About Motorcycle Gear

Our look at the REV'IT! Airwave 4 jacket places ventilation and rider safety in the spotlight for everyday motorcyclists. This textile outerwear is all about airflow—crafted with polyester ripstop, PWR|Shell mesh, and 3D air mesh panels that circulate air more effectively than virtually anything else in its category. I’ve worn the Airwave 4 consistently over five weeks of UK commuting and countryside outings, alternating it with numerous jackets I’ve tested across the past decade. Protection no longer equates to rigid slabs of plastic—SEESMART armor in the elbows and shoulders is standard, and you can always enhance the impact defense by adding back and chest protectors. In my view, comfort should disappear into the background—and here, even the collar feels thoughtfully engineered. Many brands aim for hot-weather comfort, but few strike this kind of balance. While other mesh jackets often feel rigid or scratchy, REV'IT! nails a supple feel. Adjustability is next-level too, with smartly placed snaps and straps in all the right places. Oversized zippers are easy to operate with gloves on, and reflective detailing ensures visibility as daylight fades. After years and hundreds of product reviews, there's a reason I’ve chosen to give this one such an in-depth examination. The ultimate question we’re exploring: *Has REV'IT! finally created the perfect warm-weather mesh jacket? Overview and Notable Features The Airwave 4 is a well-regarded, highly breathable textile jacket designed for summer riding. It consistently earns accolades for its exceptional airflow, lightweight design, and durable craftsmanship. Highlights include: CE Class AA certification for robust abrasion resistance. Integrated SEESOFT Level 1 armor at shoulders and elbows. Compatibility with optional chest and back armor inserts. Generally true-to-size fit, though some slimmer riders may find the sleeves a touch loose. A collar and forearm fit system for better personalization. Pros & Cons Pros Superb ventilation: Designed to channel substantial airflow—ideal for hot climates. Light and comfy: Offers a barely-there feel, without compromising durability. High-quality build: Materials, stitching, and zippers all feel premium. Impressive safety rating: AA-level CE rating boosts rider confidence. Comfortable cut: Standard fit with thoughtful adjustability around key areas. Upgradeable armor system: Supports additional SEESOFT inserts for enhanced safety. Cons Fit quirks: Sleeves may feel baggy for leaner body types. Short cuff strap: Can be limiting when trying to wear over gloves. Missing waist cinches: External adjusters aren’t present, though a subtle internal drawcord helps compensate. Close with the Airwave 4 This fourth-generation jacket in the Airwave line offers a fresh aesthetic—a notable shift from the Airwave 3. While some riders hoped for gradual evolution, this is clearly a complete redesign. The jacket maintains visual appeal, with sleek paneling, subtle branding, and multiple colorways including Black Anite, Silver Anite, Anite Red/Black, and Light Gray/Blue. From a materials perspective, the jacket blends soft shell, polyester ripstop, and extensive PWR and 3D mesh, prioritizing airflow without sacrificing abrasion resistance. The collar is fully padded and adjustable, and can even be clipped open for added ventilation. On the arm, riders will find customizable straps, reflective elements, and a hook-and-loop wrist enclosure for optimal glove integration. Although there are no traditional external waist adjusters, an internal drawcord provides sufficient fit control. Front pockets are generous in size with glove-friendly zipper tabs, while the rear showcases reflective striping and a slightly extended tail for riding posture coverage. The inside is basic but effective: no liners, just a breathable mesh interior and armor pockets clearly labeled for compatible CE upgrades. Notably, the jacket is Tech Air–ready, meaning it can accommodate an airbag system with a size-up purchase—perfect for safety-minded riders. Final Thoughts At $269.99, the Airwave 4 delivers excellent value for riders in search of premium airflow, safety, and comfort during warm rides. It’s a refined option that balances thoughtful design with functionality, making it one of the strongest contenders in the mesh jacket category today.

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