When I first saw the Trilobite Ace jacket at the MOA Getaway at Fontana Dam this spring, I realized this wasn’t traditional cotton denim. Stiffer than denim, it was more like a technical, textile-based riding jacket. The cut and style of the Ace jacket are like a modern textile sport riding jacket as well, and it fit me like a glove, though just a little tight in the arms.

The jacket features a pair of zippered chest pockets as well as two zippered hand-warmer pockets. Inside the main zipper are interior pockets on each side with metal YKK zippers. These pockets are likely waterproof or at least very resistant, considering their placement, and during a ride through a light rain the contents of the pockets remained dry. The jacket's collar features a soft, microfiber lining and uses a single metal snap to close. I found the snap requires a deliberate action to release.

The long arms of the jacket feature zippered cuffs and a two-position adjustor that snaps for closure, allowing a rider to wear gloves inside or outside the sleeves. The jacket's branding is somewhat subdued, with only a small metal “Trilobite” text logo above the left chest pocket, while at the rear above the waist is a larger, embroidered version of the same text. Between the shoulder blades is a Trilobite graphic. The jacket's shell is made from a tough polyester fabric treated for water resistance. Additionally, there is a TriTex ® waterproof but breathable membrane for serious protection from the rain.

I found when reaching for the grips on my Yamaha R1, the extra sleeve is perfectly taken up by the riding position, and stretch panels behind the shoulders and on the hips make the reach comfortable.

A denim jacket isn’t usually what one reaches for when it is chilly or wet outside, but that is exactly where this jacket shines. One of my first rides with the jacket was on a cool morning ride on the Dragon. It turned out that I never got chilled. Between the polyester shell, liner and TriTex waterproof membrane, very little wind passed through the jacket to my torso and arms. Later that afternoon with the temps starting to climb, the jacket began to get a little stuffy. While not a summer jacket, I believe the temperature range of the Trilobite Ace jacket is suitable for mild weather, but on hotter days I’ll likely reach for a mesh jacket.

The jacket is constructed of a water resistant, polyester denim material with impact zones including the back, shoulders and elbows lined with Dupont Kevlar® aramid fibers. Trilobite includes their own brand of CE Level 2 armor in the shoulders and elbows, which are inserts consisting of three foam layers of differing density. While no back protector is included, a pocket for one is there. For visibility, the Ace jacket has a little secret that I didn’t notice until my riding partner told me he noticed the 3M reflective stitching along the upper back and arms. While not “blinding,” it is certainly better than nothing. This is something most denim riding jackets don’t offer.

A couple of interesting features of the jacket include what looks like a buttonhole with a strap beneath it on the right chest. After a little research, I found this is for holding your glasses. The idea is that a rider slips one temple arm of their glasses into the buttonhole and then the glasses are safely held against the chest under the strap. Additionally, the Ace jacket has a small LED flashlight tucked into a little rubber covered "garage" at the lower left front of the jacket. The small light is activated with a simple squeeze and is perfect for any situation where a little more light might be needed. The small light is attached to the jacket via a 20-inch auto-retracting tether so it can't be lost.

Overall, I would highly recommend this jacket not only for mild weather riding, but as a casual jacket when the armor is removed. MSRP of the Trilobite Ace jacket is $319 and is available in sizes S - XXL. For more information, visit motonation.com. Pros:

• Good looking with good protection.
• Water proof with liners
• Quality construction with interesting features including glasses holder and flashlight

• Lack of venting can make the jacket warm on hot days
• Runs one size small