Klim’s Badlands Pro jacket and pants are considered top-of-the-line gear for hardcore adventure riding. But with a price tag of over $1000 for just the jacket, is this investment really worth it for the average rider? And is this the best gore-tex motorcycle jacket for you?
As a long-time motorcycle journalist and riding enthusiast, I decided to put these premium pieces to the test.
Klim Badlands Pro Jacket Review
An In-Depth Look at the Key Features
The Badlands Pro represents the third generation of Klim’s flagship adventure riding jacket and pants. For 2018, they’ve made some significant upgrades while keeping the core DNA intact. Here are some of the key features and technologies:
- Constructed using three-layer Gore-Tex Pro laminate, this is about as good as it gets for guaranteed waterproofing and breathability. Leading the industry in motorcycle-specific waterproof fabrics.
- Superfabric panels on the shoulders provide extreme abrasion resistance in key impact zones. Tiny ceramic plates create a slick surface for sliding in a crash.
- D3O Viper Pro armor is now used in the shoulders, elbows, back, hips, and knees. This “soft armor” is flexible when moving but rigidens on impact to absorb energy. Market-leading impact protection.
- Redesigned collar with soft fleece lining and no snaps for comfort. Shorter stand-up design with a lip to block air infiltration.
- 12 vents, including 2 new back vents, provide tremendous airflow when opened up. Helpful for adapting to warm weather.
- Overall, it reduced weight compared to the previous generation. Lighter-duty outer shell materials are used in non-impact zones.
These features show the meticulous design that goes into premium adventure gear like the Badlands Pro.
The goal is to maximize protection and comfort across a wide range of conditions and riding scenarios. Long-distance travel over varying terrain demands apparel with this degree of versatility.
Putting the Badlands Pro to the Test
To truly evaluate the Klim Badlands Pro Gor-Tex jacket and pants, I needed to use them in real-world riding over an extended period. My testing plan consisted of:
- A multi-day trip through the Pacific Northwest covering 500 miles. Conditions included rain, wind, heat, and elevation changes.
- Riding varied paved roads along with gravel, dirt, and rocky mountain trails.
- Temperatures range from low 60s F (16C) to upper 80s F (31C).
- Focus on comfort, ventilation, waterproofing, and protection. Documenting issues and standout features.
This diverse testing plan would reveal how the Badlands Pro handled the type of unpredictable situations adventure riders experience.
I compared my impressions to other premium adventure gear I’ve tested, like the Rukka Armaxion and the Rev’It Sand 3. Here’s how the Klim performed.
Ventilation and Comfort – Unrestricted Airflow
My biggest concern initially was ventilation since waterproof shells can run hot. However, the Badlands Pro impressed me with its airflow from the start.
Opening up the 12 vents creates unimpeded exhaust out the back and plenty of air circulation across the torso.
The redesigned sleeve vents efficiently direct airflow inside the jacket as well. I stayed comfortable in 80+ F (27C) temps as long as I was moving with the vents open. The removable thermal liner allows you to adjust for colder weather, too.
The shorter collar with fleece lining also proved very comfortable, even when fully zipped. There were no pressure points, and it sealed out wind effectively. Sizing is relaxed enough to layer base layers underneath without restriction.
Bombproof Waterproofing that Actually Breathes
The Pacific Northwest delivered plenty of rain during my test to verify the Klim Badlands Pro Gor-Tex jacket and pants are 100% waterproof.
Not a single leak through the outer shell, even when riding for hours through heavy downpours.
Just as importantly, the Gore-Tex fabric breathes exceptionally well to prevent an internal sauna. As advertised, sweat does escape while rain stays out. Going with the top-tier Gore-Tex Pro 3-layer laminate was the right choice.
I stayed dry inside and out thanks to sealed zippers and taped seams throughout. Standing water is quickly shed off the jacket with a shake.
However, the outer pockets no longer have waterproof zippers, which is a downgrade for storing sensitive items.
Protection You Can Count On
Although I was fortunate not to need to test the crash protection, the Badlands Pro sets the standard for adventure riding impact resistance.
