Highway 21 Gasser Jacket - Black MD

Fantastic, well appointed jacket

In my search for an armored, vintage-esque leather jacket I researched quite a few brands, from Roland Sands and Rev'it to River Road and AGV. My criteria were price ($400-500 being the upper limit), features, ability to take (or already have) armor, workmanship and fit. <br /><br />I stumbled on Highway 21 by accident; from research it seems a fairly new brand for jackets, and there's little to no info apart from their site and online retailers. So I eventually rang up Highway 21 to get more details and spoke to a well-informed chap who told me about their brand.<br /><br />Their aim is to provide a quality product with a lot of features, to compete with the RSs and Rev'its but at a lower price point. IMHO they've very close, and a big step above Joe Rocket and River Road. Designed here in the US but produced overseas (like a lot of brands), they're putting out a few jackets first but have plans to expand the line.<br /><br />Based on the Gasser jacket, I think they've achieved what they set out to do.<br /><br />When I spotted the Gasser I loved the look of it - the diamond shoulder panels gave it a cool retro feel, and reading the description it seemed to fit my needs. I was a little nervous about size, as they vary wildly from company to company. I took a punt on the size chart and ordered what they recommended (I'm 42" chest, short torso, wide across the shoulders, 5'7). IMO, the sizing is a tiny bit off. If you're longer limbed and torso'ed, you'd be fine except for maybe a bit of sag around the shoulders. However you would have room for a thick layer underneath. I eventually went with a medium, which, in a t-shirt or thinner layer, fits nearly bang on, with the only niggle a bit of tightness in the upper arms. This could be due to the armor though. It fits better than the AGV Tracer (large) I tried and the River Road Hoodlum (40) I own.<br /><br />Upon receiving, the first thing I noticed is the weight - even without the elbow and shoulder armor it's pretty heavy. I can't find any specs but I would guess it's around 1.1/1.2mm thickness. The (cowhide?) leather is even grained, it's well stitched and features YKK zippers throughout. The only thing I missed is the potent leather smell when opening the box, but that's probably just me.<br /><br />And it's very richly featured for a jacket at its current price point. The ones you'd expect are there (snap lock mandarin collar, black reflective piping, multiple intake & exhaust vents) but it's the additions that make it standout. The removable Hydraguard thermal liner is a big bonus, though I haven't been in a downpour yet. The expandable side panels are perforated allowing even more airflow. It has multiple pockets for devices and wallets, and even a concealed carry pocket if you're so inclined (I noticed it has a piece of leather inside so you can slot the barrel into it securely). CE shoulder and elbow armor is provided, and it has a slot in the back with foam (replaced with the Fly CE back armor, near perfect fit). Another nice little touch are double zippers at the wrists - you can zip it fully down or just partly around the forearms whilst still having the wrist portion locked in place.<br /><br />Keeping in mind the pricepoint, I do struggle to think how this jacket can be improved. If I had to nitpick, it would be nice to have some felt on the inside of the collar for comfort, and also have the pocket large to fit CE2 armor in. I've had a few debates with friends about whether a touring/cruiser type jacket should have this or not, but IMHO I'd still like the option. <br /><br />If you're looking for a very well appointed, quality jacket for spring/fall and winter (with layers) riding, and like vintage leather looks, the Gasser is a jacket which should be on the 'try' list. I'm very impressed by Highway 21's first forays into an otherwise crowded market, but if they continue how they've started, I can see some very good things in the future for them.

Great jacket and stylish

I have had this jacket for a few weeks now and I love it. It looks great on. I got a medium and I would say the fit chart was spot on. I am 5'10 175 lbs 33inch waist athletic build and it fits like a glove. I used the button tabs to bring it in at the waist some, so if you have a bigger belly there is some room to accommodate you. It has vents that unzip on the side, back, wrists and upper arms, which keep you cool on rides. I have mostly used it for evening rides at temperatures of 75-85 degrees. In traffic it gets pretty warm but at speeds of 30+ it is pretty cool and well ventilated. The back pad is just simple foam which I plan on replacing with some CE armor. There are plenty of pockets in the jacket and the liner is easy to put in and pull out. I would say all around it is a great jacket for the money and a good 3 season jacket for dry climates. If you live in a humid environment like Texas this might not be the jacket for you, which is unfortunate because it's a great jacket.

