Helite Free-Air Mesh Airbag Jacket Review: Is This Protection Worth Going Broke For?

As a passionate motorcyclist, I’m always researching new gear to enhance my safety on the road. I recently discovered Healite – a company offering jackets with built-in airbag technology to provide additional impact protection in a crash.

After extensively testing their different jacket models, I wanted to share my in-depth findings to help fellow riders make informed decisions.

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!

Helite Free-Air Mesh Airbag Jacket

Helite Free-Air Mesh Airbag Jacket Review

Key Takeaways

  • Mesh optimal for ventilation, flexibility
  • Airbag jackets enhance safety protection
  • Leather has good abrasion resistance, expensive

How Do the Healite Airbag Jackets Work?

The core of the Healite jacket is an integrated inflatable airbag vest connected to your motorcycle via a mechanical tether. It instantly deploys to cocoon your torso in a crash, absorbing energy and limiting spinal/neck overextension.

  • The airbag is triggered when the tether detaches from the bike
  • CO2 rapidly fills the vest to create a protective bubble
  • Deflates after inflation to allow easy escape

This supplemental airbag system seems effective at enhancing motorcycle safety. When seamlessly built into a riding jacket, it provides extra protection without breaking the bank.

Now, let’s explore the four specific Healite airbag jacket models I tested.

Healite Adventure Airbag Jacket

The Adventure Airbag is Healite’s cold-weather riding jacket, integrating airbag protection into a durable, waterproof shell.

  • Heavy Cordura shell for abrasion resistance
  • Removable insulating liner
  • Loads of adjustments for fit tuning
  • Armor offers additional impact absorption

While a solid cold rider option, the Adventure is rather bulky and doesn’t ventilate well. I found it to be overpriced for the protection provided.

Healite Air Free Mesh Jacket

Optimized for warm weather, the Air Free uses an ultra-breathable mesh shell with integrated airbag technology.

  • Lightweight mesh for maximum airflow
  • Beefy CE Level 2 armor
  • More discreet airbag inflation system
  • Lots of stretches for flexibility

The Air Free Mesh is my top pick due to its excellent ventilation, flexibility, protection, and value. It’s built for hot riding.

Healite Leather Airbag Jacket

Healite also offers leather versions of its airbag jacket tailored for men and women.

  • Premium thick full-grain leather
  • Heavy armor components
  • Snug fit requires a break-in period
  • Robust abrasion resistance

While protective, leather jackets are expensive, not very breathable, and have a tight fit. I recommend them if you need abrasion resistance.

Helite Free-Air Mesh Airbag Jacket Sizing Chart

SIZECHEST (IN)WAIST (IN)HEIGHT (IN)
SM29-3427-3162-67
MD33-3629-3467-70
LG34-4133-3968-72
XL39-4334-4170-74
2XL41-4536-4370-77
3XL43-4739-4771-78
4XL45-5141-5171-80

My Verdict After Extensive Testing

Based on months of first-hand testing and analysis, the Healite Air Free Mesh Jacket is my top recommendation for its optimal blend of ventilation, armor, flexibility, and integrated airbag technology.

While not cheap, Healite airbag jackets seem to offer legitimate additional protection for your money. Just be prepared for the extra step of connecting the tether system when riding. Let me know if you have any other questions!

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