The summer riding season means it’s time to shed the heavy layers and ride in maximum comfort. But you still want protection.
That’s where the Knox Zephyr Summer Riding Jacket comes in. This lightweight, highly breathable jacket provides serious armor without weighing you down.
But is it right for your needs? And Is this the best motorcycle jacket for the summer? Let’s find out!
Knox Zephyr Pro Jacket Review
Key Takeaways
- Flexible armor safety
- Maximum airflow comfort
- Lightweight summer protection
Lightweight Construction, Heavy Duty Protection
When the temperatures rise, the last thing you want is a bulky, suffocating jacket. The Zephyr is made from lightweight, highly breathable materials to keep you cool.
The outer shell uses abrasion-resistant mesh material on the chest, sleeves, and back. This allows for maximum airflow while still providing protection. Mesh makes up about 60% of the outer surface.
The remaining 40% uses a durable stretch nylon that resists abrasion while moving with your body. The Zephyr is CE Class AA rated for abrasion resistance—the same as many race suits.
For impact protection, the Zephyr uses Knox Microlock armor. This advanced armor uses a viscoelastic material that is soft and flexible when at rest. But on impact, it instantly hardens to absorb and disperse energy before it reaches your body.
You get Level 2 shoulder, elbows, and back armor for comprehensive protection. And there’s a removable Level 1 chest protector under the jacket that secures with velcro.
Cooling Comfort Without Compromise
The Zephyr is designed specifically for warm-weather riding. The mesh material makes up the majority of the jacket surface to allow massive airflow to your torso.
The back protector sits completely off your spine, leaving a 1.5-inch gap for air circulation. No more feeling like you’re wearing a backpack in summer heat.
The sleeves connect to the body armor with stretch panels that allow full mobility without pulling. And the inner bicep and side torso panels are mesh for ventilation.
For a secure fit, there are adjustable cuff straps and adjustable side straps at the waist. This prevents the jacket from flapping at speed while still allowing flexibility. Snaps allow you to customize the tightness.
The collar is made from soft, ribbed stretch fabric that sits comfortably against your neck. It includes a snap closure to seal out the elements when needed.
The front zipper and adjustment snap use gunmetal hardware for durability, matched by Knox’s reputation for quality construction.
Storage and Convenience Features
The Zephyr doesn’t skimp on features just because it’s designed for summer. You still get the essentials like zippered storage and a connection system.
At the lower back is a concealed, zippered pocket that’s large enough for a wallet, phone, or documents. The zipper sits flat to avoid discomfort while riding.
On the inside of the waist are belt loops that allow you to attach riding pants, preventing air from rushing in at speed. The loops are made from elasticized material, so they move freely.
The cuffs and waist adjusters let you tailor the fit. And the collar snapped closed or open for versatility. There are no excessive straps or adjustments to complicate things.
The Knox Advantage
Knox has been creating innovative motorcycle protection since 2006. They introduced the first CE-approved back protector that wasn’t bulky foam or plastic. And their armor continues to set the standard.
The CE Level 2-approved Microlock protectors used in the Zephyr are the result of continuous research into impact protection. This advanced armor allows summer jackets to provide serious protection without being hot, restricting, and uncomfortable.
And their solutions aren’t just for motorcycles. The same technology protects muscle cars at 200+ mph speeds. Military applications take combat armor to the next level. And industrial customers demand the same protection and mobility.
Riding Comfort Meets Safety
The number one priority of the Zephyr is keeping you protected and comfortable in summer weather. It’s designed for serious riders who won’t compromise on safety but need a jacket for hot conditions.
The extensive mesh and streamlined armor placement provide airflow where you need it most. The materials resist abrasion and dissipate impacts without retaining heat or restricting your movement.
The result is a jacket that allows you to focus on the road ahead rather than discomfort. Hard armoring doesn’t have to mean a hard, hot ride. With the Zephyr, you get riding comfort and riding confidence together in one stylish package.
The Perfect Riding Jacket for Warm Climates
The Zephyr hits a sweet spot between all-mesh jackets with minimal protection and hardcore riding jackets that are overkill in the heat.
