Testing the Revit Dominator 3 Gore-Tex Jacket

As an avid motorcyclist, I always seek high-quality riding gear that can withstand the elements while providing superb protection.

That’s why I was eager to test out the new Revit Dominator 3 Gore-Tex jacket and trousers – touted as a top-of-the-line suit built for serious riders facing cold and wet conditions.

In this review, I’ll share impressions from real-world testing in varying conditions to provide a complete assessment.

But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best gore-tex motorcycle jacket?

Revit Dominator 3 Gore-Tex Jacket

Revit Dominator 3 Gore-Tex Jacket Review

Key Takeaways

  • Extensive CE-rated armor
  • Waterproof Gore-Tex Pro shell
  • Tough abrasion-resistant exterior

Dominator 3 Gore-Tex Jacket – Key Features

The Revit Dominator 3 suit boasts a long list of high-end features:

Outer Shell

  • Constructed from 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro for guaranteed waterproofing and breathability
  • Abrasion-resistant outer face fabric with Armor Core reinforcement on shoulders and arms
  • Stretch panels above elbows, under arms, and behind shoulders for flexibility
  • Extensive reflective detailing for visibility

Protection

  • CE-approved armor at shoulders, elbows, and back (chest armor optional)
  • External Alpinestars Nucleon Back Protector included
  • Heavy-duty outer fabric provides excellent abrasion resistance

Venting

  • 10 direct vents across the jacket (2 rear, 8 front)
  • Vents feature waterproof zippers and openings
  • Mesh liner inside allows airflow directly to the body

Adjustability

  • Two-way zipper at waist interconnects jacket and pants
  • Jacket: 4 belt adjusters, zipped hip pleats, velcro arm adjusters
  • Pants: Adjustable waist, removable bib, 3 leg lengths

Pockets & Features

  • Waterproof exterior and interior storage pockets
  • Kidney belt provides lumbar support (removable)
  • Soft fleece lining inside the collar
  • Jacket-to-pants zipper connections

Construction of the Revit Dominator 3 Gore-Tex Jacket

Outer Shell Fabric

The outer shell of the Dominator 3 suit is made from 400D Armid nylon reinforced with a Gore-Tex Pro membrane. This 3-layer bonded construction provides a guaranteed waterproof and breathable barrier.

Gore-Tex Pro is widely regarded as the most durable, highest-performing waterproof fabric in motorcycle gear. It’s also used in the top gear from brands like Rukka, Klim, and Alpinestars.

Compared to standard Gore-Tex, Gore-Tex Pro is:

  • 3x more breathable – allowing more interior airflow
  • More abrasion resistant – holds up better in a crash
  • 3x more durable when flexing or stretching

Armor Core Abrasion Protection

In addition to the burly outer fabric, the Dominator 3 adds Armor Core material on the shoulders and down the sleeves. This combines 500D Cordura fabric with aramid fiber reinforcement.

  • The aramid fiber boosts tear and abrasion resistance.
  • The embossed Armor Core finish further aids slide protection.
  • There’s also Armor Core at the trouser knees.

So, the outer shell construction offers both guaranteed waterproofing from Gore-Tex Pro and added abrasion protection from Armor Core.

Stretch Panels and Reflectivity

To enhance flexibility, the Dominator 3 incorporates textile stretch panels above the elbows, under the arms, and behind the shoulders.

Reflective detailing is also abundant, with reflective stripes on the chest, arms, back, and waist for high visibility.

Armor and Impact Protection

The Dominator 3 Gore-Tex suit provides extensive protection from impacts with its built-in armor.

CE-Approved Armor

  • Shoulders – Level 2 C-Flex armor
  • Elbows – Level 2 C-Flex armor
  • Back – Level 2 C-Soft armor
  • Chest – Optional Level 2 chest pads (sold separately)

Both the C-Flex and C-Soft armor types are CE-approved to Level 2, the highest protection level for limb and back armor.

The included back protector even meets the EN1621-2:2014 standard, providing extra coverage and cushioning for the spine.

Abrasion-Resistant Outer Shell

On top of the CE-rated armor, the abrasion-resistant outer shell provides further impact protection. The Armor Core fabric with aramid fiber boosts sliding resistance in a crash.

So, between the heavy-duty outer material and extensive CE armor, the Dominator 3 provides excellent protection from impacts.

Weather Protection and Ventilation

One of the Dominator 3’s prime features is the guaranteed waterproof and breathable performance provided by Gore-Tex Pro. But the venting is also impressive for a Gore-Tex suit.

Waterproof and Breathable Gore-Tex Pro

The bonded 3-layer Gore-Tex pro shell keeps wind and water out while allowing interior moisture vapor to escape.

