Over the course of several weeks, I wore the Merlin Expedition jacket on rides of varying duration and in diverse weather conditions.
Below, I will share my experiences and impressions to provide a detailed review of how the Merlin Expedition jacket ultimately stacked up.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best waterproof motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
Merlin Expedition
Key Takeaways
- Excellent weather resistance
- Full protective armor package
- Durable waxed cotton construction
Our Merlin Expedition Final Verdict
I’ve been wearing the Merlin Expedition Wax Jacket for several months now, and I must say, I’m thoroughly impressed.
The 12oz Halley Stevensons Scottish waxed cotton outer layer not only looks fantastic but also provides excellent water resistance. I’ve ridden through some pretty heavy rain, and it has kept me dry and comfortable throughout.
The D3O armor at the shoulders, elbows, and back gives me peace of mind knowing I’m well-protected in key impact areas.
I like that the armor is CE-certified and comes pre-installed, so I don’t have to fuss with buying or fitting separate protectors.
I’m also a fan of the versatility. The zip-out thermal liner and ventilation points at the biceps, chest, and rear allow me to adapt to a wide range of temperatures.
I can easily wear this jacket from spring through fall, and even into mild winter days with the right base layers.
The Expedition’s classic styling is another big selling point for me. The waxed cotton finish and tartan lining give it a timeless, rugged look that pairs well with modern and vintage bikes. I’ve received numerous compliments on the jacket’s appearance, both on and off the bike.
Potential Drawbacks
While I love the Merlin Expedition Wax Jacket, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- Weight: The waxed cotton construction and heavy-duty hardware make this jacket heavier than some textile or mesh options, which could be fatiguing on long rides.
- Break-in period: Like most waxed cotton gear, the Expedition can feel a bit stiff and rigid at first. It takes some time to break in and soften up.
- Maintenance: To maintain the jacket’s water resistance and appearance, you’ll need to periodically re-wax the cotton. This process can be a bit time-consuming and messy compared to caring for synthetic fabrics.
Despite these minor drawbacks, I believe the Merlin Expedition Wax Jacket offers an excellent combination of protection, style, and versatility. It’s become my go-to choice for a wide range of riding conditions.
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Materials and Construction
The Merlin Expedition uses a premium 12oz Halle Stevenson waxed cotton outer shell. This heavy, durable fabric lends it a stiff, sturdy feel right out of the box. However, I noticed it softened up nicely after just a few rides.
The natural waxed coating provides an attractive luster while also imparting weather resistance. During my testing, light rain and road spray easily beaded up and rolled off the surface.
After wiping it down post-ride, the wax finish looked nearly as good as new.
Reinforced leather panels are integrated at the elbows and shoulders for abrasion and impact protection.
These armor zones use a rich brown leather that complements the olive colorway. I’m pleased to report the leather remained scuff-free after some inadvertent drops and scrapes.
Merlin Expedition Fit and Sizing
I typically take a size medium, and the Expedition in medium fits me well. The cut is relaxed but not overly baggy. It provides plenty of room for layering underneath without appearing sloppy.
I’d describe the sleeve length as generous but not cumbersome. For reference, I’m 5’10” with an average arm length, and the sleeves extended just past my wrist bone. The slightly longer fit ensures good coverage even when reaching forward on the bike.
One thoughtful design detail is the gusseted panel where the sleeves attach at the shoulder. This flexible fabric insert prevents restrictive pulling across the back and neck when moving your arms.
I found the overall fit to be true to size, with a slightly relaxed cut that allows for comfortable movement on the bike.
The Expedition offers several adjustability options to help you dial in the perfect fit:
- Adjustable waist belt: Cinches at the waist for a snug, secure fit
- Adjustable cuffs: Allows you to tighten or loosen the sleeves to your preference
- Adjustable collar: Snap closure lets you adjust the collar for comfort and weather protection
These adjustments make it easy to customize the fit to your specific needs and preferences. I appreciate the ability to tighten the waist for a streamlined look or loosen it for a more relaxed feel.
The slightly roomier cut of the Expedition also allows for layering underneath, which is a big plus for me. I can easily fit a base layer and a mid-layer in the lining for added warmth on colder rides.
The zip-out thermal liner provides additional insulation, making this a versatile jacket for a range of temperatures.
Overall, the Merlin Expedition comprehensive sizing, adjustability, and layering options make it easy to achieve a comfortable, personalized fit that works for your individual riding style and needs.
Merlin Expedition Lining
The Merlin Expedition features a high-quality, comfortable lining that enhances both the functionality and overall feel. Here’s what I discovered about the lining:
- Zip-out thermal liner: The Expedition includes a removable, quilted thermal liner that provides excellent insulation for colder rides. I found this liner to be incredibly cozy and effective at trapping body heat
- Moisture-wicking properties: The liner material is designed to wick moisture away from your skin, helping to keep you dry and comfortable even when you’re working up a sweat
- Satin-feel internal facing: The inner surface of the lining has a smooth, satin-like feel that’s gentle against the skin and allows for easy on-and-off
I’m impressed by how the zip-out liner adds versatility to the jacket. You can easily remove it for warmer days or when you want a lighter feel and then zip it back in when temperatures drop. This adaptability makes the Expedition suitable for a wider range of weather conditions.
The moisture-wicking properties of the lining are another standout feature. By pulling sweat away from your skin, the lining helps regulate your temperature and prevents that clammy feeling you can get with less breathable materials.
It’s clear that Merlin has put thought into creating a lining that complements the rugged exterior with a soft, functional interior.n provides a very good level of protection for an urban and touring jacket.
Merlin Expedition Weather Protection
With its waxed cotton outer shell and waterproof liner, the Merlin Expedition provides excellent defense against wind and precipitation.
Throughout testing, I rode in light rain, heavier downpours, and on cold mornings with wind chill down to 40°F. It kept me warm and dry in every condition.
The Merlin Expedition Wax Jacket offers impressive water resistance thanks to its 12oz Halley Stevensons Scottish waxed cotton outer layer.
This dense, waxed cotton fabric effectively repels water, causing it to bead up and roll off the jacket’s surface.
In addition to the waxed cotton, the Expedition features a zip-out Reissa Active waterproof membrane.
This membrane provides an extra layer of protection against heavy rain and wind, ensuring you stay dry in even the most challenging conditions.
However, the dense nature of waxed cotton and the waterproof membrane can impact the overall