It provides a smart balance of stylish design, tough construction, and highly breathable performance. You shouldn’t have to choose between looking good and staying cool.
Mesh jackets look great but need more advanced armor. Heavily armored jackets turn you into a sweaty mess. The Zephyr combines fully armored protection with excellent airflow to give you the best of both worlds.
And by using flexible, lightweight materials, you stay mobile and comfortable even with Level 2 protection in place.
Taking Summer Safety Seriously
The Zephyr was designed specifically with warm-weather riders in mind. The priorities were clear:
- Keep you as cool and dry as possible
- Provide maximum airflow to the torso
- Use lightweight but abrasion-resistant materials
- Incorporate flexible, ventilated CE level 2 armor
- Allow full mobility and stretch
- Include storage and connections for versatility
- Offer versatility from hot summer days to cooler evenings
This led to the creation of a summer jacket with fit, features, and protection specifically engineered for riding in warm climates.
The Zephyr represents the pinnacle of Knox’s technical expertise paired with a deep understanding of rider needs.
An Ideal Balance of Protection and Comfort
Finding a jacket that truly balances protection, comfort, and airflow requires advanced materials and an intimate knowledge of riding. Knox delivers on both counts.
The Zephyr uses an abrasion-resistant outer paired with flexible armor that moves naturally with you. This allows comprehensive protection without restricting your movement or comfort on the bike.
The extensive mesh areas provide cooling airflow where you need it most, especially across the chest and back. The removable and adjustable chest pad provides an extra layer of protection.
The streamlined design of the Zephyr considers the specific needs of riders. No unnecessary elements or adjustments could cause discomfort and irritation, especially in warmer weather.
Yet it still includes convenient and versatile features like storage pockets and waist belt loops.
Armor Designed for Maximum Performance
The CE-approved Knox Microlock armor used throughout the Zephyr provides premium impact protection with minimum bulk.
The soft, flexible armor material allows you to move freely while riding. But on impact, it instantly stiffens to resist sudden force and disperse energy.
The armor is inserted into pockets within the jacket, lining intelligently for a fitted, low-profile design. You get comprehensive protection without restricting movement or comfort.
They could have added bulky plastic protectors. But that would undermine the purpose of a lightweight summer riding jacket.
Instead, this high-end armor technology enables the Zephyr to provide safety without sacrificing the benefits of its summer-focused design.
Versatility Across Multiple Riding Scenarios
The Zephyr gives you the versatility to ride in different warm weather conditions. When it’s particularly hot, you can open the vents fully and remove the chest protector. This allows maximum airflow for those sweltering mid-summer rides.
In cooler temperatures or evening rides, you can close the collar snap and fine-tune the sleeve and waist adjusters. And you can leave the chest protector in place or even add a windproof liner for extra protection.
The jacket is at home in warm city riding as well as open roads in warmer climates. It provides excellent mobility for sport riding, including protection and storage for regular commuting.
Something for Everyone
Knox also makes the Knox Zephyr Pro jacket, which uses the same summer-focused design for performance riding.
It includes Knox’s “bam” elastic panels for extra flexibility and movement. The Pro model also has upgraded seam construction in high-stress areas.
The Knox Summer Jacket provides a similar look and feel without the included armor for those looking for a more casual option. However, it does allow you to add the Knox Microlock protectors to enhance safety.
So whether you want maximum protection, casual style, or full-on performance, Knox has a lightweight mesh and textile jacket perfect for your summer rides.
Designed for All-Day Comfort
The thing that makes the Zephyr stand out is the comfort. It’s designed for serious riding, not just quick afternoon jaunts. The ventilation, storage, connections, and protection let you ride for hours in confidence and comfort.
Small touches add up to a vastly better experience. The collar is lined in soft fabric that caresses your neck. Adjusters and armor that move effortlessly with you. A back protector that sits off your spine for airflow. A concealed cargo pocket that doesn’t create bulk.
CE Level 2 Protection Where It Matters
The Knox Microlock armor built into this jacket provides serious impact protection with minimum restrictions. Let’s take a closer look at what CE Level 2 armor means and why it’s important.
