How Good Is RST Motorcycle Clothing?
If you ride on two wheels with a motor between, it’s likely you’re familiar with the RST brand. With the company’s emergence as one of the best-selling motorcycle gear producers in the world, who’s items often tag market beating prices, one ponders the question; how good is RST motorcycle clothing?
It’s safe to say, the word is exceptional! Stemming from roots embedded in British motorcycle racing history, the Derbyshire based brand have established themselves as one of the most credible developers of motorcycle apparel in the industry.
In this article we’re going to uncover why they’re held in such high regard, starting with a brief look at the brand’s rich history and resolute values.
Following on, we’ll compare products from the expansive RST motorcycle clothing range with similarly priced equivalents, then identify what ranks them amongst the elite.
RST Motorcycle Clothing History
Founded by Jonny Towers in 1988, Rhino Sports Technology (later abbreviated to RST in 2001) has shown continuous growth over the last 35 years. Designs began with a limited range of motorcycle gloves, which then diversified into the broad catalogue of RST motorcycle clothing, available online and in stores, which exists today.
Every single item in their catalogue is CE certified, i.e. quality control has always been a priority. Currently, the logo is synonymous with racing leathers, riding boots, motorcycle jackets, jeans, body armour, and casual wear. Not forgetting RST motorcycle gloves, and since 2020, airbag technology.
But, how good is RST motorcycle clothing?!
A huge part of this success story is down to the tireless efforts of the professionals writing it. Every day, a dedicated team of researchers, committed to the year round testing of RST motorcycle clothing, contribute fastidiously toward the progression of the brand.
By intertwining these meticulous standards with constant investment in motorcycle racing (namely the British Superbike and World Superbike Championships), RST have created the perfect melting pot for which sport related and real life experience can refine their evolution.
In 2003, RST won their first British Championship. In 2008, their first World Championship. Since then they have become the official safety partner of the Isle Of Man TT, with thousands of road riders and racers wearing their garments worldwide.
That’s how good they are!
RST Motorcycle Clothing Comparisons
A solid foundation of research and development is behind every piece of RST motorcycle clothing. The latest tech, premium materials and construction techniques are fortified by the information they’ve gathered for over three decades.
When compared to their counterparts, it’s easy to see why they’re a big brand. Giant even. If anything is bewildering about RST motorcycle clothing, it’s how such advanced gear can cost so little.
Beneath, are some of the major categories of motorcycle gear products, in which RST items have been pitted against other well-known brands’. Falling in roughly the same price ranges, we’ll focus on the safety elements, comfort features, and practical properties that separate the winners from the podium finishers!
One Piece Racing Leathers
RST Race Dept V4.1 Evo Kangaroo Suit
Where better to begin than the core of RST? This racing suit is their AAA rated, airbag ready model, which comes with an In&Box control unit, and defines the brand’s values.
• Constructed of kangaroo and cowhide, in a 60/40 split.
• CE Level 2 hard armour on the hip, elbow and shoulder, with additional armour on the knee and back.
• TPU shoulder and knee cups, plus quick release knee and elbow sliders.
Alpinestars GP Plus V4 One Piece Suit
Strong competition comes from this AAA Alpinestars one piece Flex Plus leather suit. An emphasis on flexibility is the USP, focussed within stretch panels and materials that don’t restrict the rider.
• Perforated leather and lightweight Matryx fabric enable flowing ventilation.
• GP-R forearm, knee, elbow and shin guards compliment GP DFS shoulder, elbow and knee sliders.
• Compatible with the Tech-Air 5 Airbag.
Also available in a ladies version.
How They Compare:
It almost comes to splitting hairs when trying to separate these two racing suits, as they share similarities in their aerodynamic humps, high quality armour and tough leather constructs. The slight advantage that the RST suit has over its rival is the cost. Although a subscription is required for the In&Motion airbag system, it would still take several years to equal the cost of the Tech-Air 5 system the Alpinestars suit requires. In this case, you don’t have to overspend or make compromises to own a dependable one piece leather suit.
Overall Best:
RST Race Dept V4.1 Evo Kangaroo Suit
Leading Alternatives:
Rev’it Hyperspeed 2 & Furygan Overtake
Leather Jackets
RST Tractech Evo 5 CE Leather Jacket
The Tractech Evo series has long been a highlight of the RST range, constantly being developed and refined over the years. The latest iteration of their leather jacket is now sleeker and more sophisticated than ever before.
• Drum dyed cow hide construct, threaded with triple stitched bonded nylon.
• Mesh lining, and removable gilet for all-weather suitability.
• Includes Level 2 shoulder, elbow and back armour.
Rebelhorn Rebel Leather Jacket
New kids on the block, Rebelhorn, are carving out a name for themselves across Europe with affordable riding gear. This aramid fibre lined jacket offers excellent protection, as well as good value.
