Dainese Aspide Race Suit Review

Brand new for the Dainese 2012 Collection, the Dainese Aspide Race Suit slides in between the Laguna Seca Pro and Avro in price, technicality and functionality. Capitalizing on the Second Skin technology that  made the Avro so popular last season, the Aspide scales back in a couple of areas to keep the price point where it is but still provide an excellent degree of comfort, protection and performance for the trackday rider and racer. Dainese continues to innovate with each new race suit that they produce, and the Aspide is no different. And with a colorway designed specifically for the S1000RR and another option that matches Kawi green perfectly, we see nothing but positives in the Aspide's future.

Check out our Dainese Aspide Race Suit Review:

The Dainese Aspide Leather Suit uses Dainese's proprietary Second Skin Concept, which bonds a protective outer layer (leather) to a comfortable stretch material (S1 fabric here) to provide the best of both worlds: you're getting abrasion resistance and mobility all at the same time. In the Avro, D-Skin leather (Dainese's proprietary tanned leather) is used while the Aspide used premium Italian cowhide leather. At the shoulders, co-injected protectors are topped by aluminum sliders (the Avro has titanium sliders). These are the two main differences between the suits and explain the difference in price. There is also CE rated armor at the elbow/forearm and knee/shin with Pro Shape protectors at the hips. The GP-style knee sliders are completely replaceable as well.

For the utmost in uninhibited mobility, Dainese has paid serious amounts of attention to the ergonomics of this suit. In addition to the Second Skin design, there are strategically placed bi-axial elasticated inserts at the tops of the knees, backs of the elbows and a large panel that starts at the crook of the arm, wraps back up to the shoulders, and down along the lower back. Above this elasticated panel at the lower back is another new technology from Dainese called microelastication. This new material is a solid leather panel with elasticity sewn into the leather. In adding elasticity to the leather rather than having a full stretch panel, you allow movement but retain the integrity and abrasion resistance of leather. Couple these with the S1 stretch design, and you've got a suit that offers enormous agility.

While the areas of S1 fabric will flow air, there are additional perforated areas and perf'd soft inserts throughout. At the chest, arms, and back, perforated soft inserts provide airflow and an additional level of impact resistance. There is additional perforation in non-impact areas of the legs for added airflow. The aerodynamic speed hump provides additional airflow via the perforation at the top of the hump. Inside, the Sanitized® lining is moisture-wicking, antimicrobial and removable washable. There is a double calf zip (one for closure, one for expansion) and this suit can accommodate any Dainese "In" boots via the fasteners inside the pant leg.

All in, you're looking at a race suit that is extremely technical, but scales back on some of the crazy tech features to keep cost down. That said, the Dainese Aspide Race Suit joins a family of race suits with quite a storied legacy. If you're looking for something protective, extremely comfortable and technical with a slick-as-hell style element, the Aspide may be the suit for you. To see our full selection, visit our Motorcycle Race Suits section.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
Dainese 2012 Leather Jackets

Dainese 2012 Leather Jackets

Dainese VR46 Leather Jacket

Brand new for late Fall 2011 and early 2012, Dainese is releasing a slew of new product, as they tend to do every year. This time around, we're particularly excited about some new leather offerings. From city riding to racing to women's gear, Dainese left no stone uncovered for this collection, and their continued attention to safety, performance and style is evident in each of the new products. As of now, we've only gotten our hands on a few of the new leathers, but be sure to stay tuned as we will surely be doing video reviews on each of the new products from the 2012 Dainese Gear collectionas soon as we can get them to RevZilla HQ.

First up is what we consider the absolute home run of the collection. The Dainese Razon Leather Jacket is replaces the SF Leather in the lineup as your go-to subtle and stylish city and naked bike riding leather. Constructed of soft and supple premium cowhide, the Razon is minimalistic in its approach to everything from elastic inserts (microelastic panels with elasticity woven into leather) to branding. There is removable CE armor in the shoulders and elbows and a pocket for a CE rated Dainese back protector. The removable thermal liner really allows this jacket to be stretched deep into the temperature range and the intake vents help you stay cool when the weather gets a little warmer. We're big fans of the brand new understated Dainese Razon.

