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