As an avid motorcyclist always looking for quality gear, I decided to test out the new Roland Sands Clash jacket to see how it performs.
In this review, I will share my hands-on experience with this premium leather riding jacket’s fit, construction, protection, and style.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best leather motorcycle jacket?
Roland Sands Clash Ce Leather Jacket
Overview of the Roland Sands Clash Jacket
The Clash jacket features a relaxed but tailored cafe racer fit intended for an aggressive riding position. It combines premium cowhide leather construction with perforated goatskin panels for an edgy, vintage motorcycle jacket look.
Notable features include:
- Constructed from 1mm-1.2mm heavyweight cowhide leather
- Perforated goatskin panels add flex and airflow
- Quilted panels on the front, back, and arms
- Asymmetrical zippered front with snap collar
- Zippered pockets and sleeve pockets
- Coffin-shaped elbow patches with rivets
- Stretch side panels for flexibility
- Does not include CE-rated armor (sold separately)
It retails for circa $750, putting it at the higher end of motorcycle jacket pricing. However, the materials and construction aim to justify the cost.
Next, let’s look at how the Clash performed in key testing metrics.
Roland Sands Clash Ce Construction
I first noticed that the Roland Sands Clash uses very thick, heavy-duty leather. The 1mm-1.2mm cowhide leather feels sturdy and substantial. This beefy construction provides abrasion protection without feeling stiff.
I also appreciated the details, like the riveted coffin-shaped elbow patches and streaks in the leather from the animal’s hide. The leather has a worn-in look straight out of the box.
Perforations on the goatskin panels allow airflow to keep me cooler while riding. The quilted panels add style without restricting movement.
Overall, the materials and construction quality are truly premium. The solid stitching and heavy leather should hold up well to the Road battle and extensive use.
Fit, Comfort, and Mobility
I typically wear a size large jacket, and the Roland Sands Clash in size large fit my 6′ 180 lb frame well. It has a relaxed but tailored cut that allows a good range of motion without feeling loose or baggy.
The jacket felt comfortable whether sitting upright on a cruiser or leaning forward in a cafe racer riding position. The stretch side panels and perforated leather provide flexibility for moving my arms.
There are adjustment straps at the waist and wrists for dialing in the fit. The default settings accommodated me well straight out of the box.
For colder rides, the Clash leaves room to add layers underneath while still fitting comfortably. Overall, the size large provided just the right slim but not tight cafe racer fit for my body type.
Protection and Safety
The thick, full-grain cowhide leather offers ample abrasion protection in a slide. Leather is ideal for abrasion resistance while allowing flexibility.
However, the jacket lacks any included armor. I strongly recommend purchasing the Forcefield CE-rated armor set Roland Sands offers for $30 extra. This adds Level 1 protection for the elbows, shoulders, and back.
With the upgraded armor, the Clash provides substantial impact protection. The leather construction complements the armor for excellent safety on the road.
My only gripe is that Roland Sands charges a premium price for the jacket yet sells the armor separately. I expect built-in protection at this price point.
Styling and Details
The Clash has a clear, aggressive cafe racer styling focus. The asymmetrical front zipper, quilted panels, and elbow patches create a classic motorcycle jacket look.
I’m impressed by subtle design details like the perforated coffin-shaped elbow patches. The mix of leather and goatskin provides visual interest and depth.
This jacket is available in a toned-down black colorway. But I love the bold oxblood red color of my test unit. It stands out while retaining a classic, vintage vibe.
The Roland Sands Clash looks just as good off the bike as it does while riding. The premium materials and ornate stitching make this jacket a standout piece.
Value and Cost
With an MSRP of $699, the Roland Sands Clash sits at the higher end of the motorcycle jacket price spectrum. The premium leather and quilted construction aim to justify the cost.
Given the quality of materials and construction, the price accurately reflects the value you get. This is a sturdy jacket built to last years of frequent use.
That said, having to pay extra for the CE-rated armor kit is a drawback. I expect built-in protection at this price. The Forcefield armor adds $30 to an already high cost.
Overall, the Clash provides good value, given its premium materials, quality construction, and protective abilities. But the lack of included armor slightly diminishes the value.
The Bottom Line
After thoroughly testing the Roland Sands Clash jacket both on and off the bike, it lives up to its premium positioning. The thick, full-grain leather and ornate quilted panels feel top-notch.
Pros
- Premium leather construction
- Classic cafe racer-style
- Relaxed but tailored fit
- Good mobility and flexibility
Cons
- Expensive
- No included armor
The aggressive styling and perforated leather suit the cafe racer aesthetic. And the construction quality withstands daily use and abuse.
While the high cost requires a substantial investment, the Roland Sands Clash provides a premium leather riding jacket experience. I recommend it for riders who value quality materials and standout vintage styling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Clash jacket made of?
The Clash uses 1mm-1.2mm thick premium Italian cowhide leather along with perforated goatskin leather panels. This combination provides durability, protection, and flexibility.
Does it have armor?
No, the Clash jacket does not come with any included armor. You need to purchase the Forcefield CE-rated armor set separately for $30 to upgrade the impact protection.
How does the sizing run?
The sizing runs true to size. Order your normal jacket size for a tailored but not tight cafe racer fit. There are waist and wrist adjustments for further dialing in the fit.
Is this a 3-season jacket?
The Clash is ideal for fall and spring riding in moderate temperatures. With layers, it can work in winter, too. However, the lack of a thermal liner and waterproofing makes it less suitable for cold and wet conditions.
What is the return policy?
RevZilla offers free shipping and returns on the Clash jacket. If it does not fit right or you are not satisfied, you can easily return it unworn within 30 days.
Conclusion
The Roland Sands Clash is a great option for riders looking for a high-end, aggressively styled cafe racer jacket.
The premium materials and quality construction justify the lofty price for the right customer. While expensive, it provides value through durability, protection, and timeless vintage design.
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