When Alpinestars released the new SMX Air jacket, I was intrigued by its technical mesh fabric construction and extensive venting.
I wanted to test it out myself to see if it could deliver on the key things I look for in a warm-weather riding jacket. Over the three weeks of testing, I evaluated the SMX Air on design, protection, comfort, and value.
In this review, I will share my experiences with the construction quality, protection capabilities, comfort, convenience features, and more.
You’ll get an insider’s look at how this jacket performed in real-world conditions. I’ll also discuss expert opinions from across the industry and provide details on availability and pricing.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best mesh motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Alpinestars Smx Air Jacket
Lightweight Construction Maximizes Airflow
One of the standout features of the new SMX Air is the lightweight polyester mesh chassis developed by Alpinestars.
The material features large, open ventilation panels across the chest and back to allow significant airflow to the core of the rider’s body.
I found these ventilated mesh sections to be extremely effective at keeping me cool, even during 100-degree summer riding sessions.
The lightweight feel of the SMX Air jacket was noticeable right away. With the windproof liner removed, it weighs in at just 1.3kg in a size large.
The mesh fabric is stretchy and flexible, allowing for a slim, athletic fit that didn’t hinder my movement on the bike. Strategic stretch inserts have been placed along the sides of the torso and upper back panel for additional comfort.
Sizing and Fit
Ensure a perfect fit for your next ride by accurately measuring your chest, waist, arm, and height, as these measurements are crucial for selecting the right size of the Alpinestars SMX Air Jacket.
To assist you in finding the perfect fit, refer to the table below, which provides the measurement ranges for each size category.
Alpinestars Men’s Textile Jacket Sizing
| Size | Chest (cm) | Height (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Size SM | Chest (cm) 89-94.5 | Height (cm) 169-174 |
| Size MD | Chest (cm) 94.5-100 | Height (cm) 175-179 |
| Size LG | Chest (cm) 100-105.5 | Height (cm) 180-184 |
| Size XL | Chest (cm) 105.5-111 | Height (cm) 185-189 |
By measuring yourself according to the instructions provided, you can ensure that the Alpinestars SMX Air Jacket will fit you comfortably and provide optimal protection.
Remember, a proper fit is essential for both internal and external protection. So, take the time to measure yourself accurately and confidently to select the right size for your next ride.
Removable Windproof Liner for Versatility
One of the things that impressed me most about the Alpinestars SMX Air jacket was the removable windproof liner.
This liner allows you to essentially have a 2-in-1 jacket system, adapting the SMX Air for colder early morning or late evening rides.
The windproof liner is constructed from a polyamide fabric with a waffle pattern thermal inner lining for warmth. When zipped into the jacket, it adds great wind and water resistance.
I found it provided plenty of extra insulation for those times when the temperature dropped.
It could quickly be removed and stowed in the integrated stuff sack when no longer needed. This versatility gives the SMX Air an advantage over mesh jackets lacking a liner option.
Protective Features: Armor and Airbag Compatibility
Safety is crucial for any motorcycle jacket, and hot weather options like the SMX Air still need to provide adequate impact protection.
The SMX Air includes integrated CE Level 1 armor in the elbows and shoulders made from Alpinestars’ advanced Nucleon Flex Plus material. This armor is soft and flexible but offers impressive impact absorption.
Additional padding is provided in the form of Alpinestars’ DFS Lite shoulder protectors located externally. This adds an extra layer of protection without restricting movement.
The SMX Air jacket is also pre-fitted for a Nucleon back protector that can be purchased separately.
One of the most advanced safety features is the jacket’s compatibility with Alpinestars’ Tech-Air airbag system.
With the airbag installed, you get extra protection across the shoulders, chest, and back. The fact that the SMX Air is airbag compatible gives it a safety advantage over most other mesh jackets.
