With summer weather rapidly approaching, it’s time to start thinking about gear that can keep you cool while cruising on your motorcycle.
Mesh jackets provide maximum airflow but vary widely in quality and protective capabilities. As an avid rider and gear expert, I decided to take an in-depth look at the new Cortech Hyperflow jacket.
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!
Key Takeaways
- Removable insulating liner
- Ample storage and pockets
- Lightweight mesh construction
An Overview of Cortech as a Brand
Purpose and Design of the Hyperflow Jacket
As you may have guessed from the name, airflow is the name of the game with the Hyperflow. This jacket utilizes abrasion-resistant mesh material throughout the torso and parts of the sleeves to allow maximum airflow for warm-weather riding.
Rather than a stifling leather or textile jacket, the Hyperflow lets air pass right through to keep you cool and ventilated on hot days.
This makes it an ideal choice for cruising around town, commuting to work, or just casual weekend rides once the mercury starts rising.
In abrasion zones like the shoulders and elbows, the Hyperflow features a 600-denier polyester shell. 600D polyester offers good abrasion resistance for a textile material, though hardcore tracksuits may use 1000D or higher. A bit of stretch paneling is also integrated along the sleeves and back to allow ease of movement.
Up top, you’ll find a small TPU slider puck at the leading edge of each shoulder. These provide some impact protection in the event of a slide.
Personally, I think the puck size could be a bit larger for better coverage, but they should still do the job.
Overall, the Hyperflow nails the breezy mesh jacket concept while retaining functionality and safety where it counts. Now, let’s look at how well it fits.
Sizing, Fit, and Adjustability
I always harp on sizing with gear reviews, but it’s crazy important to dial in for comfort, protection, and mobility.
With the Hyperflow, Cortech’s size chart is accurate, so consult that for recommendations based on your measurements.
I’m 6’2″, 220 lbs, with a 44″ chest, and per the size guide, the XL is right for me. I tried on a large at first, and it was much too small through the shoulders and chest.
If you’re between sizes, consider sizing up for comfort and to allow wearing layers underneath. Or, if unsure, take advantage of free returns to swap out sizes risk-free.
In terms of adjustments, the Hyperflow has:
- Hook and loop cuffs with zippered gussets to fit over gloves
- Bicep cinches to snug the sleeves if needed
- Waist cinches at the hem for a tailored fit
- Adjustable Velcro straps on the collar
So you’re able to fine-tune the fit through the sleeves, wrist, and midsection as desired.
Moving on to the protective components…
Armor and Padding
The Hyperflow is equipped with a full set of Cortech’s CE-rated SafeTech armor for impact protection. This includes level 2 shoulder and elbow armor, along with forearm pads.
The armor feels quite robust and offers a good degree of impact absorption. It’s also removable, so you can toss just the jacket shell into the washing machine. And if you want to upgrade down the line, the compartments will also accommodate aftermarket armor.
Additionally, a small piece of EVA foam is the back protector. This rear pad is just a basic foam backpad rather than any CE-rated armor.
So, in summary, you’re mostly covered on the shoulders, elbows, and forearms, but the back protector leaves a bit to be desired. Spinal protection is pretty important, so I’d recommend upgrading that back piece if you plan to spend much time in the Hyperflow.
Storage, Pockets, and Convenience Features
For hauling small essentials, the Hyperflow includes:
- Two zippered chest pockets
- Two lower zippered pockets
- Interior phone pocket on right side
- Hidden interior storage pocket on left side
The chest and lower pockets won’t keep valuables dry since they’re made of mesh. But they’re nicely sized for stashing small items you want handy.
Inside the jacket lining, you have two more pockets for keys, wallet, phone, etc. Note that only the right side pocket is designed specifically for a smartphone, while the left is just a small miscellaneous pocket.
Around the back are two generous cargo pockets that run clear through the inside of the jacket, granting access from both sides. You’ll have plenty of expandable storage options between these and the external pockets.
And conveniently, there’s a zippered attachment point if you ever want to connect the Hyperflow jacket to your riding pants.
Liner and Weather Protection
Now let’s discuss how well the Hyperflow can adapt to changing weather conditions:
The jacket includes both an insulating thermal liner and a weatherproof shell liner:
- Thermal liner – Helps retain body heat for when temps drop. It can be removed and worn separately.
- Weather liner – Provides wind and light water resistance. Stays in place when the thermal liner is removed.
These allow you to adjust the jacket for cold morning rides vs. warmer afternoons. When both liners are removed, it becomes a highly ventilated mesh jacket.
While not intended for heavy rain, the weather liner offers a reasonable water protection level in light precipitation. You’d need to consider a separate rain jacket layered on top for serious storms.
And there’s one more handy feature to cover…
Warranty
A solid 2-year warranty backs all Cortech jackets against defects in materials and workmanship. That’s double what many competitors offer and provides great peace of mind.
If any issues popped up, you could get replacement parts or have Cortech repair the jacket free of charge. Fortunately, the construction seems quite durable from my inspection.
Final Verdict on the Cortech Hyperflow
So, in closing, what’s the final verdict after putting the Hyperflow to the test?
In my personal opinion, the Hyperflow hits the mark as a rugged, versatile, warm-weather mesh jacket.
Here are a few key takeaways in my judgment:
Pros
- Lightweight mesh construction keeps you cool in the heat
- Ample airflow from torso to sleeves
- Good value at just under $200
- Removable insulating liner extends seasonal versatility
- Loads of storage pockets and cargo capacity
- Excellent coverage from CE-rated armor
- Helpful adjustments for a tailored fit
- Backed by a 2-year warranty
Cons
- Slider pucks on shoulders could be larger
The back protector is basic foam, not