• Robust cowhide construct, reinforced with Superfabric inserts.
• Water-resistant softshell waistcoat.
• SAS-TEC Level 2 shoulder, elbow and back armour.
Also available in a ladies version.
How They Compare:
There are two ways to look at this comparison. You either choose the reputable quality that comes with RST, or invest in Rebelhorn, a relatively unknown brand that seems to be the one to watch. Both of these bits of kit are hardy and loaded with armour. They both provide protection from the weather, and have removable inner linings. If I were making a purchase, I’d put my trust into RST, but that’s more to do with how established they are, rather than the quality of the product.
Overall Best:
Tie
Leading Alternatives:
Dainese Sportiva & Macna Aviant Air Leather
Textile Jackets
RST Pro Series Adventure-X
Ticking boxes left, right, and centre, this jacket is waterproof, warm, and well ventilated. A practical choice for those long days of riding, when you don’t know what the weather may bring.
• CE Level 2 armour included on elbows, shoulders, and back.
• Constructed using MaxTex material, and reinforced Ballistic fabric.
• Triple stitched nylon seams, for strengthened durability.
Full zip attachment for RST Pro Series Adventure-X Textile Jeans.
Also available in a ladies version.
Oxford Mondial 2.0 Textile Jacket
The 2.0 is the long awaited upgrade to one of the most popularly sold motorcycle jackets available in the UK. Understandably so, as its quick drying, waterproofing properties and versatility continue to uphold its status as a hard to beat all-rounder.
• CE Level 2 shoulder and elbow armour included, with an internal pocket for an optional back protector.
• Dry2Dry Triliaminate construct, plus a WarmDry detachable thermal liner.
• Easily operated chest vents, for improved aeration.
Zip attachments to Oxford Mondial 2.0 Textile Trousers.
Also available in a ladies version.
How They Compare:
In like manner to the first version of this blog, this remains the most competitive product comparison involved. Previously, the Oxford Mondial Advanced won, due to its superior ability to dry faster and hold less water during downpour. This time around, the cost difference for those benefits is heftier. Inevitably, the Oxford Mondial 2.0 is more expensive than its predecessor, whereas the RST has gradually reduced in price. Nonetheless, the recently updated version of the Mondial still takes the victory, due to its invaluable weatherproofing properties.
Overall Best:
Oxford Mondial 2.0 Textile Jacket
Leading Alternatives:
Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar & Richa Infinity 2
Leather Jeans
RST S-1 Sport CE Leather Trousers
Practicality and protection are top of the priorities for the S-1 Sport Trousers. Built with durable cowhide, which is reinforced in susceptible impact areas, they reduce the likeliness of injury in the event of a crash.
• Further strengthened with bonded nylon thread.
• Knee and hip armour provided, help to achieve a CE AAA rating.
• Perforated panels and a quick drying mesh liner increase comfort levels.
Also available in a ladies version.
Furygan Raptor Evo Leather Trousers
High quality aramid fibre reinforces these cowhide leather trousers in a highly vulnerable area – the bottom! Full and short zip attachments also work to lessen abrasion damage, by preventing the jacket from sliding upward and exposing your skin.
• Accordion panels on the knee and waist add flexion and stretchiness.
• Includes D3O armour on the knees and hips.
• CE AAA rated, and Ride Recommended.
How They Compare:
Each of these have tough cowhide constructs, CE hip and knee armour, and pliant stretch panels, however one does outdo the other. A quick dry lining, perforated venting panels, and stylish appearance tip the balance in favour of the RST trousers. Add price to the mix, and it extends their lead even further. Better value, better product. This is becoming a theme.
Overall Best:
RST S-1 Sport CE Leather Trousers
Leading Alternatives:
Alpinestars Missile V3 & Rebelhorn Fighter Leather Trousers
Textile Jeans
RST Maverick Evo CE Textile Trousers
Much like the previously compared RST GT trousers, this pair are a prime example of refined research being implemented properly. As always, their SinAqua waterproofing and thermal liners have been developed by riders putting in the hard miles through adverse weather conditions.
• Tough MaxTex exterior is abrasion resistant.
• Well vented, and features reflective elements.
• CE Level 2 knee protection, as well as Level 1 hip guards.
Full zip attachment for RST Maverick Evo CE Textile Jacket.
Also available in a ladies version.
Oxford Montreal 4.0 Textile Jeans
A dependable alternative, which have earned the distinction of being a Ride Best Buy. Cooling air vents, and a Dry2Dry waterproof membrane, foster all season comfort in these conveniently versatile touring trousers.
• Resilient polyester outer shell, fitted with multiple stretch panels for easy flexion.
• CE Level 1 knee armour included.
