Alpinestars Andes Drystar     

I was on the lookout for a good waterproof touring jacket. Of course, the peasant that I am, I had a strict budget. I came across the Alpinestars Andes jacket and it had to be the one! Loads of pockets, waterproof, packs, a thermal liner, it even has nifty measures to keep you cool in the summer. I have put the Andes Drystar jacket through a lot. Eleven hours of riding in the rain and not a single drop seeped through the jacket.

The poly-fabric textile jacket is great in the rains and cold, but the rain liner makes things a bit difficult in the summer. Unless you are on the go, the Drystar membrane will have you drenched in sweat. There are two ventilation zippers in the front and two at the back to keep the air flowing. Another nifty feature is the hook on the neck where you can buckle back the collar and let the summer breeze cool you down.

The jacket comes with Level 1 elbow and shoulder protectors while there’s foam for the back and the chest, which can be upgraded to CE-level protectors. Even with all the gruelling riding sessions over the years, the YKK zippers have been holding on perfectly and there is almost no sign of wear and tear.

Alpinestars has now released the newer version of this jacket, so you can get this one at a much cheaper price. It is available at Rs 19,999 here in India. Although you would get an even better price if you bought it abroad.