If you’re looking for a versatile, affordable 3-season adventure touring jacket, the Alpinestars Andes v3 jacket deserves your attention.
I recently had the opportunity to test out this jacket to see how it performs in real-world riding conditions.
In this detailed review, I’ll provide an overview of the Andes v3 jacket’s features, discuss its protection and comfort, highlight the pros and cons, and ultimately help you decide if it’s right for your needs and budget.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best adventure motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Alpinestars Andes v3 Drystar Jacket
Alpinestars Andes v3 Jacket Overview
The Alpinestars Andes v3 jacket is intended for three-season riding use. It features a waterproof and breathable Drystar membrane bonded to the chassis for 100% waterproof performance in wet weather.
The jacket also introduces Alpinestars’ newly developed Direct Ventilation System (DVS) comprised of zippered chest air intakes and back exhaust ports for high airflow when opened.
Removable Nucleon Flex Plus elbow and shoulder protectors are included for impact protection. The jacket has compartments to fit Nucleon chest and back protectors as optional upgrades for even more protection.
Other key features:
- Reinforced polymer-printed texturing on elbows and forearms for abrasion resistance
- Reflective details for visibility
- Upper chest storage pockets
- Waterproof cargo pockets
- Large external utility pocket on back
- Integrated soft-edge collar
- 3D mesh construction for comfort
- Removable long-sleeve thermal liner (100g torso, 80g sleeves)
- Pre-curved sleeves with stretch panels
- Waist adjustment belt for a customized fit
- Adjustment cord on the jacket’s bottom hem
With a budget-friendly price point of around $280, the Andes v3 looks to deliver a lot of value for riders seeking a well-rounded, protective touring jacket. Let’s take a closer look at how it performs.
Rider Protection and Safety
The Andes v3 jacket is CE certified as a Class A protective garment according to the EN 17092 standard. This represents the lowest level of rider protection, though it still provides a meaningful level of safety.
The main chassis uses a durable 450 denier polyester construction, with reinforced overlays using 600 denier polyester on the shoulders and elbows. This adds abrasion resistance in key impact zones. The elbows also get an extra polymer-coated overlay on top of the standard reinforcement for even more durability.
For body armor, Nucleon Flex Plus pads are included for the elbows and shoulders. This CE Level 1 armor provides great flexibility and comfort while still offering proven impact absorption. As an upgrade, I’d suggest Nucleon Flex Pro pads for Level 2 protection without sacrificing comfort.
The jacket has a pocket to fit an Alpinestars Nucleon back protector. Adding one of these CE Level 2 inserts is highly recommended for full back coverage. You can also take advantage of the built-in chest protector pockets by adding Nucleon Flex Pro chest pads for even more protection.
With the recommended armor upgrades, the Andes v3 can provide a safety level on par with much more expensive touring jackets.
Other protective features include:
- Minimized structural seams enhance burst resistance
- No vulnerable vertical back seam
- Tapered, pre-curved sleeves aid retention and coverage
- Comprehensive reflective details for visibility
Overall, the Andes v3 provides excellent safety for the price point. With the suggested armor upgrades, it’s very capable as a protective touring jacket.
Weather Protection
The Alpinestars Drystar membrane bonded to the Andes v3 jacket provides 100% waterproofing. I rode for over an hour in a heavy downpour and remained completely dry. The waterproofing performs as advertised.
For insulation, the jacket includes a removable thermal quilted liner. The liner features 100g insulation in the torso and 80g in the sleeves to retain warmth while maintaining flexibility. I found the liner surprisingly cozy and was comfortable without a heated layer down to about 45°F.
Venting is admittedly limited, with direct chest intake vents and rear exhaust vents providing minimal airflow. The non-removable Drystar liner also inhibits breathability. I overheated around 95°F and above.
Considering its design for cold and wet weather riding, the Andes v3 delivers excellent insulation and waterproofing, given the affordable price point. Just don’t expect great venting performance in very hot temps.
Comfort and Convenience
The Andes v3 has a smooth, pre-contoured chassis with stretch fabric at the back, shoulders, outer elbows, and wrist cuffs. This provides great freedom of movement without binding or restriction.
The collar features a neoprene perimeter and 3D air mesh backing for a comfortable, non-irritating fit. I found it stayed in place well when riding hard on a sportbike.
