Klim Enduro S4 Jacket Review: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

I recently had the chance to test out Klim’s new Enduro S4 jacket. As an adventure rider who likes to explore off-road trails as much as winding mountain highways, I was excited to see how these new waterproof jacket layers would hold up to variable riding conditions.

In this Klim Enduro S4 Jacket review, I’ll share my experiences testing Klim’s claims of waterproofness, ventilation, and adaptability across multiple rides and weather conditions. You’ll get the unfiltered truth on how these layers really perform on and off the bike.

But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best waterproof motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!

Overview of Key Features

Before jumping into the testing details, here’s a quick rundown of the Enduro S4’s key features:

• Schuler 4-way stretch waterproof fabric – This is the first time Klim has used a fully waterproof material other than Gore-Tex, opting for greater flexibility and movement.
• Five vents – Two dual-zippered vents under each arm, one back vent, and two pass-through hand pockets provide airflow.
• Adjustable hood and hem – The stowable hood and pinchable waist allow you to seal out moisture and air.
• Reflective accents – Scotchlite reflective piping enhances visibility in low light.
• Abrasion-resistant inner legs – Durable material prevents melting on the hot exhaust.

Now let’s get into the fun part – taking these jackets out on real-world rides!

Testing the Enduro S4 in Various Conditions

To thoroughly evaluate the Enduro S4’s versatility and performance, I used it across three distinct types of rides:

High-Exertion Off-Road Adventure Ride

My first outing was an intense all-day adventure ride through tight wooded trails, rocky passes, and muddy terrain. This was a tough test of the Enduro S4’s breathability and flexibility while preventing water and abrasions.

Right away, I appreciated the unrestricted mobility of the Schuler 4-way stretch material. Unlike a stiff Gore-Tex jacket, it moved freely with my body through rigorous off-road maneuvers.

The jacket and pants both featured long dual-zippered vents that I could tailor to match my output. Opening the armpit and back vents prevented overheating when I was riding hard without letting in moisture.

The Enduro S4 passed the waterproof test with flying colors. Despite hours of light drizzle and splashback from mud holes, my base layers stayed bone dry.

Standing water beaded right off the jacket, while the stowable hood and pinchable waist sealed out mist and sprayed when needed. This confidence-inspiring outer layer enabled me to push my limits in poor conditions.

After catching a branch and taking a tip-over into the mud, I was also glad for the abrasion-resistant inner legs, which emerged unscathed. Overall, the Enduro S4 proved it could stand up to extreme off-road riding while keeping me cool and dry.

Cold Weather Highway Cruising

For my next test, I wanted to see how the Enduro S4 performed in cold weather highway riding. For this, I wore it over my insulating mid-layers without any underneath – essentially using it as a standalone cold-weather riding jacket.

Initial impressions were very positive. The Enduro S4 cut the wind extremely well, even at 65+ mph speeds.

It wasn’t bulky or stiff like some hardshell either. I never felt restricted swinging my head to check blind spots or shoulder-checking lane changes.

The hand warmer pockets were generously sized with soft, warm interiors. Slipping my hands in quickly took the edge off the chill.

One downside was that the dual-zippered underarm vents let in cold air since there was no inner liner, but fortunately, they were easy to snap shut quickly.

My core stayed warm for about 2 hours at highway speeds of around 60F. Eventually, the cold started to creep in through the jacket fabric.

I’d recommend layering the Enduro S4 over insulating mid-layers for hardcore cold-weather riding. But overall, it performed admirably as a standalone jacket.

Cool and Wet Urban Commuting

For my final test, I wanted to try out the Enduro S4 for everyday city commuting in cool, wet weather. I wore it over my work clothes and headed out on the highway at rush hour before winding my way downtown.

Right off the bat, the Enduro S4’s waterproofing exceeded expectations. I encountered everything from drizzle and downpours to spray from passing trucks but arrived at the office completely dry underneath. The longer cut kept road spray from creeping up inside the jacket.

With office attire underneath, I also appreciated the pit zips for venting. Since I wasn’t generating too much heat in dense traffic, having the option to open up airflow prevented sweating. The stowable hood also came in handy when I had to dash into the office from the parking garage.

After wearing it for several commutes, the Enduro S4 has become my go-to jacket layer when the weather is unstable.

It packs easily into my work bag, keeps me dry biking downtown, and still looks professional enough for the office.

Key Takeaways from Testing

• Superior waterproofing – Whether pounding through mud or fending off urban downpours, the Enduro S4 provides dependable wet weather protection.
• Venting flexibility – Dual zippered pit vents and a back exhaust port allow airflow adjustment across conditions.
• Unrestricted mobility – The 4-way stretch fabric moves easily in rugged off-road riding.
• Packable and lightweight – It stows down small and adds minimal bulk for everyday carry.
• Durable and abrasion-resistant – Tough inner leg material withstands scrapes and heat.
• Windproof and insulating – Cut the cold effectively across multiple rides and temps.

How Does the Enduro S4 Compare?

The Enduro S4 occupies a nice niche between heavy hardshell layers and a lightweight emergency jacket. Here’s how it stacks up to some other options I’ve tested:

• Vs. Hardshells – More breathable and flexible with solid waterproofing. Hardshells are warmer and more windproof, though.
• Vs. Emergency jacket – Heavier and less packable but far superior wet weather protection and abrasion resistance.
• Vs. Textile Jackets – Not as windproof or insulating, but lighter, more packable, and rugged.

So, while not the warmest or most hardcore jacket out there, the Enduro S4 hits a nice sweet spot if you want a highly waterproof layer for variable conditions that maintains off-road mobility.

Final Verdict on the Enduro S4

After hundreds of miles of testing the Enduro S4 jacket, I can confidently say Klim has a real winner here.

This jacket combo fills a great niche for ADV and dual sport riders needing customizable weather protection without sacrificing ventilation or freedom of movement.

The Enduro S4 is now my go-to outer layer when the conditions are unpredictable. I know it will keep me dry in the fiercest weather while breathing well during high-exertion rides. Yet it remains light and packable enough for everyday carry.

For adventure and dual sport riders looking for a versatile, durable, and high-performing jacket you can rely on in almost any riding conditions, the Enduro S4 jacket and pants deliver. I’ll keep these handy for all my future adventures!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Enduro S4 work well over armor?

Yes, it is designed to layer comfortably over armor and base layers without restricting movement or ventilation. The pit zips and loose cut accommodate most types of riding protection.

How does the sizing run?

It runs true to size. I wore my normal jacket size, and it fit well layered over a medium Baja S4 suit. Consider sizing up for layering over bulky armor if you’re in between sizes.

Is the Enduro S4 fully taped and seam-sealed?

It features waterproof seam taping throughout to prevent moisture seepage along the stitching. No need to apply aftermarket sealants.

Can you ride with the pit zips open in the rain?

I don’t recommend it for heavy rain. Light mist or spray is fine, but open vents will eventually let water soak through in sustained wet conditions.

How many colors does the Enduro S4 come in?

It’s only available in black, but more color options may be added in future seasons based on demand.

Conclusion

My extensive testing proved the Enduro S4 can tackle almost any riding conditions while remaining comfortable and flexible.

This purpose-built jacket layer provides the waterproofing and abrasion resistance you need without sacrificing mobility or ventilation.

Whether you’re looking for extra weather protection bombing down trails, insulation on cold highway hauls, or a stylish commuting jacket, the Enduro S4 jacket and pants rise to the occasion.

I highly recommend this setup for any dual sport or adventure rider facing unpredictable weather out on the road or trail.

Now get out there and enjoy the ride, no matter what the forecast throws your way! The Enduro S4 has you covered.

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