The cooler fall and winter months mean it’s time to stow away the mesh and textile motorcycle jackets and reach for something more substantial. For many riders, that means breaking out the waxed cotton jackets.
These stylish jackets provide both protection and classic good looks during the colder seasons. But with so many waxed and wax-style jackets available, how do you choose the right one?
We’ll weigh the pros and cons of the Yaksol and see how it stacks up for fall and winter riding.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 Yoxall Wax Jacket Review
Key Takeaways
- Heavy wax resists water
- Protective armor included
- Removable liner adapts to warmth
An Overview of the Merlin Yaksol Motorcycle Jacket
The Yaksol jacket from Merlin represents the next evolution in the British company’s waxed jacket lineup. Building upon the success of the earlier Armitage jacket, Merlin set out to create an even better cold-weather riding jacket.
The Yaksol is constructed from heavy-duty 12oz Scottish waxed cotton from Halley Stevensons. This provides water resistance and durability.
With its hip-length cut and thermal liner, the Yaksol is designed for riding in the fall, winter, and spring when temperatures drop.
The jacket features CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor for impact protection. It also has an abrasion-resistant Reissa waterproof and breathable liner.
Breaking Down the Features and Benefits
Now let’s take a more in-depth look at the jacket’s construction and features:
- Heavy Waxed Cotton Outer Shell – The Yaksol uses a heavyweight 12 oz waxed cotton blend outer shell from Halley Stevensons of Scotland. The wax coating helps repel moisture.
- CE Armor – CE Level 1 armor is included in the shoulders and elbows. There is also a foam back pad.
- Waterproof and Breathable Liner – A Reissa liner provides waterproofing as well as breathability. It is not removable.
- Thermal Liner – A removable 150g full sleeve thermal liner allows you to adapt to changing temperatures.
- Venting – New for the Yaksol are chest vents that help promote airflow to the inner liner.
- Cuff and Collar Adjustments – Upgraded cuffs and collar design with leather trim provide a more secure fit.
- Waist and Arm Adjustments – Snaps at the waist, bicep, and forearm cinch the jacket closer to the body.
How Does the Yaksol Fit and Feel?
The Yaksol has what we’d describe as a comfortably loose “American” fit. There is plenty of room to layer underneath while still allowing a full range of motion.
For reference, I’m 6’0″ tall and 195 lbs with a 42″ chest, wearing a size larger jacket.
The sleeves are very roomy to accommodate bulky layers when needed. The added snaps let you cinch the sleeves tighter around your arms for a more personalized fit. The same goes for the waist adjustment snaps.
The waxed shell has a pleasant broken-in feel right out of the box. The fleece-lined collar provides warmth and comfort against your neck. The jacket feels sturdy and substantial, as you’d expect for a heavy winter riding coat.
Yaksol Style – Urban and Retro Flair
Style-wise, the Yaksol jacket combines urban flair with a retro classic aesthetic. It’s right at home in big cities just as much as open back roads.
The rich olive color of this version has an old-school military look. A black option is also available.
The unique asymmetrical collar adds contemporary panache. Fastened and looped, it creates a close-fitting stand collar that completes the classic waxed jacket style. Subtle branded accents like the embroidered side logo keep the look clean and timeless.
How Does the Yaksol Compare to Other Waxed Jackets?
The Yaksol goes up against other heavyweight waxed and waxed-style jackets in the $300 price range. Key competitors include the Roland Sands Clash Waxed Motorcycle Jacket and the Rev’It Sand 3 Jacket.
Compared to the Sand 3, the Yaksol has more adjustment options and a warmer thermal liner. The RSD Clash uses a heavier wax coating but doesn’t include a waterproof, breathable liner.
The Yaksol strikes a nice balance between rugged durability and flexibility. The vents and removable liner allow you to modify it across a wide temperature range.
Pros and Cons of the Merlin Yaksol Jacket
Pros
- Highly water-resistant 12 oz waxed cotton outer shell
- Removable and adjustable thermal liner
- Flexible temperature adaptability
- Protective CE armor
- Secure collar and improved cuff design
- Contemporary urban styling details
Cons
- Non-removable waterproof liner limits ventilation
- Not quite as heavy-duty as some waxed jackets
Conclusion – An Excellent 3-Season Waxed Jacket
For riders seeking a stylish, protective, and versatile waxed jacket, the Merlin Yaksol is an excellent choice. It provides ample weather protection along with useful adjustments and upgrades compared to past Merlin waxed jackets.
The Yaksol looks great on and off the bike. It really shines as a 3-season jacket for fall, winter, and spring riding.
It’s still highly water-resistant while not quite as heavy-duty as some thicker waxed jackets. The ventilation options add welcome flexibility.
Overall, the Yaksol combines the classic waxed jacket style with modern amenities. For around $300, it’s a great value.
If you ride in cool fall and winter weather, the Merlin Yaksol deserves a spot on your shortlist of waxed jacket options. It’s built for seasons of real-world riding.
Key Takeaways:
- Heavy 12 oz wax cotton
- Waterproof, breathable liner
- CE armor protection
Frequently Asked Questions About the Yaksol
How heavy is the waxed cotton shell?
The Yaksol uses a thicker 12 oz Halley Stevensons waxed cotton blend. This gives it excellent water resistance.
Is the thermal liner removable?
Yes, the 150g thermal liner can be completely removed to adapt to warmer temperatures.
Is the waterproof lining fixed or removable?
The Reissa waterproof lining is sewn into the jacket and not removable.
Does it have venting options?
For 2017, Merlin added chest vents that pass airflow to the inner liner to improve ventilation.
What kind of armor does it have?
The shoulders and elbows are reinforced with CE Level 1 armor. There is also a basic foam back pad.
Can you wear it off the bike, too?
Absolutely. The Yaksol has a fashionable contemporary design that looks great off the motorcycle. It transitions seamlessly into everyday wear.
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