  • 100% waterproof in even torrential rain
  • Breathable – avoids an oppressive “sauna effect”
  • 3x more breathable than standard Gore-Tex

Gore-Tex Pro is ideal for riders who value uncompromising rain protection.

Ventilation Performance

I was surprised by how well the Dominator 3 flows air for a Gore-Tex suit. There are 10 direct vents strategically placed for airflow while riding:

  • 4 chest vents – Two upper, two lower
  • 2 back vents
  • Forearm intake vents – Zippered openings
  • Bicep exhaust vents – One per arm

The vent openings are coated with Gore-Tex fabric, allowing moisture to escape while keeping rain out. Air can flow right through to your inner layers.

Between the excellent venting and breathable Gore-Tex shell, the Dominator 3 resists overheating and condensation buildup.

Adjustability and Versatility

Unlike most Gore-Tex motorcycle gear, the Dominator 3 doesn’t rely on a removable waterproof liner. This improves comfort but reduces versatility in warmer weather.

However, Revit includes extensive adjustability features so you can dial in the fit:

Jacket Adjustments

  • Waist adjustment belts – Two front, two rear
  • Bicep straps – Customize arm circumference
  • Hip pleats – Zippered gussets add room to the waist
  • Neck closure – Snaps for looser/tighter fit

Between the sleeve, waist, and leg adjustments, you can really get the jacket and pants dialed for your specific body shape.

The fixed Gore-Tex shell does limit warm weather versatility compared to a jacket with a removable liner. But the Dominator 3 makes up for it with excellent cold/wet performance.

Storage Pockets and Convenience Features

For all-day rides, the Dominator 3 includes well-designed storage pockets and convenience features:

  • Waterproof exterior pockets – 2 hand pockets, 2 chest pockets
  • Interior wallet pocket – Behind the main zipper
  • Interior lining pockets – For optional chest pads
  • Waterproof lower back pocket – For documents
  • Sleeve ticket pocket – Fits cash, cards, toll passes
  • Collar closure – Prevents air infiltration
  • Kidney belt – For lumbar support when riding
  • Jacket-to-pant zips – Connect top and bottom layers

The Napoleon wallet pocket behind the front zipper comes in handy for quick access to essentials. And the waterproof rear stash pocket provides protected document storage.

So, despite the focus on weather protection, the Dominator 3 pays attention to convenience and usability.

Fit, Sizing, and Comfort

I’m 6’0″ with an athletic build and normally wear a size large jacket. For the Dominator 3, I went with a size large jacket and size 36 pants. The sizing chart was right on, with both pieces fitting me perfectly.

Jacket Fit and Comfort

  • Arms, torso, and sleeves have an athletic cut – not too baggy
  • No restriction with the full riding position
  • The neck collar is soft and comfortable
  • Hip pleats add seated room
  • Sleeve width accommodates layering

Considering its robust construction, the Dominator 3 breaks in nicely and moves well on the bike. The Gore-Tex shell does run warmer than textile jackets, but venting and airflow prevent overheating.

Both pieces are comfortable for riding in cooler weather, with useful stretch panels in the right places. The extensive adjustment options let you dial in the ideal fit.

Real-World Performance and Testing

I got to test the Revit Dominator 3 jacket and pants in a wide range of conditions over 6 months and 5,000 miles:

  • Temps ranging from 95°F down to freezing
  • Torrential downpours
  • Wind, fog, and other inclement weather
  • Long days with hours of continuous riding

Here are some key insights from my testing:

Weather Protection

  • Bone dry Even in heavy rainwater beads up and rolls off
  • Windproof – blocks air infiltration on the highway
  • Vents seal up completely when closed
    *condensation)
  • Keeps cold weather wind-chill at bay

The Gore-Tex Pro construction proved utterly waterproof and wind-resistant across all conditions, like wearing a bombproof shelter from the elements.

Breathability and Ventilation

  • Direct vents provide excellent airflow to the inner layers
  • Moisture vapor escapes through the Gore-Tex membrane
  • No “sauna effect” unless vents are closed
  • Rarely needed to open vents above 50°F
  • Lightweight mesh liner enhances breathability

Considering the waterproof shell, the Dominator 3 ventilates remarkably well. The direct vents are perfectly placed and make a noticeable difference.

Warm Weather Riding

  • Gore-Tex runs warmer than textile jackets
  • Vents provide decent airflow on hot days
  • Looks and feels like overkill above 80°F
  • Fine for shorter rides, but liner removal would help

Once temperatures climb into the 80s and 90s, the Gore-Tex construction starts to feel oppressive. The fixed shell limits versatility compared to jackets with removable liners. Vents help somewhat, but most riders would prefer a textile jacket in hot weather.

