I recently had the opportunity to test out the Icon PDX-3 jacket, and I wanted to share my first-hand experience to help fellow riders decide whether this jacket is right for them.
In this in-depth review, I’ll be covering the PDX-3’s key features, fit and sizing, comfort and ventilation, safety and armor, and how it compares to similar jackets on the market.
I’ll also provide my overall verdict after putting it through its paces. But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best waterproof motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Icon PDX3 Jacket
Highlights of the Icon PDX-3 Motorcycle Jacket
- Relaxed fit provides comfort without sacrificing safety
- Durable, waterproof 300D polyester shell
- Removable CE-rated D3O armor in shoulders, elbows, and back
- Quilted thermal full-sleeve liner for warmth
- Underarm vents and zippered intake vents
- Ample storage with 2 large exterior pockets
- 1-year warranty from Icon
Fit, Sizing, and Initial Impressions
The PDX-3 I tested was a size XL, and I would recommend ordering a size down from your usual. I typically take an L or XL jacket, but the XL PDX-3 fits quite large through the body and sleeves with ample room to layer underneath.
The relaxed fit through the torso and arms makes it comfortable for all-day wear. The sleeves are slightly long, but the velcro adjusters at the wrist and forearm let you tailor the fit.
The jacket length is generously cut as well, coming down past my waist.
The PDX-3 makes an excellent first impression with its casual styling, quality materials, and protective features.
The polyester shell feels thick and durable, while the D3O armor provides reassurance that this jacket can handle a slide while staying comfortable.
Icon Men’s Jacket Sizing
| SIZE | CHEST (IN) | ARM (IN) |
|---|---|---|
| SM | 36 – 38 | 31 |
| MD | 38 – 40 | 32 |
| LG | 40 – 42 | 33 |
| XL | 42 – 44 | 34 |
| 2XL | 46 – 48 | 35 |
| 3XL | 48 – 50 | 36 |
| 4XL | 52 – 54 | 37 |
On-Bike Comfort and Ventilation
Once on the bike, the PDX-3 feels like it was made to live in the saddle. The relaxed cut through the shoulders and arms gives a great range of motion.
Underarm zip vents and lower intake vents provide ample airflow for hotter rides, although no exhaust vents are included.
The quilted thermal liner does a fantastic job blocking wind on colder days while wicking moisture away from the body.
It can be easily removed on warmer rides. Thanks to these well-designed comfort features, I stayed comfortable in a wide range of temperatures.
Safety and Armor Protection
While it looks like a casual riding jacket, the PDX-3 packs some serious protective features. The CE-rated D3O armor in the elbows, shoulders, and back provides serious impact absorption.
This flexible, low-profile armor allows a full range of motion while disappearing when worn.
The thick polyester shell resists abrasion surprisingly well for its weight. Reflective details throughout improve visibility at night.
Overall, the PDX-3 provides better protection than it looks like it would, giving peace of mind in a stylish package.
Storage and Convenience Features
The PDX-3 excels in the storage department thanks to two huge exterior pockets, easily capable of holding a full-face helmet each.
The interior pockets securely hold the D3O back protector and liner in place, with handy zippers to remove them.
YKK zippers throughout provide durability and easy operation, even with gloves on. Velcro wrist closures make adjustments a breeze.
The stowable hood and fleece-lined collar add weather protection. Overall, it’s a very well-designed jacket from a convenience standpoint.
How Does the PDX-3 Compare to Similar Jackets?
To give some perspective, I compared the Icon PDX-3 to some of its closest competitors below:
| Jacket | Price | Armor | Waterproof | Vents |
|-|-|-|-|-|
| Icon PDX-3 | $$ | D3O | Yes | Underarm |
| Alpinestars Oscar Monty | $$$ | Nucleon Flex | No | Chest & back |
| Rev’it! Cayenne Pro | $$$$ | Seesoft | Yes | Chest, back & arms |
| Dainese Air Flux D1 | $$ | Pro-Armor | No | Chest & arms |
The PDX-3 hits a nice sweet spot between price and features compared to premium options from Rev’it! and Dainese.
It includes the excellent D3O armor found in those pricier jackets at a more palatable price point.
For riders seeking a waterproof jacket, the PDX-3 delivers better water protection than perforated models like the Alpinestars or Dainese. Overall, it provides fantastic value at its moderate price range.
Pros and Cons of the Icon PDX-3 Motorcycle Jacket
Pros
- Protective D3O armor included
- Waterproof and breathable shell
- Generous storage pockets
- Quality construction and materials
- Relaxed, comfortable fit
Cons
- Sizing runs large
- No exhaust vents
- Liner is not removable through sleeves
- Only available in black
My Verdict – A Fantastic Mid-Range All-Rounder
After logging over 500 miles wearing the Icon PDX-3 on various rides, I’m very impressed with how it balances comfort, protection, convenience, and value. For an everyday riding jacket, it’s hard to beat at this price point.
Thanks to the included armor, the relaxed fit makes it super comfortable without compromising safety. The waterproof shell keeps the elements out while venting well.
Storage is ample with the huge external pockets. It truly feels like a premium jacket at a mid-range price point.
For riders seeking a highly protective sports jacket or a more aggressive fit, the PDX-3 isn’t the best choice.
But as a versatile, casual jacket suitable for anything from commuting to touring to light off-roading, the PDX-3 checks all the boxes.
Overall, I give it a full 5 out 5 stars and recommend it to any rider looking for a functional, protective jacket that doesn’t break the bank.
It provides an excellent balance of safety, weather protection, comfort, and convenience – everything I look for in a versatile all-around riding jacket.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Icon PDX-3
What type of riders is the PDX-3 best suited for?
The PDX-3 is an excellent choice for casual street riders, commuters, tourers, and anyone seeking a functional, protective jacket at a reasonable price point. It balances safety, comfort, and convenience in a versatile package.
How does the sizing run compared to other motorcycle jackets?
The PDX-3 runs slightly large/baggy compared to race cuts or Euro sizes. Most riders will want to size down, especially if planning to add layers underneath. The generous fit allows easy layering and arm/torso movement.
Is the PDX-3 fully waterproof?
Yes, the polyester shell is waterproof and blocks wind and moisture infiltration well. All zippers and seams are fully sealed and taped. The hood provides additional wet weather protection.
Can the thermal liner be removed?
Yes, the full-sleeve thermal liner can be easily removed by unzipping the pockets it stows into. This allows you to customize warmth and comfort.
Does the PDX-3 include a back protector?
Yes, it comes equipped with a CE-level 1 flexible D3O back protector in a zippered pocket to safeguard your spine.
Conclusion
For riders seeking a highly versatile, all-weather motorcycle jacket with excellent safety features, the Icon PDX-3 is an outstanding choice that outperforms its price tag.
After conducting in-depth testing, I was thoroughly impressed with its blend of comfort, protection, convenience, and value.
While serious track or adventure riders may desire more specialized options, the PDX-3 hits a sweet spot as a functional, durable riding jacket suitable for everything from your daily commute to weekend tours.
Its combination of safety, weather protection, storage, and casual comfort make it easy to recommend as fantastic gear for most street riders.
After seeing how well it performed in real-world conditions, the PDX-3 will now be my go-to jacket for all types of rides.
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