The Joe Rocket Cleo Elite Women’s Jacket has been making waves in the motorcycle gear industry, and for good reason.
This Jacket promises to deliver on all these fronts, but does it live up to the hype? In this Joe Rocket Cleo Elite review, we’ll dive into the features and performance of this popular jacket to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your riding needs.
But the main question I will answer in this review is: Is this the best women’s motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Joe Rocket Cleo Elite
Key Takeaways
- Extensive mesh for airflow
- Protective armor and panels
- Great value for the features
Final Verdict: Ideal Summer Upgrade for Women Riders
After thoroughly testing the Joe Rocket Cleo Elite jacket, I can confidently recommend it to someone looking for maximum airflow and cooling comfort during warmer months. This jacket exceeds expectations with the following:
- Extensive mesh ventilation makes a real difference on hot days
- Abrasion-resistant textile and CE armor in crucial areas
- Removable weather liners for light rain or dropping temps
- A comfortable, tailored fit with multiple adjustment options
- Reflective details and vivid color options for visibility
- Comparable quality to premium brands at a lower cost
While not meant for cold or wet conditions, the Cleo Elite performs admirably as a lightweight 3-season jacket.
It nails the perfect summertime balance for women riders looking for breathability and protection. Considering its smart safety features and cooling comfort, this Joe Rocket jacket proves a worthy investment for warmer-weather motorcycling.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. In my opinion, the benefit is from more storage options.
While it has pockets, I wished for a few more compartments for small items.
Additionally, some riders might find the fit a bit snug, so I’d recommend trying it on or carefully checking the sizing chart before purchasing.
Our data shows that prices for motorcycle gear can fluctuate, and special offers are often available from Revzilla.com.
I’d strongly recommend checking out their best prices before buying elsewhere. It’s worth noting that Revzilla won’t be beaten on price with their price match guarantee, so you can shop with confidence.
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Who Is It For?
The Joe Rocket Cleo Elite is designed for female riders who demand both style and protection on the road. This versatile jacket caters to a range of riding styles and preferences:
Commuters and City Riders
The Cleo Elite is an excellent choice for women who commute or ride in urban environments. Its streamlined design and lightweight construction make it easy to wear on and off the bike.
- Reflective Details: It features reflective details on the front, back, and sleeves to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, making it ideal for early morning or evening commutes.
- Adjustable Fit: The Cleo Elite’s adjustable waist and cuffs allow riders to achieve a snug, comfortable fit that won’t interfere with their range of motion while navigating city traffic.
Touring and Adventure Riders
Women who enjoy longer rides and adventure touring will appreciate the Cleo Elite’s comfort and versatility. It features cater to the needs of riders who spend extended time in the saddle.
- Ventilation System: The ventilation system, with strategically placed vents on the chest and back, allows for optimal airflow to keep riders cool and comfortable on long rides.
- Removable Liner: The Cleo Elite’s removable thermal liner provides insulation for cooler temperatures, making it suitable for multi-season use and varying climates.
Sport and Performance Riders
The Cleo Elite is also a strong choice for women who enjoy sport riding and demand high-performance gear. The technical features and protective elements cater to the needs of more aggressive riders.
- CE-Approved Armor: It comes equipped with CE-approved armor in the shoulders and elbows, providing critical impact protection in key areas.
- Abrasion-Resistant Materials: The Cleo Elite’s outer shell is constructed from abrasion-resistant materials that can withstand the demands of spirited riding and potential slides.
Ultimately, it is a versatile and stylish option for any female rider who values both protection and comfort.
Whether you’re commuting to work, embarking on a multi-day tour, or carving through twisties, this jacket has the features and performance to meet your needs.
| Comparison to Similar Jackets |
|---|
| Model | Features |
|---|---|
| Rev’it Levante 2 H2O | Waterproof Hydratex outer shell, removable thermal liner, Seeflex CE armor |
| Olympia Eve 2 | Waterproof, windproof, and breathable shell, full sleeve thermal liner, CE armor |
| Klim Marrakesh | Durable Armacor fabric, waterproof and breathable, D3O armor |
| Joe Rocket Velocity | Waterproof Rock Tex shell, variable-flow ventilation, removable liner |
| Waterproof Rock Tex shell, variable-flow ventilation, removable liner | Waterproof Rock Tex shell, variableFlow ventilation, removable liner |
Why She Tested the Joe Rocket Cleo Elite
My wife’s old jacket had served her well, but the solid leather construction left her sweltering in the summer heat.
She wanted a jacket with maximum ventilation to keep her comfortable on long rides in warm weather. However, she wasn’t willing to sacrifice safety and impact protection.
It still needed abrasion-resistant material in crucial areas as well as armor for the shoulders and elbows.
