With over 15 years of riding experience, I’ve tested my share of motorcycle jackets. I came across the Crossfire while looking for an affordable 3-4-season jacket. I liked that it had a waterproof outer shell yet direct vents for airflow.
I’ll share how the Crossfire held up during real-world use in this review. You’ll get details on fit, protection, style, and features like ventilation.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best motorcycle jacket for all seasons for you? Let’s find out!
Joe Rocket Crossfire Jacket
Key Takeaways
- Removable thermal liner
- Affordable four-season versatility
- Waterproof laminate construction
Our Final Joe Rocket Crossfire Verdict
In my experience, the Joe Rocket Crossfire is a versatile and well-designed piece of motorcycle gear that offers a great balance of protection, comfort, and style.
I really like the fact that it comes with a waterproof and breathable Cordura shell, which keeps me dry in unexpected rain showers while still allowing my skin to breathe.
After using the Crossfire on various rides, I’ve come to appreciate the removable insulated liner.
It allows me to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day or across different seasons. In my opinion, the cross-linked ventilation system is another standout feature.
On hot days, I can open up the vents for excellent airflow, keeping me cool and comfortable in the saddle.
I typically look for gear that offers robust protection without sacrificing comfort, and the Crossfire delivers on both fronts.
The CE-approved armor in the shoulders, elbows, and spine provides peace of mind, while the memory foam back pad adds an extra layer of impact protection.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. Firstly, while the Crossfire Jacket offers solid protection and versatility, it may not be the best choice for extreme weather conditions.
In my opinion, it lacks the insulation and weather protection required for prolonged cold or wet riding.
Secondly, some riders might prefer more specialized pockets, like a dedicated phone pocket or zippered interior pockets, for added security.
Before you buy elsewhere, make sure to check Revzilla.com for the latest prices and any special offers on the Joe Rocket Crossfire Jacket to snag the best deal. Prices change as special offers become available, so it’s always worth checking Revzilla first.
Plus, with their price match guarantee, you can be confident you’re getting the best price on this impressive jacket.
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Sizing and Fit
I’m happy to report that the sizing for the Crossfire is accurate to the chart. I’m 5’10” with a 42″ chest, and the size large fits me perfectly in the shoulders, sleeves, and torso.
Joe Rocket also offers short and tall size options, which is great for accommodating different body types.
It has a comfortable, athletic cut through the shoulders and torso. The sleeves are pre-curved to match a riding position. There’s no loose or baggy fabric around the waist or arms.
For maximum comfort on a bike, I would have liked to see some stretch panels incorporated, particularly at the shoulder blades.
This would help it move better with you as you transition through riding positions. The Crossfire is still decently comfortable, but stretch panels would improve it.
| SIZE | CHEST (IN) | WAIST (IN) | ARM (IN) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SM | 38-40 | 29-31 | 32 |
| MD | 40-42 | 32-34 | 33 |
| LG | 42-44 | 34-36 | 34 |
| XL | 46-48 | 36-39 | 35 |
| 2XL | 50-52 | 39-42 | 36 |
| 3XL | 54-56 | 42-45 | 36.5 |
| 4XL | 58-60 | 45-49 | 36.5 |
| 5XL | 61-63 | 49-53 | 37 |
For tall sizes, add 2″ to the sleeve length and 3″ to the torso length.
Fit Guidance
Based on customer feedback, the Crossfire seems to run a bit small compared to standard sizes.
Many recommend going up one size from what you normally wear. The sleeves also tend to run a little short on some of their jackets, so you may need to size up to get the right sleeve length, which could result in the body being slightly looser.
Tall & Short Sizes
The Crossfire is available in tall sizes up to 3XL. The tall sizes add 2″ to the sleeve length and 3″ to the torso length compared to the regular sizes.
However, I didn’t find any information about short sizes being available for this particular jacket. If you need a shorter fit, you may want to look at other Joe Rocket models.
While the Crossfire offers a good range of sizes, the fit won’t be perfect for everyone. Trying on the jacket in person is always ideal.
But if buying online, make sure to carefully consult the size chart, read customer reviews about fit, and don’t hesitate to go up a size if you’re between sizes or want a looser fit for layering.
Long-Term Durability
The Joe Rocket Crossfire holds up well over time for most riders, but it’s not indestructible. Based on user experiences, it provides solid durability as long as you don’t push it to the limits.
