The Belstaff Douglas is a legendary piece of moto gear history. Loved by riders and celebrities alike since the 1950s, this vintage-inspired leather jacket oozes classic cool.
But does the hefty price tag accurately reflect its quality and character? And is this the best waterproof motorcycle jacket for you?
In this Belstaff Douglas jacket review, we will take a closer look at whether the Douglas lives up to Belstaff’s heritage hype.
Belstaff Douglas Jacket Review
Our Belstaff Douglas Final Verdict
I’ve been impressed with the Belstaff Douglas as a stylish, lightweight option for casual urban riding.
The rubberized fleece material is super comfortable against the skin and provides good wind resistance without feeling bulky or restrictive. I can wear it all day without feeling fatigued or overheated.
The water-resistant treatment on the fleece has held up well in light rain and road spray. While it’s not fully waterproof like a hardshell, the Douglas keeps me dry enough for short hops around town.
I really like the sleek, minimalist styling, too – it’s a jacket I can wear straight from the bike to the office or pub without looking out of place.
After using the Douglas as my daily commuter for the past few months, I’ve found it to be a versatile and comfortable option for mild-weather riding.
The CE-rated armor provides decent impact protection without sacrificing comfort or range of motion. I hardly notice I’m wearing it, which is a big plus in my book.
That said, there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind.
The lightweight fleece material isn’t as abrasion-resistant as heavier-duty textile or leather, so it may not hold up as well in a slide.
I’ve also found the ventilation to be a bit lacking in hot weather – the underarm vents are pretty small and don’t flow a ton of air.
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You may be able to score this jacket at a significant discount. Plus, Revzilla offers a price match guarantee, so you can shop with confidence, knowing you’re getting the best possible price.
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Key Takeaways
An Overview Of Belstaff Douglas
Belstaff is a prestigious British clothing company founded in 1924 that specializes in weatherproof leather and waxed cotton jackets.
Originally making outerwear for motorcyclists, Belstaff has gained a reputation for impeccable quality and craftsmanship over its near-century of operation.
The Douglas, named after aviation pioneer Donald Douglas, exemplifies Belstaff’s heritage. This snap-button leather jacket rose to popularity after being worn by Steve McQueen in the 1950s. Its clean, straight-cut design offers versatility for casual daily wear or protection on the bike.
Belstaff leverages its proprietary wax called Belwax to weatherproof the Douglas calf leather exterior.
This Waxed treatment makes the leather highly water-resistant. The Douglas features ribbed cuffs, a belted waist, a throat latch, and tartan cotton lining. It’s handcrafted in Italy from premium materials.
So, in terms of heritage credibility, Belstaff and the Douglas are delivered in spades. But let’s scrutinize whether these venerable credentials translate into a $600 jacket that outperforms expectations.
Putting The Douglas To The Test
To evaluate if the Douglas warrants its lofty price tag, we tested it hands-on during real-world motorcycle rides and daily use.
Our criteria included design, quality of materials, weather protection, comfort, versatility, and overall value. Here’s how the iconic Belstaff jacket stacked up:
Timeless Design That Evokes Vintage Cool
The Douglas nails its visual identity. The slim tapered fit, snap collar, and belted waist deliver on the vintage Moto styling promise.
Union Jack sleeve patch, brass zippers, and subtle Belstaff branding hit the heritage fashion notes. No surprises here — it’s a great-looking jacket.
Premium Construction With Minor Quibbles
The Douglas feels sturdy thanks to quality leather, tidy stitching, and solid hardware. It lacks any cheap or flimsy components.
The exceptions? The main zipper seems a bit lightweight for a motorcycle jacket, though the zipper pulls and sliders feel substantial.
Windproof and Water-Resistant Protection
Windproof and Water-Resistant Protection
The Belstaff Douglas offers solid windproofing and water resistance to keep you comfortable in unpredictable weather.
