The new Klim Baja S4 Jacket has generated a lot of buzz among adventure riders looking for a breathable and protective mesh setup for hot weather riding.
As a brand known for its innovative and high-quality gear, Klim has designed this jacket to cater to adventure rider enthusiasts who demand comfort and safety.
In this Klim Baja S4 Jacket, we’ll explore its features, construction, and overall performance to determine if it truly delivers on its promises.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best adventure motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Klim Baja S4 Jacket
Key Takeaways
- Four-way stretch for mobility
- Mesh jacket and pants for summer
- Beefy protection for off-road trails
Klim Baja S4 Jacket: Our Final Verdict
I have to say, after trying it on and learning about all its features, I’m really impressed with this new Klim Baja S4 Jacket.
As someone who often overheats on rides, I think the full mesh construction and strategic use of materials like the Schoeller Dynatec nylon mesh and Karbonite Micromesh stretch zones will provide excellent airflow and flexibility.
At the same time, the Superfabric impact protection on the shoulders and elbows gives me confidence that I’ll still have that crucial abrasion resistance in key areas. The jacket just feels really well-thought-out for aggressive adventure riding in hot conditions.
One potential drawback to consider is that the Baja S4 jacket is not waterproof, so it has limited versatility for changing weather conditions. You’d likely want to pair it with Klim’s Enduro S4 waterproof shell if rain is in the forecast. But for pure hot weather use, this could be an absolute game-changer.
Prices can change, so be sure to check Revzilla.com for the latest pricing and any special offers on the Baja S4 before buying elsewhere. Their price match guarantee ensures you’ll get the best deal around.
I’d love to hear your thoughts too! Give this article a like and share if you found it helpful – it really does help get the word out there.
Comparison to Similar Products
| Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| FirstGear Kathmandu 2.0 | – Waterproof and breathable HydraTEX membrane – Removable insulated liner – CE-approved armor at shoulders, elbows, and back – Multiple pockets and vents | $499.95 |
| FirstGear Kilimanjaro 2.0 | – Waterproof and breathable HydraTEX membrane – Removable insulated liner – CE-approved armor at shoulders, elbows, and back – Multiple pockets and vents – Adjustable waist and sleeve cuffs | $499.95 |
| KLIM PowerXross | – Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable membrane – Removable insulated liner – D3O armor at shoulders, elbows, and back – Multiple pockets and vents – Adjustable waist and sleeve cuffs | $799.99 |
| Scorpion EXO Yosemite Hi-Viz | – Waterproof and breathable membrane – Removable insulated liner – CE-approved armor at shoulders, elbows, and back – Multiple pockets and vents – High-visibility design | $299.95 |
| Helite Adventure Airbag Jacket | – Waterproof and breathable membrane – Removable insulated liner – CE-approved armor at shoulders, elbows, and back – Multiple pockets and vents – Integrated airbag system | $999.99 |
The FirstGear Kathmandu 2.0 and Kilimanjaro 2.0 jackets are similar in features and price, offering waterproof and breathable membranes, removable insulated liners, CE-approved armor, and multiple pockets and vents. The Kilimanjaro 2.0 has additional adjustable waist and sleeve cuffs.
The KLIM PowerXross Jacket is a higher-end option with a Gore-Tex membrane, D3O armor, and similar features to the FirstGear jackets, but at a higher price point.
The Scorpion EXO Yosemite Hi-Viz Jacket is a more budget-friendly option with a waterproof and breathable membrane, removable insulated liner, CE-approved armor, and a high-visibility design, making it a good choice for riders who prioritize visibility.
The Helite Adventure Airbag Jacket is the most expensive option, featuring an integrated airbag system in addition to a waterproof and breathable membrane, removable insulated liner, and CE-approved armor, providing an extra layer of protection in the event of a crash.
Why I Tested the Klim Baja S4 Jacket and Pants
For context, I currently ride a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R. Living in Southern California means I can ride year-round if I have the right protective motorcycle apparel.
