When considering a new leather motorcycle jacket, we must evaluate several factors to determine if it meets our needs. Does it offer sufficient armor against impacts?
How does it stand up to sliding across the pavement? Does the construction optimize airflow and weather protection?
But the main question you should ask is, Is this the best leather motorcycle jacket for you?
I aim to provide an in-depth exploration of how the Sand 4 layers address these key areas. Let’s start by examining some background on Revit’s popular middle-ground offering.
Joe Rocket Classic ’92 Jacket
A Trusted Name Updates Its Mid-Range Gear
As an established European company dedicated exclusively to motorcycle gear, Revit has cultivated a reputation for high-performance equipment designed for real-world riding.
The Sand Jacket (1) series represents their mid-priced jack-of-all-trades option targeting adventure-focused riders.
Now in its 4th generation, the Sand aims to deliver maximum versatility through modular components and weather protection without the premium price tag.
Revit retains the same circa $500 sticker for the jacket while packing in several useful upgrades. This appeals to value-focused riders reluctant to shell out $900+ for top-tier alternatives like the Defender Pro Gore-Tex.
They’ve listened to rider feedback by enhancing ventilation and aerodynamics using innovative designs derived from industry experience. Let’s explore what these changes mean for abrasion resistance and armored impact damping.
Armor That Meets Safety Standards
Right off the bat, the CE-rated armor remained unchanged from the previous Sand leather motorcycle jacket. Both the elbow and shoulder guards consist of Revit’s SEESOFT CE Level 2 protectors, which combine shock-absorbing viscoelastic polymer with a rigid polypropylene shell.
For the back, I strongly recommend inserting an aftermarket Level 2 foam insert to shield your spine.
The hips utilize Revit’s thin, flexible CSMART CE Level 1 foam to enable freedom of movement. And below each knee resides additional Level 2 armor backed by anti-burst aramid fiber composite. This tried-and-true blend of impact foam disperses force over a wide area to reduce injury risk.
So despite moving upmarket with construction upgrades, Revit smartly retained the same proven armor package. This choice provides a familiar safety net to help deflect blows while sliding across the tarmac.
Reinforced Shell Fabric For Enhanced Abrasion Protection
Where the Sand 4 jacket truly shines lies in its shell fabric. Revit ditched the previous 500D and polyester panels in favor of a full polyester ripstop.
This tightly woven material gains its name from the interlocking reinforced squares, which prevent minor tears from spreading.
As our apparel takes the brunt of friction against the pavement, these ripstop grids preserve the jacket’s structural integrity to resist disintegrating.
The pants also receive similar ripstop enhancements for bolstered slide abrasion protection compared to preceding versions.
Additionally, the majority of seams utilize durable triple-line stitching rather than single for superior strength to avoid bursting open.
These thoughtful fabric upgrades reveal Revit’s commitment to optimizing rider safety by boosting tear and puncture resistance.
During my testing, the ripstop fabric survived some gnarly off-road spills without a scratch. And the reinforced seams stayed intact despite the jacket panels shifting drastically from my impacts against the dirt.
This rugged construction infuses confidence that the abrasion resistance could fare well in street accidents, too, helping prevent road rash.
Ventilation Configurations To Mitigate Overheating
Riding gear must balance safety with comfort, and ventilation plays a crucial role during sweltering summer outings.
Unlike leather jackets, textile layers allow tailoring airflow for warmer weather through zippers and permeable meshes. Here’s an overview of the Sand 4 jacket’s heat-fighting adjustments:
Up first, large shoulder vents utilize snap-backs to hold them wide open, allowing air to flow down the sleeves.
These function similarly to pit zips for circulating breeze across the chest and inner arms. Moving lower, two zippered vents on the biceps route additional relief toward moisture-prone areas.
However, the main event occurs across the front zipper housing. A handy secondary inner zipper connects to removable side flaps, essentially transforming the jacket into a versatile mesh vest.
By exposing such a large mesh span, riders can rapidly dump heat buildup through convective cooling.
While the snaps and fabric boost ventilation potential over the predecessor, I’m disappointed Revit didn’t modernize the back exhausts with similar snap openings.
Their stiff shape reduces overall airflow volume compared to the front and sleeves. Still, these smart implementations should satisfy most riders during hot weather excursions in the saddle.
Convenience And Versatility Features For Year-Round Use
Now, we’ve covered the major technical upgrades, but the Sand 4 contains various handy details for simplified use across multiple seasons.
Starting up top, a flexible snap collar lies flat when fully opened, avoiding the constant flapping and throat irritation prevalent among older designs. This small tweak goes a surprisingly long way towards all-day comfort.
Additionally, easily accessible storage pouches permit the safe stashing of separate waterproof and thermal liners on longer trips when the weather changes.
