This is a full-fledged motorcycle jacket, indeed. CE-certified, complete with impact protection and although 'fleece' is in the name, you can also count on a solid share of Kevlar®. Add to that the fact that Alpinestars took the female body shapes as a starting point and that an Italian motorcycle clothing manufacturer always wants to keep its reputation high.
The result is this Banshee Fleece and if the name doesn't sound completely unfamiliar, it's because there's also a pair of motorcycle pants (actually leggings) with that name. Together they should form the home wear for the female motorcyclist. In a stylish version anyway.
First class cotton and a bit of polyester with elastane, they are sufficient to give the outside a pleasant look & feel. Not typical for a full-blown motorcycle outfit, that's for sure. But make no mistake: the Kevlar® added on the shoulders and elbows - although invisible on the inside - guarantees a durable base. Alpinestars Level 1 Nucleon Flex Plus armor on shoulders and elbows complete that base and who wants to, can perfectly fit a Nucleon Plasma back protector (level 2 certified) or Nucleon KR-CELLi back protector (level 1 certified). Although the Banshee itself could just as well pass for a sweater jacket, the protectors do add some extra weight and maybe some confidence.
This confidence is justified, although there are of course limitations to fleece: the Banshee is not waterproof and it's not a good idea to improve your lap times with it...
Taking that into account, the Banshee Fleece is still a fine example of a motorcycle clothing which is not typical motorcycle clothing. The stretch at the collar, the sleeve ends and the waist make extra adjustment possibilities almost superfluous. It fits. That's all there is to it: it fits and it fits like a glove. Your thumb through a loop keeps your sleeves down and the push button on the collar just like the used zippers, show great quality but these are just extra trumps.
Two side pockets with zipper, a document pocket and an inner pocket, they are sufficient to have what’s necessary at hand.
Alpinestars chooses for two belt loops to make a combination with the Banshee Legging or a good pair of motorcycle jeans.
There is maintenance clothing and then there is clothing maintenance. Good, solid motorcycle clothing is an investment in comfort and personal safety. So invest in its maintenance after your purchase and enjoy your gear for longer.
We put the best tips & tricks on this maintenance page.
