The Cortec Hypertech motorcycle jacket aims to be the ideal all-season riding jacket. Its multiple liners and vents offer comfort in diverse weather conditions. But does this textile jacket truly deliver?
As an avid motorcyclist and product reviewer, I extensively tested the Hypertech to see if it lives up to the hype.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best textile motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Cortech Hyper-Tec Jacket Review
Key Takeaways
- Great cold weather gear.
- Impressive water protection.
- Excellent summer ventilation.
A Closer Look At The Hypertech’s Features
The Hypertech contains three main components:
- Removable quilted vest liner for insulation
- Removable windproof and waterproof membrane
- Outer shell with ventilation zippers
Mixing and matching these layers allows you to adapt the jacket to different temperatures.
The outer shell uses heavy abrasion-resistant materials on the elbows, shoulders, and back. Reflective panels and prints boost nighttime visibility.
For protection, the Hypertech includes:
- CE Level 2 armor in elbows, shoulders, and forearms
- Foam back protector (can be upgraded to CE Level 2)
Storage and convenience features include:
- Zippered hand pockets
- Interior stash pockets
- Bicep, forearm, and waist adjusters
Multiple intake and exhaust vents enhance airflow:
- Upper arm air inlets
- Chest panel vent
- Collar intake
- Rear exhaust vents
With its versatility and extensive features, the Hypertech seems ready for year-round motorcycling. But does it perform as well as expected?
Testing The Hypertech In Diverse Conditions
To thoroughly evaluate the Hypertech, I wore it while riding in cold, wet, hot, and dry conditions. Here’s how it held up:
Cold Weather Performance
On frigid mornings (25°F/-4°C), the insulated vest liner and windproof membrane kept my core comfortably warm. The outer shell blocked the wind chill. The Hypertech exceeded my expectations for a sub-$200 jacket.
However, the vest liner is fairly short, exposing my lower back. Wearing a separate back protector helps. Gauntlet gloves seal the sleeve cuffs better than short gloves.
Wet Weather Performance
In light rain, the Hypertech’s waterproof membrane prevented dampness and raindrops from permeating except for the neck area, which leaks slightly unless fully zipped.
The Hypertech endured 30 minutes of heavy rainfall without leakage or soaking through. However, the outer shell began to saturate in extremely heavy downpours after 45+ minutes.
Hot Weather Performance
I stayed cool on 90°F (32°C) days by removing the Hypertech’s insulating and waterproof liners. The mesh interior and numerous vents promoted ample airflow.
The bicep, forearm, and waist adjusters sealed out the wind. Only my forearms overheated slightly.
Fit, Comfort, and Protection
I’m 5’10” and 185 lbs with a 42″ chest. The size large Hypertech fit me well, with sufficient room to layer clothing underneath.
The Hypertech feels snug but not restrictive when worn fully armored. The CE Level 2 shields don’t limit mobility. The shoulders and elbows have thick abrasion reinforcement.
The foam back protector compares poorly to some CE inserts. Upgrading is recommended for impact protection.
Storage capacity is modest. The hand pockets and inner stash pockets hold essentials, but only a little extra.
Sizing Chart
| SIZE | CHEST (IN) | WAIST (IN) | ARM (IN) | HEIGHT (IN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 36 | 29.5 | 25 | 67″-69″ |
| SM | 38 | 31.5 | 25.5 | 69″-70″ |
| MD | 40 | 33.5 | 26 | 70″-71″ |
| LG | 42 | 35.5 | 26.5 | 71″-72″ |
| XL | 44 | 37.5 | 27 | 72″-73″ |
| 2XL | 48 | 41.5 | 27.5 | 73″-75″ |
| 3XL | 51 | 44.5 | 27.5 | 75″-76″ |
| 4XL | 54 | 47.5 | 28 | 76″-77″ |
How The Hypertech Compares To Similar Motorcycle Jackets
The Hypertech goes up against other affordable all-season textile jackets like:
- Alpinestars Valparaiso 2
- Icon Raiden
- Roland Sands Design Ronin
Weather Protection
The Hypertech matches the Valparaiso 2 for insulation and water resistance. The Raiden DKR is slightly cooler and drier. The Ronin exceeds them all for four-season comfort.
Ventilation
With vents open, the Hypertech airflow rivals the Valparaiso 2 and Raiden DKR. The Ronin again leads for cooling performance.
Armor
CE Level 2 shields provide equal impact protection across the Hypertech, Valparaiso 2, and Raiden DKR. The Ronin uses upgraded Level 1 armor.
Should You Buy The Cortec Hypertech?
The Hypertech delivers tremendous value for under $200. It’s a formidable spring, summer, and fall jacket. I can recommend it with a few caveats.
Pros & Con’s
Pros
- Impressive protection and water resistance for the price
- Versatile 3-layer system for variable conditions
- Excellent ventilation without liners
- Great value compared to similar jackets
Cons
- Lacks high-end cold weather performance
- Foam back protector needs upgrading
- Slight neck water leakage when unzipped
- Modest storage capacity
For riders seeking a quality, budget-friendly jacket, the Cortec Hypertech is an outstanding choice. It could be more flawless, but the pros outweigh the cons.
The Hypertech punches far above its price tag. If you ride in warmer conditions and don’t require a snow-ready winter jacket, it’s a smart buy. Considering the sub-$200 cost, I happily recommend the Hypertech to fellow riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Hypertech work for winter riding?
With both liners worn, the Hypertech provides decent cold weather protection down to around 30°F/-1°C. But for frigid winter conditions below 25°F/-4°C, it lacks sufficient insulation compared to premium winter jackets.
How long does the waterproofing last in heavy rain?
I stayed dry for 30+ minutes riding in pouring rain. But after 45+ minutes of constant extremely heavy downpour, some moisture permeated the outer shell. For normal rainy rides, the Hypertech performs well, but not for lengthy exposure to torrential rain.
Does the Hypertech fit true to size?
Yes, the Hypertech fits according to the usual sizing. If you fall between sizes, consider sizing up to allow wearing layers underneath. I’m 185 lbs, 42″ chest, and the size large fits very well.
Can the back protector be upgraded?
Absolutely. The foam back pad can be replaced with a CE Level 2 certified back protector from Cortec’s accessories line for around $30. Upgrading is recommended for better impact protection.
How durable is the outer shell?
The outer shell uses 1680D ballistic polyester fabric on the elbows, shoulders, and back. It showed minimal signs of abrasion when I slid wearing the jacket. The outer material seems abrasion-resistant for street riding needs.
Conclusion
For riders seeking a versatile, affordable riding jacket, the Cortec Hypertech is an outstanding option. It provides impressive protection and weather resistance, considering its reasonable price.
While with some limitations in extreme conditions, the Hypertech delivers tremendous value. For the budget-conscious motorcyclist, I happily recommend test-riding the Hypertech for yourself.
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