The Held Karakum Top isn’t just any regular motorcycle jacket. There is no more ‘regular’ in this category of motorcycle jackets. The Karakum is a desert in Central Asia, which raises the expectations of a motorcycle jacket with that name. And they are fulfilled.
This is a 2-in-1 with a twist. The all-seasons jacket combines premium protection with lots of wearing comfort. What’s remarkable here is the ‘over & under’ (GORE-TEX!) membrane that can be worn inside as well as over the motorcycle jacket. This has a number of advantages: worn over the actual motorcycle jacket, the GORE-TEX membrane prevents the outside from soaking up all that water. Underneath the outer layer, it provides the well-known functions of a waterproof membrane. In the meantime, the AIRGUARD 500D material used for the exterior provides excellent hardwearing protection and all the ventilation possibilities you can think of.
The specific design offers additional comfort through sensibly positioned 3D mesh panels (to be opened with press studs) and allows you to integrate the main zip at the front into that system. The extra vent zip on the forearm creates additional airflow. There’s no thermal lining but this can be settled easily with an optional windstopper or mid-layer.
All this combined, you get a motorcycle jacket that’s perfect for summer, spring and autumn. Winter too potentially, when you add another layer.
The typical touring cut is compensated by the option to tailor the motorcycle jacket in the waist by means of an adjustable belt. The front is a little shorter (no bulging) than the back (proper protection in every position).
You can adjust the Karakum Top as you please. The soft and well-finished collar can be closed with Velcro. You can also choose to open it up completely with the loop. There are options at the sleeves, as do the Velcro strips mentioned earlier right above the hips. The accordion panels above the elbows and the stretch material on the inside of the sleeves should allow you to come pretty close to the ideal fit.
With four outer pockets and a number of inner pockets, there’s certainly no lack of storage space. Shoulders and elbows have been equipped with comfortable and CE-approved D30 protectors. A CE-certified back protector and chest protectors are optional. Reflective details make sure you have proper visibility in less-than-optimal conditions.
The HELD Karakum Top together with the Karakum Base motorcycle trousers create an excellent combination for the adventurous rider who doesn’t want to compromise in the field of safety, comfort and versatility.
Below you will find an overview per jacket size of the appropriate CE homologated D3O back protector.
| size of the jacket | D3O back protector | |
|---|---|---|
| S => L | => | L |
| XL => 6XL | => | XL |
There's maintenance clothing and then there's 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 longer. gear for longer. We put the best tips and tricks on this maintenance page.
