Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar

The Alpinestars Andes range is named after the mountain range to reflect its touring capabilities. The first Andes range proved to be incredibly popular - hence the release of a third Andes range - with improvements along the way with each incarnation.

Safety

Maybe the most important development of the 3rd version of the Andes jacket is its compatibility with the Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 airbag system for optimum and state of the art protection. In addition to this In the Andes jacket and trousers features Alpinestars Nucleon Flex Level 1 removable armour at the shoulders, elbows (jacket) and knees (trousers) with spaces for hip armour and a back protector (sold separately). The knee armour is height adjustable for the perfect fit. Furthermore, reinforced polymer-printed texturing in critical areas provides added abrasion resistance, and reflective detailing gives added night visibility.

Styling

The third evolution of the Andes range has a great range of colours with something for everyone. The adventure touring aesthetic is versatile for different types of riding, adventure touring, urban riding and just plain touring but with a hint of a sporty vibe. Reflective detailing is incorporated as part of the jacket's design, so it doesn't detract from the stylish design. Flashes of colour in each design give maximum visibility, but again, stay classically stylish as you'd expect from Alpinestars. The jacket offers a three-quarter length with a longer rear to prevent weather ingress. The adventure styling also offers plenty of pockets for handy storage but, again, looks good while offering practicality.

Comfort

The V3 Andes kit offers a lovely fit. The jacket is a good length, and both the jacket and trousers offer great movement thanks to the poly-fabric construction. Adjustability throughout, on the waist, arms and ankles provide the perfect fit. Alpinestars exclusive Drystar membrane gives a waterproof but breathable ride for superior comfort in all weathers. The ventilation system is second-to-none on the Andes V3. The air vents feature a press-stud, so they remain open fully for optimum air circulation, and the vents are direct - straight to the mesh lining for enhanced circulation. The collar on the jacket also features a hook to keep an open collar for better ventilation. A removable thermal liner in both the jacket and jeans gives added comfort and versatility for all temperatures for cooler conditions. Each piece has an ergonomic design for more comfort in the riding position. In addition, the armour is ultra-lightweight and flexible to eliminate the bulk of previous armour. Finally, the collar and cuffs feature neoprene for superior comfort in contact with the skin.

Practicality

The Andes V3 possesses many practical features such as removable armour, removable linings, adjustability throughout, the ability to personalise air circulation throughout and a plethora of storage, plus more! In addition, it is fully washable (machine or hand wash - either are fine!), and the Drystar lining gives the most practical feature of all - waterproofness! Zip the jacket to the trousers to prevent any wind ingress and to enhance aerodynamics. Each zip can be handled whilst wearing gloves for ease of use in transit - a convenient addition! The sizes available are also practical - in different leg lengths and sizes for all male and female shapes up to 5XL!

Negatives

One big negative is that the Andes V3 does not come with the back protector in the jacket or hip armour in the jeans - although conversely, many bikers prefer to wear strap-on back protectors and find hip protectors to be cumbersome. On the subject of armour - it features lightweight Alpinestars Nucleon Flex protectors that are CE level 1 approved and at the forefront of armour technology......BUT because of how lightweight it is, customers seem sceptical of its protective qualities. It definitely doesn't feel as substantial as armour in previous models and is less bulky (and therefore less cumbersome!), which has provided some suspicion from customers in-store. Alpinestars are at the forefront of all safety technology; hence, their airbag is so advanced with many compatible products - streets ahead of other brands! The same could be said of their armour - why not come into one of our 30 stores nationwide and have a feel and try-on for yourself?

Verdict

The third version of the Andes range is not only new, but it is definitely improved. The innovative design makes this ideal for all seasons, but the colour options give a colourway for everyone. The most obvious improvement is the compatibility with the Tech-Air 5 airbag. However, the strength of this jacket (and definitely the jeans!) is that it is still extremely protective and stands alone excellently without it.

Until next time, stay safe,

Alex