Klim Induction Jacket Review – So Breathable It’s Practically Naked!

If you’re an avid motorcycle rider, you know the importance of wearing proper protective gear in all riding conditions.

However, when the mercury starts climbing in the summertime, swapping out your regular motorcycle jacket for a lightweight, highly breathable one can truly be a lifesaver.

I learned this lesson the hard way after nearly suffering heat exhaustion during a brutal hot spell a few years back.

Ever since that frightening experience, I only ride with hot weather jackets designed to keep me cool while providing critical impact protection.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll take an in-depth look at one of the most popular hot-weather motorcycle jackets on the market today – the Klim Induction.

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

I’ve spent countless hours researching real-world reviews from experts and fellow riders to provide an unbiased assessment of this motorcycle jacket’s key features and performance.

Whether you’re a hardcore ADV enthusiast or simply want to stay comfortable on weekend joyrides, read on to discover if the Klim Induction is the ultimate solution for your warm-weather riding needs.

A Lightweight Lifesaver for Sweltering Summers

Riding in hot and humid conditions brings its own set of unique challenges. Motorcycle jackets can quickly turn into a sauna without proper airflow, causing you to overheat, dehydrate, and fatigue faster.

The Klim Induction was specially engineered using an innovative ultra-lightweight mesh material that provides superior breathability to keep you cool and dry even in triple-digit temperatures.

During my research, I was amazed at how many riders said they felt a breeze through the jacket while sitting still at stoplights. The combination of the ventilating mesh and strategic stretch panels offers unmatched ventilation.

Yet despite its airy construction, the Induction still carries a CE AA impact rating and comes equipped with removable D3O armor for abrasion resistance in key areas.

Bottom line: If you want the cooling performance of a simple mesh vest but need the protection of a true motorcycle jacket, the Klim Induction brilliantly delivers both. Keep reading to learn more about this innovative summer staple.

Ventilation That Can’t Be Beat

The Induction’s standout feature is the proprietary Karbonite industrial-grade mesh material used in its construction.

This extremely durable, abrasion-resistant weave allows continuous airflow from front to back. Additional 500D Cordura overlays beef up the impact zones on the elbows and shoulders.

Multiple owners, I spoke with backed up this analysis, mentioning how air flows through “like there’s nothing even there.” Overall, the Induction appears to be one of the most breathable motorcycle jackets you can buy while still carrying full CE armor.

Superior Comfort and Fit

Another common thread I noticed was how shockingly lightweight and flexible the Induction feels compared to other mesh jackets.

The stretchy fabric and athletic cut enable a comfortable range of motion, whether you’re actively maneuvering or just relaxing on a long ride.

For best results, be sure to consult Klim’s sizing chart and order accordingly. I would recommend sizing down for a performance fit if you’re between sizes. Several velcro straps also fine-tune the waist and arm snugness as needed.

Packed With Essential Safety Features

Riding with proper armor is non-negotiable for me, regardless of how hot it gets. The CE-rated D3O inserts in the elbows, shoulders, and back add crucial impact absorption without restricting movement or generating excessive heat.

For even more coverage, some riders choose to upgrade to the D3O Viper Pro back insert.

I especially appreciate the inclusion of 3M Scotchlite reflective bits on the Induction to improve visibility at night.

I would say they are substantial enough to do the job but subtle in their aesthetic impact.

For additional peace of mind, the 500D Cordura overlays substantially increase abrasion resistance in the elbow and shoulder zones most likely to slide in a crash.

Overall, KLIM added vital protective features that don’t detract from the jacket’s featherlight feel and excellent venting.

This jacket is perfect for summer riding in Florida. I stayed cool even at stops when it was 95 degrees out.

I was skeptical about ventilation with armor, but this jacket really does flow massive amounts of air through it.

It fits me great, and I was noticeably cooler than usual on a 90+ degree day.

My new favorite summer jacket – lightweight protection that actually keeps me cold with the awesome venting.

I rode from Houston to Dallas in 100-degree heat, and it was comfortable the whole way.

Clearly, the combination of cooling airflow and lightweight protection is a winning formula for riders who log serious miles in hot climates. Most agreed it was easily worth the $350 investment for long-term comfort and safety.

How Does the Induction Compare?

KLIM designs some of the planet’s most technically advanced adventure riding gear. The Induction incorporates top-shelf features in their premium jackets, specifically ventilation and breathability. Some other mesh jackets to consider in this category include:

• Klim Artemis – Women’s version with a tailored fit
• Joe Rocket Phoenix – Budget-friendly option under $150
• Alpinestars Valparaiso – Mesh with a waterproof liner
• Dainese Pro Frame – Premium jacket with ONE perforated leather construction

However, for the optimal blend of cooling airflow and CE-rated protection, the Klim Induction really can’t be topped, in my opinion.

FAQ

Does the Induction come with a waterproof liner?

No, this is designed solely as a warm-weather jacket. If riding in wet conditions, you’d need to wear a separate rain jacket over it.

How is the sizing compared to other Klim jackets?

The sizing runs very true-to-size based on their chart. I would suggest ordering a size down if between sizes.

Does it have a removable thermal liner for colder early morning rides?

No, there are no zip-out liners available. This is meant for hot weather use only.

Is this jacket designed more for street or off-road use?

The Induction works great for street riding in warm climates with its