Great value

Found a lot of value in this jacket which was selling for about $200 less than many similar. Airflow is surprisingly good. Used it during a heat wave (100+) and found it very tolerable. Seems like it will offer good protection, all padding is easily removable. Haven’t tested in cold weather but the removable lining is very warm. The leather is quite the quality of some of the other jackets, but it is still very good and the look has a great worn, cafe style right out of the box. Have put about 200 miles into it so far and as of now would definitely buy again!

I actually like the jacket but...

It only comes with a foam pad that should not be mistaken for armor. I purchased this jacket and am having issues with finding a back protector that actually fits. I contacted Highway 21 directly and their reply was that the "Fly Racing Street CE level 1 back protector is a common back pad I have seen work well with our jackets at a reasonable price" <br />I ordered that protector and it is too tall for the pocket. So I will have to trim a CE Level 1 back protector.... Seems impractical to reduce the protection of a level 1 safety option. Highway 21 should consider putting out a Gasser II to correct the issues with the back protector pocket and the specialized pocket that most people buy the jacket for in the first place. Both are poorly designed. Other than those two issues I actually like the jacket. 3.0 stars because back protectors shouldn't be an issue with a riding jacket.

Good leather jacket with proper airflow

I'm 6'1" about 215 lbs. I found this jacket to fit true to size. It would be tight, but if the weather dictated I could slide a thin-ish sweater underneath.<br />The vents worked well. I rode in about 50 F temps with the thermal liner in. I opened up the wrist, bicep, and chest vent and was comfortable. I haven't tried the exhaust vents in the back. Probably wouldn't wear it above 75-80 definitely not if the temps were 90 plus. I rode in about 35-40 F temps this morning. I didn't have gauntlet gloves on which would've helped, I needed slightly more than the t-shirt I had on but it wasn't terribly bad.<br />The neck is tight. I have about a 17" neck and found it snug, but in general I don't like things tight around my neck. I am unable to put my Klim balaclava on and button the neck at the same time.<br />The dual function zippers are a nice feature on the wrists and main zipper.<br />The armor in the elbows and shoulders it good and comfortable. I bought a Forcefield Pro Lite K size 001 that fit perfectly in the back pocket.<br />I would definitely recommend spending the extra money over something like the Joe Rocket Sprint TT to get the venting.

My Perfect Cafe Jacket

I just wanted to write a review of one of the best Cafe inspired jackets that I have found. A little info on me, I’m 6 Foot, rocking a dad bod, living in the hot and humid Southeastern US. I’ve ridden over 6,000 miles in this jacket over the course of a year. In that time, I’ve ridden in just about every kind of weather, and I have to admit, this jacket has served wonderfully. <br /><br />To begin, the build quality is superb for a jacket in this price range (of which, it’s quite reasonable). I’ve had no issues with wear or tear. This includes a slow speed drop onto some gravel. The only telling sign is the scratches on the bike and a few on the jacket, which honestly make the jacket look more like a worn“vintage” jacket than one that has been on the ground. The zippers, mesh vents, and even the leather has held up great. The pockets (which there are quite a few) have also held up considering they are quite frequently used.<br /><br />Overall the fit is slightly larger than advertised. Being a taller guy and rocking a rotund dad bod, it is hard for me to find a jacket that properly fits. Fortunately, this one hits right in the middle for me. I ordered the 3XL, and was pleasantly surprised that it fit as well as it did. Once you remove the full liner, you will have some added room inside, and if you open the vents on either side of the jacket, you’l get even more room around your midsection.<br /><br />As previously mentioned, I live in the southeastern US. In the middle of summer, we push 100 degrees with 70 to 80% humidity during the day. One would think a heavy leather jacket isn’t the best choice for riding, but this jacket is quite deceptive in that regard. There are a number of vents that you can open on the jacket which greatly help cool you as you ride. Of course sitting still is a different story, but who wants to just sit on a bike?<br /><br />The only complaint I have with this jacket is that the jacket comes up a bit tall on the front of your neck. I generally ride with my jacket slightly open to remedy this, but if you are riding in more predominant cold weather, this might be an issue.<br /><br />Again, overall, I think this is a great jacket, and if you decide to buy, you will not be disappointed.<br /><br />Stay safe and Ton Up.

Very happy!

