The Notch by Macna is a very inclusive and lavish motorcycle jacket with surprising features. What you see is less than what you get because the Notch is hiding a number of interesting features below the surface.
There are a few things that give away that this motorcycle jacket is kind of a discovery. First, because to adventure and touring standards, the front looks a bit too tight and clean. The slash pockets that are more to the side will definitely have something to do with that. Fybrex and ripstop are the two types of fabric that make up the exterior of this Notch motorcycle jacket. They are both wear-resistant, relatively light and definitely not uncomfortable. It is, however, remarkable that apart from that exterior there is only one additional layer, which in all fairness includes just about everything: the waterproof membrane and the thermal lining that form one, autonomously wearable under jacket… that you can also wear on top of the outer layer. What?
Sometimes putting it in writing is harder than applying it in reality. The Notch consists of a wear-resistant layer with protectors and a waterproof, thermal IN&OUT jacket. You can choose which to put on first, is what it comes down to. The benefits of this construction should be clear: there are several options, and an external waterproof layer prevents the motorcycle jacket from carrying extra weight during that downpour or having to dry up for hours after.
Apart from that: both constructions are excellently made. Wide, direct ventilation panels on the chest and sleeves help turn the wear-resistant motorcycle jacket into a semi-permeable one. If you open up the ventilation opening in the back, you’ll feel the riding wind pass your upper body abundantly.
The back is also the location of the Hydro Pocket (space for a camel bag), the Coat Hanger and a compartment for the Macna Vision 2C LED lamp. The drinking hose of the camel bag can be fitted internally, which is also true for all electronic wiring leading to heated gloves, for instance. We weren’t pretending when we started this article by saying that the assets were invisible. The system of the cable guides is called ‘Electric Power Guide’, which has been thought-out quite elaborately.
Wearing the IN&OUT jacket over or underneath the motorcycle jacket requires minimal adjustment. The centring straps with Velcro serve their purpose. In order to additionally increase comfort, a Zip Grip was added to facilitate zipping up with motorcycle gloves on. The inner pocket has a Quick Access Puller and like all Macna motorcycle jackets, this Notch is also equipped with Easy cuff on the wrists. That short, small zip (instead of loops and press studs) connects the inner layers of your jacket, preventing loose and fluttering layers.
The RISC CE certified elbow and shoulder protectors come standard. RISC back and chest protectors can be integrated easily. Everything is foreseen. The Macna fluorescent yellow is present, as are a number of reflective accents and the required storage space. For the latter, we refer specifically to the card pocket on the left sleeve, although there’s decent storage space all around.
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.