• Reflective details and print, for aiding your night time visibility.
Full zip attachment for Oxford Montreal 4.0 Textile Jacket.
How They Compare:
An unrelenting challenger persists in the Oxford trousers, again going toe to toe with the RST version. They mirror each other in steadfast weatherproofing, ventilation and value, but the knockout blow falls down to protection. Level 2 knee armour is exclusive to the Maverick Evos, as is the AA CE rating. The Montreal 4.0’s Level 1 knee protection and single A CE rating wane in comparison, which reveals an obvious winner.
Overall Best:
RST Maverick Evo CE Textile Trousers
Leading Alternatives:
Richa Everest Textile Jeans & Merlin Shenstone D3O Trousers
Aramid Fibre Jeans
RST X Kevlar Straight Leg 2 Jeans
Designed for unsurpassed outer protection, and snug inner comfort, with a straight leg that slips effortlessly over the top of your boot. The DuPont aramid fibre found in these jeans have deservedly banked them a worthy CE A rating for road riding purposes.
• Lined internally with cotton mesh, soft and non-irritating on the skin.
• CE approved knee protection inserted.
• Classically styled, fashioning belt loops, contrasted stitching, and a 5 pocket design.
Also available in a ladies version.
Bull-It Tactical Icon Straight Covec Jeans
Bull-It bring bikers some of the best abrasion resistant jeans in the Tactical Icons. Their single layer Covec construct can also repel light rain, due to an external waterproof treatment.
• CE Level 2 knee and hip armour.
• CE rated AA!
• Attractive vintage look, showcasing Bull-It rivet and button closure system, and 5 pockets.
Also available in a ladies version.
How They Compare:
It couldn’t be clearer why Bull-It dominate the motorcycle jeans market. Working closely with Covec, they create tear, burst, cut and slash resistant jeans that are intended to withstand stress levels much greater than they’ll actually have to endure. In this pairing, they are the more economical by around £60. They also come with better quality knee armour, with additional armour on the hip, which you can’t find on the RST option. Wearing their CE AA rating like a badge of honour, the specialists’ expertise are too hard to beat here.
Overall Best:
Bull-It Tactical Icon Straight Covec Jeans
Leading Alternatives:
Oxford Original Approved AAA Straight Fit Jeans & Knox Richmon Denim Jeans MkIII
Gloves
RST Stunt 3 CE Mixed Gloves
RST let their racing roots shine through in the Stunt 3 gloves, which feature carbon aramid fibre armour across the knuckles. A mixed construct of goatskin leather and microfibre provides substantial protection against abrasion and burn in the event of a high speed slide.
• Comfortable polyester lining grants enhanced tactility.
• Perforated shell increases airflow and ventilation.
• Integrated armour on wrist, scaphoid, knuckle and fingers, plus a double surfaced palm.
Richa Rock Gloves
Appropriately titled Rock Gloves as they’re armoured in multiple places, these gloves include soft scaphoid and wrist protection, as well as hard TPU across the knuckles. Although they have a hardy cowhide construct, they are better suited to road riding than track days.
• Stretch panels located mid finger, with vents for cooling comfort.
• Vulnerable impact zones shielded with rubber inserts.
• Adjustable hook and loop strap, for improved safety and responsiveness.
How They Compare:
RST motorcycle clothing began by designing gloves, and have since centred their efforts in racing research. A combination of experience and knowledge is evident in this match up. Though the Richa Rocks Gloves are well built and protective in their own right, the premium goatskin construct and carbon aramid fibre knuckle armour are prominent properties that gain RST the extra credit.
Overall Best:
RST Stunt 3 CE Mixed Gloves
Leading Alternatives:
Weise Street Fight Gloves & DXR TTR CE Leather Gloves
Boots
RST Tractech Evo 3 Waterproof Boots
Purpose built for race day reliability. Encompassing trustworthy foot and shin protection, without losing flexibility or sensitivity.
• Shin, heel, and ankle armour, accompanied by replaceable toe sliders.
• Tough microfibre construct, lined with a breathable waterproof membrane.
• Hinged ankle, and anti-twist mid sole, to prevent jarring movements and overextension.
Sidi Performer Boots
Modelled thoughtfully to enhance their feel and fit, these motorcycle boots’ light weight add to their unparalleled comfort levels. A nylon inner sole, and soft supported arch highlight the attention to detail in their mould.
• Technomicro microfibre upper construct.
• Shaped and fixed shin plates, with curved ankle pads, and metatarsus protection.
• Non-restrictive flexion material, for ease of movement.
Also available in a ladies version.
