Alpinestars Stella Bogota Drystar Jacket Review
This year, I tested out the new Alpinestars Stella Bogota jacket and was thoroughly impressed with its capabilities as a 3-4 season touring jacket built specifically for female riders.
In this review, I’ll share my first-hand experience using this jacket over the past several months of riding.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the Kings Motorcycle Gear - best women’s motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Alpinestars Stella Bogota Drystar Jacket
Key Takeaways
- Total weather protection
- Feature-packed design
- Versatile riding jacket
An Adventure-Ready Design
The Stella Bogota stands out for its rugged and durable 600D polyester outer shell construction. It’s designed to withstand the elements while touring on the open road across varying climates.
Alpinestars didn’t cut any corners with the Bogota – it’s made to perform and protect in true all-weather conditions.
Some key features I like:
- Removable 100g thermal liner and fully removable Drystar waterproof and breathable liner to adapt to warm or cold weather
- Direct ventilation with 2 chest vents and exhaust ports on the back to prevent overheating
- YKK waterproof zippers throughout, including a two-way front zipper for riding comfort
- Snug high collar with soft material to prevent chafing
- Velcro and snap collar adjusters to customize fit
- Pre-curved sleeves with Velcro adjusters for a personalized fit
- 600D abrasion resistance material on the outer shell
- Reflective accents for visibility
With the thermal and Drystar liners removed, the Bogota jacket truly excels in hot summer weather thanks to the direct ventilation.
The adjustable vents create airflow exactly where I need it. Then, when cooler temps hit in fall and winter, I can zip the liners back in for warmth and waterproofing. This versatility is a must for multi-climate touring.
Safety First
Safety is crucial when riding a motorcycle. The Bogota jacket delivers plenty of protection without compromising comfort and mobility.
Key safety features include:
- Removable CE-approved Bio Armor in the shoulders and elbows
- Alpinestars’ proprietary elbow and shoulder Microlock softer stretch panels for flexibility
- Hip adjustment system to ensure proper jacket positioning
- Reflective details and logos for visibility
- Extra-long back length for coverage while riding
The Bio Armor padding provides serious impact protection while remaining pliable and comfortable. It absorbs shock impressively well compared to basic foam pads. Other brands sometimes sacrifice safety to cut costs, but that’s not the case with the Bogota.
Optimized for Female Riders
As a female rider, it’s difficult to find versatile leather jackets designed specifically for a woman’s proportions. Many brands take a men’s jacket and scale it down without considering the differences in our body shapes. Alpinestars created the Stella collection specifically tailored for women.
The Bogota jacket offers a relaxed touring fit with lots of built-in adjustability. I’m 5’3″ and usually fall between women’s sizes, medium and large for jackets.
I got a custom fit in the medium Bogota with all the Velcro straps and adjustable waist. It sits comfortably snugly in the right areas without bunching or tight spots.
Packed With Convenience Features
From the inside out, it’s clear the Stella Bogota was thoughtfully engineered with useful features to make riding easier:
- Two external hand pockets for quick access while riding
- Interior waterproof Napoleon pocket for phone or valuables
- Soft microfleece lining around the collar to prevent irritation
- Fold-down collar snaps for versatility
- Zippered back expansion panel and waist adjusters for fit
- Rabbit pouch inside to stow removed liners
- Pockets and loops for armor insertion/removal
I especially appreciate the rabbit pouch when I’m swapping liners on the go. I can stow them securely in the jacket itself instead of packing them into my saddlebags.
The Napoleon chest pocket keeps my smartphone protected from the elements while still within reach. All the convenience features add up to improve the overall riding experience.
Sizing Chart
| ALPHA SIZE | CHEST (IN) | BUST (IN) | WAIST (IN) | HIPS (IN) | ARM (IN) | HEIGHT (IN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 29.1-31.5 | 30.7-33.1 | 22.8-25.2 | 32.3-34.6 | 19.7-20.7 | 61.8-64 |
| SM | 31.5-33.9 | 33.1-35.4 | 25.2-27.6 | 37 | 21.7-21.9 | 64-66.1 |
| MD | 33.9-35.4 | 35.4-37 | 27.6-29.1 | 37-38.6 | 21.9-22.6 | 66.3-67.7 |
| LG | 35.4-37.2 | 37-38.8 | 29.1-30.9 | 38.6-40.4 | 22.8-23.4 | 67.9-69.5 |
| XL | 37.2-39 | 38.8-40.6 | 30.9-32.7 | 40.4-42.1 | 23.6-24.2 | 69.5-71.1 |
| 2XL | 39-40.9 | 40.6-42.5 | 32.7-34.6 | 42.1-44.1 | 24.2-24.6 | 71.1-71.9 |
| 3XL | 40.9-42.9 | 42.5-44.5 | 34.6-36.6 | 44.1-46.1 | 24.8-25.2 | 71.9-72.8 |
| 4XL | 42.9-44.9 | 44.5-46.5 | 36.6-38.6 | 46.1-48 | 25.2-25.6 | 73-74 |
My Experience Hitting the Road
Over the past few months, I’ve logged thousands of miles riding with the Stella Bogota jacket. I’ve worn it on weekend joyrides through the mountain twisties near my home in Colorado through the summer heat to high-altitude fall cold.