I thought I would write a short review, since there wasn't much information out there when I decided to buy this jacket.<br /><br />I really like the style of the jacket. I think it has just enough attitude without being over the top, or looking too young. I'm not 20 anymore, nor a movie star, so ripped jeans and distressed leather don't cut it. This jacket looks good on and off the bike. <br /><br />The leather is heavy, supple, and feels nice. I keep it in my office closet, and whenever I leave the door open, the whole room smells like leather. It comes with armor, which a lot of leather jackets don't. I love the two way zippers and the zipper pulls.<br /><br />This jacket has a lot of vents. Wrist, bicep, chest, back, 6 underarm grommets, and perforated side panels. I'm not sure why they only put one chest vent--two would have made more sense to me.<br /><br />I'm quite happy with the fit. I ordered a medium. I'm 5'9", 175#, 39" chest, 33" waist, and 32" sleeve. Its fits well overall, with and without the liner. The sleeves are a bit long, however, they do provide good coverage on the bike. I use the added snap to cinch the waist. The waist in the jacket is really adjustable. You can cinch the waist, leave it neutral, or unzip the side panel for more room.<br /><br />The only thing I don't really like about the jacket are the stretchy underarm panels. I've never really liked the look, and I don't feel they're necessary. The jacket doesn't fit so tight that you need the extra stretch.<br /><br />Overall, really solid buy!

Gasser Jacket

I followed the reviews advice and purchased the Medium. I’m 5’ 9” and 170 lbs. and with the liner it is snug and without it is perfect. In 85° f. And sun there could always be more vents when you stop at a light but as soon as you get moving it cools back down. The overall fit is great and looks good. Great workmanship and materials. They filled and shipped my order quickly. Well done!

I’m glad I waited for this jacket

It’s been decades since I’ve owned a leather jacket. Riding standards and sport bikes for 50+ yrs since I was 13, I e always gone for jackets with good protection. Now that my body refuses to bend like it used to I’got an Indian Scout. I never wanted the bad boy leather and zipper image. I bought this one in brown and it looks fantastic. The thermal liner is supple with cross stitching. The armor is perfectly placed and vents galore. I believe fit and finish and sizing are right on. Treat yourself to a fine jacket at a reasonable price

Solid Perforated Leather Jacket

I bought this jacket a year ago and have put 15k miles freeway and back country roads. The stitching has held up. The leather gets pliable over time. During the winter months the removable liner helps with warmth, but not in the 40's. 50/60's have been ok. During the summer the jacket breathes well when on the move but will get hot when stopped at lights, as with any. But because the ventilation is done well you cool off quickly. So far been a great jacket. Sleeves are at the wrist when riding, just below while standing. Body sits at the waist. Depending on position the jacket puffs up due to wind but not terribly. Still comfortable, just annoying sometimes. Armor is included but has a crappy backplate. These brands really should include better back armor, what gives?!

Great for riding or out on the town.

This jacket has everything I wanted in a leather for riding, however it looks just as good off the bike! I'm 5'9" 175 and usually wear a large. I purchased the medium based on other reviews and it fits perfectly with the liner or a hoodie underneath. Not too snug but definitely fits well. It's got a ton of features for the money and the airflow is superb. Very satisfied with this purchase.

Great jacket. The leather is really good quality (and does not stain white shirts underneath like my other jacket does). It is very comfortable to wear and seems durable (though that will be told by time). The two gripes I have are first the air flow and the clips that hold the sleeves to the insulation in place. I have a feeling that they will not last very long.<br />I am very happy with this jacket.

love the jacket. very well made.

I returned my original purchase for a larger size. After seeing the quality, I couldn’t wait for my new one to arrive. It’s the best jacket I’ve ever owned.

Great Jacket.

Completely worth the money. 6ft 205lbs xl fits very well, very good quality, very warm, very very heavy.

nice jacket

A decent jacket at a decent price. Rides a little on the neck when sitting in a vehicle. Less dark than pictured. No CE back pad. Other than those small complaints I like the design and fit. Gun pocket is great. Zippers are quality. Looks good.

Like it

I like the coat very durable fits well good price for what you get

Very heavy, perfect for motorcycle use. A bit full, would prefer a tighter fit.

Sweet jacket!! Very well made. A must buy.

Great jacket

This jacket works great. It is the second jacket i bought due to the first jacket that was a different brand showed up broken. Jacket fits true to size. I would purchase it again if i needed another jacket.