Finding motorcycle gear that provides versatility for different riding conditions while looking stylish can be a challenge. This is where the Rukka Shield-R aims to hit the sweet spot.
With its sleek design and all-weather protection, the Shield-R has become a top choice for motorcyclists seeking an all-season option.
In this Spidi Garage Jacket review, I will answer the following questions: Is this the best motorcycle jacket for all seasons for you? Let’s find out!
Let’s take a closer look at the features and specifications of the Rukka Shield-R to see if it lives up to the hype.
Spidi Garage Review
Key Takeaways
- All-season versatility
- Premium construction quality
- 4-season functionality
Our Spidi Garage Final Verdict
I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the Spidi Garage after putting it through its paces on various rides.
The vintage-inspired design immediately caught my eye, and I appreciate how Spidi has managed to blend classic style with modern protection.
The 1.1mm cowhide leather feels soft and supple right out of the box, requiring minimal break-in time.
I found it comfortable from day one, with no stiffness or restricted movement. The leather has held up well over time, developing a nice patina that adds to the retro charm.
One of my favorite features is the extensive perforation throughout the jacket. The perforated panels on the chest, back, and arms provide excellent airflow, making this my go-to jacket for summer riding. Even on hot days, I stay relatively cool and dry thanks to the ventilation.
I also appreciate the inclusion of CE-rated armor in the shoulders and elbows. It provides peace of mind knowing I have quality impact protection without adding excess bulk.
The armor stays comfortably in place and doesn’t impede my range of motion on the bike.
However, there are a couple of potential drawbacks to consider.
Firstly, the Spidi Garage Jacket lacks a removable thermal liner, which limits its usability in colder weather. I typically need to layer up underneath when temperatures drop.
Additionally, while the perforated leather is great for summer, it does allow some water through in rainy conditions. This isn’t a dealbreaker for me, but it’s worth noting if you frequently ride in wet weather.
Overall, I’m thrilled with the Spidi Garage Jacket and would recommend it to any rider looking for a stylish, protective summer jacket.
The combination of premium leather, CE armor, and extensive airflow make it a standout option in my gear collection.
It’s worth mentioning that prices on the Spidi Garage Jacket can fluctuate due to special offers from Revzilla.com. I always check their site for the latest deals before buying elsewhere.
Plus, Revzilla’s price match guarantee means you can shop confidently, knowing you’re getting the best price available.
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Balancing Style and Function
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Shield-R is its straightforward design. Rukka opted for a slim, tailored fit that flatters various body types without looking bulky or boxy.
The matte leather construction and muted color options add to the understated style – this isn’t a jacket that screams for attention.
For those seeking more vibrant colors, Rukka offers the Shield-R in red and blue choices beyond classic black.
Reflective prints on the sleeves and back boost visibility for night riding. It’s a jacket meant for daily use, whether you’re bike commuting or out for a joyride.
But beyond its minimalist look, the Shield-R prioritizes function. It meets the CE Level 2 impact protection standards in the shoulders, elbows, and back.
Rukka’s proprietary AirCushion protectors absorb impact through an interconnected air channel structure.
Velcro adjustment straps at the biceps, forearms, waist, and calves provide a customized fit for safety. Snug cuffs created by Velcro straps and press studs ensure the sleeves don’t ride up during a ride.
For colder rides, a removable thermal liner adds an extra layer of warmth while maintaining a sleek profile.
Comparison to Similar Products
| Model Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Dainese Super Speed 4 | D-Skin 2.0 cowhide leather, perforated panels, CE level 2 armor, aerodynamic hump |
| Roland Sands Paramount CE | Full grain buffalo leather, CE level 1 armor, “Big Bore” side vents, concealed carry pocket |
| Schott 626VN Perfecto Vintage | 1.5mm vintage cowhide leather, asymmetric zipper, adjustable waist belt, polyester lining |
| Merlin Miller | 1.1-1.3mm brushed cowhide leather, TFL Cool Tec coating, D3O armor, perforated panels |
The Spidi Garage offers a unique combination of features compared to these similar leather motorcycle jackets. At $649.90, it sits in the middle of the price range.
The Dainese Super Speed 4 uses premium D-Skin 2.0 leather and includes CE level 2 armor, making it the most protective option. However, it’s also the most expensive at $719.95.
