ALPINESTARS Cusco Drystar Jacket Black

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The “Style” specification describes the visual appearance and character of the motorcycle jacket. The style defines the image the jacket projects and how it fits your personal look.

• Adventure: rugged, adventurous appearance, inspired by long-distance travel and outdoor riding.
• Custom: bold style aimed at cruisers and custom motorcycles, emphasizing individuality.
• Off-road: sporty, bold look inspired by off-road motorcycles and rallies.
• Sport: look inspired by leather racing suits worn in motorcycle races, sleek and dynamic.
• Touring: classic touring style, with a balanced and timeless look.
• Urban: modern, casual appearance suited for everyday and city riding.
• Vintage: retro-inspired look with classic materials and designs, authentic and timeless.

This specification indicates the type of motorcycle jacket. Each type places different emphasis on versatility, ventilation, protection and style.

• Gore-Tex: a premium, waterproof and highly breathable motorcycle jacket featuring an advanced membrane that provides optimal protection against rain and wind without compromising comfort. Designed for intensive use and long rides in demanding and changing weather conditions. The benchmark choice for riders seeking maximum performance, durability and all-round capability.
• Textile: a versatile motorcycle jacket made from synthetic materials, suitable for a wide range of riding styles and weather conditions.
• Mesh: a highly ventilated jacket with extensive mesh panels, designed to provide maximum airflow in warm weather.
• Gilet: a purely aesthetic, sleeveless motorcycle vest without protective function. It is always made of leather and often personalised with patches.
• Leather: a motorcycle jacket made of leather with a classic or sporty look, known for its durability and high abrasion resistance.
• Motorhoodie: a motorcycle jacket styled like a hoodie, a casual hooded sweatshirt, but equipped with integrated protection for riders who prefer an everyday, relaxed look.
• Motor shirt: a jacket that looks like a classic shirt while offering the protection of a modern motorcycle jacket.

The “Gender” specification indicates who the motorcycle jacket is designed for. This directly affects the fit and cut of the model.

• Men: men’s motorcycle jackets are designed with a fit suited to the male body shape, focusing on comfort and freedom of movement.
• Women: women’s models are tailored to the female body shape, combining an adapted fit with comfort and style.
• Child: children’s jackets are designed for young passengers, offering an adapted fit, comfort, and protection while riding along.

This specification indicates how well the motorcycle jacket protects against wind and rain. Depending on the jacket type and membrane, protection can range from maximum, fully waterproof and windproof performance to wind-only protection or no protection against rain.

• Gore-Tex waterproof: the jacket features a premium Gore-Tex membrane providing the highest level of water and wind protection. Even during prolonged and heavy rain, the jacket remains fully waterproof while maintaining optimal breathability. The ultimate reference for riders seeking uncompromising protection, long-lasting comfort, and top performance in all weather conditions.
• Waterproof: the jacket has a waterproof membrane, offering full protection against wind and rain. Protection is reliable, although breathability is generally lower than with Gore-Tex.
• Windproof: the jacket effectively blocks wind, but does not provide full protection against rain.
• Not waterproof: the jacket provides no protection against rain and is only suitable for dry conditions.

The “Membrane” specification explains how the waterproof membrane is integrated into the jacket. Its placement affects comfort and performance in different weather conditions.

• Laminated: the membrane is directly laminated to the inside of the outer fabric. This prevents water absorption and keeps the jacket light, dry, and comfortable, even in prolonged rain. It is the highest-quality construction for wet conditions. These jackets typically have limited ventilation and can feel warm in summer.
• Removable: the membrane can be zipped in or out, making the jacket versatile. Place it in for waterproofing during rain, or remove it for extra ventilation in warm, dry weather. Because the membrane sits under the outer layer, the outer fabric can still get wet, making the jacket heavier or colder.
• over and under: identical to a standard removable membrane, with the key difference that it can be worn both over and under the jacket. Because it can be worn over the jacket, it is often better finished and more aesthetically refined than a membrane that can only be worn underneath. The main advantage of wearing it over the jacket is that the outer fabric of the jacket stays dry.
• Fixed: the membrane is permanently integrated into the jacket but is not laminated. It provides reliable waterproofing, but the outer fabric can absorb water. This type combines protection with a simple construction and is often a more budget-friendly solution.
• None: the jacket does not contain a waterproof membrane and therefore offers no protection against rain. Suitable for dry weather or when used with a separate rain jacket.

