The Alpinestars Idles Jacket was perfect for my recent chilly, early-start urban ride. My first impression of the Idles jacket was that it felt supremely comfortable. Meeting with riders at the Bike Shed in DTLA’s Arts District, my colorful jacket received many compliments. The Idles stands out from the raft of the usually black run-of-the-mill jackets I’ve noticed around these days.
For biker gear that screams leather jacket, I was surprised at how supple it feels off the rack, as if already broken in. Described on the Alpinestars website as “Featuring an anatomically designed body-mapped fit tailored to the female figure,” the Idles jacket fits comfortably. It has a relaxed, boxy, cropped look with a straight, even hemline and no waist cinching. I particularly like the accordion panels on each side of the back, near the shoulder blades, so there’s no tightness or restricted feeling when you reach forward for the grips or a beverage at the Bike Shed.
I wore the Off White/Fluo Red/Black colorway, paired with the snazzy bright-red satin-type quilted lining. The old school fashion has a low-profile cushion feel for a nice sense of snugness, even though it’s not a tightly fitted style.
Other features are poppers to snap onto Alpinstars trousers. A modern minimal collar with a popstud closure across the front and what feels like a suede-like lining. Waist adjusters give you about an inch of leeway on each side. This is handy for keeping your jacket snugly in place.
The standard Alpinestars Nucleon Flex Plus elbow and shoulder armor provides slim, discreet CE Level 1 impact protection that is nice and flexible. A back protector is not included, so the rider can choose between an Alpinestars Tech Air airbag or more Nucleon armor.
The Alpinestars Women’s Idles jacket is warm, though not heavy. Even with the metal eyelets and the ventilated armor, this is a jacket for cooler weather. It is water-resistant and features one waterproof inner pocket.
I have a lot to say about the pockets! The two outside pockets close with zips plus a leatherette pull tab for easy use. The pockets are angled so you can rest your hands in them when you’re off the moto, and deep enough for your whole hand.
Inside pockets are plentiful; one is a mesh patch pocket with a small hook-and-loop closure. Plus, there are two inside chest pockets — one is fingertip-length and the second is hand-sized, both with strong hook-and-loop closures.
The main zip and all the outside zippers have a highly polished finish with Alpinestars logos on each pull tab. I get the feeling that no lady will need to carry a purse with all these pockets!
The Idles’ sleeve length is generous, so when you reach forward, they don’t ride up. The cuffs have a zipper and a popper stud that goes across the end of the zip. Although they are not adjustable, they fit well around my wrists and keep the breeze out.
In addition to how cool the Alpinestars Idles women’s jacket looks, it’s practical. The tough outer is a combination of manmade material and some goatskin. It looks and feels like an all-leather jacket, and the design might well improve with aging and wear. The Idles is a jacket for life and will likely become like an old friend. It’s also a great casual fashion item, even when you’re not riding. The Alpinestars Idles is definitely a keeper.
Alpinestars Idles Women’s Jacket Fast Facts
- Sizes: XS – 2XL
- Armor: Alpinestars Nucleon Flex Plus shoulder and elbow, CE Level 1
- Certification: CE Class A
- Colors: Black/Off White/Purple; Off White/Fluo Red/Black
Alpinestars Idles Women’s Jacket Price: $435 MSRP
Alpinestars Idles Women’s Jacket Review Photo Gallery
