I recently tested the Bering Lady April jacket and was impressed with its features and quality construction. In this Bering April Women’s Jacket review, I’ll share my experience riding with the Lady April to help fellow women riders determine if it’s the right choice for their needs.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best women’s motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Bering Lady April Jacket Review
Key Takeaways:
- Slim, flattering fit designed for women
- CE-approved armor for impact protection
- Weather versatility with venting and insulation
- Quality construction and materials
- Great for street and city riding
Comparison To Similar Women’s Jackets
| Dainese Women’s Arya Textile Jacket | FXR Pulse Women’s Jacket | Speed and Strength Radar Love Women’s Jacket | Icon PDX3 Women’s Motorcycle Jacket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abrasion-resistant textile | Durable polyester construction | Advanced AR-600 frame fabric with reinforcements | Resistant Dynax ballistic nylon |
| Sleek sporty design with reflective elements | Subtle branding and feminine design | Vintage-inspired style with quilted accents | Streamlined design with reflective details |
| Removable composite protectors on shoulders and elbows | Durable D30 shoulder and elbow protectors | Vault CE-approved armor at shoulders, elbows, and spine | CE-certified D3O impact protectors |
| Waterproof and breathable D-Dry membrane | HydrX laminate with fully seam-sealed construction | Waterproof and breathable membrane | Waterproof and breathable with ventilation panels |
| Ergonomic stretch panels for comfort and flexibility | F.A.S.T. Flotation Assistance System ensures buoyancy in water accidents | Stretch panels for flexibility | Adjustable waist and cuffs for a personalized fit |
| Ventilation zippers and removable thermal liner for temperature control | FXR Dry Vent System for airflow | Removable insulated liner and ventilation zippers | Multiple ventilation panels for airflow |
| Pocket for back protector | Thermal Flex insulation for warmth | Reflective trim for visibility | Multiple pockets for storage |
| Positive reviews for fit and protection, some mention ventilation as a highlight | High ratings for warmth and flotation in cold weather, mixed reviews on sizing | Well-received for style and protection, some mention sizing concerns | Praise for quality construction and customizable fit, some mention sizing issues |
An Overview of the Bering Lady April Motorcycle Jacket
The Lady April is part of Bering’s Urban Motorcycle collection, making it ideal for street and city riding. Its slim fit and understated style work well for commuting while also looking great off the bike.
This 600 denier fiber tech outer shell offers abrasion resistance if you take a spill. The jacket carries CE armor approval at the shoulders and elbows for impact protection. I’ll detail the armor options later in this review.
With a removable thermal quilted liner, the Lady April adapts to spring, fall, and even cooler summer days. Ventilation zippers at the chest and back provide airflow when temperatures rise.
The jacket’s subtle reflective piping and rear strip improve visibility and safety on night rides. YKK zippers secure the front closure and cuffs tightly.
Overall, the Lady April’s technical features and versatility make it a solid choice as a multi-season women’s motorcycle jacket. Next, I’ll break down my experience with its fit, protection, and performance.
How Does the Bering Lady April Fit and Feel?
Finding a women’s motorcycle jacket with the right fit can be tricky for women riders. The Lady April is designed with the female form in mind and comes in sizes from XXS to 3XL.
I’m normally between a medium and large, so I opted for the size large. The slim, tailored fit hugs close to the body without restricting movement. For commuting in an upright riding position, the size works well.
If you prefer a looser fit or plan to ride in a tucked position, consider sizing up. The adjustable waist tightens to prevent bellowing at speed. The tall collar, secured by a branded snap closure, keeps the wind out.
The moto-style sleeves have a slight pre-curved shape. I never felt restricted leaning forward or holding the bars. For cooler weather, the velcro cuff closure keeps air from rushing up the sleeves.
Overall, the Lady April achieves a flattering feminine fit without compromising comfort or mobility. The range of sizes helps accommodate different body types, too.
Armor and Protective Features
Any good motorcycle jacket needs armor for impact protection. The Lady April comes standard with CE level 1 Bering Amiga armor in the shoulders and elbows. This foam armor absorbs and disperses energy on impact.
While sufficient for street riding, some riders prefer upgraded level 2 protection for the track or highway touring. Bering offers the Alpha Armor as an additional purchase, also CE level 1.
Here’s the clever part – wearing the Amiga and Alpha together achieves a full CE level 2 rating. By letting you reuse the original Amiga armor, Bering provides added protection while reducing landfill waste and cost. I really appreciate this sustainable approach.
The abrasion-resistant outer shell provides further defense in a slide. On the road, the Lady April gives me confidence that I’m protected.
Weather Protection and Ventilation
Riding gear needs to handle changing weather and temperatures – sometimes all in one ride! The Lady April comes prepared with features for year-round performance.
The fixed, waterproof, and breathable liner keeps wind and moisture out while allowing vapor to escape. I rode through light rain with no problems. For heavy downpours, a rainsuit is advisable.
When riding in warmer weather, the vent zips at the chest and back, allowing me to increase airflow to stay comfortable. I also made use of the removable insulated liner on hotter days.
In chilly spring temperatures, the liner and cuff closures worked well to block wind and seal in heat. Taken together, the Lady April truly does transition smoothly across a wide range of conditions.
Storage and Convenience Features
The Lady April doesn’t forget about convenience and usability either. The YKK front zipper makes it easy to put on and take off, even while wearing