Wear & Tear
The Cordura outer shell is highly abrasion-resistant and can handle a lot of regular wear and tear from riding.
The double stitching in high-stress areas also helps it last. I’ve seen riders get 5+ years out of the Crossfire with regular use.
However, the waterproof liner can start to delaminate after a couple of years, especially if you wash it frequently.
The jacket also isn’t ideal for extreme weather – the shell can fade in intense sun, and prolonged soaking can overwhelm the waterproofing.
Crash Durability
Here’s where durability is more hit-or-miss. Some riders have crashed in the Crossfire at 40-50 mph and walked away with minimal damage. The CE armor and Cordura held up and did their job.
But in more serious crashes, It can still rip and shred, especially along the seams. One rider found the back of his jacket coming apart at the seams after a few years, even without a crash. The armor pockets can also tear in a slide, spilling the armor.
So, while the Crossfire is protective, it’s still a textile jacket with limitations. It’s not a one-and-done like some race leathers. If you crash hard, you’ll likely need to replace it.
The Tradeoff
The Crossfire’s reasonable price and solid feature set mean some tradeoffs in extreme durability. It’s a great value for the casual to serious street rider. But if you’re doing track days or pushing the limits regularly, you might want something beefier.
Overall, I’d expect 3-5+ years of solid use out of the Crossfire if you don’t crash. It’s well-made for the price point.
Just remember that any textile gear has limits. Inspect it regularly, especially after a spill, and replace it if you have any doubts.
Comparison to Similar Products
| Model | Features |
|---|---|
| Tourmaster Mariner | Waterproof, breathable membrane, CE-approved armor, adjustable ventilation, reflective details |
| Alpinestars Monteira Drystar XF | Drystar waterproof and breathable membrane, removable thermal liner, CE-certified protection, multiple pockets |
| Belstaff Ariel 2 Pro | Wax cotton construction, waterproof and breathable membrane, D3O armor, classic styling |
| Icon PDX3 | Waterproof and breathable, removable insulated liner, D3O armor, sport fit |
Compared to the Joe Rocket Crossfire, these jackets offer similar features such as waterproofing, breathability, and protective armor. However, there are some key differences:
- The Tourmaster Mariner and Alpinestars Monteira both have removable thermal liners, which the Crossfire lacks. This may make them more suitable for colder weather riding.
- The Belstaff Ariel 2 Pro uses a wax cotton construction, giving it a more classic and stylish look compared to the modern textile of the Crossfire. It’s also significantly more expensive.
- The Icon PDX3 has a sportier fit compared to the Crossfire’s more relaxed cut. It also uses D3O armor instead of the Crossfire’s CE-rated armor.
- In terms of price, the Crossfire sits in the middle of the pack, offering a balance of features and value. The Belstaff is the most expensive, while the Icon is the most affordable.
Ultimately, the choice between these jackets will depend on your specific needs and preferences in terms of style, weather protection, fit, and budget. The Joe Rocket Crossfire offers a solid combination of features at a competitive price point.
Protection You Can Count On
The Joe Rocket Crossfire goes beyond just CE-approved armor to keep you protected out on the road.
360° Reflectivity
One standout safety feature is the 360° reflective trim. There’s blacked-out reflective material on the shoulders, biceps, and back. This really helps increase your nighttime visibility to other motorists from any angle.
Abrasion-Resistant Shell
The outer shell is made from Invista Cordura®, which is both waterproof and breathable. More importantly, Cordura is known for its high abrasion resistance. So, if you do have a spill, the construction should hold up well and protect your skin from road rash.
Memory Foam Back Pad
In addition to the CE-rated armor in the shoulders, elbows, and spine, the Crossfire also features a memory foam back pad. This adds an extra layer of impact protection for your lower back.
While the Crossfire has a lot of great protective features, no jacket is indestructible. Some riders on forums have mentioned that Joe Rocket gear can still rip and shred in a serious crash.
But that’s to be expected with any textile gear. The key is that it should still protect you from major injuries, even if it itself gets damaged.
Overall, between the CE armor, memory foam, abrasion-resistant shell, and reflectivity, the Crossfire offers solid protection for a textile jacket in this price range. It’s a good choice for riders who want that extra peace of mind on the road.
Weather Protection That Goes the Distance
The Crossfire stands out for its waterproof yet ventilated shell. It uses a laminated construction that bonds the outer layer directly to the waterproof interior, eliminating any moisture-trapping insulation.
