With a busy spring and summer of launches on the cards, including rides on the BMW F450 GS, Kawasaki KLE500 and CFMoto 1000MT-X, I found myself looking for something that could cope with hot weather without completely caving in should a rain shower hit. The Oxford Dakar Dry2Dry Air jacket and trousers combo seemed like an ideal solution.
At £179.99 for the jacket and £159.99 for the trousers, the complete suit comes in at £339.98. While not exactly pocket change, it positions the outfit comfortably below many of the premium vented adventure options currently on the market from big-name European brands.
The Oxford Dakar Dry2Dry Air jacket is a CE AA-rated textile adventure jacket designed primarily for warm-weather riding. The main chassis combines HD-POLY construction with extensive mesh panels covering much of the body to maximise airflow.
Protection comes courtesy of CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armour, while a pocket is included for an optional back protector. Areas more likely to encounter abrasion in a fall, including the shoulders and elbows, feature solid textile panels rather than mesh.
A removable Dry2Dry waterproof liner is included, allowing the jacket to be converted from a fully ventilated summer garment into something capable of dealing with changing weather conditions.
The matching Dakar Dry2Dry Air trousers follow the same philosophy as the jacket, combining large mesh panels with a removable waterproof liner to create a riding trouser aimed squarely at warmer conditions.
The Oxford Dakar Dry2Dry Air jacket and trousers offer a great balance between ventilation and protection. The fit is comfortable and roomy, making it suitable for riders who prefer to wear an airbag vest underneath their gear.
Overall, the Oxford Dakar Dry2Dry Air jacket seems like an excellent choice for adventure bikers looking for a reliable and versatile garment that can handle hot weather and changing conditions.
While £339.98 may seem steep for some, the quality and performance of the Oxford Dakar Dry2Dry Air jacket make it well worth considering for serious off-road enthusiasts.
The Oxford Dakar Dry2Dry Air jacket is a well-designed, versatile garment that offers excellent ventilation and protection for adventure bikers.