Thermal lining indicates whether the motorcycle jacket includes an additional insulating layer to provide warmth in cold conditions. Some jackets feature a full thermal lining with sleeves, offering complete protection against the cold, while others use a thermal body without sleeves, covering only the torso.

The lining can be either fixed or removable, allowing the jacket to be adapted for warmer weather or different riding conditions. There are also jackets without any thermal lining, either because they are specifically designed for summer use, prioritizing comfort and ventilation, or because they rely solely on the outer material and any additional insulation.

Shoulder protectors significantly enhance the safety of a motorcycle jacket. They are designed to absorb impact on the shoulders in the event of a fall or collision.

They come in different protection levels: level 1 protectors are thinner and more flexible, providing comfort during wear, while level 2 protectors offer more impact absorption and protection, but are generally thicker and stiffer.

Shoulder protectors are always included in a CE-approved jacket, and in some models, they can also be removed and/or replaced for added flexibility.

Elbow protectors contribute to the overall safety of a motorcycle jacket. They are designed to absorb impact on the elbows in the event of a fall or collision.

They come in different protection levels: level 1 protectors are thinner and more flexible, providing comfort during wear, while level 2 protectors offer more impact absorption and protection, but are generally thicker and stiffer.

Elbow protectors are always included in a CE-approved jacket, and in some models, they can also be removed and/or replaced for added flexibility.

The “Back protector” specification clarifies the protection provided at the back. A back protector is designed to absorb impact to the spine in the event of a fall or collision, significantly reducing the risk of serious back injuries.

All CE-certified motorcycle jackets are designed to accommodate a back protector, but most models are supplied without one as standard, meaning a back protector usually needs to be purchased separately. The compatible back protector for each specific jacket is always indicated on the product page of that model.

The certification class indicates the European safety standard to which the motorcycle jacket is certified. The class shows how protective the jacket is in case of a fall or impact. There are three levels:

• AAA: the highest protection level, providing maximum abrasion resistance and impact protection. These jackets often use stiffer, double, or reinforced fabrics and leather for optimal safety. Naturally, this comes with a higher price and slightly less flexibility.
• AA: a balance between safety and comfort. The jacket still offers good protection with less stiff fabrics, making it more comfortable for longer rides and available at a mid-range price.
• A: this level provides basic protection with soft, comfortable fabrics suitable for daily or urban use. These jackets are more budget-friendly but less suited for high speeds or intensive highway use.

The “Type” specification indicates how many separate layers the motorcycle jacket consists of. This largely determines how versatile and adaptable the jacket is in different weather conditions.

• 1 in 1: the jacket has no membrane or, if present, the membrane is not removable. The same applies to a possible thermal lining: it is fixed in place or not included.
• 2 in 1: the jacket consists of an abrasion-resistant outer layer and one removable inner layer. This could be a jacket with a fixed membrane and a removable thermal lining, or a jacket with a removable membrane and no thermal lining.
• 3 in 1: built with an abrasion-resistant outer layer, a removable membrane and a removable thermal lining, offering maximum adaptability to varying conditions.

"Ventilation" indicates which ventilation options the motorcycle jacket offers. Ventilation helps regulate airflow and increases comfort during warm or intense rides.

• Mesh panels: the jacket contains open mesh panels that allow direct airflow over the body.
• Direct ventilation: the jacket has closable ventilation openings that allow air to flow directly through the membrane for a cooling effect.
• Indirect ventilation: the jacket has closable ventilation openings that do not go through the membrane. You do not feel direct airflow, but it provides indirect cooling.
• Perforated: only for leather jackets, where small perforations in the leather provide ventilation and a subtle cooling effect.
• Not ventilated: the jacket has no ventilation options and is completely closed.

Waterproof outer pockets provide practical protection for personal items against rain and moisture. A pocket is only considered waterproof if a dedicated membrane is integrated into its construction. Not every jacket has waterproof outer pockets; this feature is mainly found on higher-end models. The number of waterproof pockets varies by jacket and is always clearly indicated. These pockets keep valuables dry even during wet rides.

A connection zipper allows you to attach the motorcycle jacket to a compatible motorcycle trouser from the same brand. Connecting both garments improves wearing comfort, reduces drafts and water ingress, and enhances safety by preventing the jacket from riding up in the event of a fall.