My go-to jacket for multi-day trips has been the Klim Latitude. But once temperatures start rising, I find myself roasting in all that abrasion resistance.
That’s why I was interested when Klim released the Baja S4 jacket and pants for 2023. Klim bills this gear as a lightweight, air-flow-focused setup made for aggressive trail riding in hot conditions.
Key Features and Technology of the Klim Baja S4
The Baja S4 jacket and pants demonstrate Klim’s expertise in creating high-performance adventure gear. Let’s look at some of the core features and technology:
Ultra-Breathable Mesh Construction
The highlight of this jacket is the extremely airy Dintex breathable mesh throughout the jacket and pants. This is some of the most open and breathable mesh I’ve ever seen from Klim. It allows tremendous airflow while riding to keep you cool.
Strategically placed mesh panels run along the chest, arms, thighs, and back of knees. The rest of the jacket and pants feature lightweight four-way stretch fabric for maximum mobility.
Abrasion Protection Where It Counts
While this setup sacrifices waterproofing for ventilation, Klim still incorporated wear resistance in the key impact zones.
The shoulders and elbows are reinforced with durable Superfabric pads. This material are constructed from a layered construction with D30 armored plates that are extremely wear-resistant.
Knees are protected by supple leather panels with additional stretch material behind them for comfort.
Armor for Impact Protection
The Baja S4 includes removable CE-rated engineered protection in the elbows, shoulders, knees, and back armor for impact protection:
- Elbows: Klim dual-density CE 1 protection
- Shoulders: Klim CE Level 1 armor
- Knees: Klim CE Level 1 knee protection
- Back: Klim CE Level 1 articulated back protector
The stretch fabric helps keep the D3o level armor comfortable while allowing it to stay put during crashes.
Convenience Features
The Klim also added functional touches for convenience during long trail days:
- Hydration pack compartment with tube routing
- Interior waist belt to secure the jacket
- Hidden internal document pockets
- External water-resistant rear pocket
Next, let’s take a close look at how the Baja S4 fits and feels.
Fit, Comfort, and Sizing
Finding the right size is crucial with any riding gear. Here’s how the Baja S4 jacket and pants fit me:
I’m 6’2″ and 180 lbs with an athletic build. For most motorcycle jackets, I wear a size large. The Baja S4 jacket in a large fit me perfectly in the shoulders, sleeves, and torso.
The generous stretch panel materials make the jacket extremely comfortable even in full tuck position. I never felt any tightness or restrictions during technical trais.
Baja S4 jacket sizes:
| SIZE | CHEST (IN) | WAIST (IN) | SLEEVE (IN) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SM | 33.75-37.5 | 30.75-34.25 | 30.75-32.25 |
| MD | 37.75-41.25 | 34.75-38.25 | 31.5-33 |
| LG | 41.75-45.25 | 38.5-42.25 | 32.25-33.75 |
| XL | 45.75-49.25 | 42.5-46 | 32.75-34.25 |
| 2XL | 49.5-53.25 | 46.5-50 | 33-34.75 |
| 3XL | 53.5-57 | 50.5-52.25 | 33-34.75 |
| 4XL | 57.5-61 | 50.5-52.25 | 33-34.75 |
| 5XL | 61.5-65 | 58.25-60.25 | 33-34.75 |
The Baja S4 pants are sized numerically by waist and inseam length. I typically wear a 34″ inseam. The size 34 regularly fits me well through the legs and waist, with room for knee vented pads.
One note about the pants – they do not go on over boots. You have to put the pants on first, then the boots. The ankle zippers are not full-length.
Pant Sizes:
| Size | Fit |
|---|---|
| 30-36 | Regular or Tall |
| 32-40 | Regular or Tall |
| 34-40 | Regular or Tall |
| 36-40 | Regular or Tall |
| 38-40 | Regular or Tall |
| 40 | Regular |
Overall, they allow free movement in any position while providing excellent airflow. Now, let’s get into how well they perform for trail riders.