CE stands for “Conformité Européene,” which means “European Conformity” in English. The CE rating system provides consistent standards across countries for protective motorcycle gear.
The scale ranges from Level 1 (minimum protection) up to Level 2 for premium protection. Level 2 is required for race suits and recommended for performance riding.
For a CE Level 2 certified jacket, the included armor must withstand impact forces of at least 8 kilonewtons. The Knox Microlock protectors used in the Zephyr are rigorously tested to meet this high standard.
This armor offers maximum protection for the vulnerable areas of your body. And it’s comfortable enough for all-day wear in summer conditions.
Complete Torso Protection
The Zephyr doesn’t just protect your elbows and shoulders. It includes comprehensive armor for complete torso protection:
- CE Level 2 shoulder armor: Disperses force from direct blows to the shoulders which commonly occur in slides.
- CE Level 2 elbow armor: Reduces injury from elbow impacts and prevents hyperextension of the joint.
- CE Level 2 back protector: Shields the spine from injury in rear impacts and prevents compression of the vertebrae.
- CE Level 1 chest protector: Defends the ribs and internal organs from frontal impacts. Soft and flexible for comfort.
Together, these strategically placed protectors shield your body from harm while allowing maximum movement and ventilation.
Perfectly Tailored Fit
Safety gear needs to fit your body correctly to maximize protection. A jacket that’s too loose can ride up and expose your skin. One that’s too tight will restrict movement and cause discomfort.
The Zephyr uses intelligent design features to ensure a perfectly tailored fit:
- Articulated sleeves match the contours of your arms through their full range of motion.
- Microlock armor inserts conform to your shape without bulging or shifting.
- The collar seals out wind when closed but avoids chafing your neck when open.
- Elasticized waist adjusters and sleeve cuffs create a secure, personalized fit.
- The outer material incorporates strategic stretch zones to move fluidly with your body.
Together, these elements work in harmony to eliminate loose spots while allowing total flexibility. The Zephyr becomes like a second skin—safe, snug, and breathable.
Stylish Protection You’ll Want to Wear
Let’s face it—you want riding gear that looks as good as it protects. The Zephyr not only excels at safety, but it also nails the style with understated aesthetic flair.
The mix of textiles and mesh creates visual depth and complexity. The contrasting woven patterns add dimensionality and texture. Knox’s signature satin gunmetal gray logos and accents pop with authority.
Its sportbike DNA shows through in the streamlined, minimalist construction. But the smart incorporation of textile fabric gives it an urban edge equally at home on the streets.
The Zephyr turns heads without screaming for attention. It’s the subtly sophisticated style that passionate riders appreciate. Form the following function in perfect balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Zephyr come in different colors?
Currently, the Zephyr is only available in the Black colorway seen here. However, Knox may release additional colors down the road based on demand and popularity.
What size should I order if I’m between sizes?
It’s generally best to size up if you fall between sizes. The Zephyr is designed for a performance fit, so sizing up will give you a bit more room, especially when riding.
Is the armor removable?
The shoulder, elbow, and back armor is fixed for safety and proper positioning. However, the chest protector is adjustable and easily removable.
How is the sizing compared to other brands?
The sizing fits very true to size. Refer to the size chart and measure yourself. If between sizes, consider sizing up for comfort.
Is this a waterproof jacket?
No, the Zephyr is designed for airflow in warm conditions. However, a separate waterproof liner can be purchased to add rain protection when needed.
Conclusion
The Knox Zephyr Summer Riding Jacket offers protection, cooling airflow, comfort, and style. Its breathable construction and flexible CE Level 2 armor make it ideal for warmer weather.
Knox leverages decades of expertise in crafting innovative protection to create a jacket perfect for summertime adventures.
With comprehensive torso coverage, versatile storage and connections, a tailored fit, and understated good looks, the Zephyr is ready to become your new favorite summer companion.
So, shed the heat but not the armor. The Zephyr lets you ride protected with total comfort when the mercury rises. Knox’s dedication to rider safety takes on a whole new level of cooling comfort.
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