After comparing several mesh and textile jackets designed specifically for women, she decided that the Joe Rocket Cleo Elite was the best option.
With extensive mesh panels for airflow, strategic abrasion-resistant textile, and CE-approved armor, it offers an ideal balance of cooling comfort and protection.
An Overview of the Joe Rocket Cleo Elite
Key Features:
- Extensive mesh panels for maximum airflow
- Abrasion-resistant Dynax textile in high-impact areas
- CE-approved shoulder and elbow armor
- Removable wind- and waterproof full-sleeve liner
- 360° reflective piping for visibility
- 6 adjustment buckles and elastic pulls for a custom fit
- Napoleon chest pocket and interior key pocket
Joe Rocket Cleo Elite Airflow
Going into this review, my main question was: Does it really keep you cooler on hot days? I’m happy to report that the mesh panels make a significant difference compared to traditional leather.
Within minutes of hitting the road on a 75°F day, she could feel the rushing air circulating through the interior.
Vents along the sleeves, chest, and back allowed excellent airflow. While mesh can’t compete with riding in just a t-shirt, this is much more cooling than any non-perforated jacket.
Beyond just ventilation, the Cleo Elite proved to be extremely comfortable thanks to the following:
- Stretch panels at the shoulders and waist for flexibility
- A soft collar that doesn’t irritate the neck
- Adjustable buckles and elastic pulls to customize the fit
- Strategically placed armor that doesn’t restrict movement
She liked the design touches, such as the inner Napoleon chest pocket for valuables and the conveniently located key pocket.
She is 5’10” and 170 lbs with an athletic build. Even adjusted smaller for her frame, the medium size provided a great fit with room to layer a hoodie. It remained comfortable in a variety of riding positions.
Based on my experience, it should accommodate a wide range of body types while offering a flattering tailored shape for women.
Joe Rocket Cleo Elite Protection
Riding gear does no good if it can’t hold up in a slide. That’s why she carefully evaluated how the Cleo Elite balances cooling airflow with crucial protective features.
It includes CE-approved armor at the elbows and shoulders, which are the most likely impact points in an accident.
I confirmed that the armor plates fit snugly and allow a full range of motion. While a CE-rated back protector would improve protection (the Cleo Elite’s back pad is foam only), the armor covers the essential areas.
Additionally, Joe Rocket armored this jacket with abrasion-resistant Dynax textile at the upper back, sides, elbows, and forearms.
This reinforced material and triple-stitching at stress points provide abrasion protection without compromising airflow.
For visibility, reflective piping wraps all the way around the jacket, while reflective shoulder panels help identify the rider’s silhouette. This high-visibility design boosts safety when riding at night.
Overall, Joe Rocket managed to provide vital impact protection that gives me peace of mind despite the cooling mesh construction. The safety features don’t detract from comfort and flexibility either.
Joe Rocket Cleo Elite Weather Protection
While mesh jackets excel in warm conditions, they’re vulnerable in rain or colder weather. That’s why the Cleo Elite includes a wind- and waterproof inner liner plus an insulating vest liner.
On a breezy 65°F evening, she rode with the windproof liner zipped in. It kept airflow to a minimum and blocked wind chill surprisingly well. The liner’s inner mesh layer prevented it from sticking to her base layer.
When she tried the insulating vest, it added noticeable warmth without bulk. It seems lightweight, but the vest’s thin construction clearly retains heat.
With both liners installed, it felt ready for 50°F weather or light rain. You’d need to layer a thick hoodie or heated jacket underneath for heavy rain or colder rides. However, the liners expand the Cleo Elite’s 3-season versatility.
Stashing the liners did prove challenging on my sports bike. They’re too bulky to fit in the jacket’s pockets but can be tightly rolled or bundled into a saddlebag. They’re great to have along for commuting or touring use, just in case.
Joe Rocket Cleo Elite Sizing and Fit
To ensure the perfect fit, take accurate measurements of your bust, waist, and hips before purchasing, as the fit is not guaranteed to be perfect. Here are some tips to help you measure correctly:
- Bust measurement: Measure the fullest part of your bust.
- Waist measurement: Measure your natural waistline.
- Hip measurement: Measure the widest part of your hips below the waist.
- Keep the tape parallel to the ground for accurate measurements.
You can choose the correct size and ensure a better fit by measuring these areas.
Remember, its fit may vary, so considering the sizing information provided by the manufacturer is important.
| IZE | BUST (IN) | WAIST (IN) | HIPS (IN) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 31 | 24-25 | 35-36 |
| SM | 33-34 | 26-27 | 37-38 |
| MD | 35-36 | 28-29 | 39-40 |
| LG | 37-39 | 30-31 | 41-42 |
| XL | 40-42 | 32-34 | 43-44 |
| 1 Diva | 42-44 | 34-36 | 44-45 |
| 2 Diva | 45-48 | 37-39 | 46-49 |
Value for Money
With an MSRP of $200, the Cleo Elite delivers features and quality that match this moderate price point.
