Walking through the lobby in a brightly colored, armored jacket and squeaking across the linoleum in racy boots might be okay here at the Motorcyclist offices, but for most commuters ostentatious gear garners unwanted attention. For those more interested in blending in than standing out, we've assembled this selection of unobtrusive riding gear that looks decent yet still offers acceptable protection.
Olympia GT 4150 Gore-Tex All Season Gloves
These gloves have it all, neatly bundled into an unassuming, attractive package. The shell is made from supple drum-dyed cowhide, with a full insert made of waterproof, windproof and breathable Gore-Tex. A layer of Thermolite insulates your hands, thin enough that it doesn't impede dexterity. Cuffs are fully adjustable thanks to Olympia's innovative 2x Auto Cuff design, and flex knuckles offer impact protection and flexibility. Details such as reflective piping and a thumb face shield wiper are a plus, all for just $79.95.
www.olympiagloves.com
River Road Vintage Hoodlum Jacket
A good-looking leather jacket never goes out of fashion. River Road's new Vintage Hoodlum comes with that broken-in look straight from the factory. Sewn from medium-weight, dark-brown leather, the Hoodlum provides good protection while maintaining a conservative, tasteful style. A fully sleeved, removable liner and snap-tab collar afford cold-weather insulation, while two front combination pocket/vents and a rear exhaust vent allow air to flow during warmer months. It's available in men's sizes 40 to 54, with prices ranging from $199.95 to $239.95.
www.riverroadgear.com
Fieldsheer Cyclone Suit
Oversuits are the ultimate in convenience and protection, zipping on over your street clothes. And the Cyclone from Fieldsheer might be the ultimate oversuit. A 600-denier Carbolex exterior with ballistic nylon in key abrasion areas conceals a raft of thoughtful features, such as CE-approved armor in the back, shoulders, elbows, knees and hips. A waterproof membrane wards off the wet, while a removable full-body liner keeps you warm when it's cold and zippered ram-air vents at the shoulders and back keep you cool when it's hot. Reflective patterns on the front and back increase nighttime conspicuity and eight specially designed pockets provide maximum storage and convenience. The Cyclone retails for $359.99 and comes in sizes S through 4XL.
www.fieldsheer.com
Shift Fuel Street Shoes
A hybrid of comfy tennis shoes and tough work boots, Shift's Fuel Street Shoes combine the best of both worlds. These high-top kicks have been specially designed for riders, built from sturdy split-grain leather with medial and lateral ankle protection, a smooth, flat sole and injected rubber shifter pad. A speed lacing system makes them easy to get on and off, and a Velcro cover keeps said laces from getting caught on the shift lever. A breathable, moisture-wicking liner and cushioned insole contribute to all-day comfort. They're a safe alternative to Nikes, and at $99.95 they're cheaper too.
www.shiftracing.com
Joe Rocket Jeans
Jeans are convenient to wear when commuting, but ordinary denim doesn't afford much protection. Joe Rocket's new Rocket pants blend the comfort and traditional style of Levi's with the protection and security of Teramid Kevlar fabric, as well as optional CE-approved knee armor. They're made of heavy-duty, 14-ounce denim and reinforced with woven Teramid Kevlar at the seat, hips and knees for superior strength and abrasion resistance. Stretch panels at the knees and upper seat area plus extra length in the legs make these jeans especially comfortable while riding. Priced at $119.99, they're available in men's sizes 30 to 42.
www.joerocket.com
AGV Sport Touring Boot
The folks at AGV Sport, crafters of fine protective gear for over 20 years, still realize the importance of selling an urbane motorcycle boot that offers comfort and protection at a reasonable price. The company's $114.95 Sport Touring Boot is a functional and refined piece of footwear. The scratch- and weather-resistant, split-grain leather shell is reinforced at the shifter contact point and double-stitched in all high-abrasion areas. Kevlar stretch panels at all expansion joints and a full-length side zipper allow for ease of entry and rider comfort, and the stepped-bottom rubber sole is said to be both long wearing and comfortable.
www.agvsport.comwww.agvsport.com
Tour Master Elite Series II Rainsuit
Wet-weather protection is vital for any determined commuter, and Tour Master has you covered with its top-notch Elite Series II one-piece rainsuit. Polyurethane-backed, heavy-duty nylon is standard defense against the elements, but Tour Master has stepped up the comfort with an Aqua-Barrier under-helmet hood that wards off seepage, plus underarm grommets and a mesh lining that prevent interior moisture buildup. Elastic and Velcro at the ankles and wrists eliminate water encroachment and 3M Scotchlite reflective piping increases visibility. Sized to fit over riding gear and available in black, red, blue or yellow, it retails for $79.99.
www.tourmaster.com