Check out our video review of the Dainese Razon Leather Jacket:

Next we have the brand new Dainese Avro Leather Jacket. Drawing heavy inspiration from the Avro Leather Suit released within the last year, the Avro Jacket is a racing and sport jacket to its core. With co-injected CE shoulder armor topped with aluminum sliders, CE rated elbow/forearm armor and a pocket for a CE back protector, and a premium abrasion-resistant cowhide shell, protection is the foremost concern here. Strategic S1 stretch paneling allows for uninhibited movement, while the removable thermal liner allows for temperature flexibility. Adjustments at the waist and neck help to cinch this down for the snuggest sport fit. This head-turning jacket has you covered in sport riding conditions.

Check out our video review of the Dainese Avro Leather Jacket:



As for the rest of the new leathers from Dainese, we will be reviewing them as soon as we get them. Check out some photos below for each of the new leather jackets.

Dainese Supermoto Leather Jacket

Dainese Newater Leather Jacket

Dainese Rapier Leather Jacket

Dainese R-Twin Leather Jacket

-RetroZilla

Icon Justice Mesh & Touchscreen Gloves

Icon Justice Mesh Gloves

Brand new for Fall 2011, Icon has released the new line of Justice gloves. Available in multiple versions (Icon Justice Leather Gloves, mesh, and touchscreen), these gloves represent one of the most aggressive and technical short cuff sport gloves in the Icon lineup. Sacrificing nothing in comfort, the Justice series provides a solid amount of protection for the sport rider in warm to hot weather riding conditions. The big standout here, though, is the fact that the Icon Justice Touchscreen Gloves are the first moto gloves we've seen that allow you to operate your touch screen device while wearing your motorcycle gloves. Pretty impressive to say the least.

Check out our Icon Justice Touchscreen Gloves Review:



Next, check out the Icon Justice Mesh Gloves Review:



-RetroZilla

Previously:
Icon Helmets Fall 2011 Preview
Icon Gloves - Fall 2011
Icon Jackets and Pants - Fall 2011

REV'IT! Orion GTX Ladies Gloves & Zoom H2O Gloves

Brand new for Fall 2011, there are two new REV'IT gloves designed specifically for female riders for use in multiple seasons and all weather conditions. The REV'IT! Orion GTX Ladies Gloves are modeled after the men's version of the same name but they are modified to accommodate a woman's hand. The REV'IT! Zoom H2O Ladies Gloves are a more affordable, albeit slightly less technical option that will get you through all conditions. If you're looking for textile, the Orion will be the choice for you. If you want the slick style of a leather cold weather glove, look to the Zoom H2O for all your needs.

While we've not detailed these in video form yet, we'll break down the features of each glove.

The Orion gloves feature an extremely technical shell, with 1000D Cordura ripstop, PWRShell and PWRWax 500D, and goatskin at the palm comprising the materials used. What sets this glove apart is the Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane that will completely protect you from precipitation while allowing perspiration to escape. The Thermolite insulated liner will keep you warm while the EVA foam provides protection from impacted at the knuckle, thumb and palm. There are also injected PU protectors at the fingers for protection. Small details like the grip patches, visor wiper, stretch paneling and Teflon coating are what we continue to see from REV'IT! that sets them apart.

The REV'IT! Zoom H2O Ladies Gloves are a goatskin and cowhide construction for a slim and sleek look that couldn't be more feminine. The Zooms feature a Hydratex waterproof breathable membrane that will keep all the water out while letting your hand to breathe. For armor, there is a leather-coated hard part main knuckle, with EVA foam at the fingers, cuff and the palm. Strategic grip panels can be found on the palm, and the Fiberfil (highly insulating) liner will keep you warm and cozy in the cold weather. The wrist adjuster strap and main velcro cuff closure allow you to cinch the glove down and ensure that wind and water won't creep in. A solid choice for the sport tourer, no doubt.

