The release of REAX’s new flagship Kelly Leather Jacket recently caught our eye with its classic café racer styling and premium details.
In this in-depth review, we’ll break down everything potential buyers need to know about the REAX Kelly jacket.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best leather motorcycle jacket for you? Does this new leather riding jacket deliver on form, function, and value to justify its price tag?
Let’s hit the road to find out.
REAX Kelly Jacket Review
Overview of the REAX Kelly Leather Jacket
The REAX Kelly jacket is a premium leather motorcycle jacket with a classic cafe racer aesthetic. It combines stylish looks with functionality and protection. Here are the key features of this new leather riding jacket:
- Jacket Type: Leather motorcycle jacket
- Brand: REAX
- Colors: Black
- Material: Genuine leather
- Lining: Polyester
- Collar: Snap button collar
- Closure: Asymmetrical zipper and snap buttons
- Pockets: Two waist zipper pockets, two inner pockets
- Sleeves: Long sleeves with zippered cuffs
- Armor: SAS-TEC CE level 2 elbow and shoulder armor
- Fit: Slim tapered fit
With its clean, minimalist lines and black leather construction, the REAX Kelly jacket delivers classic biker style. But beyond aesthetics, how does this new leather jacket perform for motorcycle riding? Let’s take a closer look at the features and real-world performance.
Detailed Breakdown of the REAX Kelly Leather Jacket
Premium Leather Construction
The REAX Kelly is constructed from 0.8-1mm genuine leather that delivers durability along with supple comfort.
The leather has an aniline dye that gives it a slightly distressed, broken-in look right out of the box. The leather quality provides abrasion resistance and features reinforced impact zones with quilted accents.
Protection That Goes the Distance
For impact protection, the REAX Kelly jacket is equipped with CE Level 2-rated SAS-TEC armor in the elbows and shoulders.
This armor carries CE certification, meaning it meets stringent European standards for motorcycle safety gear. The armor coverage extends down the sleeves for full protection.
Versatile Fit
The Kelly leather jacket uses an ergonomic “American tapered” fit. It allows room through the shoulders and chest while tapering to the waist.
Integrated stretch side gussets aid flexibility. The tailored fit contours the body without binding. For smaller riders, sizing down is recommended. An adjustable waist lets you dial in the perfect fit.
Airflow Where You Need It
Strategically placed perforations provide airflow to help manage heat buildup. Perforations are located on the front chest panel, upper back panel, and along the inner arms. For warm-weather riding, the ventilation could be improved with more perforations.
Ride-Ready Features
The REAX Kelly contains several rider-focused features. The snap-away collar keeps things neat, while the zippered sleeve cuffs prevent air infiltration.
Convenient waterproof internal pocket protects devices. For night visibility, reflective accents on the waist and sleeves boost visibility.
Classic Styling
From the angled front zipper and snap collar to the buckled waist tabs, the REAX Kelly jacket nails the quintessential cafe racer look.
For riders who value timeless styling, it delivers on looks without appearing overdone. Clean lines and minimal branding keep the aesthetics versatile.
Now that we’ve covered the key features and technologies of the REAX Kelly leather jacket let’s see how it stacks up for real-world motorcycle use.
REAX Kelly Leather Jacket: On the Road Evaluation
To test the REAX Kelly jacket, I wore it on rides through the winding backroads and highways near my home.
Temperatures ranged from 50-65°F during testing. Here’s my hands-on evaluation after putting miles on this new leather jacket:
Supple Feel
The leather has a smooth, naked feel. It lacks any roughness or break-in time. The jacket feels like a natural second skin from the first wear. The sleeve armor stays put and unobtrusive.
All-Day Comfort
The tailored fit prevents flapping at speed yet doesn’t constrict movement. This makes the REAX Kelly a versatile jacket for sport riding or cruising. For my 5′ 10″ 170 lb frame, a size medium was ideal.
Wind and Water Resistance
With the cuffs and collar secured, cold drafts stay out. The leather construction also repels light rain. The waterproof interior pocket kept my smartphone dry.
Protection That Inspires Confidence
The included CE armor offers peace of mind that injuries will be minimized in the event of a crash. The coverage down the sleeves is a welcome detail.
Styling That Turns Heads
From the cafe racer silhouette to the angular zipper, the REAX Kelly jacket looks like it costs twice the price. I received compliments on the fit and design wherever I stopped.
Overall, the REAX Kelly leather jacket exceeded my expectations with its combination of protection, comfort, and style.
