With summer weather approaching, it’s time to reevaluate your riding gear. Proper motorcycle jackets provide crucial protection, but they also need to keep you cool in the heat.
I recently tested out Fly Racing’s Street Racing Mesh jackets to see if they could offer the ideal balance of ventilation and safety for warm-weather rides.
In this review, I’ll outline my key findings after extensive time on the road in these jackets. From sizing and comfort to protection and value.
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!
Fly Coolpro Mesh Jacket
Key Takeaways
- Breathable ventilation zones
- CE-approved armor protection
- Water-resistant coating included
Key Features
Both the men’s and women’s Fly Street Racing Cool Pro Mesh jackets offer the following features:
- CE-approved armor – Removable armor is included in the shoulders and elbows for impact protection. There’s also a foam back pad.
- Abrasion-resistant shell – The mesh material helps resist abrasions while providing airflow.
- Ventilation zones – Strategic mesh panels promote air circulation to keep you cooler.
- Water-resistant treatment – The jackets have a water-repellent coating that resists light rain.
- Reflective details – Reflective piping helps improve visibility to other motorists.
- Zippered pockets – Exterior and interior storage pockets securely hold small items.
- Adjustable fit – Waist velcro straps and sleeve snaps allow you to customize the fit.
- Jacket-to-pant connectivity – Zipper and belt loop options exist for connecting your jacket and pants.
Sizing and Comfort
The Fly Street Racing Mesh jackets, are available in the following size ranges:
- Women’s – XS to 3XL
- Men’s – S to 3XL
I typically wear a size medium in motorcycle jackets and found both women’s and men’s medium fit me comfortably. The jackets are designed to sit in your normal riding position without binding or restricting mobility.
The mesh material is soft and pliable, moving easily with you as you ride. I appreciated being able to layer a hoodie or light jacket underneath for colder morning commutes.
Overall, I found both versions allowed me a nice range of motion without ever feeling tight or constricting.
| SIZE | CHEST (IN) | ARM (IN) |
|---|---|---|
| SM (40) | 34-35 | 31-32 |
| MD (42) | 36-38 | 32-33 |
| LG (44) | 40-42 | 33-34 |
| XL (46) | 44-46 | 34-35 |
| 2XL (48) | 48-50 | 37 |
| 3XL (50) | 52-54 | 37 |
| 4XL (52) | 56-58 | 37 |
Safety and Protection
Safety is my top priority when choosing motorcycle gear, so I was pleased to see these jackets include quality armor in key impact zones. The CE-approved armor covers the shoulders, elbows, and back to help mitigate injuries in a crash.
While riding, I felt reassured, knowing this armor was helping protect me while still remaining fairly lightweight and movable. The jacket’s abrasion-resistant shell provides additional peace of mind in the event of a slide on asphalt.
I also appreciate the reflective details along the sleeves and back that help drivers see me on the road. Overall, I’m satisfied with the Fly Street Racing Mesh jackets’ protection for a warm weather jacket.
Weather Resistance
These jackets are designed to provide ventilation for warm weather, not serve as heavy-duty rain gear. However, they have a water-repellent coating that beads light moisture and allows it to roll off the surface rather than soak in.
I rode through a few light showers with no issue, staying dry underneath. For heavy downpours, though, you will want a separate rain jacket to layer on top. But the water resistance performs fine for light drizzle or preventing splashes from the road.
Airflow and Ventilation
Proper ventilation is one of my top concerns when shopping for warm-weather motorcycle gear. I overheat easily, so airflow is critical to keeping me comfortable on summer rides.
The Fly Street Racing Mesh jackets are delivered on this front, thanks to the vented chest panels, underarm vents, and back exhaust vents. Air circulates nicely through the mesh shell, especially once you get moving.
I also appreciated being able to open up the vertical front zippers and pinchable waist straps when I needed a quick cooling blast of air. These are among the most breathable jackets I’ve tested for summer riding.
Style and Color Options
A jacket needs to check all the function boxes first, but I still appreciate it when designers offer stylish options to fit different tastes. The Fly Street, Racing Mesh jackets combine safety features with a sporty aesthetic.
The women’s version comes in white, black, black/pink, and black/blue. I tested the white, which pairs nicely with a colorful helmet and gloves.
For men, colorways include black, black/white, black/silver, and a flashy high-viz yellow. There’s a good selection to mix and match with your current gear.
Value and Cost
The Fly Street Racing Mesh jackets retail right around $170. For a warm-weather riding jacket with included armor, abrasion resistance, and ventilation, this is a fair price point.
Similar jackets from other brands run $200+, so Fly offers notable value here. After testing the quality and features myself, I would happily pay the $170 price tag knowing these jackets meet my needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Breathable ventilation system
- Quality CE-approved armor
- Abrasion-resistant shell
- Water-repellent coating
- Reflective details
- Adjustable fit
- Jacket-to-pant connectivity
- Stylish, sporty design
- Men’s and women’s versions
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Not waterproof for heavy rain
- Armor could be upgraded for even more protection
- Limited color selection for men’s version
- Runs small; order a size up for layering
FAQ
How do the men’s and women’s versions compare?
The jackets are almost identical except for colors/sizing. Both offer the same features and benefits. Choose the version made specifically for your body type.
Is this a fully waterproof rain jacket?
No, for heavy rain, you’ll want a separate waterproof layer. But the jackets resist light showers thanks to the water-repellent coating.
Does the armor remove completely?
Yes, all the armor can be taken out if desired. You could upgrade to a higher-grade back protector, for example.
What is the sizing like?
The jackets run slightly small, so consider ordering a size up if you need room for layering thick hoodies or jackets underneath.
Are these jackets good for colder weather?
Not necessarily – they are designed for ventilation in warm temps. Layer insulating layers underneath for brisk mornings or evenings.
Conclusion
The Fly Street Racing jackets are an excellent choice for riders seeking a high-quality, versatile mesh jacket to keep them cooler during warm weather rides this summer.
They provide reassuring impact protection along with substantial airflow where you need it most.
I was impressed by the performance and features considering the reasonable $180 price point. If you ride often in hot, humid conditions, the ventilation system helps make those long summer miles much more pleasurable.
After conducting extensive testing, I can confidently recommend these jackets to fellow motorcycle enthusiasts wanting comfort, style, and protection on their summer adventures.
The safety, value, and ventilation combination makes the Fly Street Racing Mesh jackets a smart investment for the season ahead.
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