If I ask riders why they don’t wear All The Gear All The Time, most cite one (or all) of these reasons: style, comfort and price. Motorcycles are becoming less of a lifestyle choice, and more of a lifestyle accessory. A lot of riders simply want ?casual? gear that looks good, feels good, and doesn’t break the bank?while still being reasonably protective and functional.
So for this review, I’ve picked out three items that tick those boxes: a technical hoody, a retro full-face helmet, and a pair of everyday riding boots.

That denim shell looks absolutely killer out the box, and feels amazing too?both to the touch, and when it’s on. (The manufacturer suggests tossing it in the wash before wearing it, to rinse out any leftover dye, and the second I did I got a taste of how it’s going to fade over time.) It’s trimmed with a heavy-duty ribbed fabric at the cuffs and bottom edge. While the Velcro on my gloves did occasionally stick to the ribbing, the fabric is tough enough to avoid fraying. A chunky zipper up front gets you in and out, with a neat leather pull-tab for gloved operation. There’s a storm flap behind the zip too, and drawstrings for the hood (for if you actually use it). The rest of the layout is basic: hand warmer pockets, with snaps to keep them closed while riding, a small zipper stash pocket just inside on the right breast, and a larger document pouch inside on the left. There are reflective strips on the backs of the...