Check out our review of the men's version of the REV'IT Orion GTX. The women's version shares exactly the same features with a different cut.



-RetroZilla

Previously on BlogZilla:
REV'IT! Raven Gloves Review
Icon Gloves Fall 2011 Preview

REV'IT! Rain Gear: Fall 2011 Collection

Brand new for Fall 2011, REV'IT! has completely remade their rain collection with four new products. All of this gear is now REACH certified, which is a European standard that bans the use of over 30,000 harmful chemicals that can be damaging to both the environment and workforce. This means that all of the new REV'IT! Rain Gear is also PVC-free. Constructed from PWR|Nylon 190T which is coated with PU, the two jackets, one full suit, and pair of pants are completely impervious to the ill effects of mother nature dumping buckets on you. Also, each piece (save the pants) is available in a hi-viz colorway.

First up, our REV'IT! Pacific H2O Rain Suit Review:

One of the most remarkable features of the REV'IT! Pacific H2O Rain Suit is how lightweight it is. Easily stuffed into its included sack, the Pacific can be stowed in a side case when not in use. It also can be put on and taken off in seconds, which is crucial to staying dry when the sky opens up. The interior is coated with a nonstick treatment which assists in the speed in getting it on and off. There are large 3M scotchlite panels on the shoulders and legs with reflective logos on the chest and back that ensure visibility, even if you're not wearing the hi-viz version. There is a also a stash pocket on the front leg, and adjustment velcro tabs at the cuffs and the ankles. The large main zipper is protected by a storm flap and rain gutter to keep you water-free.

Next, the standout REV'IT! Nitric H2O Rain Jacket is reviewed:

The REV'IT! Nitric H2O Rain Jacket offers a ton of features and functionality that separates from your basic save-the-day rain jacket. Built with the same material as the Pacific, the Nitric H2O packs a ton of features not typically seen in rain jackets. There is adjustability at the cuffs, collar, hips and waist to ensure that you can properly cinch this down and keep all wind and water out. There are 3M scotchlite reflective panels in strategic areas for visibility. Another big feature is the ample storage possibilities in the Nitric H2O with cargo pockets in the front, a waterproof internal doc pocket and a tuck-away pocket for the built-in hoody. It is also extraordinarily lightweight and quickly stuffs into the provided transport sack.

Last, check out our REV'IT! Cyclone H2O Rain Jacket Review:

Consider the REV'IT! Cyclone H2O Rain Jacket the more basic little brother to the Nitric. Built with the same materials, the Cyclone doesn't have the same storage possibilities or adjustment and cinching that the Nitric has. However, it offers waterproof breathability and an incredible light weight of 260 grams, and can be quickly rolled and stuffed into the included transport bag. There is cinching along the bottom hem, and the non-stick coating on the inside allows for quick on and off to ensure that your day will be saved and you won't get soaked. Also available in a hi-viz version, this is what REV'IT! is billing as the "day saving accessory of the year" and it's hard for us to disagree.

Pair either of these jackets up with the REV'IT! Acid H2O Rain Pants.

-RetroZilla

Previously on BlogZilla:
Dainese Hogan-S Rain Suit Review
Icon Waterproof Textile Gear Guide

REV'IT! Legacy GTX Ladies Jacket Review

After plenty of clamoring, female riders are getting more of their due this Fall from REV'IT. With the release of the REV'IT! Legacy GTX Ladies Jacket, the long-distance tourer and everyday commuter now has an all-season all-weather option that will perform excellently hot-to-cold. Packed with a feature set that rivals the best from any other manufacturer on the market, the brand new REV'IT! Ladies Legacy complements the ADV-focused Ventura combo as seriously technical pieces that are designed and cut exclusively for a woman's curves and contours.