Cold Weather Riding

  • Blocks wind, rain, and chill exceptionally well
  • Layers fit comfortably underneath
  • Easy to regulate temperature with vents
  • Excellent mobility despite the heavier shell
  • Keeps its insulating ability when wet

Once the mercury drops, the Dominator 3 is in its element. It seals out cold air infiltration, wetness, and wind chill to lock in warmth. The absence of a removable liner eliminates potential air gaps that can undermine warmth.

Durability and Protection

  • Abrasion-resistant outer material
  • No tears after brush scrapes and falls
  • Armor stayed in place upon impact
  • Gore-Tex membrane remained watertight
  • Reflective panels remained securely bonded

After my testing period, the Dominator 3 showed minimal wear and tear. The outer fabric proved burlier than standard textile motorcycle gear. There were no signs of membrane failure or leaking.

Dominator 3 Suit: Pros vs. Cons

Pros

  • Guaranteed GORE-TEX® waterproof/breathable performance
  • Tough, abrasion-resistant construction
  • Extensive CE-approved armor
  • 10 direct ventilation openings
  • Useful adjustability features
  • Athletic cut allows free movement
  • Comfortable even in multi-hour rides
  • Soft, flexible Gore-Tex Pro material

Cons

  • Expensive – around $1900 for jacket and pants
  • Runs warmer than textile gear in summer
  • Fixed Gore-Tex liner reduces versatility
  • Sleeve vents could allow more air intake
  • Reflective panels prone to peeling off
  • The collar is soft but could use more padding

Questions and Answers

How does the Revit Dominator 3 compare to the Rukka Armaxion?

The Rukka Armas and Revit Dominator are both top-tier Gore-Tex riding suits. The Armas has the edge for warmer weather riding thanks to the removable Gore-Tex liner.

But the Dominator provides better cold weather protection and a tougher abrasion-resistant outer shell.

For year-round use, the Armas may be more versatile. But for the best possible cold/wet weather performance, the fixed Gore-Tex shell of the Dominator has advantages.

How is the sizing on the Revit Dominator 3 suit?

The sizing was accurate overall based on the size chart. Order your normal jacket size, and make any fine adjustments using the numerous straps and adjusters.

Pay close attention to the pants’ sizing chart and inseam measurements to get the appropriate length. It may be best to size up between sizes since it’s easier to tighten straps than to stretch a too-small jacket.

Does the Revit Dominator 3 jacket work with non-Revit pants?

Yes, the Dominator jacket can be connected to non-Revit riding pants as long as they have zipper interfaces.

You won’t get the integrated fit of wearing the matching Revit pants, but you can connect the layers to prevent wind and water intrusion. Any riding pants with 360° zippers around the waist should be compatible.

How does the ventilation compare to non-waterproof textile jackets?

The ventilation and direct airflow of the Dominator 3 is impressive for a jacket with a fixed Gore-Tex liner.

However, no Gore-Tex product and the highly permeable textile fabrics often used in warm weather jackets can breathe.

When temperatures rise, non-waterproof textile gear will always have an advantage with airflow and minimized condensation.

Is the Dominator 3 a fully 4-season jacket and pant combo?

The Dominator 3 is primarily a cold/wet weather riding suit, but it is useful in warmer temperatures with proper venting.

It excels in colder weather due to the windproof and insulating Gore-Tex shell. Heavy rains and storms are its forte.

But most riders will still need a warmer winter suit and a cooler mesh jacket to cover the full spectrum of 4-season riding. It handles all situations remarkably well within its specialty of cooler and wetter conditions.

My Verdict on the Revit Dominator 3 Gore-Tex

After extensive testing, I can confidently say the Revit Dominator 3 is one of the finest Gore-Tex motorcycle riding suits money can buy.

The bonded 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro construction proved impenetrable by wind and rain across thousands of miles. Yet it resisted the sauna effect better than any other waterproof gear I’ve worn.

The heavy-duty, abrasion-resistant outer shell inspires confidence in a crash while blocking cold air and wind.

Safety is top-notch, with extensive CE-approved armor at the shoulders, elbows, back, and knees. Storage is functional, comfort is excellent, and reflective panels provide peace of mind when riding at night.

At around $1500 for the jacket, the cost is the main downside. But for riders who log serious year-round miles in varying conditions, the Dominator 3 delivers elite foul-weather performance and protection worth the premium price.

Conclusion

The Dominator 3 Gore-Tex suit cements Revit as a top-tier motorcycle gear brand that can hold its own against elite manufacturers like Rukka and Klim.

While not inexpensive, it melds abrasion resistance, impact protection, guaranteed waterproofing, breathability, and comfort at the highest level.

For riders who demand uncompromising foul weather performance above all else, the Dominator 3 is among the finest options available today.

Where lesser jackets and pants falter, this Gore-Tex system charges on, keeping you dry in the foulest conditions while retaining excellent mobility and

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