This flexibility enables adapting to shifting conditions at a moment’s notice to avoid exposure or overheating. The zip-out rain shell even doubles as a camp jacket for relaxing at the fireside while protected from precipitation.
Finally, an accommodating size range spanning XS to 4XL suits most body types, assisted by adjustment straps at the forearms, waist, and cuffs.
Coupled with a complete waterproof liner and 3400mm membrane, the Sand 4 demonstrates its capabilities as a quiver killer ready to battle nearly anything the elements throw our way.
Key Component Overview
Now let’s do a quick rundown of the crucial elements that set this jacket apart before getting to my verdict:
- Full polyester ripstop construction – Sliding abrasion protection
- Waterproof and thermal liners – Versatility for changing conditions
- Ventilation configurations – Heat and humidity management
- CE armor at shoulders, elbows, and knees – Impact shock absorption
- Convenient storage pouch – Easy access for liners
- Relaxed fit – Allows wearing layers underneath
Considering these features alongside the reasonable cost places the Revit Sand 4 in an appealing position among middleweight adventure offerings. Let’s weigh the pros against the drawbacks to formulate an overall opinion.
Final Impressions
After analyzing the materials, components, and riding performance, I believe the Sand 4 hits a sweet spot, combining safety, weather adaptability, and convenient functionality into a single mid-priced package.
The value equation adds up nicely for budget-conscious riders unwilling to fully dive into premium territory.
It handles abrasion resistance admirably, courtesy of the ripstop polyester shell and rugged seam construction.
Articulated CE-rated armor provides peace of mind when the inevitable crash occurs. For roughly $500, the feature set almost feels too generous compared to the cost.
My main complaints revolve around airflow limitation from the rear exhausts and lack of premium Gore-Tex waterproof lining, though I acknowledge why Revit avoided these for cost considerations.
Overall, though, the Sand 4 punches well above its mid-level price, in my opinion, making it an easy recommendation for road, off-road, and adventure bikers favoring Swiss comfort.
Comparison with Other Leather Jackets
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Alpinestars Missile V2 Ignition Leather Jacket | Sport-fit leather jacket with quilted liner and external CE armor |
| Roland Sands Ronin Leather Jacket | Vintage-inspired leather with armor and ventilation |
| Richa Lausanne Women’s Leather Jacket | Stylish leather jacket for women with protectors |
The Revit Sand 4 H2O differs from traditional leather offerings with its combination of textile ripstop fabric and included waterproof liner for weather protection.
Both the Missile V2 and Ronin jackets are focused more on style rather than versatility. The Sand 4 provides more flexibility to adapt to changing conditions with its modular components.
The Richa Lausanne leather jacket offers minimal protection by comparison without integrated armor or abrasion-resistant fabric.
For riders looking for a mid-priced, all-purpose jacket, the Sand 4 H2O delivers better value through its balance of safety features and climate adaptability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the updated Sand 4 jacket improve on previous versions?
It uses new full polyester ripstop material and reinforced seams for better abrasion and tear resistance. Upgraded vents also provide more effective cooling through innovative openings.
Would the Sand 4 work for hardcore adventure riding expeditions?
Yes, it offers good versatility for changing conditions and terrain with its modular waterproof, thermal, and venting options. The ripstop shell withstands off-road abrasion fairly well.
How does Revit’s Sand jacket compare against budget-friendly jackets under $300?
The Sand contains heavier armor, superior weather protection, more adjustability, and better airflow than most budget jackets lacking modular layers. The value is much higher despite a higher initial cost.
Does the Sand 4 include a back protector?
Unfortunately, no back protector comes standard, so I strongly advise purchasing an aftermarket one like Revit’s own Seesoft CE Level 2 option, which runs around $60. Protecting your spine is crucial.
Do the pants have adequate stretch panels for comfort?
No, stretch panels are missing from the pant design, which would allow more flexibility. For certain riders, sizing up or down may help provide a better fit through the seat and knees until broken in.
In Closing
While premium jackets exist boasting tech like Gore-Tex and kangaroo leather, the Revit Sand 4 carves its niche, delivering exceptional value at the middle ground, outshining competing selections targeting casual and pragmatic riders.
If you seek ample safety and weather protection without breaking the bank, hopefully, you found this review insightful for choosing durable riding attire for all your adventures on the open road.
Now, I welcome any firsthand experiences with the Sand jacket from fellow motorcyclists. Please share your feedback or questions below!
Do the latest upgrades seem worth the price hike over past versions? How do you feel the sizing runs? Until next time, keep the shiny side up, everyone!
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Sources: MOTORCYCLE PROTECTIVE CLOTHING: (1)