I took it on a multi-state touring trip through the Pacific Northwest, battling rainy springtime weather. Most recently, I relied on it to block winter winds during a teeth-chattering ride through the Rockies.
The jacket kept me comfortable across all these diverse conditions. Whether I was riding my Yamaha bolt in light drizzle, my V Star 250 on a hot summer day, or my Indian Scout through below-freezing temps, the Bogota had me covered.
Here’s a bit more on my experience using it in various weather:
Spring showers – During a fully drenched Pacific Northwest ride, the Drystar liner and taped seams kept me bone dry even in heavy rain and wind. No water seeped through. I wore a fleece layer underneath for warmth since the temps were around 60F.
Summer heat
I expected to roast on 95F+ sunny rides in Colorado with all vents open. Surprisingly, the direct airflow helped release heat and humidity when moving at speed. The jacket felt light once I removed the liners, and never stuck to my skin.
Fall temps
The mornings started out chilly, dropping into the 40s, but warmed up by the afternoon. I often started rides with the thermal liner on, then stopped to stow it in the rabbit pouch once heated up. The vents helped manage my body temperature throughout the varying temps.
Winter cold
My heated liner added critical warmth, but the Drystar shell blocked brutal cold winds up to 45mph. Even when the temperatures dipped below freezing, my core stayed insulated. No issues with snow or icy moisture seeping in either.
No matter the weather, I felt equipped to handle it while riding with the Bogota. I’m glad I invested in this thoughtfully engineered jacket.
Final Verdict on the Alpinestars Stella Bogota
After extensive testing across thousands of miles and ever-changing weather, the Bogota proved it’s up for the challenge as a 3-4 season adventure touring jacket.
I’m thrilled to have a single jacket that excels in hot, cold, wet, and dry conditions. It just works – and it works well.
The Stella Bogota is my top pick for female riders seeking a versatile all-weather jacket for all-around performance, protection, convenience, and comfort. I give it 5 stars for enabling me to ride more freely through it all.
Pros:
- Bomber protection with CE armor
- Breathable direct ventilation
- Dialed fit for women
- Removable Drystar and thermal liners
- Useful convenience features
- Stylish, rugged look
Cons:
- No back protector included
- High collar may not be ideal for all riders
- Only one color option
Whether you ride a sportbike, cruiser, dual sport, or tourer, the Alpinestars Stella Bogota jacket will have your back – rain or shine. It quickly became my go-to riding companion, ready for any adventure. Check it out and get out there!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bogota have a waterproof phone pocket?
Yes, an interior Napoleon pocket on the left side is waterproof to protect your phone. It’s conveniently located high on the chest for quick access.
What kind of armor does it have?
It’s equipped with Alpinestars Bio Armor in the shoulders and elbows, which is a CE-certified visco-elastic polymer pad. This advanced armor is highly protective while remaining flexible and comfortable.
How does the sizing run?
The Bogota runs true to size but has several adjustments to get the ideal custom fit. I’m 5’3″ 135 lbs, and a medium fits me great, but you may want to size up or down depending on your height and proportions.
Is the thermal lining removable?
The 100g thermal liner jacket is removable by unzipping it from the Drystar layer. This allows you to easily adapt to warmer weather and store the liner when not needed.
Can you wear a back protector with it?
The back protector isn’t included, but the Bogota is compatible with Alpinestars Nucleon back inserts. You can upgrade the protection by purchasing a CE level 1 or 2 Nucleon hydration insert.
Does it work well in hot weather?
Thanks to the direct vents along the front chest, upper arms, and back exhaust ports, the Bogota remains surprisingly cool in hot temps with the liners removed. Airflow moves through the jacket nicely once you start moving.
Would it be good for the winter months?
With the thermal liner and Drystar waterproof layer installed, the Bogota provides reliable warmth down to freezing temps. Pair it with heated gear underneath, and you can comfortably extend the riding season into winter.
Bottom Line
The Alpinestars Stella Bogota jacket stands out as one of the most versatile 3-4 season options for all-weather touring. Take it if you demand performance through a range of conditions! Ride on.
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