Leading British clothing brand, RST previewed their 2021 range in a virtual press conference recently. We were there (well, actually we watched it from the comfort of the SLUK office) and can bring you some of the highlights.
Suffice to say, the 2021 RST catalogue will include plenty of stylish protective gear (like the jacket above) as well as a growing range of affordable airbag-equipped kit.
in&motion/RST airbag range
Last year RST launched their partnership with French airbag tech company in&motion. This Anglo-French collaboration makes airbag riding kit much more affordable, although the buyer has to factor in an extra £99 per year for the in&motion subscription. Even so, it’s still a very cheap way to get extra crash protection. We’ve been trying a couple of the garments out this year and have crash-tested one of them on track (walked away with no injuries) so we’ll be reviewing those soon.
Airbag jackets from just £279
For 2021 RST have massively increased their airbag range to include it as an option in many of their popular and new for 2021 road jackets. With prices starting at just £279 for the Axian jacket (pictured above top) and going up to £749 for a Pro Series 1 kangaroo race suit there’s something to suit most budgets and riding styles, whether you’re riding around town, to a Euro rally (just any rally would be a bonus at the minute…) or taking part in BSSO/Endurance racing, or sprinting.
There’s something for you in the RST range if you’re serious about riding.
Ladies Paragon airbag – £399
One sector often-overlooked by manufacturers (according to my other half) is the ladies section. Yes, there are plenty of jackets and jeans for ladies but they’re often designed primarily to look good, rather than to be extra safe, warm and keep you dry for hours in the saddle. Warmth and comfort are very important if you’re doing 200 miles to the seaside on an old Lambretta in the rain and cold. The missus will pick one of my ‘long-distance’ jackets up and instantly feel the difference in weight/features. RST have readdressed things this year though by adding a ladies version of their excellent Paragon jacket (and matching textile trousers), and for 2021 it will also be available with an airbag.
With a great spec, this ladies cut jacket – complete with airbag will cost just £399, or without airbag for £199.99.
Jeggings
Female riders will also be pleased to hear that RST are introducing some Kevlar, CE level 1 jeggings, complete with knee armour. They’ll come in a choice of black or blue, no prices yet and these images are all we have to show you.
Frontline softshell – £119
Here’s one I instantly liked the look of, a waterproof softshell jacket with level 1 CE shoulder and elbow armour built-in (there’s a back protector pocket as well).
It’s a perfect lightweight top for those warmer days when you’re riding locally. It has a Sinaqua waterproof membrane to keep you dry from the outside and also has zipped air intake and exhaust vents front and rear to stop you sweating.
The jacket comes in a choice of black or grey and will be available for the start of next season. This one is also pictured as the lead image at the top of the page.
Fusion leather airbag jacket – £499
Many old scooter lads wear an even older leather jacket, this Fusion is a nice modern subtle replacement.
It’s made from premium aniline waxed leather, with a classic fit and quick-dry, 3d mesh liner. It also comes with the benefit of a built-in CE Level 1 certified airbag to protect the back and shoulders, plus level 1 elbow armour.
District Wax Reinforced CE textile jacket
With Level 1 shoulder and elbow armour (plus a back protector pocket) this synthetic Kevlar-reinforced wax cotton jacket is not only stylish but also gives decent protection. It’s designed for the urban environment and will look pretty cool on a classic scooter.
Paragon heated gloves
Perfect for those cold mornings or longer journeys. High spec full-grain leather/Nylon heated gloves with 3 heat settings, waterproof Sinaqua membrane, visor wipe and smart touch fingers.
SLUK recommends
We’re happy to recommend, wear and supply RST riding kit. In our experience, it looks good, lasts well, does the job it is designed to do and isn’t overly expensive. The British brand is based in Derbyshire and the designers, staff and sales people ride for work, pleasure and quite a few of them race, or do track days. They understand the demands of British riders. RST are also the official safety partner of the Isle of Man TT and you’ll see many top-class riders wearing RST kit on the racetrack.
Have a look at the RST section in our online shop