Storage options are plentiful, with ample exterior pockets plus a waterproof inner wallet pocket. The back pocket can hold the jacket’s liner when removed.
Customizing the fit is easy by using the waist belt, forearm straps, and wrist cuffs. The straps stay securely fastened and don’t require constant re-adjustment.
Overall, the Andes v3 delivers outstanding long-distance comfort and convenience for the price. The chassis dexterity and storage options match jackets costing significantly more.
Quality and Value
Alpinestars managed to incorporate quality traits of premium jackets into the budget-friendly Andes v3:
- Durable construction with minimal, safety-oriented structural seams
- Heavy-duty waterproof zippers function smoothly
- Reinforced fabric in high abrasion zones
- Articulated stretch panels aid movement
- Straps and adjustable tabs stay securely fastened
- Easy to remove insulation liner
- Very lightweight and packable
The jacket showed no signs of loose stitching, frayed fabric, or dye transfer after repeated 30+ minute rides. Construction quality exceeds similarly priced competitors.
At around $300, the Andes v3 provides outstanding value. The protective features and weather protection rival jackets double the cost. Thoroughly impressed with the quality and performance at this price point.
My thoughts Of the Andes v3 Jacket
As a skinny 6-foot tall rider weighing 170 pounds, I ordered a size large Alpinestars Andes v3 jacket. The fit is on the smaller side but still good for my frame. I really like the numerous storage pockets and features this jacket offers.
After a multi-day 1500-mile trip, I got caught in heavy rain for 300 miles but managed to stayed warm and dry thanks to this jacket.
This jacket provides better-than-expected protection. While I was on my trip, I crashed wearing just the included armor and only broke my humerus bone, escaping with minimal road rash.
The jacket also seems versatile, providing warmth into the 30s Fahrenheit with base layers, yet not overheating up to around 80 degrees when fully vented.
My overall impressions are very positive for the value and quality at this price point. Just be sure to size up, and it should perform reliably in its intended cool and wet weather riding niche.
Pricing, Sizing, and Availability
The Andes v3 jacket retails at around $300, but you can often find sales bringing it down to the $200 range. It’s available in sizes ranging from Small up to 6XL, so you can get an ideal fit.
There are five color options for men, along with a women’s specific Andes v3 jacket offered as well. Leaning toward the smaller side of the sizing chart, ordering one size up for the best fit if you’re in between sizes.
Check RevZilla and Amazon for the latest discounts and promos on the Andes v3 jacket for maximum savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Andes v3 jacket have a removable waterproof liner?
A: No, the waterproof Drystar membrane is bonded to the inside and not removable. This improves waterproofing but reduces breathability.
Q: How does the sizing of the Andes v3 jacket compare to other Alpinestars jackets?
A: The Andes v3 runs slightly small. Sizing up one full size is recommended, especially if between sizes or adding protective armor.
Q: Is the Andes v3 jacket safe for highway and high-speed riding?
A: Yes, with its durable construction, armor upgrades, and retention system, it provides good highway protection. But it’s only rated Class A, not Class AA.
Q: Does the Andes v3 work for short rides in hot summer weather?
A: It can handle brief rides up to about 90°F when vented properly, but the lack of airflow will cause overheating in hot temps for longer periods.
Q: What is the best Alpinestars back protector to fit the Andes v3?
A: The Nucleon KR-Ci Protector provides great CE Level 2 protection while retaining comfort and flexibility.
Conclusion
For riders looking for a versatile, affordable 3-season touring jacket, the Alpinestars Andes v3 is an exceptional value. It provides ample protection and weather resistance for the price.
Upgrading to Level 2 armor transforms the Andes v3 into a highly protective cold-weather touring jacket at a fraction of the cost of premium offerings. With the suggested upgrades, it can tackle long-distance trips and aggressive sport riding alike.
Venting performance is the only notable limitation due to the non-removable waterproof liner. But the Andes v3 has you covered while keeping your wallet happy for wet and cold conditions.
Overall, the Andes v3 delivers outstanding quality and versatility for under $300. It’s an excellent choice as a budget-friendly protective touring and commuting jacket.
Previous Article: Alpinestars Gp Plus R V3 Airflow Motorcycle Jacket Review
Next Article: Alpinestars Luc V2 Air Motorcycle Jacket Review