Alpinestars Venture R Jacket £219.99 ‘Fit for purpose’
Tested by Michael Guy for four years
Over the past four years this jacket has become my go to kit for adventure and off-road riding. Developed by Astars’ Dakar riders the Venture R jacket has been thoroughly thought through and is loaded with features.
But you need to understand that this is not an all-in-one, do-it-all jacket that is waterproof and full of built-in armour. Instead, think of it as part of a layering system, which is my preferred approach to adventure riding. So to make it work I use a separate armoured jacket underneath for protection. In the summer with the jacket on top it’s a great set-up as it's lightweight and gives great freedom of movement on the bike. For hot conditions it has good ventilation with big vents on the sleeves, chest and back, plus if it gets really hot the sleeves can be removed completely and you can use it as a vest, which increases air flow and cooling. There is even a large pocket on the lower back where you can easily store the sleeves. For autumn and spring riding when the temperature is cooler I use an insulated jacket or thicker windproof base layers. When the inevitable rain comes I put a thin waterproof jacket over the top, which has the added bonus of meaning it’s just the thin waterproof that gets wet rather than a big thick jacket that will take a long time to dry.
I find the fit of the jacket is excellent – generous enough to run the armoured jacket and layers for warmth but well tailored with pre-curved sleeves and tight fitting cuffs to ensure there is no excess material flapping around. It has a high, soft neck which keeps draughts out especially when riding at speed.
It’s a great combination of being lightweight yet substantial enough to use on the road with my armoured jacket. I use this jacket set-up in winter but only really for off-road when the riding itself keeps you warm. For a long wet cold motorway ride I’d look to wear a traditional jacket, ideally Gore-Tex.
It has a waterproof pocket accessed from the outside for your phone, and two big front pockets (these aren’t waterproof).
You can also fit a water bladder for hydration and it’s compatible with a neck brace. I’ve used this jacket a lot for UK riding as well as launches and events from Morocco to Iceland and despite the miles and odd crash it remains in excellent condition.
Quality Value www.alpinestars.com