This is different from jackets that use removable waterproof liners. Those liners can sag and billow while also inhibiting airflow from reaching your body.
During testing, the Crossfire kept me dry even in heavy rain. Water beads up and rolls right off the shell.
The waterproofing also enables the use of direct vents. These vents channel airflow directly through the lining without compromising water resistance. I’ll cover the venting in more detail next.
For all-weather riding, the Crossfire delivers excellent protection against rain and wind. The waterproof laminate is the key, providing a secure barrier without excess bulk.
Ventilation That Pulls Its Weight
Venting and airflow are critical for riding comfort across changing temperatures. Here’s an overview of how Ventilation Details
The Joe Rocket Crossfire features a robust ventilation system to keep you cool and comfortable in warm weather riding.
Cross Linked Ventilation™ System
The standout feature is the patented Cross Linked Ventilation™ system. This includes two large intake vents on the chest that can be snapped open to scoop in the air while riding. There are also exhaust vents on the back to allow that air to flow through and out of the jacket.
Sleeve & Back Vents
In addition to the Cross-Linked vents, the Crossfire also has zippered vents on the sleeves and an additional rear back vent.
So in total, you’re getting 2 chest intakes, 2 sleeve vents, and 2 back exhaust vents. That’s a lot of options for customizing the airflow.
Adjustability
All of the vents on the Crossfire are adjustable. The chest vents can be snapped open or closed, while zippers control the sleeve and back vents. So you can fine-tune the amount of ventilation based on the conditions and your preferences.
I will say that some riders on forums have mentioned the ventilation, while good, isn’t quite as powerful as a full mesh jacket.
The Crossfire is still a solid textile jacket so that it won’t flow quite as much air as mesh. But for a textile jacket with a waterproof and insulated liner, the venting is pretty impressive.
Overall, the combination of the Cross-Linked system, sleeve vents, and back vents allows the Crossfire to flow a significant amount of air, especially for a textile jacket.
Being able to adjust all the vents is a big plus, too. You’ll appreciate that versatility in changing conditions.
Pockets & Storage
The Joe Rocket Crossfire provides ample storage space for your essentials while riding.
Exterior Pockets
On the outside, you’ll find two hand warmer pockets. These are great for storing items you need quick access to, like your wallet, phone, or keys. The pockets are deep enough to hold your belongings while riding securely.
Interior Pocket
Inside the lining, there’s one large utility pocket. This deep pocket is perfect for storing larger items like your registration, insurance card, or map. It’s also a good spot for items you don’t need while actively riding, like a spare pair of gloves.
While the Crossfire offers a good amount of storage, some riders might prefer more specialized pockets. For example, it doesn’t have a dedicated phone pocket or any zippered interior pockets for added security. The exterior pockets also don’t have zippers, just snap closures.
However, for most riders, the two exterior pockets and one interior pocket should provide plenty of space for the essentials. And the simplicity of the pocket design means less fiddling with zippers while wearing gloves.
Overall, the Crossfire pockets offer a straightforward and functional storage solution. You can easily carry your must-haves without adding too much bulk or complexity to the jacket.
Layering for Year-round Use
A major highlight of the Crossfire is its four-season versatility. This is achieved through extensive venting and the full thermal liner.
The liner attaches to the inner shell wall with sleeves and secures around the collar. It’s comfortable against the skin and adds noticeable warmth.
You can ride comfortably into the low 40s Fahrenheit with the liner inserted. Remove it, and it remains comfortable into the 80s with vents open.
For summer nights or high-elevation rides, I’ll often start with the liner in and remove it when temperatures rise. This handy adaptability is key for touring and adventure riding.
The Crossfire truly bridges the gap across seasons. With some layering adjustments, you can stretch it for year-round motorcycle use.
Breaking Down the Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Waterproof Shell | The bicep, chest, and rear exhaust vents promote airflow. Chest vents are especially effective. |
| Vents | Bicep, chest, and rear exhaust vents promote airflow. Chest vents are especially effective. |
| Armor | CE-Level 1 armor at elbows and shoulders. The basic foam back pad should be upgraded. |
| Reflectivity | Blacked-out reflective piping on shoulders and arms enhances visibility. |
| Removable Thermal Liner | Waist tabs, sleeve tabs, and collars allow fit customization. |
| Storage | Two exterior pockets and one internal pocket provide adequate storage. |
| Adjustability | Waist tabs, sleeve tabs, and collar allow fit customization. |
This breakdown gives a quick overview of the core features enabling quatro-season usage. The Crossfire checks all the key boxes for protection, visibility, storage, and weather adaptability.