The extensive mesh and streamlined, feminine fit provide enough improvements over my wife’s old jacket to make this a worthwhile upgrade.
The Cleo Elite costs significantly less than premium mesh jackets from brands like REV’IT!, Alpinestars, and Dainese.
Yet it includes comparable venting and protection. The waterproof liner and multiple fit adjustments add even more value.
The Cleo Elite hits a sweet spot of comfort, safety, and affordability for riders looking for a versatile, lightweight jacket suitable for warm weather.
Considering Joe Rocket’s reputation for durable construction, it should also last for multiple seasons of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it fit women of all sizes?
Yes, the Cleo Elite comes in sizes from XSmall through 2X and includes extensive adjustment options to customize the fit. It’s designed to flatter a woman’s shape while accommodating a wide range of builds.
Is it fully waterproof?
The outer shell is water-resistant but not fully waterproof since it contains breathable mesh panels. However, the included rain liner blocks wind and water when zipped in, so you can ride in light rain. For heavy rain, you’d need a separate rain suit.
Does the armor restrict movement?
Joe Rocket designed the armor to allow natural flexibility without bunching or binding. The stretch panels further prevent any limitations in motion.
How does the sizing compare to other brands?
Joe Rocket jackets tend to run true to size. If you already know your size in Icon, Roland Sands Design, or other moto brands, the Cleo Elite should fit comparably. Refer to the size chart for specific measurements.
Is it safe for highway/freeway riding?
The Cleo Elite provides adequate abrasion resistance and impact protection for highway speeds. The armor and reinforced panels guard vulnerable areas in a crash while the reflective details improve visibility.
Comparison Table: Joe Rocket Cleo Elite vs. Competition
| Model | Armor | Waterproof Liner | Fit | Airflow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Rocket Cleo Elite | Shoulders/Elbows | Yes | Women’s cut | Max |
| Alpinestars Valparaiso 2 | Shoulders/Elbows/Back | Yes | Unisex | Moderate |
| Dainese Lady Air | Shoulders/Elbows | No | Women’s cut | Max |
| REV’IT! Sand 3 | Shoulders/Elbows | Yes | Women’s cut | High |
Potential Wear Points
This Jacket is built to withstand the rigors of the road, but like any gear, it has potential wear points that riders should be aware of:
High-Friction Areas
The high-friction areas, such as the elbows, shoulders, and lower back, are prone to abrasion and wear over time. These areas experience the most contact with the motorcycle and the road in the event of a slide.
- Reinforced Elbows and Shoulders: The Cleo Elite features reinforced elbows and shoulders with CE-approved armor to provide extra protection and durability in these high-wear areas.
- Lower Back Panel: The lower back panel is designed to resist abrasion from contact with the motorcycle seat, but it may show signs of wear after extended use.
Zippers and Closures
Zippers and closures are another potential wear point on the Cleo Elite jacket. Repeated use and exposure to the elements can cause these components to degrade over time.
- YKK Zippers: It features high-quality YKK zippers for the main closure and pockets, which are known for their durability and smooth operation. However, regular use can cause the zipper teeth to wear down or the slider to malfunction.
- Snap Closures: The snap closures on the collar and cuffs may lose their holding power over time, especially if they’re frequently exposed to moisture or dirt.
Seams and Stitching
The seams and stitching on the Cleo Elite jacket are potential wear points, particularly in high-stress areas like the shoulders and sleeves.
- Reinforced Seams: It features reinforced seams in critical areas to prevent splitting and ensure the integrity of the garment. However, these seams may still show signs of wear after extended use.
- Neoprene Cuffs: The neoprene cuffs on the sleeves are designed to provide a comfortable, snug fit, but they may stretch out or fray over time.
By being aware of these potential wear points, riders can take steps to minimize wear and tear on their Jacket.
Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and timely repairs can help extend the life of the jacket and ensure it continues to provide optimal protection and performance on the road.
The Right Summer Mesh Jacket Boosts Comfort and Safety
The Joe Rocket Cleo Elite strikes an ideal balance of cooling airflow and protective features for summer riding. While mesh jackets require some weather compromises, they can make sweltering rides much more enjoyable.
The abundant airflow, tailored fit, and safety details checked all the boxes she was looking for in warm-weather gear.
After logging miles in the Cleo Elite this past summer, my wife is thrilled to finally ride in comfort without baking alive.
For women looking for a versatile mesh moto jacket, the Joe Rocket Cleo Elite deserves strong consideration. Ride protected, ride cool, and ride in style.
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