Vanson Falcon Jacket
Vanson Falcon Jacket
CW EVALUATION
The camo question
YEAH, WE’VE GOT MIXED FEELINGS ON the camouflage design, too. But if you can get past a graphic scheme that seems counter-intuitive for conspicuity on a motorcycle, you’ll find a sporty, light and protective cordura coat. Manufactured in the U.S. by Massachusetts-based Vanson, the Falcon jacket is extremely versatile, thanks to its innovative venting system, adjustable waistband and body armor.
And fortunately, it’s also available in solid black, red, blue, tan and gray.
Protection-wise, the Falcon has competition-weight leather hidden internally at the critical shoulder/clavicle and elbow/forearm impact areas. It also comes standard with flexible, soft armor at the elbows and shoulders. A back protector and firmer, competition-grade armor are optional, and all are easily removed or replaced.
Vanson’s new vent system (A.I.R.Air Induction Ram) works by opening a vein-tracing zipper on the inside of each sleeve. With arms crooked in the riding position, the vents widen to reveal a perforated leather panel that allows air up and into the sleeve before exiting at the armhole. Combined with fold-down front panels, these allow the Falcon to do an amazing job of keeping you cool-as long as you’re moving.
Exhaust vents on the back of the jacket prevent the coat from ballooning at speed, and two zippered, inside front pockets are positioned low enough so as not to interfere with the ventilation.
Two velcro straps allow for narrowing or widening the waistband, so the coat stays snug even with a shifting wardrobe. A nifty velcro collar tab seals at the neck, and will fold securely back when the coat is open. The Falcon also zips to any of Vanson’s leather or cordura sport-riding pants, and provides snaps for an optional thermal liner.
As for visibility, the camouflage actually tended to stick out in urban environments. But beware: On a rural backroad, aboard a tarmac-matching black or gray bike, you could become essentially invisible-although 3M reflective shoulder logos make the Falcon more noticeable at night.
Overall, this is a fantastically functional and comfortable riding jacket. It provides protection, the venting is startlingly effective and cordura is lighter than leather. Of course, cordura doesn’t offer the abrasion protection of leather, but the Falcon is a great alternative for staying cool and armored. As long as you don’t mind looking like G.I. Joe, that is.
FALCON JACKET
Vanson 213 Turnpike Street Stoughton, MA 02072 781/344-5444 Price............$399
Ups
Lightweight Fantastic stay-cool venting capabilities Can be fully armored
Downs
Camo motif not our first choice Plastic zipper action could be smoother Quality doesn’t come cheap