The Roland Sands Paramount CE has a lower price point of $360 and uses buffalo leather instead of cowhide. It offers CE level 1 armor and some unique features like a concealed carry pocket.
The Schott 626VN Perfecto is the most expensive at $825 but provides a classic, vintage leather look. It uses a thicker 1.5mm cowhide compared to the Spidi’s 1.1mm leather.
The Merlin Miller is the most comparable to the Spidi Garage in terms of price, leather thickness, and features. Both use perforated cowhide and include D3O armor. The Merlin adds a TFL Cool Tec coating for hot weather riding.
Overall, the Spidi Garage offers a well-rounded set of features and quality materials at a competitive price point.
Its key advantages are the soft, supple leather, extensive perforations for airflow, and the included CE level 1 armor.
All-Weather Protection You Can Trust
Any all-season jacket lives and dies by its weather protection abilities. Here’s where the Rukka Shield-R shines through, thanks to its Gore-Tex Performance Shell fabric. This material is guaranteed windproof, waterproof, and breathable.
The Gore-Tex membrane provides a permanent waterproof rating of 20,000mm, far exceeding the minimum rating of 1,500mm needed for all-weather motorcycle gear. It keeps you bone dry in the pouring rain without sacrificing ventilation.
Zippered air intakes on the chest and back allow airflow directly to the torso – a prime sweat zone. Rukka’s innovative RVP ventilation system prevents overheating, circulating air freely through the jacket interior. For Type A riders who run hot, the Shield-R won’t turn into a sauna on long summer highway journeys.
The collar can be secured in an upright position using press studs. This prevents the collar from flapping at high speeds while protecting your neck from the elements. For colder rides, the Shield-R blocks wind and water entirely when fully sealed up.
Spidi Garage Sizing Table
The Spidi Garage runs true to size compared to Spidi’s sizing chart and other motorcycle jackets I’ve worn. I found the fit to be spot-on in the chest, shoulders, and sleeves when following their size guidelines.
Fit Options and Adjustability
Spidi offers the Garage Jacket in a regular fit that suits most body types well. While they don’t have slim or tall fit options, it provides several adjustability features to dial in a personalized fit:
- Velcro waist straps let you cinch the jacket at the waist for a snug fit that keeps out drafts
- Snap sleeve adjusters allow you to tighten or loosen the cuffs to your preference and accommodate different glove styles
- A snap collar closure lets you seal out the elements or open up the neck for more airflow
These fit customization options make it easy to achieve a comfortable, secure fit in the Spidi Garage.
One minor drawback I noticed is that some riders with a more muscular build found the bicep area slightly snug, so if you have larger arms, you may want to size up. But for most people, the jacket’s regular fit and array of adjusters should provide a great fit off the rack.
Here are sizing charts for both men and women:
Men’s Sizing Chart
| Size | Chest (in) | Waist (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 36-38 | 30-32 | 32-33 |
| M | 39-41 | 33-35 | 33-34 |
| L | 42-44 | 36-38 | 34-35 |
| XL | 45-47 | 39-41 | 35-36 |
| 2XL | 48-50 | 42-44 | 36-37 |
| 3XL | 51-53 | 45-47 | 37-38 |
| 4XL | 54-56 | 48-50 | 38-39 |
To find your size, measure your chest circumference around the fullest part, just under your armpits. For sleeve length, measure from the center back of your neck, along your arm, to your wrist.
Women’s Sizing Chart
| Size | Bust (in) | Waist (in) | Hip (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 31-32 | 24-25 | 33-34 | 30 |
| S | 33-34 | 26-27 | 35-36 | 30.5 |
| M | 35-37 | 28-29 | 37-39 | 31 |
| L | 38-40 | 30-32 | 40-42 | 31.5 |
| XL | 41-43 | 33-35 | 43-45 | 32 |
| 2XL | 44-46 | 36-38 | 46-48 | 32.5 |
For women’s sizes, take your bust, waist, and hip measurements to determine the best size. Sleeve length is measured the same way as men’s sizes.
A few key tips when sizing motorcycle jackets:
- If between sizes, most riders size up for a more relaxed fit that allows layering
- Many motorcycle jackets have adjustable waists, so focus on getting the chest and shoulders to fit properly
- Sleeve length can often be adjusted slightly at the cuff if needed
- When in doubt, refer to the manufacturer’s size chart, as sizing can vary between brands
With these sizing charts and tips in mind, you should be able to find one with a safe, comfortable fit. It’s always best to try on in person if possible to ensure the best fit for your body type.
