As an adventure rider and gear reviewer, I recently tested out the new Sedici Garda H2O jacket and pants. Sedici is an exclusive brand from RevZilla, allowing us reviewers to provide direct feedback to the designers.
I was eager to check out their latest adventure touring jacket, which offers versatility on- and off-road riding. After logging many miles wearing the Garda outfit, I’m ready to share my in-depth thoughts in this review.
Sedici Garda Wp Jacket
Key Takeaways
- Versatile street and off-road
- Excellent value for the price
- Comfortable pre-curved sleeve fit
Introduction
I decided to test the Sedici Garda jacket and pants because I was looking for reasonably priced adventure gear that could handle both street and light off-road riding.
This review reveals my experiences with the Garda in terms of comfort, protection, versatility, and value. I evaluate the construction quality, weather resistance, ventilation, fit, and overall usability of this jacket and pant combo.
After putting these pieces through their paces in various conditions, I determine who they are best suited for and where they could be improved. Read on to discover everything I learned while testing the Sedici Garda H2O outfit.
Construction and Materials
The Garda jacket and pants use several different materials strategically placed to balance comfort, durability, and flexibility:
- 600D polyester – This midweight, abrasion-resistant material makes up the majority of the Garda outfit. The woven 600D polyester is durable yet pliable.
- 1200D ballistic nylon – Ballistic nylon reinforces the impact zones on the jacket and pants – like the shoulders, elbows, and knees. This provides extra abrasion resistance in key areas.
- Stretch panels – Elasticized stretch fabric is incorporated into areas that need enhanced flexibility and range of motion, like the arms, waist, and legs. This improves comfort without compromising protection.
- Waterproof laminate membrane – The Garda has an inner waterproof yet breathable laminate layer to keep you dry in wet conditions. However, it may cause overheating with vigorous off-road riding.
- 3M Scotchlite reflective accents – Strategically placed reflective piping aids visibility in low light.
- YKK zippers – Reputed YKK zippers secure the jacket front, pockets, vents, and pant fly. Their water-resistant construction prevents seepage.
The mix of materials provides an optimal balance of durability, weather protection, comfort, and flexibility. The 600D polyester resists abrasion, while the 1200D ballistic nylon boosts impact protection.
Stretch panels enhance freedom of movement, while the laminate membrane blocks wind and water. Reflective accents and YKK zippers round out the construction.
Armor and Protective Features
The Garda jacket and pants include several protective features to help minimize injury in a crash:
- SEESmart CE-rated armor – Level 2 armor pads are found on the elbows and shoulders of the jacket. They are fitted into interior pockets for comfort.
- Abrasion-resistant exterior – The exterior shell uses abrasion-resistant fabrics like 600D polyester and 1200D ballistic nylon in the impact zones.
- Reinforced vents – Interior bartacks support the vent structure to prevent ripping if snagged.
- Knee pucks – Large KEPROTEC knee pucks on the pants provide additional abrasion resistance and sliding protection.
- Zippered pant cuffs – Pant cuffs secure over boots via water-resistant zippers rather than velcro for greater security.
While not a full-on racing suit, the Garda provides decent protection for on- and light off-road riding. The armor shields your most vulnerable areas while the exterior resists abrasion in a slide.
Reinforced vents and secure pant cuffs enhance safety. Overall, it offers suitable protection for adventure and sport-touring use.
Weather Protection
The Garda is designed to provide all-weather riding protection within reason. Key weather-resistant features include:
- Waterproof laminate layer – The interior laminate membrane blocks wind and water, allowing perspiration to escape.
- Water-resistant YKK zippers – Zipper seepage is prevented by their special water-resistant construction.