The outer shell is made from a rubberized fleece material that Belstaff calls “exploded fleece”. This unique fabric has a closed-cell structure that blocks wind from cutting through.
On top of the windproof fleece, the Douglas has a DWR (durable water repellent) treatment. When rain hits the jacket, you’ll see it bead up and roll right off rather than soaking in. This DWR coating provides good water resistance for light to moderate rain showers.
Not Fully Waterproof
It’s important to note that while the Douglas is water-resistant, it’s not claimed to be fully waterproof like a laminated or membrane jacket would be. In a heavy downpour, water may eventually start to seep through the outer shell.
There’s also no mention of the seams being taped, which is a requirement for a jacket to be truly waterproof. Moisture could potentially find its way in through the stitching.
Best for Cool, Dry Conditions
I’d say the Douglas is in its element in chilly fall and spring conditions where you need wind protection and warmth but aren’t expecting a full-on rainstorm. The fleece material and lack of vents make it less ideal for hot summer rides.
If you’re looking for a stylish jacket that can handle some wind and light rain, the Douglas has you covered. But for prolonged wet riding, you’d be better off with a fully waterproof textile or a rain shell layered over the top.
Fit and Sizing
The Belstaff Douglas has a regular fit that’s comfortable without being too loose or baggy[2]. It’s designed to allow room for layering underneath. However, the sizing can be a bit inconsistent across Belstaff’s jacket styles.
In general, Belstaff jackets tend to run small compared to other brands. I recommend going up at least one size from your normal size, possibly even two sizes if you plan to wear thicker layer.
Belstaff Size Chart
Here’s a handy size chart with measurements for Belstaff men’s jackets:
| Size | EU | UK |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 44 | 34 |
| S | 46 | 36 |
| M | 48 | 38 |
| L | 50 | 40 |
| XL | 52 | 42 |
| XXL | 54 | 44 |
| 3XL | 56 | 46 |
| 4XL | 58 | 48 |
I suggest taking your chest, waist, and hip measurements and then comparing them to the size chart to determine the best size to order. When in doubt, I’d recommend sizing up for a safer fit.
Runs Very Small Compared to Other Brands
Belstaff jackets generally tend to run at least one size smaller than other brands. Many customers find they need to size up one or even two sizes from their normal jacket size in order to get a comfortable fit, especially if they want to wear layers underneath.
Short and Slim Fit, Especially in Sleeves
Several reviewers mention Belstaff has a slim, “Italian” cut that is short in the body and tight in the sleeves.
This fit may not work well for taller individuals or those with longer arms. The slim cut also makes layering under the jacket more challenging.
Confusing International Sizing
Belstaff used to size their jackets according to Italian sizing but has since switched to UK sizing on their website, which has caused some confusion.
The brand’s size charts are not always reliable, so customers have to rely on trial and error to find the right fit.
Difficult to Find Larger Sizes
A few reviewers complain that Belstaff stores often don’t stock larger sizes like XXL. This makes it hard for bigger individuals to even try it on in person. The size range seems more limited compared to other brands.
The key takeaway is that Belstaff sizing is quite unique and requires carefully studying the size chart, reading customer reviews, and, ideally, trying it on in person to determine the best size to order.
Ordering online is risky due to the inconsistent and confusing sizing. Belstaff could improve by expanding its size range and making its fits more standardized across styles.
How Accurate is the Belstaff Size Guide for Different Body Types?
The Belstaff size guide provides a general starting point, but it may not work perfectly for all body types.
The guide is based on standard chest, waist, hip, and overarm measurements. However, people come in all shapes and sizes, so relying solely on these numbers can be hit or miss.
Slim and Tall Body Types
If you’re slim and tall, Belstaff jackets may fit too short in the body and sleeves based on the size guide.
You might need to size up to get the right length, but then it could be too loose in the chest and waist. The brand’s “Italian fit” tends to favor those with a shorter, broader build.
