The UK, due to its geographic position at the easternmost end of the Gulf Stream as well as being the first substantial lump of terra firma to slow the Atlantic’s prevailing winds, gets its fair share of what could politely be called mixed weather. The design of motorcycle clothing reflects this – with the lion’s share aimed at keeping the elements out and the warmth in. However, for a few days each summer – maybe a few weeks if we get lucky – the UK gets bathed in a seasonal heatwave. Cue riders across the land complaining about being a boil-in-the-bag biker, or worse, abandoning proper armoured gear and choosing shorts and T-shirts for their outings.
It is these scorching summer days that the RST Spectre Air jacket has been designed to tackle, providing riders with the option of huge amounts of ventilation to keep the sweat at bay, while still offering a decent level of protection.
The Spectre is made from Maxtex-S fabric, which is lightweight and has a slight stretch to it, with a fixed mesh lining which helps with comfort and manoeuvrability on the bike. Mesh panels have been put pretty much everywhere possible, covering the chest, torso, back, and inner arms. This results in a huge rush of air at anything above walking pace. At city speeds it is comfortable at moderately warm temperatures, but for longer journeys at A-road speeds there need to be more tropical temperatures. For my 20 minute A-road commute, the mercury had to be showing at least 20oC, but beyond that, or when pootling through town, it really comes into its own, making it comfortable to sit at traffic lights even in the blazing sun.
In order to keep the ventilation working as efficiently as possible the Spectre is fairly light on features: there is adjustment for fit on the waist band and upper arms; a pair of small zipped hand warmer pockets and two interior pockets provide some storage; and the neoprene-lined collar has a single press stud closure. The fit was good across the chest and shoulders, but I found the length to be a little short, with the bottom hem barely meeting my riding jeans’ waistband. This was less of an issue while riding, but limits off-bike use.
Protection is also kept light. The Spectre Air is A-rated, and has CE level 1 Powertector armour fitted at the shoulders and elbows, with a pocket provided to take an optional back protector.
Overall, it’s a niche product, and it fulfils its brief very well, being well ventilated and keeping riders cool on even the hottest rides. Its UK use is probably limited, but then it is cheap enough to have in the wardrobe as a second jacket for those balmy days of summer, and it’s ideal for a continental tour. If it was a little longer it would be perfect, but as it is I wouldn’t wear it off the bike as too much midriff is on show
It comes in a choice of four colours: black, silver, olive, and a rather natty petrol blue, in sizes 40-50in for an SRP of £109.99.
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