Check out our REV'IT! Legacy GTX Ladies Jacket Review:

The REV'IT! Legacy GTX Ladies is built from a chassis of PWRShell 750D and 500D, with 1000D ripstop Cordura in impact areas. All of these fabrics are treated with a Teflon DWR coating which assists in beading up water. Of course, your true waterproof breathability comes from the bonded Gore-Tex membrane that will keep all precipitation out but allow perspiration to escape through, keeping you cool (or warm) and dry on the most torrential of rides. There is also a removable quilted thermal liner that is full sleeved and can be taken out when it's warmer. There are intake vents at the chest and under arms that feed the rear exhaust vents for a solid degree of airflow in hotter riding scenarios.

For protection, there is ladies-specific CE rated Prolife armor at the shoulders and elbows. The EVA foam backpad can be upgraded to the Knox TP2 CE Back Protector or the molecular-level SAS-TEC Back Protector to amp up your safety. There are ample adjustment possibilities, with a multi-position collar, and cinches at the waist, upper arms, under arms, cuffs and hips. Some further niceties of the Legacy include waterproof cargo stash pockets, hand warmer pockets, inner pockets, a hook-and-loop lockdown collar system and a connection zipper to attach this jacket to the REV'IT! Legacy GTX Ladies Pants. Overall, the long-distance tourer and everyday commuter will be very pleased with the feature set offered here.

For the full feature breakdown, check our REV'IT! Legacy GTX Jacket Review:



For a deep look at the armor and liner systems, watch our REV'IT! Legacy GTX Armor and Liner Breakdown:



-RetroZilla

Previously on BlogZilla:

REV'IT! GTX Gore-Tex Gear Guide

REV'IT! Legacy GTX Jacket Review

REV'IT! Defender GTX Jacket Review

2012 Shoei Qwest Helmet Graphics

Three slick new graphics of the popular Shoei Qwest Helmet are about to drop for Fall 2011 into Spring 2012, including a hi-viz version. We're extremely excited to see these new versions of Shoei's popular touring helmet. To check the full new run, visit our 2012 Shoei Helmets section.

Shoei Qwest Overt Helmet - This helmet is overt, no doubt. Make sure you're seen.

Shoei Qwest Passage Helmet - Twin racing stripes adorn the center of this new lid.

Shoei Qwest Diverge Helmet - A classic Shoei-style graphic design.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
2012 Shoei RF-1100 Helmets
2012 Shoei X-12 Helmets
2012 Shoei VFX-W Helmets

2012 Shoei RF-1100 Helmet Graphics

The most popular sport and sport touring helmet in the game just got a bunch of new graphics for Fall 2011 that are certain to continue its dominance within its sect. Shoei has just released five new versions of the mega-popular Shoei RF-1100 Helmet as part of their new release of 2012 Shoei Helmets. Check `em all out below; I know I'll be picking up a Chroma when they finally drop.

Shoei RF-1100 Chroma Helmet

Shoei RF-1100 Hadron 2 Helmet - The next iteration of the popular Hadron graphic.

Shoei RF-1100 Corazon Helmet - For the ladies in 2012.

Shoei RF-1100 Merciless Helmet - This helmet graphic has absolutely no mercy whatsoever.

Shoei RF-1100 Pious Helmet - Sweeeeeet.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
2012 Shoei X-12 Helmets
2012 Shoei VFX-W Helmets

2012 Shoei VFX-W Helmet Graphics

Brand new for Fall 2011, Shoei has released two new graphic versions of their top-end dirt helmet, the Shoei VFX-W Helmet. Check out the two new versions of the Shoei VFX-W below and click the link to check out all the new 2012 Shoei Helmets.

Shoei VFX-W Dissent Helmet - Stand up to the man.

Shoei VFX-W Salute Helmet - Represent your country.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
2012 Shoei X-12 Helmets

2012 Shoei X-12 Helmet Graphics

Brand new for Fall 2011, Shoei has dropped four new graphic versions of their ever-popular top end race helmet, the Shoei X-12 Helmet. Check out the new styles below of 2012 Shoei Helmets. I'm pretty sure I'll be picking up a Vermeulen for my spring track days!

Shoei X-12 Bautista Helmet - Inspired by MotoGP pro and up-and-comer Alvaro Bautista.