Athletic and Muscular Builds
For athletic or muscular people, Belstaff sizing can be especially tricky. The slim cut leaves little room in the shoulders, chest, and arms.
Even sizing up might not provide enough space if you have a very developed upper body. You may need to go up 2 or even 3 sizes from your normal size to accommodate your frame.
“Average” Proportions
If you’re of average height and weight, with proportional chest, waist, and hip measurements, the Belstaff size guide will be more accurate for you.
However, even then, it’s best to compare the listed measurements to a well-fitting jacket you already own. Belstaff’s inconsistent sizing between models means you can’t always rely on ordering your “usual” size.
Ultimately, the Belstaff size charts provide a decent reference, but they won’t work for everyone. You’ll likely need to make some adjustments if you’re very tall, short, slim, or muscular.
When in doubt, I recommend sizing up rather than down. It’s easier to tailor a jacket that’s a bit too big than try to squeeze into one that’s too small.
Alternatives To Consider
| Model Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Tourmaster Mariner | Waterproof with adjustable cuffs and various pockets. Provides good protection against rain and wind. |
| Bilt Shadow | 600D shell offering abrasion resistance with a non-removable waterproof lining. |
| Alpinestars Monteira Drystar XF | Comprehensive protection with waterproof and breathable design aimed at various weather conditions. |
| Alpinestars Stratos V2 Techshell Drystar | Lightweight, waterproof with removable thermal lining and CE armor for safety. |
| Belstaff Ariel 2 Pro | Comprehensive protection with a waterproof and breathable design aimed at various weather conditions. |
The Tourmaster Mariner and Bilt Shadow are the most affordable options, both under $150. They provide solid waterproofing and protection.
The Alpinestars Monteira and Stratos V2 are mid-range in price, offering more advanced features like Drystar breathable waterproofing and removable thermal linings. They have CE-rated armor for impact protection.
The Belstaff Ariel 2 Pro is the most expensive at nearly $500. It uses a stylish waxed cotton outer shell that is waterproof. It also has CE armor and good ventilation, justifying its premium price point as a luxury option.
Overall, these jackets all provide reliable waterproofing for riding in wet weather. The main differences are in the materials, extra features, and brand prestige, which are reflected in the prices. The Alpinestars jackets offer the best balance of protection, performance, and value for most riders.
Impact Protection
The Belstaff Douglas provides decent impact protection but falls a bit short in abrasion resistance compared to heavier-duty motorcycle jackets.
It comes equipped with removable CE level 1 D3O armor in the shoulders and elbows. This soft, flexible armor hardens on impact to absorb energy.
However, the lightweight fleece material itself doesn’t offer much slide protection if you take a tumble. Some riders on forums express concern that the fleece would quickly shred if you hit the pavement, even with the armor underneath.
Armor Upgrades
For added peace of mind, you can upgrade to CE level 2 D3O armor inserts, which provide even better impact absorption.
It has a pocket for a back protector, but it’s not included. I highly recommend adding a CE level 2 back protector as well.
Abrasion Resistance Concerns
The main drawback in terms of protection is the lack of abrasion resistance. Unlike leather or heavy-duty textile jackets with Cordura or Kevlar reinforcements, the Douglas relies on a relatively thin layer of fleece.
This keeps them lightweight and comfortable but doesn’t inspire a ton of confidence in a crash. If you’re looking for a jacket to survive high-speed slides, this isn’t it.
The Douglas is best for more casual, lower-speed urban riding, where impact protection is the priority over abrasion resistance.
So, in summary, the Belstaff Douglas provides good impact protection with its D3O armor, but the lack of abrasion resistance in the shell material is a notable weakness.
It’s a trade-off for comfort and style. For maximum protection, you’ll want to look at jackets with beefier construction and slide-resistant materials.
Interior & Ventilation
The Belstaff Douglas has a cozy cotton fleece lining that feels soft against your skin. This quilted interior provides a good amount of warmth for chilly rides in spring and fall.
