Tourmaster Highlander Motorcycle Jacket Review: Premium Features Without the Price?

Riding in the rain can be an exhilarating experience. The roads are emptier, the temperatures cooler, and there’s a certain thrill to powering through poor conditions. But it could be more fun if your gear leaves you cold, wet, and uncomfortable.

That’s why investing in a quality waterproof jacket should be a top priority for any motorcyclist who doesn’t park the bike when dark clouds loom.

But does that mean you need to spend a small fortune on touring-level waterproof gear? Not necessarily.

But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best waterproof motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!

Tour Master’s new Highlander jacket and pants aim to deliver premium protection and features without the premium price tag.

The Highlander combo provides ample venting, removable insulation, and waterproofing comparable to gear costing twice as much.

Construction and Materials

Both the jacket and pants utilize a durable 500-denier nylon shell, with 1,000 denier abrasion panels in high-wear zones.

The elbows, shoulders, knees, seat, and crotch panels use Cordura fabric for added abrasion resistance. The shell incorporates a waterproof yet breathable laminate layer to keep moisture out while allowing sweat vapor to escape.

Cut and Comfort

The American cut provides a relaxed fit with extra room through the chest and stomach. For my 5’10” frame, the medium jacket includes sufficient adjustability to cinch the waist snugly while allowing a jacket liner or mid-layer underneath.

The pants in size 32 fit my slim build well, though the thighs and rear have extra room to accommodate layering. Those seeking a trimmer fit may want to size down.

Both the jacket and pants include removable 75g insulation liners. The quilted material isn’t overly bulky yet adds noticeable warmth, extending comfort into the 50s with just a t-shirt underneath. Separating the shell and insulation gives you modular versatility.

The jacket liner attaches with a full-length zipper and includes two stash pockets. The pant liner is secured with sturdy snap buttons. Wearing both simultaneously couples the waterproof jacket and pants while providing insulation for cool weather riding.

Ventilation

Poor airflow is a common issue with waterproof gear, leading to an interior sauna effect. Thankfully, the Highlander set addresses this with generous venting.

The jacket’s forearm vents utilize water-resistant zippers that open from the top or bottom. Unzip fully for maximum airflow directly through the shell.

You also get bicep vents and sizeable chest panel vents with waterproof covers. Leave the covers down during wet weather, then open up when things dry out.

The rear shoulder panels and upper back incorporate mesh lining to allow heat and humidity to escape. With every vent opened, airflow is noticeable while riding.

The pants include thigh vents that secure open with snap straps. Along with rear calf vents, these provide effective cooling airflow.

Armor and Safety

The Highlander carries CE Level 2 armor on the elbows and shoulders for impact protection. The knees are similarly equipped, with hip pads included as well (non-CE-rated).

Upgrading to Tour Master’s CE Level 2 back pad would be a wise investment for additional spine protection.

Reflective piping on the jacket and pants boosts nighttime visibility. The pants lack any side reflectivity, so ankle bands are recommended.

Storage and Convenience

Ample storage options provide sufficient cargo capacity. The jacket houses two waterproof exterior pockets, two hand pockets with waterproof zippers, an interior stash pocket, and a rear compartment.

The pants include two waterproof hip pockets along with a water-resistant thigh stash pocket.

The jacket’s collar is secured with both a button and an adjustable hook-and-loop strap. Coupled with a soft fleece lining, this prevents water intrusion while eliminating throat chafing and flap vibration.

The pants come equipped with full-length side zippers for easy on/off over boots. Hook-and-loop ankle cinches allow tightening over shoes or tucking into boots.

Real-World Performance

I wore the jacket and pants on a one-hour ride during steady rainfall to test waterproofness. The shell fabric beaded water effectively, and I stayed completely dry underneath.

In warm weather, opening the plentiful vents provides adequate cooling while moving. At stoplights, things heat up quickly, but airflow resumes once back in motion.

The generous fit accommodates winter layering well. When temperatures drop, the insulated liners add noticeable warmth and wind resistance.

Comfort-wise, the fleeced lining across the jacket’s collar and inner wrists prevents chafing. The pants ride comfortably without digging into the knees when seated.

After hundreds of miles of wear, neither the jacket nor the pants show any signs of leaking or premature wear. Overall, the construction appears durable.

Pros & Con’s

Pros

• Durable 500D shell with abrasion-resistant panels
• Waterproof and breathable laminate layer
• Removable quilted insulation liners
• Relaxed American cut with adjustment straps
• Abundant ventilation options
• CE armor in shoulders, elbows, and knees
• Multiple storage pockets
• Reflective accents for visibility

Cons

• Hip pads not CE-rated
• Thighs and rear have a roomy fit
• Jacket back armor not included

The Verdict

The Highlander jacket and pants deserve strong consideration if you’re seeking versatile 4-season riding gear that can handle commuting duties or weekend adventures.

The quality and performance punch well above the moderate price point. While better equipment exists, you’ll pay substantially more for incremental improvements.

For riders seeking comfort across a wide range of conditions without breaking the bank, Tour Master’s latest waterproof offerings earn my heartfelt recommendation. Dive into the Highlander line and enjoy the ride.

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