The Icon Hooligan 2 is the latest iteration of Icon’s popular Hooligan jacket line. It is designed as a lightweight, highly breathable mesh jacket perfect for warm weather riding.
I tested the perforated version of the Hooligan 2, hoping it would keep me cool while providing adequate abrasion resistance and armor protection.
In the sections below, I will go over the Hooligan 2’s construction and materials, sizing and fit, protective features, ventilation and comfort, and pros and cons based on my experience testing this jacket.
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!
Icon Hooligan Demo Jacket
Key Takeaways
- Great value for the price
- Quality armor for protection
- Lightweight, excellent ventilation
I rode with the Hooligan 2 in temperatures ranging from 80-95°F to properly evaluate its cooling abilities. Read on to find out if this affordable and stylish jacket held up to summer riding demands.
Construction and Materials
The Icon Hooligan 2 uses a combination of polyester mesh and durable abrasion-resistant fabrics. The majority of the jacket is made from a free-flowing polyester mesh that allows significant airflow. The mesh material feels relatively lightweight and flexible.
Icon uses thick abrasion-resistant material called Ironweave in the elbows, shoulders, and back panels.
This added material beefs up the jacket in key areas prone to sliding without adding excessive weight. There are also stretch panels along the sides and back to allow flexibility.
The zippers are heavy-duty YKK units; the main zipper is a self-locking type to prevent it from sliding open.
All of the stitching and construction seem solid, though this is a budget-friendly motorcycle jacket, so expect more reinforcement in premium options.
Armor and Protection
The Icon Hooligan 2 comes equipped with a full set of Icon’s CE Level 1 armor in the elbows, shoulders, and back. This includes:
- Icon D30 Viper shoulder and elbow armor
- Flexible Icon D30 Viper back protector
I’m a big fan of D30 armor; it is soft and pliable until impact, where it stiffens up to absorb energy. This makes it more comfortable to wear while still offering protective qualities.
The armor coverage is suitable for a lightweight jacket like this, providing protection without restricting movement.
The extra abrasion-resistant Ironweave panels I mentioned earlier provide additional protection on key impact zones.
There is also reflective piping on the front and back to make you more visible at night. Overall, the protection is decent for a mesh motorcycle jacket in this price range.
Fit and Sizing
I am 6’0″ and 195 lbs with an athletic build. Based on Icon’s size chart, I chose a large Hooligan 2 jacket. The fit is relaxed but not overly baggy on me.
I have room to add layers underneath during cooler weather but can still get a tailored fit if I cinch the waist adjusters and velcro wrist straps.
The jacket has stretch panels integrated along the sides and rear shoulder area for flexibility. I have a full range of motion in the Hooligan 2 with no restrictions during riding.
The sleeves are pre-curved to match a riding position. Overall, the large size provides a good fit for my proportions.
Icon’s sizing runs true to size, in my experience. I would recommend going by their size chart and your usual t-shirt size to get the optimal fit. If you are between sizes, consider sizing up for more room.
Ventilation and Breathability
One of the highlights of the Hooligan 2 is its exceptional airflow in warm conditions. The perforated mesh material along the main body allows air to flow freely. I stayed cool and dry even at highway speeds, wearing just a t-shirt underneath.
The mesh panels along the sleeves, chest, and back provide constant ventilation when riding. I also appreciate the zippered chest intake vents that allow you to regulate airflow as needed. This is one of the most effectively ventilated motorcycle jackets I’ve tested for hot weather.
Additional Features
Here are some other useful features integrated into the Hooligan 2:
- Interior stash pocket for valuables
- Zippered hand pockets for storage
- Neoprene-lined mandarin collar
- Reflective details for visibility
- Waist adjustment straps for a custom fit
- Easy-access full-sleeve zippers
- Removable thermal liner (sold separately)
These small touches add convenience and versatility for daily use. The jacket also ships with a removable spine pad for a more casual look.
Pros and Cons
Based on my testing, here are the main advantages and disadvantages of the Icon Hooligan 2 jacket:
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible for comfort
- Extremely well-ventilated for warm weather
- Quality d3o armor provides protection
- Abrasion-resistant Ironweave panels enhance safety
- Relaxed fit accommodates layers
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Not waterproof or fully water-resistant
- Limited adjustability and customization
- Mesh material is prone to tears
- Not suitable for cold weather riding
- Sizing runs slightly big
Conclusion and Recommendation
After extensively testing the Icon Hooligan 2 mesh motorcycle jacket this summer, it delivers impressive performance and protection for a budget-friendly price.
The exceptional airflow keeps you cool even in sweltering conditions, while the armor provides impact absorption during a crash.
The jacket does have some limitations, especially when it comes to weather protection and adjustability. But it excels as an affordable, stylish mesh riding jacket for warm and dry conditions.
I would recommend the Icon Hooligan 2 to any rider looking to stay cool and safe on hot days. It delivers fantastic ventilation at a reasonable price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Icon Hooligan 2 jacket:
Does the Hooligan 2 come in different colors?
Yes, the Hooligan 2 is available in several color options, including black, gray, blue, red, hi-viz yellow, and more. The color selection varies by retailer.
Is the Hooligan 2 waterproof?
No, the Hooligan 2 is not waterproof or even water-resistant since it uses air-permeable mesh. For wet weather, you’ll want a separate rain jacket or suit.
How is the sizing on the Hooligan 2?
The sizing runs fairly true-to-size, but many riders recommend ordering one size up for a more relaxed fit or to accommodate layers underneath. Check Icon’s size chart and your usual t-shirt size.
Does this jacket have a removable liner?
Yes, the Hooligan 2 has a removable thermal liner available separately. This helps extend the jacket’s versatility into cooler