The Superfabric shoulders provide an extra abrasion buffer in a vulnerable zone while remaining flexible and lightweight.
The extensive coverage of the D3O Viper Pro armor at the shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, and back gives me peace of mind against blunt impacts. Low profile and comfortable until you need it.
No matter the terrain, I feel reassured by the extensive safety features built into the Klim Badlands Pro Gor-Tex jacket and pants.
They offer complete coverage tailored specifically for motorcycle riding. I’m confident relying on this gear in the event of a motorcycle crash.
Versatility Across Riding Conditions
With its four-season design, the Badlands Pro offers incredible versatility to adapt to changing riding conditions.
One day, I was riding through rain and 50-degree temperatures. The next, I was hammering dirt trails in 80+ degree heat.
But the Klim jacket and pants kept me comfortable across the range. When cold, the insulation and Gore-Tex shell block wind and water.
Venting opens up to dump heat and let air circulate when temps rise. The pants allow layering thermals when needed, too.
The Badlands Pro truly excels in adventure motorcycle riding across varying terrain and weather. That versatility does come at a cost, but also peace of mind.
Is the Klim Badlands Pro Worth the Investment?
At over $1000 for the jacket alone, the Klim Badlands Pro represents a serious investment for most riders. But does its performance justify the premium pricing? In my opinion, the answer is yes if your riding style aligns with the design.
For hardcore, long-distance, year-round adventure riding, the Badlands Pro delivers elite-level capability.
The Gore-Tex fabric sets the industry standard for waterproof breathables. Extensive venting adapts to the summer heat. Crashes are less painful with top-tier D3O armor.
Factors include construction quality, versatile storage, and tailored ergonomics as well. Everything comes together impressively on the Badlands Pro jacket and pants.
For more casual dual-sport or ADV riding, the high cost is harder to justify. And nonwaterproof designs like the Klim Krios can work well for fair-weather adventure riding.
But for hardcore enthusiasts tackling the toughest environments, the Badlands Pro stands at the peak. Its performance matches its premium pricing.
FAQs About the Badlands Pro Jacket and Pants
Is this a fully waterproof jacket and pant?
Yes, the 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro construction provides guaranteed waterproofing with fully taped seams. Light rain or heavy downpour will bead up and run off, thanks to the DWR treatment.
How durable and protective is the outer material?
Very durable. Abrasion-resistant panels are used in impact zones. The Superfabric shoulders can slide 14x further than leather before wearing through. Everything stands up to rugged terrain.
Is this jacket best suited for summer or winter riding?
With its huge degree of venting and airflow, the Badlands Pro leans toward warmer weather riding. But layering the included thermal liner and mid-layers will extend its comfort into colder temps as well. So excellent 3-season functionality, and winter capable if layered.
How long is the jacket warranty period?
The Badlands Pro jacket (and pants) have a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects. Proof of purchase is required. This matches the “guaranteed for life” waterproof rating of the Gore-Tex outer shell.
Does the jacket run true to size?
Yes, the sizing is accurate. I have a 42″ chest, and the size large jacket shell fits well over a base layer. Not tight or loose. Take into account needing room for layering, though. Klim’s sizing chart can help you find the ideal jacket and pant size.
Is the armor removable?
The D3O Viper Pro armor in the shoulder, elbows, knees, hips, and back can all be removed if desired. This might be helpful for warmer weather riding to improve airflow and range of motion.
The Bottom Line on the Klim Badlands Pro
The Badlands Pro jacket and pants represent the pinnacle of technical, 4-season adventure riding gear. It performs at an elite level across the board but comes with a premium price tag.
For hardcore, long-distance adventure riders who require uncompromising capability, the Badlands Pro is worth the investment.
It’s built to survive the journey and keep you protected in the process. But more casual ADV riders can likely find solid performance and value from less expensive alternatives.
At the end of the day, the optimal jacket and pants come down to matching the gear to your specific riding needs and budget.
The Badlands Pro sets a high bar in adventure motorcycle gear, but it’s overkill for some. Ultimately, choosing gear is about what best enables the adventure riding experience you seek.
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