacket was versatility. I ride a sportbike but still wanted gear that could work just as well for standard riding positions.
The Alpinestars GP Plus R V3 Airflow provides flexibility in this regard. Its enhanced stretch panels and accordion leather backing let it easily adapt to different riding positions.
The jacket moves fluidly whether you’re in a tucked sportbike stance or a more upright standard riding posture.
This versatility extends to styling as well. The GP Plus R V3 Airflow has a sleek, modern design that looks great whether you’re riding a sportbike or a cruiser.
I’ve received compliments on how stylish it looks off the bike too. For me, versatility was crucial, and this jacket delivered impressively.
Impressive Quality and Comfort
Considering its premium price, I expected high quality and comfort from this jacket, and it did not disappoint.
The 1.3mm bovine leather, with excellent abrasion resistance, feels thick and substantial. High-stress areas are reinforced for added resilience.
The jacket broke in quickly, and the perforated leather and stretch fabric panels provide a great feel and mobility.
Extensive stretch fabric lining also enhances comfort levels. The collar has soft edging that prevents chafing, and the low-profile 3D mesh liner improves breathability.
For convenience, the GP Plus R V3 Airflow includes a pair of zippered exterior pockets and interior stash pockets.
One interior pocket is even waterproof for sensitive items like your smartphone. All of the zippers function smoothly too.
Comfort-wise, this jacket enabled me to tackle multi-hour rides in intense heat while avoiding the usual fatigue and soreness. That’s crucial for staying safe and focused on long summer rides.
Airflow Worth the Investment
At around the $500 price point, the Alpinestars GP Plus R V3 Airflow sits at the premium end for a Kings Motorcycle Gear - leather motorcycle jacket.
However, the ventilation and airflow performance justifies the price for riders who log serious miles in hot conditions.
The jacket’s cooling abilities significantly outmatch lower-cost alternatives. Factor in the protective features, quality construction, storage, and versatility, and the value becomes clear. This is a jacket built to last across many riding seasons, not a disposable budget option.
Choosing the right gear is essential for riders in warmer climates or those looking to expand their seasonal riding.
The Alpinestars GP Plus R V3 Airflow proves itself as an excellent 3-season jacket for spring through fall riding. If you want airflow without compromising on protection and resilience, it’s a fantastic choice.
My Thoughts
Overall, I’m very impressed with this jacket’s airflow and comfort. The strategic perforations and vent panels make a noticeable difference in cooling compared to non-vented leather jackets I’ve worn. It keeps me from overheating even when stuck in traffic on 95-degree days.
Despite the airflow design, the jacket still uses premium, durable leather with included armor for impact protection. The stretch panels also allowed me flexibility when moving around on my bike.
For me, the Alpinestars GP Plus R v3 Airflow jacket hits the sweet spot of ventilation and protection. The snug fit took some getting used to but now feels comfortable. While it runs pricey, I’m glad I invested in it for hot weather riding comfort and safety.
If you want a well-ventilated leather jacket, I definitely recommend checking out the GP Plus R v3 Airflow. Just be sure to measure carefully and consider sizing up.
Key Considerations Before Buying
As with any motorcycle gear purchase, there are a few key considerations I’d recommend before choosing the Alpinestars GP Plus R V3 Airflow:
- This jacket is designed for warm-weather riding. The perforations and venting features make it unsuitable for colder temps.
- Be sure to check the sizing chart and guides. The jacket is cut to hug the body tightly. Take accurate measurements.
- I recommend upgrading to Level 2 elbow and shoulder armor to maximize protection. Alpinestars Nucleon Flex Pro armor fits the jacket perfectly.
- Adding the optional Alpinestars Nucleon back protector helps safeguard your spine from impacts.
- The jacket is not waterproof and lacks a thermal liner, so layer accordingly based on the weather.
- The sporty styling and graphics aren’t ideal for a subtle or understated look. Go with the black colorway if that’s a concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the sizing of the GP Plus R V3 Airflow jacket compare to other Alpinestars jackets?
A: The sizing is very consistent with Alpinestars’ other current leather jackets. Refer to the official size chart, and you’ll be fine. Just don’t size up.
Q: Is the perforated leather as protective as standard non-perforated leather?
A: Yes, the leather itself provides the same abrasion protection. Only the perforation patterns differ, but they don’t affect safety.
Q: Does this jacket come with a waterproof liner for riding in the rain?
A: Unfortunately, it does not. You’ll need to layer waterproof liners or rain gear separately. But it does have a waterproof internal pocket.
Q: What kind of armor does the jacket include by default?
A: It comes with Alpinestars Nucleon Flex Plus CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor installed. Back and chest armor must be purchased separately.
Q: Can I wear this jacket on a race track?
A: It is not designed for track riding. Look at Alpinestars racing jackets like the Missile V2 Pro for track protection.
The Verdict: A Must-Have Summer Riding Jacket
For riders seeking a well-ventilated leather motorcycle jacket, the Alpinestars GP Plus R V3 Airflow should be at the top of your list.
It provides crucial airflow where it’s needed most while retaining excellent abrasion resistance and impact protection. The jacket combines the best of both worlds.
After logging hundreds of miles in hot conditions with this jacket, I’m convinced it’s one of the finest options around for warm-weather riding. The comfort it provides in sweltering temps allows you to be at your best on long rides.
So if you’re looking for a jacket that can handle the heat, Alpinestars GP Plus R V3 Airflow is a fantastic investment for summer riding seasons ahead. Just be sure to grab the right fit, armor, and base layers to maximize its potential.
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