Four seasons in one jacket
Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar, £259.99
THE CLAIM
“Designed using Alpinestars’ exclusive Drystar membrane, the Andes V3 offers 100% waterproofing with high levels of breathability, even in difficult riding conditions. The technically advanced construction offers protection and abrasion resistance and includes CE limb armour. It’s also adaptable to all weather conditions thanks to high airflow vents and a removable thermal liner.”
THE REALITY
At £259.99 retail (at the time of writing there is also £60 off online), it seems the Andes offers a level of warmth and protection from the elements normally seen on jackets two or three times the price. I previously used an Andes 2 for 10,000 miles and was a big fan. The V3 is proving just as useful, equally as comfortable and, so far, waterproof.
I’m only a few hundred miles in, but half of that has been in heavy rain and I’ve had no ingress as yet. The waterproof inside pocket has performed well, though there has been a small amount of ingress in the side pockets, but they’re not claimed to be waterproof.
Designed as a touring jacket, the liner is warm and reassuring and the jacket feels substantial enough to inspire confidence despite what feels like fairly-thin Level-1 Nucleon Flex-plus armour. I’ve been using it with a standalone airbag vest, but if you want an internal back protector, that’s extra.
With enough adjustment straps for the body and arms and a good main zip seal, plus a Velcro neck-closure, it is very easy to keep the jacket draft-free in cold weather. Although I’m yet to ride in deep mid-winter I’m confident that the jacket will perform well.
Of course, it isn’t perfect – and for the money it never will be. I’m disappointed the side pockets don’t have zippers: Velcro loses its stick over time and never feels as secure. Also, the jacket is only classed A-rated for protection, but at this price-point very few jackets are the higher Aa-rated. If they are, they’re usually compromised in other areas.
Overall, this is a great jacket for the money and looks like it has the potential to be a truly four-season product. I’m looking forward to a longer-term test.