Form + Function - KTM Casual Street Kit

I love it when form meets function. You’ll find a lot of motorcycle gear out there that makes compromises, especially when it comes to the more casual end of the style spectrum. KTM have long offered some exceptional adventure gear, with well thought-out design details and quality construction — it's an approach that carries through the rest of their ever expanding PowerWear line. If you’re looking to add some casual yet purposeful gear to your street riding wardrobe, look no further than the Two 4 Ride jacket, EVO riding jeans and Andes waterproof boots. I’ve only had a chance to ride with the jacket a few times and haven’t tried the jeans or boots, but read on for my initial impressions.

Two 4 Ride Jacket

Although I’ve only ridden in it a few times, I’m ready to stamp it that I think it’s an awesome jacket. It’s a sort of casual yet technical looking waterproof jacket that I can see myself wearing as much off the bike (with the armour removed) as on the bike. It ticks a lot of boxes… waterproof, windproof, breathable, removable integrated armour, superb fit and damn stylish. It’s got a removable hood, sufficient pocket space and zippers in all the right places and going in the all the right directions. The only caveat for this jacket is that it’s not going to be your warm weather go-to, it’s well sealed and a bit warm (which is great for the right weather conditions) and although it’s breathable and does have vents on the front, you’ll quickly find yourself getting sweaty on hot days. As the days get cooler here I know I’ll be reaching for this jacket a lot. Fit is great, the body and sleeves are long enough to avoid the gaps I often find with jackets once in a riding position and the armour feels like it’s sitting in just the right spot and doesn’t move around. Overall, it fits a gap in my jacket arsenal that I didn’t even know existed, I love it.

EVO Riding Jeans

From the outside, these look like a “normal” pair of jeans (other than the familiar KTM logo), but flip them inside out and you’ll find pockets for knee and hip armour. The denim is 100% cotton with the inside bits weaving together kevlar, polyester and cotton. They fit on the looser side, no doubt to leave room for adding the armour and being wide enough to fit over most riding boots. You could easily wear these on your next date and no one would be the wiser that you’re wearing riding gear, save for some extra stitching for the inner liner/armour pockets that’s only barely visible on the outside of the pant legs. I haven’t tried them in my size, but they seem to run long — which I like as I hate how often I try motorcycle pants that are simply too short (they should be easily hemmed for anyone not needing the extra length).

Andes Waterproof Boots

The Andes boots are made for KTM by Alpinestars. This is a very good thing. Alpinestars boots are among the best in the business, outfitting riders from Motocross to MotoGP. An all-weather touring boot, the Andes are fairly subtle in their styling - nothing flashy but they do incorporate some nice design cues. These things look comfy. They are 100% waterproof. They offer good protection and are ergonomically shaped. Sounds good right? I think so. I just wish the pair I’m holding right now were my size as they are beckoning to be slipped on and taken out for a ride!