Welcome to Gear I Use, where I share real-world reviews of the motorcycle gear I rely on while riding across Japan. In this first installment, we’re diving into the Rev’it Trench GTX Jacket, a Gore-Tex powerhouse I’ve put through 2,000+ km of testing during Project 47. From relentless rain to blistering heat, this jacket has been my go-to for versatility and protection. Whether you’re cruising on a Honda GB 350S, Triumph Speed 400, Triumph Scrambler 400X, or any other bike, here’s an honest breakdown of why the Trench GTX shines—and where it falls short.
Why I Chose the Rev’it Trench 2 GTX Jacket.
For Project 47, which involves weeks-long rides across Japan’s varied landscapes, I needed gear that could handle rain, cold, and heat without lugging around multiple layers. My old leather jacket and separate rain gear were too cumbersome, so I turned to Rev’it, a brand my wife and I trust for its quality. The Trench 2 GTX Jacket, purchased with my own money, promised all-weather performance with a minimalist design. After extensive use, here’s my unfiltered take.
Performance: All-Weather Versatility.
The triple-layer Gore-Tex construction makes the Trench GTX fully waterproof and windproof, but it’s not without trade-offs:
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Rain Protection: This jacket is a fortress against rain. Even in torrential downpours, I stayed completely dry, making it ideal for long, wet rides.
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Hot Weather: Black Gore-Tex absorbs heat, and in Japan’s humid summers, it can feel like a sauna. Rev’it counters this with:
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Chest Vents: Two magnetic, mesh-lined chest vents unzip to funnel air across your torso at speeds above 40 km/h, cooling you effectively while moving.
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Sleeve Vents:Adjustable Velcro cuffs allow wrist ventilation, boosting airflow on warm days.
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Cold Weather: Paired with the included full-length thermal liner, this jacket is exceptionally warm. A t-shirt underneath outperforms multiple layers, blocking wind chill in near-freezing conditions.
Drawbacks:
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Heat Buildup: When stationary in traffic, the lack of rear vents traps heat, making summer rides uncomfortable until you’re moving again.
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Weight: The Gore-Tex and thermal liner add noticeable heft, which can feel bulky on shorter rides or in mild weather.
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Breathability: Despite vents, the sealed Gore-Tex limits breathability, leading to sweat buildup during high-effort rides in warm conditions.
Best For: Riders facing unpredictable weather on extended tours.
Comfort and Fit: Rider-Centric Design.
The Trench 2 GTX prioritizes comfort for long rides, with some caveats:
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Riding Position: The jacket allows unrestricted forward reach, perfect for the sporty lean of a Triumph Speed 400 or relaxed cruising on a Honda GB 350S.
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Adjustability:
- Cuff Straps: Velcro straps secure elbow pads or loosen for ventilation.
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Waist Straps: Side straps create a tailored, V-shaped fit to prevent splash-up.
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Drawstrings: Bottom pull-strings seal out water.
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Style: Its understated, urban aesthetic avoids the flashy look of typical ADV jackets, doubling as casual wear off the bike.
Drawbacks:
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Bulky Feel: The triple-layer construction and armor can feel stiff, especially when new, requiring a break-in period.
Best For: Riders who value comfort and a sleek look for multi-hour journeys.
Storage: Practical but Not Perfect.
The Trench 2 GTX offers rider-friendly storage, though some pockets underperform:
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Outer Pockets: Two large, magnetic flap pockets are glove-friendly and waterproof, ideal for keys or a phone.
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Sleeve Pocket: A zippered sleeve pocket securely holds small items like a highway card or credit card.
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Inner Pockets: A semi-outer zippered pocket fits a wallet, while two mesh-lined inner pockets offer extra space.
Drawbacks:
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Inner Pocket Access: The mesh-lined inner pockets are tricky to open with gloves, limiting their practicality on the go.
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Limited Rear Storage: No rear pocket means less space for larger items compared to some ADV jackets.
Best For: Riders needing quick-access, secure storage for essentials.
Safety: Robust Protection.
Safety is a strong suit, with proven crash performance:
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Abrasion Resistance: The Gore-Tex fabric is highly durable (check Rev’it’s specs for details). It held up well in a slide during testing.
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Armor:
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Elbow/Forearm Guards: Large, comfortable pads cover from above the elbow to near the wrist, blending protection with mobility.
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Shoulder Pads: Reinforced with a slider-material Rev’it logo for added abrasion resistance.
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Back Protector Pocket: Supports an optional back protector (chest protector compatibility unconfirmed).
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CE Rating: CE Level 2, real-world crash protection inspires confidence.
Drawbacks:
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Back Protector Not Included: You’ll need to purchase a separate back protector, adding to the cost.
Best For: Riders prioritizing safety with real-world reliability.
Why I Trust the Trench 2 GTX.
The Rev’it Trench 2 GTX Jacket is my go-to for Project 47 because it tackles Japan’s unpredictable weather with ease. Its waterproofing, ventilation, and safety features make it a reliable companion, whether I’m battling rain on the Triumph Scrambler 400X or cruising sunny coasts on the Honda GB 350S. Despite its weight and heat retention when stopped, its versatility and protection make it worth every penny.
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Gear Up and Ride!
The Rev’it Trench GTX Jacket is a top pick for all-weather riding. Explore more Gear I Use reviews for honest takes on helmets, gloves, and upcoming gear. Got questions or gear recommendations? Drop a comment, subscribe, and share with fellow riders. Stay safe and happy riding!