As a year-round motorcycle rider, I’m always looking for effective cold-weather gear. I recently tested the Rev’It Afterburn H2O jacket to see how it performs in fall and winter conditions.
Made with a Hydratex liner and thermal insulation, this jacket claims to provide waterproofing and warmth for cooler riding. But does it really stand up to wet weather and keep wind at bay?
I put this jacket through rigorous real-world testing. In this detailed review, I’ll examine the construction, weather protection, comfort, and value of the Afterburn H2O.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best motorcycle jacket for all seasons for you? Let’s find out!
Rev’It Afterburn H2o Jacket
Key Takeaways
- True to size fit
- Armor for impact protection
- Removable thermal liner included
Fit and Sizing
I’m 5’10” with a 42” chest and 170 lbs. I tested a size large Afterburn H2O jacket.
The size chart accurately matched me to a large. The fit is snug, which is typical for motorcycle jackets designed to Hug close to the body. There’s no restriction on movement.
For layering under the jacket, I’d recommend sizing up one size. With just a T-shirt, the large one fits well in a sporty riding position. The sleeves are slightly long, keeping my wrists covered.
Overall, the Afterburn H2O has an athletic fit suitable for sports riding. There are no loose or baggy areas that could flap at speed. Take your measurements and consult the size chart to find your best fit.
| XS | 33.5-35.4 | 28.3-30.3 |
| SM | 35.8-37.8 | 30.7-32.7 |
| MD | 38.2-40.2 | 33.1-35 |
| LG | 40.6-42.5 | 35.4-37.4 |
| XL | 42.9-44.9 | 37.8-40.2 |
| 2XL | 45.3-47.2 | 40.6-42.9 |
| 3XL | 47.6-49.6 | 43.3-45.7 |
| 4XL | 50-52 | 46.1-48.4 |
Construction Quality
The Afterburn H2O makes use of a mid-weight 3-layer softshell fabric for the main shell construction. This material has some stretch and flexibility for comfort.
Double and triple stitching is implemented in high-stress areas. I inspected all the seams and zippers and found no loose threads or signs of early wear.
The material feels durable and is holding up well after testing. It balances protection and comfort, optimal for riding.
For colder weather, the included 100g removable thermal liner adds insulation. It zips in easily and combines with the outer shell to block wind.
Weather Protection
One of the Afterburn H2O’s strong suits is weather protection. The Hydratex liner makes this jacket waterproof, which I confirmed through wet weather testing.
Moisture beads up and rolls off the shell. Even in heavy rain, the inside stays completely dry. This jacket keeps wind and water out without sacrificing breathability.
The pinchable hood seals out the rain when needed. For warmer weather, the hood can be removed. The collar seals out drafts when zipped.
The included thermal liner takes the edge off chilly weather. It combines with the outer shell to retain heat effectively.
Features and Functionality
Some of the standout features of the Afterburn H2O jacket include:
- Cinchable and removable hood
- Zippered chest vents
- Adjustable velcro cuffs
- Zippered hand warmer pockets
- Interior stash pockets
The zippered vents allow on-the-fly adjustment of airflow. The hood and cuffs seal out the elements when needed. There are plenty of pockets for organization and storage.
I find the Afterburn provides a good balance of features for daily use without going overboard.
Comfort and Mobility
Thanks to the softshell fabric’s ability to stretch, I’m able to move freely with no restriction when wearing the Afterburn H2O.
The regular fit isn’t overly tight or loose. The jacket moves naturally with me as I ride.
The collar and cuffs are lined with soft fleece that doesn’t chafe my skin. The zippers and snaps have protective garages, so they don’t scratch my helmet or bike.
The sleeves could be longer to fully cover my wrists in a tucked sport-riding position. Otherwise, the comfort level is excellent.
Armor Protection
The Afterburn H2O is equipped with lightweight CE Level 1 SeaSmart armor in the elbows and shoulders for impact protection.
The jacket also has a back protector pocket for inserting an aftermarket spine guard. I used a Rev’It Seesmart back protector for extra impact absorption.
The armor provides protection without limiting mobility or comfort. Keep in mind the protection is suitable for urban riding, not hardcore off-roading.
The heavy-duty shell material holds up well in the event of a crash, resisting abrasion. The jacket construction is protective for street use.
Style and Design
I found the overall styling of the Afterburn H2O jacket to be sharp. It has an urban look suitable for city commuting.
The color-blocking design adds some visual interest. I like the mix of black and grey with my hi-vis yellow model.
The jacket looks sleek and modern. At the same time, it doesn’t have excessive branding or a loud motocross appearance.
Thanks to the casual urban styling, I also feel comfortable wearing this jacket off the bike. It works great as a daily rider jacket.
Value and Cost
With an MSRP of $320.99, the Rev’It Afterburn H2O offers good value, considering its versatility and performance.
You get a weatherproof and insulating jacket packed with features for the price. The combination of protection, comfort, and style adds up to solid value.
The jacket costs a bit more than basic textile jackets but delivers premium protection for the price point. Overall, the cost matches the quality and functionality.
Pro & Con’s
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Keeps wind and water out | Sleeves slightly long |
| Breathable Hydratex liner | No waist adjusters |
| Removable thermal liner | Armor limits to CE Level 1 |
| Protective shell & armor | Not suitable for hardcore riding |
| Athletic fit hugs the body | |
| Zippered chest vents | |
| Adjustable hood & cuffs | |
| Urban styling looks sharp |
The Verdict
After thorough testing, I was impressed with the performance and value of the Rev’It Afterburn H2O jacket. It excels at providing weather protection during cooler weather riding.
The combination of the waterproof Hydratex liner and the insulating thermal liner allows this jacket to span multiple seasons. It’s comfortable in fall, winter, and spring conditions.
For urban riders seeking a versatile daily jacket, the Afterburn H2O is an excellent choice. It provides ample protection and features without sacrificing comfort or style.
I highly recommend the Rev’It Afterburn H2O to riders seeking a premium urban riding jacket for weather protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Afterburn H2O work well in warm weather?
No, this jacket is designed for cooler riding. It has both waterproof and insulating liners. I’d only recommend it for fall/winter/spring use.
Is this jacket waterproof?
Yes, the internal Hydratex liner makes the shell fully waterproof. It kept me dry in heavy rain.
Can I wear armor under the Afterburn H2O?
The jacket accommodates aftermarket armor like back, chest, and elbow guards. But CE Level 1 armor is included.
Does the jacket have vents?
Yes, two zippered chest vents increase airflow in warmer weather.
What is the sizing like?
The sizing runs true to the size chart. The fit is snug and athletic. Size up if layering heavily.
Conclusion
The Rev’It Afterburn H2O offers a well-rounded package for urban riders needing a highly weatherproof jacket. It provides ample protection and comfort for conquering cooler weather riding.
While not intended for hardcore sports riding, this jacket easily handles daily commuting and around-town use. The combination of versatility, performance, and style make the Afterburn H2O a compelling choice.
After extensively testing this jacket, I recommend it as a premium urban option. If you ride in changing weather and need reliable