There’s no removable thermal liner, so the Douglas works best as a 3-season jacket rather than a true winter option.
When it comes to ventilation, the Douglas is a bit lacking. You get mesh-lined zippered vents under each arm to let some air flow through. However, these vents are on the small side and don’t move a ton of air.
Breathability Limitations
One potential drawback of the Douglas is the limited breathability of the rubberized fleece material. It’s great for blocking wind, but it doesn’t allow them to breathe as well as a mesh or perforated leather jacket would.
If you’re riding in a lot of hot weather or are a particularly sweaty person, you may find yourself overheating in the Douglas. The fleece lining can get sticky against your skin when you work up a sweat.
Best for Mild Temperatures
I’ve found the interior and venting of the Douglas are best suited to mild temperatures in the 50-70°F range.
Anything colder, and you’ll want to layer up with a thermal shirt or heated gear underneath. Much warmer, and you’ll probably be wishing for more airflow.
So, while the Douglas has a comfortable interior, it’s not the most versatile when it comes to adapting to different weather conditions.
The ventilation is minimal, and the fleece lining can get clammy in hot weather. But for short to medium rides in moderate temperatures, the job gets done.
Pockets & Storage
The Belstaff Douglas offers a decent amount of storage space for your everyday carry items. You get two zippered hand pockets on the exterior that are spacious enough to hold a wallet, phone, or keys. These pockets are fleece-lined for a soft feel against your hands.
Inside the jacket, there’s a single zippered chest pocket. This interior pocket is perfect for stashing smaller items you want to keep secure, like a credit card or some cash. The zipper keeps your valuables from falling out when you take it off.
Streamlined Style
The upside of the minimalist pocket layout is that it keeps the silhouette sleek and streamlined.
You don’t have any bulky cargo pockets throwing off the classic styling. The Douglas is meant to be a fashionable urban jacket, not an adventure-turing workhorse.
So, while the Douglas may not have as many pockets as some other motorcycle jackets, it provides enough storage for your essential items.
Just don’t expect to carry the kitchen sink with you. The focus here is on simplicity and style rather than maximum cargo capacity.
Long-Term Durability
The Belstaff Douglas offers decent durability for a lightweight fleece jacket, but it may not hold up as well as heavier-duty textile or leather options.
The rubberized fleece material is resistant to wind and water, but it’s not as abrasion-resistant as something like Cordura or cowhide.
Over time, the fleece can start to pill or wear thin, especially in high-friction areas like the elbows and shoulders.
After some use, I found the fleece getting threadbare or even developing small holes after a year or two of regular use.
Common Wear and Tear
The most common areas for wear and tear on the Douglas seem to be:
- Elbows – The fleece tends to thin out and pill from rubbing against your body and tank
- Cuffs – The elastic cuffs can stretch out and lose their shape over time
- Zippers – The main zipper and pocket zippers are prone to snagging on the fleece
While the Cordura reinforcements on the elbows and shoulders help with abrasion resistance, they don’t fully prevent the fleece from wearing down. It will likely start to show its age faster than a fully textile or leather option.
Waxed Cotton Durability
While waxed cotton is also lighter-duty than textile or leather, it tends to hold up better over time. The wax treatment helps the fabric resist abrasion and maintain its water resistance.
With the Douglas, you don’t have that extra layer of wax protection. The DWR coating on the fleece will wear off faster than a properly waxed cotton jacket. So, while the Douglas may be more comfortable and flexible, it sacrifices some long-term durability.
Overall, the Belstaff Douglas will hold up fine for occasional casual riding. But if you’re looking for a true multi-season, high-mileage option, you may want to step up to a beefier textile or leather jacket.
The fleece construction has its limitations when it comes to standing up to daily wear and tear and the elements. Just don’t expect it to be your forever jacket like some of Belstaff’s other offerings.
Who Is It For?
The Belstaff Douglas is a great choice for riders who want a stylish, lightweight jacket for casual urban riding in mild weather.
