At the 2017 AIMExpo, some of the industry’s biggest gear manufacturers were conspicuously absent. Smaller and lesser-known brands therefore stole the show. Since the weather is starting to turn for much of the nation, we had our eyes peeled for great cold-weather gear. From stylish waxed cotton jackets to more technical pieces, these three unique items are perfect for late-season riding.
Oxford is well-known for its full catalog of motorcycle products. The British company makes quality pieces such as bike covers, heated grips, and riding gear. Until we saw this slick waxed cotton jacket, however, they probably wouldn't have made the list for the most fashion-forward of gear brands. The Oxford jacket uses fabric from British Millerain, England's oldest producer of waxed cotton, which is even used in fashion apparel. The classic silhouette is rounded out with a beautiful flannel lining and pockets for armor.
In case you haven’t heard of Furygan’s gear, as worn by roadracer Michael Dunlop and MotoGP star Johan Zarco, the French manufacturer has been around since the late 1960s when its founder, Jacques Segura, began building technical apparel for motorcyclists, skiers, and even for the French military.
These days, Furygan is making a strong push in the US market with a broad range of products, including the Cold Master textile jacket, which features a removable insulated lining and a removable waterproof skirt that prevents air from seeping in when it’s not zipped to matching pants. The Cold Master is available in two colors and includes D30 armor at the elbows and shoulders (back protector is sold separately).
Lee Parks Design DeerSports PCi gloves stand out from the crowd with their classic aesthetic and thoughtful design. The gloves are made in the US using 2.75-ounce deerskin on the palm and 4-ounce elkskin on the back. Each glove has only four seams, minimizing weak points in the leather in case of a get-off. They’re insulated with Outlast technology, originally developed for NASA’s space suits, which provides warmth and breathability in temperatures ranging from 35–75 degrees. Aesthetically and practically, the gloves appeal to both grizzled road veterans and young riders in search of classic design. Stay tuned for a full product review.