Product Review: Macna Aytee jacket
The Macna Aytee jacket offers simple yet clever technology that separates it from other motorcycle jacketsTwo things especially stand out about Macna’s ‘Aytee’ four-season jacket: it feels even better than it looks, and its technical fabrics provide immediate real-world benefits. So much so it begs the question why they’re not commonplace.
Look no further than the day and night photos here. By day, the stylish commuting/touring jacket doesn’t really appear much of a motorcycle jacket, but perhaps more of a snowboard jacket with lots of functionality to keep you warm, dry and protected in a crash.
By night, however, the Dutch brand’s clever ‘Night Eye’ reflective finish illuminates you like no other when you’re within range of a car’s headlights. That makes the Aytee a fully reflective jacket without looking like a high-vis council worker.
How? The Night Eye technology is similar to a typical reflective road sign coated with tiny beads that act as satellite dishes, reflecting light back at the source – even from a distance of around 100m. On the Aytee (which is available in three colour options), the Night Eye material is featured from every angle. That’s much more effective than conventional reflectivity, which is typically limited to piping and detail bits.
The jacket itself is constructed of a ‘Ripstop’ textile material with a three-layer construction, including a ‘Raintex’ proprietary waterproof and breathable membrane as well as a quality thermal liner, both of which can be removed. The hood is non-removable, however, but it features a simple locking mechanism to prevent flapping or getting in the way. In fact, the hood’s presence is hardly noticeable, even at highway speeds on a naked bike.
Armoury comprises the usual CE-certified protectors at the elbows and shoulders, plus a basic back protector, which can be upgraded.
Ventilation is via the pair of vertical zips on the chest, which double as pockets (for a total of six outer and one inner) plus there’s a similar horizontal zip vent/storage pouch on the lower back.
But it’s the neat, subtle touches that make it stand out. These include:
- The waist and wrist adjusters use later-generation Velcro fasteners that won’t wear out;
- Seam-welded pocket zips to keep water out;
- A longer cut at the back for better coverage while riding in the crouched sportsbike position;
- A nifty loop to secure to the belt of your jeans to hold the back of the jacket down;
- The main zip finishes up high to block wind chill creeping down your neck;
It’s a 3.5-season jacket (a deep Canberra winter would push it for most of us), but it’s not bulky either.
Downsides? You could say it’s a bit lairy or targeted at young bucks – especially with that hood – which is fair enough, which is why every brand offers a range of options. As far as function goes, however, nup, can’t fault it.
Details
Macna Aytee jacket
Price – $449.95
Sizes – S-3XL
Colours – Camo/Night Eye/Blue; Black/Grey/Night Eye; Grey/Night Eye/Orange
Distributor: Link International, macnaridinggear.com.au
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