Ooh Fashion!

@Sandi T I have this Triumph ladies' mesh jacket - I got it in the sale last year (my first bike clothing purchase!). It does actually look much better on / in the flesh than the photos in the link suggest. I really like it: https://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.u...MI97DW2rHf9QIVkON3Ch0yywQUEAQYAiABEgKUKvD_BwE

 

I'm with you, @Mrs Visor, regarding women's sports kits in general. "Girly" colors is bad enough but not having the same safety or functionality features as men's gear just makes no sense to me at all. The asphalt doesn't care about the gender of the one who hits it. Even Harley, a company that generally does well by women with gear options, offers way too many boot and jacket options that appear to be protective motorcycle gear but are not. "Buyer beware", I guess? I wholeheartedly agree with you--"I want the same quality, fit and functionality as is afforded to men". And I also feel that there's no reason that excellent quality, great fitting, safe and functional riding gear can still be fashionable.

As as aside, you mentioned a lifetime of various competitive sports. I've also been involved in many competitive sports including volleyball some years ago. One of my biggest gripes going that's related to this conversation is what pro women sand/beach volleyball players wear. Seriously??!! Sorry, I just had to rant a wee bit there for a moment.

 

That looks like a terrific jacket, @Mrs Visor. Are you pleased with it? I went to the link and it seems like the real deal. Armor throughout, liner...quite complete. I think I may have seen this one at our local Triumph dealership but it might have been a different model. Nothing like getting an excellent piece of gear on sale, eh?

 

I can't fault it @Sandi T - it fits well and is really comfortable on and off the bike. The mesh is lovely in the summer and then when it gets a bit cooler the lining is truly wind resistant. Obviously now it's cold, wet and windy here I am wearing so many layers I feel like a Weeble and the most fashionable my jacket gets is this:https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_prod/411098 That said, it's also a lovely jacket and the thermal liner is incredibly warm, so I am also really pleased with it.

 

Glad the Triumph women's jacket is so well done and that it works so well for you, @Mrs Visor. I'm a bit surprised Triumph doesn't make more women's gear. But then I don't see a lot of women in their adverts for bikes, either.

I know what you mean about feeling like a Weeble when layering up for those really cold days. When I get that bundled up to ride, I joke that I feel like the little brother, Ralphie, in The Christmas Story if you've seen that movie (and if you haven't you must!). His famous line is, "I can't put my arms down!"

When it's cold, form truly does follow function and fashion rules go out the window. Well, for the most part.