Ventilation and Breathability
The Spidi Garage offers decent ventilation for a leather motorcycle jacket, but it’s not the most breathable option out there. Here’s a breakdown of its ventilation features:
It has two chest pockets that double as air vents. When unzipped, they allow some cooling air to flow into the lining.
However, these vents are on the small side compared to dedicated mesh or perforated panel vents found on some other jackets.
While there aren’t any traditional vents, there are many perforated panels throughout that help get air flowing through the lining to keep you cool. These perforations are a nice compromise between solid leather and fully perforated panels.
In warm weather riding, the Spidi Garage manages temperature reasonably well thanks to the 1mm thick cowhide leather and perforated panels.
It’s lighter and thinner than many leather jackets, which helps reduce heat buildup. However, it still can’t match the airflow of a true mesh or fully vented textile jacket.
One downside is that the Spidi Garage does not come with a removable thermal liner for colder weather.
There is a fixed cotton and polyester lining that adds some comfort, but it’s not a true thermal layer. For cold temperatures, you’ll need to layer up underneath the jacket.
Overall, the ventilation on the Spidi Garage is adequate for a stylish leather jacket but falls short of the cooling airflow provided by jackets using large mesh panels or zippered vents.
It’s best suited for mild to warm weather urban riding rather than hot weather or long-distance touring where maximum airflow is needed.
Armor and Impact Protection
- Detail the type and location of armor included
- Mention any additional impact protection features, such as reinforced seams or padding
Storage and Pockets
The Spidi Garage provides a decent amount of storage for everyday carry items but falls a bit short compared to some other motorcycle jackets I’ve used. Here’s a rundown of the pockets:
External Pockets
- Two zippered hand warmer pockets on the lower front of the jacket
- Good size for storing gloves, a wallet, or small items
- Zippers are smooth and easy to operate with gloves on
- One small coin pocket on the left chest
- Fits a key or a couple of coins, but not large enough for much else
Internal Pockets
- One large zippered pocket on the inner left chest
- Fits a smartphone, passport, or other larger items
- Zipper is a bit finicky and can be tough to operate with gloves
- One open stash pocket on the inner right chest
- Good for quickly stashing a receipt, earplugs, or other small items
I found the placement of the pockets to be intuitive and easy to access. The hand warmer pockets are right where you’d expect them, and the internal pockets are large enough to be useful.
However, I was disappointed to find that none of the pockets on the Spidi Garage are waterproof. The zippers are not sealed, so any items stored in the pockets can get wet in rainy conditions.
Additionally, there is no dedicated pocket for a phone or device. The internal zippered pocket can fit a phone, but it’s not padded or specifically designed for this purpose like some other jackets offer.
Another drawback noted by some riders on forums is the lack of a rear storage pocket. Many touring or adventure-style jackets include a large pocket on the lower back for storing maps, a hat, or other larger items. The Spidi Garage does not have this feature.
Overall, the storage on the Spidi Garage is adequate for casual rides but falls a bit short for longer tours or riders who need to carry more gear.
The lack of waterproofing and missing rear pockets may be deal-breakers for some. However, for simple urban rides, the provided pockets should suffice for most riders’ needs.
Premium Construction Worth the Price Tag
With its hefty price tag, the Shield-R sits at the higher end for motorcycle jackets. But its meticulous construction from premium materials makes it a sound long-term investment.
The outer shell uses 1.1-1.3mm matte leather sourced from Italy. Using drum-dyed, washed leather results in a uniquely worn-in look straight from the store. Rukka then waterproofs the leather through a tiny perforation process, allowing it to remain breathable.
The polyester lining actively wicks moisture from the skin for all-day comfort. Everything from the leather quality to the armor meets rigorous EU safety standards. And Rukka stands behind its workmanship with a 5-year warranty against defects.
For riders looking for versatile leather that morphs from a cool weekend piece to a weekday commuting workhorse, the Shield-R delivers. It’s designed to be lived in – wouldn’t you rather break in your own jacket than buy a pre-faded one?
