For several years I have been involved in the adventure motorcycle world, and my usual riding suit is a heavy, bulky affair that took me a long time to break in. And now that it’s comfortable, it’s still heavy and bulky, and not ideal for local rides. So, I’ve been looking for alternatives.
The first impression I had after donning the Gryphon Maverick jacket was lightness and comfort, and now I find myself reaching for the Maverick Jacket whenever I’m heading out on the bike for anything less than a multi-day ride.
The Maverick jacket is constructed of a waterproof polyester twill, making the lightweight outer shell waterproof and abrasion resistant. While I didn’t get a chance to ride in the rain while wearing the Maverick Jacket, I did perform a rudimentary “water hose” test and watched the water bead up and fall away. And while it’s not going to be my winter riding jacket, the inner thermal liner kept me quite warm until the temperature dropped below 10C. One of the features I particularly like is the elastic material in the sleeves at the wrist that keep the breeze away from my arms on chilly mornings.
The waterproof YKK zippers worked as advertised during my water hose test, and when riding in warm weather the combination of chest vents and an upper back exhaust vent kept cool air flowing freely. Two waterproof pockets on the outside and one inner pocket (large enough for a cell phone) were enough to store what I required for a day trip.
While it is a good-looking jacket that comes with CE level 2 armour in the elbows, back and shoulders, there are a couple improvements I would like to see. The neoprene collar is comfortable, but not adjustable and a little loose for my neck size. During a long ride in the rain, I suspect water would be flowing into the jacket through the neck, and it would be nice to be able to cinch down the collar with an adjustable cord. I would also like to see an adjustable waist cord that would keep the jacket a little tighter at the bottom.
The Maverick jacket packs down easily and it makes it my choice to bring on a pack-and-ride trip.
For more information visit www.gryphonmoto.ca
Gryphon Maverick Jacket
MSRP: $299.99
Available Sizes: S to 4XL
Available Colours: Black, Sand
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