Sporty Design Includes Convenient Storage
In terms of the overall design, the SMX Air has many great features tailored for performance riding. The jacket has a curved, pre-shaped sleeve construction designed to optimize fit in the riding position. Long zippered cuffs allow you to fine-tune the sleeve taper.
A short mandarin-style collar lined in soft neoprene keeps the jacket from irritating the neck. The collar is secured with a hook and loop closure.
For convenience, Alpinestars included several external and internal storage pockets. A waterproof inner pocket keeps valuables like your smartphone protected. These pockets are very useful for carrying small items during rides.
Finally, the SMX Air excels when it comes to adjustability. A Velcro waist system and TPR pull tabs at the hem make it easy to achieve a customized, secure fit. There’s also a connection zipper to attach Alpinestars riding pants.
Impressive Technical Specifications
Digging deeper into the technical construction of the SMX Air reveals an impressive list of features that make this jacket suitable for performance riding. Some key technical specifications include:
- 450D poly-fabric reinforcement in abrasion zones
- Fully CE-certified to Class A standards
- Pre-curved, ergonomic sleeve design
- Waist adjusters and TPR pull tabs at the hem
- Waterproof inner storage compartment
- Compatible with Nucleon back protector insert
The combination of lightweight, vented mesh with reinforced Polyfabric in high-stress areas gives the SMX Air an optimal cooling airflow and abrasion resistance blend.
Meeting rigorous CE Class A standards for impact protection also instills confidence in the jacket’s safety capabilities.
My Personal Experience
Overall, I’m quite impressed with this jacket’s build quality and construction – it looks great and has all the features I want in a summer riding jacket. The ventilation is decent, although I could use a bit more airflow through the chest area.
My main issue is with the sizing. I have an average athletic build, but when I wear the size that fits the arm length and waist properly, the upper body is extremely tight around the chest, shoulders, and biceps.
If I size up to fit the upper body, the waist becomes huge, and the arm length is too long with the elbow pads in the wrong spot.
Availability and Pricing
The Alpinestars SMX Air jacket first became available in February 2023. It’s offered in sizes ranging from S-4XL to fit a wide variety of riders. You can choose from several bold color combinations, including black, gray, red, blue, and fluo yellow.
Keep an eye out for sales events – I was able to get mine for $250 from Revzilla during a holiday promo. Considering the technical features and construction quality, this jacket offers strong value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Alpinestars SMX Air jacket best suited for?
With its combination of ventilation, protection, and versatility, the SMX Air jacket is ideal for warm-weather street riding and track days. It’s designed to keep you cool without sacrificing safety.
Does it come equipped with CE-rated armor?
Yes, CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor is integrated into the jacket for impact protection that meets rigorous standards. There’s also a pocket to add an optional Nucleon back protector.
Can you ride with it in colder temperatures?
The included windproof liner allows you to adapt the SMX Air for early morning and late evening riding when temperatures drop. Just zip it in when needed.
What sizes is the jacket available in?
It comes in sizes S-4XL to accommodate most riders. Refer to the Alpinestars size chart to find your ideal fit.
Does the jacket have adequate abrasion resistance?
Strategically placed poly-fabric reinforcements provide abrasion resistance in key areas while maintaining cooling ventilation. It meets Class A standards for safety.
The Verdict: Ideal Summer Motorcycling Jacket
After thoroughly testing the Alpinestars SMX Air mesh jacket, I can confidently say it’s one of the best motorcycle jackets for warm-weather motorcycling.
The ventilated polyester fabric and strategic perforations allow tremendous airflow to keep you cool when the mercury rises.
The CE-rated armor provides critical impact protection without restricting movement or comfort. I also appreciate the airbag compatibility for an extra safety margin.
Top it off with the windproof liner and storage pockets, and you’ve got a jacket ready for anything a summer ride can throw at you.
If you’re looking for a summer motorcycle jacket that expertly balances cooling ventilation and abrasion resistance with advanced protective features, the new Alpinestars SMX Air deserves strong consideration.
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