It’s aimed at those who prioritize comfort and fashion over hardcore protection for long-distance touring or adventure riding.
The Style-Conscious Urban Rider
If you’re the type of motorcyclist who likes to look good both on and off the bike, the Douglas is right up your alley.
The sleek, minimalist design and rubberized fleece material give it a modern, almost athleisure-inspired aesthetic. You can easily wear it to a cafe or pub without screaming “biker.”
The Douglas is cut to flatter the body with a trim, tailored fit. It’s not as bulky or technical-looking as many textile motorcycle jackets. The black and grey color options are versatile and easy to pair with jeans or riding pants.
The Fair-Weather Commuter
With its lightweight fleece construction and limited venting, the Douglas is best suited to short hops around town in spring and fall temperatures. It’ll keep you warm on chilly mornings but may feel stuffy in the heat of summer.
The water-resistant treatment on the fleece is enough to shrug off light rain or mist, but this isn’t a jacket for prolonged downpours.
If you live in a rainy climate or plan to ride long distances, you’ll likely want something with full waterproofing.
The Occasional Weekend Warrior
The Douglas can handle the odd-spirited backroad ride or day trip, but it’s not really designed for hardcore sport riding or long-haul adventures.
The fleece material simply doesn’t offer the same level of abrasion resistance and weather protection as a true technical jacket.
That said, if your riding mostly consists of shorter jaunts on mild days, the Douglas provides enough impact protection to give you peace of mind.
The CE level 1 armor and fleece shell will absorb the force of a minor tumble. Just don’t expect it to hold up to high-speed crashes like a leather race jacket would.
So, in summary, the Belstaff Douglas Jacket is ideal for fashion-forward urban riders who want a comfortable, stylish jacket for fair-weather commuting and occasional weekend rides.
If you’re doing serious sport touring, adventure riding, or riding in harsh weather, you’ll probably be better served by a more technical jacket.
But for the rider who wants to look sharp while enjoying a relaxed cruise, the Douglas definitely fits the bill.
The Verdict
The Belstaff Douglas remains an inspired choice for riders seeking a luxe leather jacket that merges fashion and function.
Its legendary heritage and sterling craftsmanship justify the lofty price for those appreciating its pedigree. Expect a supple, weather-resistant leather jacket to wear proudly for years.
However, the Douglas’ premium cost means it’s not the ideal value for every buyer. Be sure you are smitten with its classic design and willing to pay extra for the Belstaff brand cache.
Riders wanting similar protection and versatility for less cash should consider more affordable waxed or leather alternatives.
So, in the end, the Douglas delivers on its iconic heritage promise – but make sure you are ready to pay for the privilege of owning Belstaff’s history.
FAQ:
Does the Douglas run true to size?
The Douglas fits snugly like most moto jackets. Order your normal size based on the size chart for a tailored fit. It runs smaller than typical American cut apparel.
How long does the wax treatment last?
Belstaff’s proprietary Belwax finish maintains water resistance for 1-2 years before needing reapplication. How frequently you wear and expose them to elements impacts longevity.
Is the Douglas suitable to wear in summer?
The Douglas can be worn during spring, fall, and milder summer days. But the fleece liner makes it too warm for hot summer riding. It excels as a 3-season jacket.
Does Belstaff offer repairs for the Douglas?
Yes, Belstaff repairs their leather jackets, like the Douglas. Contact their customer service to initiate a repair request. Expect fees based on the repair type.
What colors does the Douglas come in?
Currently, it’s produced in classic black as well as British racing green, brown, and tan. Belstaff occasionally releases limited edition colors like nitrogen blue.
Finally
The Belstaff Douglas manages to live up to its legend thanks to an impeccable pairing of heritage style and premium quality.
While the price is steep, devoted Belstaff fans and moto enthusiasts will cherish the Douglas for years to come.
Let us know your thoughts on the Douglas – does it earn its place in the motorcycle jacket pantheon?
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