Shoei X-12 Vermeulen 5 Helmet - Inspired by racer Chris Vermeulen.

Shoei X-12 Reverb Helmet - Red, white and blue; wear America's (and England's) colors with pride!

Shoei X-12 Laseca Helmet

-RetroZilla

REV'IT! Summer & Winter Base Layers

Brand new for Fall 2011, REV'IT! has revamped their base layer lineup, with two offerings for hot weather riding and two for cold weather riding. There is a men-specific and a women-specific version for each riding season and they are all using a brand new 3D round knit technology from REV'IT!. This eliminates annoying seams but also allows REV'IT to map the construction in a strategic way that creates more efficient moisture-wicking and breathability in areas where it is necessary.

First up, our look at the brand new REV'IT! Winter Base Layers:

The REV'IT! Glacier Shirt and REV'IT! Glacier Pants are for the men while the REV'IT! Trinity Ladies Shirt and REV'IT! Trinity Ladies Pants keep the female riders warm and comfortable in cold weather riding scenarios. Utilizing the body mapping technology, the Glacier and Trinity provide the ideal balance of ventilation, wicking and warmth. In areas requiring more insulation, a dense-weave process is used to provide maximum warmth. In areas where heavy sweating occurs, REV'IT uses a moisture-management system that effectively wicks sweat to the outside of the garment where it can evaporate more quickly. These are truly well thought out pieces that will perform at a high level in winter riding situations.

For hot weather rides, check out our REV'IT! Summer Base Layers Review:

The REV'IT! Oxygen Shirt and REV'IT! Oxygen Pants are for the men while the REV'IT! Violet Ladies Shirt and REV'IT! Violet Ladies Pants are for the summer-riding ladies. Utilizing the same 3D round knit body-mapping technology, the fabric is more open in areas that require the most ventilation and best possible moisture-wicking. All of these garments are treated with an antibacterial and anti-odor finish that extend the longevity, keeping the funk out so they don't get nasty in the blazing hot months. As technical as the rest of the REV'IT! gear, these summer base layers will keep you cool, dry and comfortable so that your only focus will be on the road ahead of and around you.

-RetroZilla

Previously on BlogZilla:
REV'IT! Balaclava Overview

REV'IT! Legacy GTX Hi Viz Jacket

One of the most exciting additions to the REV'IT! lineup for Fall 2011 is the REV'IT! Legacy GTX HV Jacket. The Legacy GTX came out last Fall and immediately become a classic in the REV'IT! lineup as a multi-season all-weather commuter and tourer option thanks to its bonded Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane, removable thermal liner and multitude of venting options. Never a brand to stop improving on a product, REV'IT! has created a high visibility version of the Legacy for Fall 2011 to give touring riders and commuters the best chance to be seen at all times of the day. All of the features that made the original Legacy so impressive remain intact and we're certain that this is going to continue the Legacy's legacy.

Check out our REV'IT! Legacy GTX HV Jacket Review:

The Legacy is built on a chassis of PWRShell 750D, Cordura 1000D ripstop in impact areas and 600D polyester in the hi-viz regions (certified to the EN471 standard for high visibility). The Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane is bonded to the outer shell and provides guaranteed-for-life protection from the elements in addition to allowing your perspiration to escape. There is a removable thermal liner for the cold times of the year but when it's warm, pop out the liner and zip open the two chest intakes, two sleeve intakes and rear exhaust vents for a high degree of airflow. Adjustability at the waist, upper arms, collar, under arms, cuffs and hips truly allows you to cinch this jacket down for a tailored fit.

Beyond that, you're looking at upgraded CE rated Prolife armor in the shoulders and elbows, with an EVA foam backpad that can be upgraded to either the Knox TP2 CE Back Protector or the SAS-TEC Back Protector. The shell is treated with a Teflon coating that will help water bead up and roll off when it's raining, making the Gore-Tex membrane's job even easier. Stylish and strategic 3M Scotchlite reflective panels help to improve night-time visibility. Waterproof stash pockets, a hook-and-loop lockdown collar system, strategic accordion stretch zones, a pants-connection zipper, inner pockets and handwarmer pockets are some of the other niceties on this jacket.

