MC Tested: Slatin MotoGear’s $200 SMG-1 Motorcycle Jacket

Richard Slatin of Slatin MotoGear is a lifelong rider who saw a need for simple and functional gear at an affordable price. Slatin MotoGear is just Richard and his manufacturing partner, so there's not much standing in the way of him creating exactly the garment he wants. And for a first effort, the Slatin MotoGear SMG-1 is excellent. It may be rather basic compared to high-end (and high-priced) riding gear, but for the money the features, fit, finish, and construction are quite good.

For $199 you get a simple but attractive 600-denier shell laminated with a waterproof and breathable membrane, so the chassis is both durable and weatherproof. Instead of cheap padding there is CE-approved armor at the shoulders and elbows, as well as a sturdy CE-rated back protector. It's clear that Mr. Slatin understands the importance of quality armor in a riding jacket.

Another premium safety feature is the rugged SuperFabric that’s stitched onto the shoulders and elbows. This material uses ultra-tough ceramic beads bonded to heavier cordura fabric, and it’s the kind of stuff usually found only on more expensive gear. While the SuperFabric is seriously abrasion resistant and we’re happy to see it used, it is also a bit stiff. Integrating large panels of the stuff with the more pliable nylon shell creates a challenge. The way the shoulder panel is folded and stitched is not very elegant and the edges of the SuperFabric are rough, giving the jacket a slightly unfinished look.

Those small gripes aside, the SMG-1 jacket is a good-looking garment. Contrasting fabrics and small pads on the upper arms, shoulders, and along the lower back add visual interest to the otherwise basic shape. The understated styling should appeal equally to adventure, sportbike, touring, and cruiser riders.

The SMG-1 can also accommodate all types of riders and riding positions. An extended back panel is designed to cover the lower back of riders crouching on sportbike, and the extra-long sleeves shield the wrists when reaching for clip-ons, dual-sport handlebars, or ape hangers. The sleeves are a bit awkward when off the bike, but the zippered cuffs, strap closure, and inner gusset do a good job keeping out wind on the road.

To fit a wide range of rider shapes, the SMG-1 features accordion stretch panels at the hips. Sturdy YKK zippers (with rubber pull tabs that are big enough to be easily grabbed with gloved hands) keep the jacket snug and the collar has two snaps with a soft micro-suede liner to prevent chaffing. When sizing, be sure to note that fit is on the large side to accommodate heftier and older American riders. The medium-sized jacket we tested borders on a size large. Since this is intended as a cold weather jacket, you should have plenty of room for layering.

Slatin calls this a winter jacket, but then again he lives in Arizona. Depending on where you live this moniker may be appropriate. However, for many of us, the SMG-1 should be considered a jacket for spring and fall. To see just how well the Slatin manages cold temperatures, we took the jacket on a test ride on a blustery day with temps in the upper-30s. Despite the full thermal liner being rather thin, the SMG-1 did surprisingly well at blocking wind and retaining warmth even with only a t-shirt and sweatshirt underneath. But after 30 minutes it became apparent that more base layers or an electrically heated jacket liner would be needed. Keep in mind that riding at 50mph in 40F temperatures creates a wind chill of 26F!

To accommodate warmer temperatures, the thermal liner is easily removed. Two small zippered collar bone vents scoop air in and an exhaust vent on the back moves air out, but the laminated membrane is not removable so the vents do not allow air to hit the skin directly, making the jacket a poor choice for mid-summer riding.

There are plenty of competitors in this price range, but if you want a jacket that functions well, is priced right, and is manufactured by a guy who you can call anytime if you have a problem or suggestion, consider the Slatin MotoWear SMG-1.

Slatin MotoGear's SMG-1 Jacket
PRICE: $199
CONTACT: slatinmotogear.com
MC GRADE: B+
VERDICT: Feature-packed and value-priced, the SMG-1 is a quality jacket at an affordable price.