How They Compare:
Racing boots need to balance resilience, and give, in measured proportions. RST and Sidi excel with these pairs, both offering ample protection and unobtrusive forms. Safety and comfort, check. Durability doesn’t separate these two either, as they both have robust microfibre constructs protected by hard-wearing shift pads and replaceable toe sliders. This leaves waterproofing as the defining differentiation, in which RST outrival, as the better water repellents.
Overall Best:
RST Tractech Evo 3 Waterproof Boots
Leading Alternatives:
Richa Blade Waterproof Boots & Eleveit S Miura Waterproof Boots
Ladies Leathers
RST Ladies S-1 CE Leather Jacket
AAA rated ladies sports jacket, with woven stretch panels and elasticated side panels for a figure hugging fit. Complete with external shoulder cups, and CE certified elbow and shoulder armour.
• Strong cowhide leather construct.
• Detachable thermal liner, suitable in warm and cold weather.
• Plenty of reflective detail to increase your low light visibility.
Zip attachment for RST Ladies S-1 Leather Trousers.
Richa Ladies Scarlett Leather Jacket
Another customisable women’s jacket, with vintage waist straps and a classic style to show off. Designed to form shape flattering curves utilising its slim fit.
• Crafted with cowhide, both long-lasting and robust.
• Respectable AA CE rating, partly down to D3O armour on shoulders, elbows and back.
• Soft neoprene fabric collar, to eliminate irritation.
How They Compare:
An ebb and flow tosses between these two women’s leather jackets. The Richa has back armour included, the RST doesn’t, however the latter achieves a AAA rating, the former an AA. Each feature comforting neoprene on either the cuff or neck regions, and are eye-catching in their own respect. The deciding factor here lies within their suitability for winter rides. As the RST has a removable thermal (versus the Richa’s draught-reducing storm flap), and has reflective detailing to boost the rider’s road presence, it definitely has greater appeal during the colder, darker months of the year.
Overall Best:
RST Ladies S-1 CE Leather Jacket
Leading Alternatives:
Macna Ladies Tronniq Leather Jacket & RST Ladies Roadster II
Ladies Textiles
RST Ladies S-1 Mesh CE Textile Jacket
From a winter warmer to a lightweight summer jacket. Opposite to the RST Ladies S-1 CE Leather Jacket, this option is intended to allow free flowing ventilation across the whole torso.
• K540 mesh inserts encourage air flow to evenly cool the body.
• Core-spun polyester thread fortifies a MaxTex outer shell.
• Removable SinAqua waterproof liner, to fend off summer showers.
Rev'it Ladies Control H2O Textile Jacket
Presenting a slightly pricier, but more premium, alternative to the S-1 Mesh Jacket. Here’s to playing devil’s advocate in terms of getting what you pay for.
• High density 600D polyester construct, with softshell 3L inserts for added comfort.
• Hydratex waterproof G-liner, plus extra windproofing underneath zips.
• Impact absorbing, SeeSmart shoulder and elbow armour.
How They Compare:
At £100 less, the RST S-1 Mesh jacket makes a few unavoidable compromises. Most notable is its CE A rating, up against a AA rating earned by the Rev’it Control H2O. Considering it’s categorised as a summer jacket, the lightweight construct will contribute toward this rating. These two jackets vary in purpose more than any of the other comparisons, so let’s just say we’re in the market for a jacket we can wear all year. In that case, I’d turn my attention to the S-1 Leather Jacket, which is cheaper and better equipped than the Control H2O. Looking at waterproofing, included armour and comfort levels in this particular pairing, spending that bit extra does buy you more versatility. Therefore the Rev’it is the preferable choice.
Overall Best:
Rev’it Ladies Control H2O Textile Jacket
Leading Alternatives:
Alpinestars Stella Andes Air Drystar Jacket & Richa Ladies Lusanne Textile Jacket
And The Winner Is...
Once again, RST reign supreme, recording 6 wins, 3 losses and 1 closely fought tie! A triumphant victory that can be attributed to competitively priced quality products, masterfully crafted by a passionate team dedicated to real-world experiential research.
Whether it’s fitting back protectors as standard, or a concentrated effort on achieving AAA CE ratings, RST endeavour to deliver affordable motorcycle clothing, with no sacrifice on safety, or worth. In terms of comfort, they understand what riders want – protection from the elements, adjustable sizing, and an unrestricted range of movements. These challenges have been met with first-hand rider research, cultivated and cured, to provide the essential features that really matter to everyday motorcyclists!
In regards to value for money, products require versatility, and of course, long term durability. RST cover these by creating hard-wearing constructs, in motorcycle gear that can realistically be worn all year round, and in some cases, for all kinds of riding styles.
This attention to detail is definitely worth noting. It’s often the difference that sets RST motorcycle clothing apart from their competitors. Remember, the next time you ask yourself ‘how good is RST motorcycle clothing?’, it’s safe to say, the word is exceptional!