While added ventilation would improve hot weather performance, this jacket handles spring through fall riding with ease. The premium details punch far above its moderate price tag.
REAX Kelly Leather Jacket Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stylish, classic cafe racer design
- Premium leather feels broken-in
- CE-rated armor provides ample impact protection
- Full-sleeve armor coverage
- Waterproof interior pocket
- Slim tailored fit isn’t restrictive
- Asymmetrical zipper is a unique touch
- Reflective accents boost visibility
Cons
- Perforation is limited for hot weather riding
- Sizing runs small; order up if between sizes
- No back protector included
REAX Kelly Leather Jacket Sizing and Fit
The REAX Kelly leather jacket runs smaller than typical jackets. For reference:
- I’m 5’10” 170 lbs with a 38″ chest, and I usually wear a size Medium. For the REAX Kelly, I fit best in a Medium.
So, if you fall between sizes, consider sizing up. The jacket is designed to fit snugly in a cafe racer style without restricting movement. Stretch side gussets aid flexibility.
Available sizes range from XXS to 3XL. The size chart on RevZilla will help you select your ideal size.
Who is the REAX Kelly Leather Jacket Designed for?
The REAX Kelly targets riders looking for a fashionable leather jacket with a slim, tailored fit. It suits café racers and modern classic motorcycles best. The jacket works well for:
- Standard, sport, and naked bikes
- Temperatures from 50-85°F
- Short rides or all-day excursions
- Riders with an athletic to slim build
- Those who value protection with panache
For colder weather riding, layering a hoodie or mid-layer is recommended. Premium sport bike riders may desire a racier fit with more dedicated airflow. But for all-around leather jacket appeal, the Kelly delivers.
REAX Kelly Leather Jacket Competitors
| Jacket | Protection | Fit | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| REAX Kelly | CE level 2 elbow & shoulder armor | Slim tapered | Cafe racer |
| Alpinestars Missile V2 | Alpinestars CE certified shoulder & elbow armor | Athletic fit | Sporty racer |
| Belstaff Trialmaster Pro | Removable D3O protectors in shoulders & elbows | Relaxed fit | Heritage trial |
| Dainese Racing 4 | Composite protectors on shoulders, elbows & back | Aggressive race fit | Track-focused sportbike |
| Roland Sands Ronin | D3O Viper Pro armor in shoulders & elbows | Athletic fit | Clean cafe styling |
The REAX Kelly strikes an appealing balance between price, protection, and everyday wearability. At $250, it is one of the most affordable options with included CE-rated armor.
The slim, tapered fit suits a variety of bikes without being too race-oriented. Styling is versatile for street riding and subtle enough for a broad appeal.
Compared to sport-focused options like the Alpinestars Missile or Dainese Racing jackets, the REAX provides ample armor coverage in a more relaxed and comfortable fit.
For riders who value heritage looks, the Belstaff Trialmaster costs over twice as much while offering similar levels of protection.
Overall, the REAX Kelly punches above its price point, delivering ample safety and versatility at a reasonable cost.
Frequently Asked Questions about the REAX Kelly Leather Jacket
Does the REAX Kelly jacket include CE-rated armor?
Yes, the jacket is equipped with SAS-TEC CE Level 2 elbow and shoulder armor. This European certification means the armor meets stringent impact standards for motorcycle protective apparel.
Is the REAX Kelly jacket true to size?
The Kelly jacket runs smaller than average. If you fall between standard jacket sizes, it is recommended to size up, especially if you plan to layer underneath.
Does REAX make matching leather pants?
Not currently, but REAX does offer textile riding pants to complement the Kelly leather jacket’s style.
Is the REAX Kelly a good choice for summer riding?
The jacket can work in warm weather but is optimal for temperatures 50-85°F. Additional perforations would enhance ventilation during summer. Wearing a lightweight base layer is recommended when riding in hot climates.
Conclusion: Who Should Buy the REAX Kelly Leather Jacket
For riders seeking a fashionable leather motorcycle jacket without breaking the bank, the REAX Kelly hits the mark.
With premium construction and materials, it punches above its $250 price point. The cafe racer styling looks far more expensive than it is.
While not a four-season riding jacket, the REAX Kelly delivers versatile performance and protection for three seasons of the year. It’s pairing of form and function makes it a leather jacket that riders will enjoy for years to come.
So, if you ride a standard, naked, or retro-style bike and value gear that looks as good as it performs, the REAX Kelly deserves a spot on your shortlist.
With its supple feel, tailored fit, and armored coverage, it provides the perfect blend of safety and sophistication.
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