Riding Protection and Performance Off-Road
During technical single-track and high-speed deserts in Baja California, Mexico, I tested the Baja S4 gear on my KTM 1290 Super Adventure R. Here’s how the jacket stacked up for protection and performance:
Impact Protection
During my testing, I had a few minor spills on the trails; the impact protection was excellent. The CE-rated D3o level armor absorbed impacts well and prevented any bruising.
The coverage area of the shoulder and elbow pads could be larger for maximum protection. But overall, it offers suitable impact absorption.
The articulated back protector also stayed in place. However, I’d recommend adding a chest protector for more complete upper body protection when riding aggressively off-road.
Abrasion Resistance
The Superfabric held up well during my crashes over some sharp rocks. I inspected the jacket closely and couldn’t find any tears in the material.
The leather knee vented pads also prevented the pants from getting ripped or damaged. Klim gear is typically quite durable for the the trail, and the Baja S4 continues that legacy.
Ventilation and Airflow
Here’s where the Baja S4 really impresses – the chassis ventilation and airflow are phenomenal!
The extensive mesh areas flow tremendous air, keeping you cool even in near 100°F heat. I didn’t overheat at all wearing this gear in the Baja desert during summer.
Moisture wicks away rapidly, so you don’t get that soaked feeling. This is some of the most airy and breathable adventure gear I’ve worn. The ventilation exceeds Klim and RKA’s offerings.
Quality and Construction
Overall, the Baja S4 jacket are of excellent quality and construction. They are very well-made and designed for rugged riding. All the seams and material connections are solid. The YKK zippers operate smoothly and stay aligned even after crashes.
The fabric has some slight stretch but is still quite durable for off-road. The mesh feels sturdy enough to resist tearing when brushing against branches on the trail.
Klim’s quality and construction give me confidence in the longevity of this gear. Based on my experience with other Klim products, I expect to get at least 2-3 years of hard trails from the Baja S4 jacket.
Who is the Klim Baja S4 Designed For?
The Baja S4 hits the sweet spot for aggressive dual sport and adventure riders and is designed for:
- Ride in hot, humid conditions
- Need maximum airflow and ventilation
- Demand protection for off-road technical use
- Seek lightweight gear that moves with the rider
It’s purpose-built for those epic summer ADV trips through the desert and technical single-track.
The Baja S4 isn’t ideal for riders who:
- Require waterproofing and greater wear protection
- Ride in cooler wet weather
- Prefer street-oriented adventure touring
The Klim Latitude or Carlsbad are much better options for those needs that balance airflow and protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of material is the Baja S4 made from?
The Baja S4 combines extremely lightweight and breathable Dintex mesh, flexible four-way stretch fabric, and chafing-resistant Superfabric. This combination provides maximum airflow, mobility, and protection.
How does the sizing run?
Based on my experience, the sizing runs true to size. Refer to Klim’s size charts and consider your usual jacket and pant size in other brands. Or contact RevZilla to get personalized sizing recommendations.
Is the Baja S4 fully waterproof?
Unlike other Klim gear, the Baja S4 is designed specifically for breathability and airflow in hot weather. It is not waterproof like the Latitude or Carlsbad.
Can you wear knee braces under the Baja S4 pants?
They will work with thin knee braces, but the fit may be snug. I recommend removing the included knee protection and trying on your knee braces before using them.
How long will the Baja S4 jacket last?
The durability of the construction makes the Baja S4 gear suitable for multiple seasons of aggressive off-road riding. Expect at least 2-3 years of hard use with proper care and maintenance.
And Finally
The Klim Baja S4 jacket excels at providing cooling airflow for summer ADV riding without completely sacrificing protection.
This lightweight gear stands out with its extremely breathable Dintex mesh and well-placed abrasion-resistant panels.
Riders who want ventilation and mobility from their motorcycle apparel for conquering technical trails in the heat need to look no further than the Baja S4.
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