When the weather turns cold, finding the right jacket can be a challenge. You need something insulating yet breathable, protective yet flexible.
Could the FXR Helium Ride softshell jacket be the solution? With its water-resistant design and casual style, this jacket promises comfort on your winter rides.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best motorcycle jacket for the winter for you? Let’s find out!
In this FXR Helium Ride Softshell Jacket review, we’ll explore whether the Helium Ride lives up to its claims. We’ll break down this winter motorcycle jacket’s key features and how they translate into real-world benefits for riders.
FXR Helium Ride Softshell Jacket Review
Key Takeaways:
- Wind and water-resistant softshell build
- Lightweight insulation retains mobility
- Designed for comfort on long rides
A Lightweight Shell Built for Cold Weather Riding
When it comes to finding the right motorcycle jacket for winter, protection from the elements is key. The FXR Helium Ride is specially engineered as a softshell jacket to provide flexibility and comfort without sacrificing warmth. It uses a 92% polyester, 8% spandex shell that’s designed to be wind and water-resistant.
While not fully waterproof, the Helium Ride promises enough protection to stay dry in light rain or snow. For cold-weather rides, the softshell material also blocks out frigid winds while trapping body heat inside. This allows you to stay insulated on the bike as temperatures drop.
Unlike bulky winter motorcycle jackets, the Helium Ride maintains a slim, athletic fit. It weighs in at just 1 pound 2 ounces and features underarm vents to prevent overheating.
The lightweight feel ensures you’re not restricted as you maneuver the motorcycle. So you get insulation without the bulk.
For riders who want a jacket that seamlessly transitions from the road to the trails, the Helium Ride is also equipped for snowmobile or motocross use. It provides casual winter protection whether you’re riding streets or sledding through fresh powder.
Designed for Comfort and Convenience
Beyond keeping you warm, the FXR Helium Ride adds features to enhance comfort on long rides. It has a fleece lining interior that feels soft against your skin. The jacket also incorporates pre-curved sleeves that move naturally as you reach for the handlebars.
Small details like zippered hand pockets and a mandarin collar demonstrate this jacket’s focus on function. You can securely stow essentials while sealing out drafts around your neck.
For visibility and style, the Helium Ride includes reflective logos and accents. This improves safety in low-light conditions while letting you rep your brand. The jacket also comes in a range of color options, like black, gray, blue, and red.
Zippered wrist gators act as built-in hand guards to seal out snow or rain. The front zipper is specially treated to be waterproof for added weather protection. Just zip up the high collar to lock in warmth no matter how low the mercury dips.
Technical Features for Performance and Safety
In addition to comfort, the FXR Helium Ride packs technical features to boost performance and safety:
- Wind and Water Resistant – The softshell material provides lightweight, flexible protection from the elements
- Full-Length Sleeves – Keep your arms covered and warm while riding
- Pre-Curved Sleeves – Allow full mobility as you actively control the motorcycle
- Underarm Vents – Prevent overheating and regulate body temperature
- Reflective Logos – Improve visibility and safety in low-light riding conditions
- Adjustable Waist – Cinch in for a secure, custom fit to keep cold air out
- Waterproof Zipper – Seals out rain and wind through the jacket’s front closure
These aspects come together to create a thoughtfully engineered winter riding jacket. The Helium Ride seems equipped for your cold-weather adventures on two wheels.
Helium Ride vs. Competition: How Does It Compare?
The FXR Helium Ride enters a crowded market of cold-weather motorcycle jackets. But how does it stack up against the competition? Here’s a quick overview of how the Helium Ride compares to rival jackets:
- Vs. Alpinestars Valparaiso 2: The Valparaiso is a heavier winter jacket made of poly-nylon, not softshell. It has full insulation and is waterproof. But it loses mobility and ventilation compared to the Helium Ride.
- Vs. Rev’It! Sand 3: Both are softshell, but the Helium Ride adds more weather protection. The Sand 3 focuses more on breathability and heat exhaust vents. It won’t keep you as warm and dry in extreme cold.
- Vs. Joe Rocket Survivor: This winter jacket uses thicker insulation and an overall burlier construction. But that makes it heavier and less flexible. The streamlined Helium Ride maintains better freedom of movement.
For riders who don’t require a fully insulated winter jacket, the Helium Ride strikes a winning balance. Its softshell build balances weather protection, warmth, mobility, and convenience.
The Verdict: Who Is the FXR Helium Ride For?
After breaking down all its features, it’s clear the FXR Helium Ride is optimized for cold weather riding scenarios. Here are our recommendations on who this jacket is ideal for:
- Riders seeking wind and water resistance without sacrificing flexibility
- Motorcycle enthusiasts who want an insulated winter jacket that still breathes
- Those who value comfort features like fleece lining and pre-curved sleeves
- Fans of the FXR brand looking for functional, protective gear
- Anyone seeking a lightweight winter jacket for snowmobile or dirt biking
The Helium Ride best fits casual to moderately cold winter conditions for street, trail, and off-road riding.
While not a heavy winter parka, it provides ample lightweight insulation for most cold weather needs. Active ventilation and range of motion make it ideal for motorcycle handling.
In summary, those seeking a breathable, flexible, cold weather-riding jacket should strongly consider the FXR Helium Ride.
It presents a compelling balance of protection, comfort, and convenience. Just gear up and get ready to hit the road with confidence this winter.
Frequently Asked Questions About the FXR Helium Ride Jacket
Is the Helium Ride fully waterproof?
No, the Helium Ride is designed to be water resistant, not fully waterproof. It will protect you in light rain and snow but is not meant for heavy downpours. For 100% waterproofing, you need a winter riding jacket with taped seams.
How does the sizing run?
The Helium Ride runs true to size. Order your normal size based on t-shirt or sweater fit. It has an athletic cut without being overly slim. Stretchy softshell material allows good freedom of movement.
Is this a standalone winter jacket?
The Helium Ride provides solid standalone insulation for temps ranging from 35-60° Fahrenheit. In extreme cold below freezing, you may want to layer a hoodie or thermal base layer underneath. But for general winter conditions, it works great on its own.
What kind of warranty does FXR offer?
FXR provides a limited lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. This protects you from things like broken zippers or tearing seams if the product is maintained properly.
Does the Helium Ride restrict motion?
No, flexibility is one of its main strengths. The streamlined design and four-way stretch softshell material allow full mobility. You won’t feel restricted when actively controlling the motorcycle.
Conclusion: Brave Winter Weather with the FXR Helium Ride
When harsh winds and frigid temps threaten to cut your riding season short, the FXR Helium Ride softshell jacket offers a reprieve.
It balances weather resistance with lightweight warmth to create true four-season comfort. Dial in the right mix of insulation, flexibility, and protection no matter what winter throws your way on the road ahead.
The Helium Ride ultimately masters that delicate balance between keeping you warm and dry without impeding performance.
For motorcyclists unwilling to park their bikes when the mercury plunges, this jacket brings confidence to brave the elements. Its thoughtful design touches demonstrate FXR’s understanding of the unique needs of cold-weather riders.
So don’t hang up your helmet just yet. With the Helium Ride softshell in your gear bag, you have the freedom to feel the rumble of the road even when winter strikes. The open highway still calls.
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