For more, don't miss our original REV'IT! Legacy GTX Review for the full feature breakdown:

For even more, watch our REV'IT! Legacy GTX Armor and Liner Breakdown:

-RetroZilla

Previously on BlogZilla:

REV'IT! GTX Gore-Tex Gear Guide

REV'IT! Legacy GTX Jacket Review

REV'IT! Defender GTX Jacket Review

REV'IT! Gear: Fall 2011 Overview

REV'IT! is dropping some bombs this Fall with a few loudly-requested multi-season commuting/touring products alongside some day-saving rain gear. They've also completely revamped their base layer lineup, utilizing brand new mapping technologies that will intelligently respond to your body's wicking needs both in cold weather and warm weather riding with temperature-specific pieces. Additionally, there are two new gloves designed exclusively for all the serious female riders who want to push it through all seasons and weather conditions. Here, we'll provide a quick glimpse at each of the products, but stay tuned for our individual blogs that will feature video reviews of all the new gear.

The heavy hitter of this year's lineup is the REV'IT! Legacy GTX Hi-Viz Jacket in addition to the women's specific REV'IT! Legacy GTX Ladies Jacket and REV'IT! Legacy GTX Ladies Pants. Since this jacket and pant combo, released for the men in last year's Fall collection from REV'IT!, is focused on touring and commuting, it is only logical that there would be a hi-viz version of it. Also, the ladies have been clamoring for their own version of this multi-season all-weather Gore-Tex monster and REV'IT! has delivered on both fronts. Touting all of the same features as last year's version, the hi-viz and women-specific versions are sure to continue the legacy of the Legacy's immense popularity.

REV'IT! has also revamped all of their rain gear for Fall 2011, moving away from PVC and ensuring that all of their gear is now REACH certified. REACH is a European safety standard that bans the use of over 30,000 harmful chemicals that damage the environment and threaten the safety of the workers. The REV'IT! Pacific H2O Rain Suit offers riders a full one-piece suit that is available in a hi-viz colorway. The REV'IT! Nitric H2O Rain Jacket is the big brother to the less-technical REV'IT! Cyclone H2O Rain Jacket and both pair up nicely with the REV'IT! Acid H2O Rain Pants. Each of these jackets is available in a hi-viz colorway for max visibility. Also, all the new rain gear is extraordinarily lightweight, rolling and stuffing into their included sacks in a matter of seconds.

Also completely redesigned with the REV'IT! lineup is their base layer collection. With a summer-specific and winter-specific setup each for the men and ladies, these base layers are using a 3D round knit technology that eliminates uncomfortable seams and allows for strategic mapping with different weaves in different zones. For instance, at the shoulders and elbows where armor will sit, there are spaced-fabric areas that allow breathability in areas that will sweat more. The armpits, chest and back all feature strategically-located weaves that will help wick moisture away and keep you cool (or warm) and dry. For the winter, the men's REV'IT! Glacier LS Shirt and Pants; REV'IT! Trinity LS Shirt and Pants for women. For summer, check out the REV'IT! Oxygen Shirt and Pants and the REV'IT! Violet Shirt and Pants.

There are also two new gloves for the ladies for Fall 2011, which are female-specific versions of popular REV'IT! men's gloves. The brand new REV'IT! Orion GTX Ladies' Gloves are a Gore-Tex winter-specific version of the men's gloves that bear the same name from last season. Gore-Tex waterproof breathability with highly technical materials in the shell and a Thermolite liner provide warmth and protection from the elements. The REV'IT! Zoom H2O Ladies' Gloves are built for the female touring rider looking to stay warm and waterproof and not pay an arm and a leg to do so. With a leather exterior and a hard shell knuckle, you're ensured both impact and abrasion protection, and the Fiberfil interior keeps you good and warm.

Again, stay tuned for upcoming posts with detailed video breakdowns of each of these new products.

-RetroZilla