Grayson Motorcycle Jacket
The Grayson Motorcycle Jacket by Fox Creek Leather is one of the best riding jackets I have ever donned. In chillier weather, this jacket’s virtues are shining. A perfect example is this morning’s commute, which I knew would require my heated jacket liner to be used. My own personal heated liner fits nicely under the Grayson allowing for good head and arm movement, but I never had to turn it on at all. The Grayson does such a solid job of blocking wind, that I was warm the entire ride. This is due to the 1.4-1.6mm naked leather construction that has internal wind flaps that stop that cold air at the zipper.
The Grayson comes with pockets for armor in the elbows, shoulders, and back. As luck would have it, I just happened to own a jacket that had seen better days that gladly volunteered to donate its armor. That addition made the Grayson feel complete. It is a sturdy jacket to begin with, so the armor added impact protection to abrasion relief. You also get snap side adjustments for the jacket, which, when coupled with the armor and the expansion joints in the shoulders, gives the Grayson has, a downright custom-made feel to it.
This jacket has two inside pockets–one on the left with a snap closure and one on the right with a zipper closure. Two zippered waist pockets and one zippered breast pocket are found on the outside. The breast pocket was ideal for cell phone or Apple iPod use, or anything you need quick access to. There is also a removable full sleeve Thinsulate liner with one of my favorite features on any riding coat–the hideaway fleece neck warmer. That thing is the perfect compliment for riding in the colder weather. If you own a heated jacket with a high collar, the fleece neck warmer holds that heat confidently and comfortably to your neck.
The Grayson’s padded and extended kidney panel was appreciated in terms of protection and feel, but its antique brass YKK hardware is what really impressed. The zipper pulls are super solid and durable and most importantly will not bend if you happen to pull too hard on them.
On a warm day that turned into a cool evening, I welcomed the two arm vents and two rear exit vents of the Grayson. Helping that noticeable airflow is an internal mesh shell. The Grayson is cut long in the back which is nice for overall protection and wind blockage. Aside from its usefulness, this jacket looks damn cool. It almost has a vintage café racer look: Minimalist, sleek and to the point.
The Grayson Jacket by Fox Creek Leather is a superb motorcycle jacket that includes a lifetime guarantee, and the pride of owning an American-made product.
by Ron Lieback November 19, 2009