Styling That Blends Right In
The overall aesthetics of the Crossfire are muted and understated. The colorway I tested uses a gray shell with black armor and minimal white accents on the logos.
It’s a neutral design that doesn’t call too much attention. I do wish the Joe Rocket branding was toned down or blacked out. The white logos stand out a bit much for my taste.
You’ll find three color options: black, gray, and hi-viz yellow. Go hi-viz if maximum visibility is your top priority. Otherwise, the black and gray both have clean, modern looks.
Getting the Most Value for Your Money
Considering its impressive versatility, the Crossfire offers fantastic bang for your buck at $250. You’d be hard-pressed to find another jacket with these features at this price point.
The Crossfire is hundreds less than many premium alternatives, including the iconic Rev’It! Sand 3, which costs $499.
For riders who want one jacket to rule them all seasons, the Crossfire gives you back a lot of change from that $500 level. You’ll have enough left over to upgrade the back armor, too.
If your budget is under $300, I can confidently recommend the Crossfire for four-season riding. The combination of waterproofing, venting, and insulation is hard to beat.
Who Is It For?
The Joe Rocket Crossfire is a versatile choice that’s suitable for a wide range of riders.
Commuters & Tourers
If you’re looking for a reliable, protective jacket for your daily commute or weekend rides, the Crossfire is a great option.
The waterproof and breathable Cordura shell will keep you dry in unexpected rain showers. And the removable insulated liner allows you to adapt to changing temperatures.
The Cross Linked Ventilation system is also a big plus for commuters and tourers who often ride in varied conditions.
You can open up the vents for flow-through ventilation on hot days or bundle up with the liner when the temperature drops.
Sport & Aggressive Riders
While not a full-on race jacket, the Crossfire is also suitable for sport and more aggressive riding. The CE-approved armor and memory foam back pad provide solid impact protection. And the snug, sport-oriented fit keeps it from flapping at higher speeds.
Joe Rocket gear is developed for and proven in extreme conditions, so you can trust the Crossfire to hold up to spirited riding.
Just keep in mind that it’s still a textile jacket, so it won’t provide the same level of abrasion resistance as leather in a slide.
Value-Minded Riders
The Crossfire also appeals to riders looking for a lot of bang for their buck. It offers a range of premium features like the Cordura shell, CE armor, and Cross-Linked Ventilation at a competitive price point.
You’d be hard-pressed to find another one that combines this level of protection, versatility, and quality construction at this price.
So, if you want solid performance and features without breaking the bank, the Crossfire is a top contender.
The only riders I wouldn’t recommend the Crossfire for are those who prioritize a classic, retro aesthetic. The Crossfire has a distinctly modern, sporty look. If you want something with more of a heritage or cafe racer vibe, you’ll want to look at other options.
But for most riders – commuters, tourers, sport riders, and value-seekers – the Joe Rocket Crossfire is a well-rounded choice that’s built to perform in a variety of riding scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Crossfire work well for hot weather?
The direct ventilation and removable liner make the Crossfire suitable for hot conditions. Just be sure to open all vents and remove the liner when temps exceed 70 F.
How does the sizing run?
The sizing is accurate to the size chart. Order your normal size, and you should achieve a comfortable fit.
Is the Crossfire waterproof in heavy rain?
Absolutely. The laminated shell kept me bone dry even riding through torrential downpours. Water beads up and rolls right off.
Does the Crossfire protect well in a crash?
It provides good abrasion protection, but I recommend upgrading the basic backpad that’s included. With a CE-rated back protector added it will protect you effectively.
Can you connect the Crossfire to riding pants?
It has a short connecting zipper and belt loops to interface with riding pants for a complete suit.
Conclusion
The Joe Rocket Crossfire delivers incredible four-season versatility at an affordable price. It provides ample protection, storage, visibility, and weather adaptability for daily commuting or cross-country touring.
The Crossfire checks every box for riders looking for one jacket that can do it all. I’m comfortable recommending it to any rider that puts functionality, durability, and value above all else. Simply put, this is one of the most impressive jackets available for under $300.
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