Klim Altitude Women’s Jacket Review: Worth The Investment?

The previous version of the Klim Altitude was a longtime favorite, and I was eager to see how the updates enhanced the safety, fit, ventilation, and overall performance of this versatile 3-4 season touring suit.

In this review, I’ll share my hands-on impressions after rigorously evaluating the key features of the jacket and pants during daily commutes and weekend adventures.

I’ll highlight how the redesign improves upon the older Altitude gear in crucial areas. You’ll also get an inside look at the advanced technology and materials that make the new Altitude a standout option for all-weather touring.

But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best women’s motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!

Klim Altitude Women’s Jacket

Klim Altitude Women’s Jacket Review

Key Takeaways

  • Enhanced abrasion resistance zones
  • Ventilated armor breathability
  • Gore-Tex weather protection

Our Verdict On The Klim Altitude Women’s Jacket

After hundreds of miles testing the redesigned Altitude jacket and pants in variable weather and riding scenarios, I’m thoroughly impressed.

Klim addressed my gripes with the previous generation and took performance and aesthetics up several notches.

The Altitude set is now my go-to recommendation for riders seeking hardcore three-season protection with excellent mobility and comfort.

Here are the standout features that make the new Altitude worth the investment:

  • Superb abrasion resistance with reinforced textiles and armor
  • Breathable, ventilated D3O armor for impact dissipation
  • Bombproof, fully waterproof, and breathable Gore-Tex layering
  • Ergonomic, tailored shaping for women with smart adjustability
  • Airflow-promoting vents strategically placed for cooling
  • Flattering, low-key style compared to bulky moto gear
  • Reflective elements for visibility and LED light loop
  • Removable and upgradable CE-rated armor throughout

Riders searching for a lightweight jacket suitable for hot summer rides should look elsewhere. The Altitude prioritizes weather protection and impact resistance over minimalism. The excellent ventilation prevents overheating, however.

While not inexpensive, the Altitude’s construction quality and protective capabilities justify the price. I feel far more reassured riding in challenging conditions wearing the Altitude than regular street clothing or cheaper gear. The Gore-Tex warranty also ensures years of reliable performance.

The redesigned Altitude set deserves strong consideration for female riders looking for a beefy four-season touring jacket and pants backed by Klim’s reputation for top-shelf protection. I’m thrilled to have this versatile, durable gear in my riding lineup.

Comparison to Similar Jackets

JacketKey Features
Alpinestars Stella T-Kira WP JacketWaterproof and breathable outer, CE armor, pre-curved sleeves
Spidi 4Season H2Out Women’s JacketWaterproof and breathable, many vents for airflow, CE armor
First Mfg Wildside Women’s Jacket100% leather construction, quilted accents, classic biker styling
Street Steel Madison Women’s JacketLeather construction with perforated panels, CE armor, multiple color options
Alpinestars Stella GP Plus R V3 Airflow JacketPerforated leather & stretch mesh panels, CE armor, race fit

A Redesigned Fit for Optimal Coverage and Comfort

One of my main gripes with the prior Altitude jacket was its boxy, loose fit. This resulted in the armor floating around instead of staying put.

Thankfully, Klim now has female designers focusing on tailoring the new Altitude pieces to flatter the female form while providing a precise, snug fit.

The size medium jacket and size eight pants I tested fit my 5’4″, 125 lb frame with a 34″ bust and 30″ waist perfectly. The streamlined silhouette hugs curves to keep armor secure without restrictive binding.

I especially appreciate the hip gussets and natural waist adjusters for accommodating different body shapes. However, riders concerned about fit should carefully consult the size chart as the pants run small in the waist.

Overall, the redesigned Altitude suit offers a dialed-in female fit that finally rivals the precision of Klim’s popular men’s styles. The armor stays exactly where it should, thanks to the ergonomic shaping and smart adjustability.

Beefed-Up abrasion resistance in Key Impact Zones

Klim rightfully prides itself on making some of the most protective motorcycle apparel around. The Altitude redesign takes things up a notch by beefing up abrasion resistance in key vulnerable zones.

The jacket features 840D nylon reinforced with Superfabric at the elbows and shoulders. The combination of durable ripstop textile and abrasion-resistant goat leather provides excellent slide and skid protection without restricting movement. I felt reassured knowing my most critical impact points had extra reinforcement.

The pants also include dense, resilient fabric on the knee and hip panels and leather overlays on the inner calves. During my testing,

I never worried about the Altitude’s abrasion resistance, including accidental spills in the dirt. The strategic shielding in high-wear areas gives me confidence this gear will hold up in a crash.

Ventilated D3O Armor for All-Day Comfort

While rugged materials provide abrasion protection, the Altitude’s extensive armor shields your body from blunt impacts.

Both the jacket and pants come equipped with breathable D3O LP1 armor in the elbows, shoulders, knees, hips, and back.

This low-profile armor stays soft and flexible until an impact occurs. The advanced D3O compound then instantly firms up to dissipate and deflect energy. Ventilation ports throughout the armor prevent heat buildup, unlike solid plastic shields.

I wore the Altitude gear for several eight-hour ride days in warm weather. The airy armor ensured I stayed cool and dry despite the protection. The jacket’s underarm vents and back exhaust ports further enhanced airflow.

Unrivaled Waterproof and Breathable Performance

The Altitude’s three-layer Gore-Tex membrane guarantees unmatched weather protection and cooling comfort.

This proven waterproof and breathable technology keeps wind and water out while allowing interior moisture vapor to escape.

Gore’s legendary quality ensures leaks are extremely rare. Just in case,