Aerodynamic Performance You Can Rely On
Motorcycle gear that billows and flaps in the wind isn’t just annoying – it can be downright dangerous. The Shield-R is purpose-built for performance riding in a tucked position.
Its pre-curved sleeves and racing fit hug the body securely when you’re leaning forward. Extensive ventilation prevents it from inflating at speed, while strategic seam placement cuts down on drag.
You’ll appreciate the aerodynamic construction when passing trucks or riding through exposed mountain areas.
For taller riders (over 6 feet), the relaxed fit accommodates wearing a back protector like the Rukka D3O Viper.
The tailored waist can also be tightened for a slimmer profile that won’t catch the wind. Regardless of your height and weight, the Shield-R moves with you instead of against you.
All-Purpose Versatility
A mark of a great motorcycle jacket is the ability to work just as well on a cruiser as a crotch rocket. The Shield-R provides versatility not just for different bike styles but also for different environments.
The straightforward design avoids looking too sporty or too rugged. You’ll fit right in whether riding through downtown city streets or cruising along coastal roads. And the Shield-R works year-round thanks to its thermal liner and waterproofing.
Rukka understands riders can’t afford to own a different jacket for every season. The Shield-R effortlessly transitions from spring showers to winter cold fronts. With the thermal liner removed, it works through the dog days of summer as well.
For riders that frequent different regions or uncle wildly seasonal climates, the Shield-R eliminates the need for a bulging jacket collection. It’s at home in virtually every situation – exactly what an all-season jacket should provide.
Lasting Quality From a Trusted Brand
Rukka has over 40 years of experience, especially in crafting motorcycle gear, since its founding in 1979. It’s the top gear brand for many pro riders, thanks to its focus on quality.
Every product is rigorously tested by Rukka engineers at their headquarters in Raisio, Finland.
The Shield-R, in particular, showcases Rukka’s expertise with advanced leather products. It takes over 4 weeks and 30 production stages to create each jacket, using 60 separate pattern pieces. This meticulous approach results in uncompromising protection that outlives seasonal trends.
While not inexpensive, the Shield-R actually provides strong value, given its durable construction. Proper care will protect you for thousands of miles while you age beautifully. Isn’t that worth paying a bit more for?
The Verdict: A Multi-Season Must-Have
After closely evaluating its protective qualities, weather resistance, versatility, and durability, the Shield-R stands out as one of the finest all-season options available.
Rukka clearly put thought into every design element and material choice to create true 4-season functionality.
For riders seeking a mid-weight leather jacket that provides comfort across the widest range of conditions, the Shield-R is sure to satisfy.
While not flashy, it looks stylish on and off the bike thanks to its minimalist European cut. And it can handle everything from daily commutes to long-distance touring.
While the hefty price tag makes the Shield-R more of an investment, the years of use and abuse this jacket will withstand make it worthwhile.
Ultimately, the Rukka Shield-R sets the bar high for the quintessential year-round motorcycle jacket. It’s protection you can rely on 365 days a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shield-R warranty?
Rukka provides a 5-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, provided it’s cared for properly according to instructions.
Is the Shield-R good for taller or bigger riders?
Yes, the Shield-R is designed to accommodate taller and bigger body types. Sizes go up to 4XL, and the relaxed fit can layer a back protector.
Can you ride in hot weather with the Shield-R?
Definitely, the venting system and breathable Gore-Tex material prevent overheating on summer rides. Just remove the thermal liner when it’s hot out.
Is the Shield-R true to size?
It runs true to European sizing standards. If you’re between sizes, choosing the smaller one provides a more tailored, aggressive fit.
Does the Shield-R work with riding pants?
Yes, it has a short connecting zipper that attaches to Rukka riding pants for a complete suit. There are also calf adjustment straps.
Can you wash the Shield-R at home?
Yes, it can be hand-washed cold and laid flat to dry. Do not dry clean or use hot water when washing.
And Finally
Finding a single mid-weight leather jacket that works across all four seasons is no easy task. But the Rukka Shield-R accomplishes this elusive goal through smart design that balances protection, versatility, and all-weather performance.
While pricey compared to fashion brands, the Shield-R will reward you with years of reliable use if properly maintained.
For motorcyclists seeking the convenience of a true year-round jacket, the Shield-R separates itself as a smart long-term investment.
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