• Full-circumference zipper: provides the most secure and complete connection between jacket and trousers. It is important that the size difference between jacket and trousers does not exceed two sizes, as the zipper lengths may otherwise differ too much.
• Short zipper: connects jacket and trousers via a short zipper at the lower back. Its length is independent of size, allowing any size combination. The connection is less comprehensive than with a full-circumference zipper.
• Belt loop(s): the jacket features one or more loops that can be attached to a belt. This solution offers less complete sealing than a zipper, but provides greater versatility, for example when combining the jacket with motorcycle jeans without a connection zipper, and is not brand-specific.

An adjustable waist provides a better fit of the motorcycle jacket and enhances overall comfort. A properly fitting jacket prevents flapping while riding and ensures more effective protection against wind and the elements.

In addition, a well-adjusted waist helps keep any back protector in its correct position. Most motorcycle jackets feature an adjustable waist, helping to achieve an optimal fit to the body.

The neck width of a motorcycle jacket can sometimes be adjusted to improve wearing comfort. An adjustable neck increases comfort while riding and ensures a snug fit around the neck. A well-fitted neck also helps reduce the entry of cold air and rain, keeping the area around your neck drier, even in less favorable weather.

The sleeve width of a motorcycle jacket can sometimes be adjusted for a better fit on the arms. Properly adjusted sleeves increase comfort while riding and prevent the sleeves from being too loose. In addition, well-fitted sleeves help keep the elbow protectors in place, enhancing the overall safety of the jacket.

How the sleeves of a motorcycle jacket close at the wrists affects both comfort and protection. A secure closure keeps wind, rain, and cold out and prevents the sleeves from riding up in the event of a fall. This can be achieved using snap buttons, zippers, Velcro, elastic material, or a combination of these methods, depending on the model.

This specification indicates the color(s) of the motorcycle jacket. Color mainly affects the appearance and style of the .

This specification indicates the material of the outer layer of the motorcycle jacket. The material determines both the jacket’s appearance and much of its wearing comfort.

• Textile: durable fabrics offering versatility and suitable for different weather conditions and riding styles. Textile jackets are often lighter and easier to maintain than leather jackets.
• Leather: classic or sporty look with high abrasion resistance and strong protection. Leather is durable, provides a rugged appearance, and feels solid upon impact.
• Softshell: flexible, elastic fabrics combining comfort and freedom of movement, with a modern, contemporary appearance.

The outer material of a motorcycle jacket determines not only its appearance but also its abrasion resistance and durability. Different fabrics and leather qualities are used depending on the style and intended use of the jacket. A durable outer layer protects the jacket against abrasion in the event of a fall and contributes to its lifespan, while also defining the jacket’s look.

For textile jackets, the Denier of the fabric is often indicated. This number represents the thickness and strength of the yarn: the higher the Denier number, the thicker and stronger the fibers, and the better the jacket’s abrasion resistance. It is expressed as a number followed by the letter D, for example 600D.

The “Type of membrane” specification indicates which brand of membrane is used in the jacket, if present (not all motorcycle jackets contain a membrane; this specification does not apply to jackets without one). The membrane determines how waterproof and windproof the jacket is, and also affects breathability. Well-known membranes such as Gore-Tex offer an optimal balance between rain protection and comfort while riding. Additionally, the construction of the membrane can be specified, which affects weight, durability, and wearing comfort.

• 2-layer (2L): the waterproof membrane is laminated onto a carrier. A removable lining (mesh or nylon) protects the membrane and provides extra comfort. This construction is flexible and comfortable, but generally a bit heavier and less breathable than 3-layer.
• 2.5-layer (2.5L): the membrane is laminated onto a carrier and finished on the inside with a thin protective print or coating instead of a full lining. This results in a lightweight, compact construction that offers excellent rain protection, but usually less durable than 3-layer.
• 3-layer (3L): the membrane is bonded in a “sandwich” between a carrier and a durable, lightweight inner layer. There are no loose layers. This is the most robust, durable, and breathable construction, ideal for intensive use and harsh weather conditions.
• Z-liner: the membrane hangs freely between the outer material and the inner lining and is not laminated. It is secured at several points within the jacket. This construction is flexible and comfortable, but the outer material can absorb water, making the jacket heavier during prolonged rain.

Reflective material in the outer layer of the motorcycle jacket increases the rider’s visibility in the dark. This can make a significant difference for safety, especially on poorly lit roads or during evening and night rides. A fluorescent vest worn over the jacket is still the most effective way to maximize visibility.