It can sometimes be difficult to find suitable protective gear for quad riding. This is why I usually opt for adventure motorcycle clothing. In addition to being stylish, these garments are specifically designed for intense use. Consequently, I turned to KLIM and its Traverse off-road apparel collection.
We are aware that, at certain times of the year, it can be challenging to dress appropriately for the weather. Sometimes it’s too hot for winter gear, and too cold for just pants and a t-shirt. In this regard, motorcycle clothing offers an excellent compromise for those mild days while providing good protection.
KLIM’s Reputation in Off-Road Apparel: A Guarantee of Quality
The clothing designer KLIM has built a very strong reputation in the recreational vehicle market. Their reputation is a mark of excellence! Thus, I began my review of the Traverse jacket and pants with a good deal of confidence.
The Traverse line of off-road apparel is sleek, lightweight, durable, and non-bulky. Both the jacket and pants offer four-season protection against the elements while being comfortable. Certainly, at some point, we will need extra gear or quality base layers if the temperature drops.
KLIM Traverse Off-Road Apparel Features
First of all, I want to talk about the design. Okay, I admit I chose the Traverse collection because I liked the design and colours. It’s no secret that I love blue. So I fell in love with the black palette with light-blue accents.
Then, I consulted the specifications sheet for the Traverse jacket and pants. I immediately noticed the attention to detail with which they were designed. The high-quality materials used offer great breathability and are water-resistant. Understand that “water-resistant” doesn’t mean 100% waterproof. I felt it was important to clarify that.
I quickly noticed that the back of the jacket is longer to prevent water from getting in when I’m seated. The Gore-Tex technology gives the Traverse jacket windproof, waterproof, and breathable properties.
Safety and Comfort with Removable Protections in the KLIM Traverse
The KLIM Traverse jacket comes with removable elbow and shoulder protectors. These lightweight, ventilated D30 protectors are certified CE Level 1. Personally, I usually remove these types of protection as they restrict my range of motion. KLIM has also placed carbon-black 3M reflective strips on the collarbones, wrists, and the top of the shoulders at the back. This adds an extra layer of safety by enhancing visibility.
The jacket’s YKK zipper is protected by a Velcro flap. The air vents under the armpits have large double-zippered openings. These allow for good airflow when the day warms up or during sustained activity.
Comfort and Adjustability in Extreme Conditions
The long fabric pulls on the zippers make them much easier to operate with gloves. Warm your hands in the two water-resistant zippered pockets of the KLIM Traverse jacket. There’s also a waterproof zippered pocket at chest level and a very handy elastic key loop inside.
Overall, the improvements offered by the new design and lightweight nylon chassis of the KLIM Traverse apparel enhance ease of use. Unlike typical adventure motorcycle vests, the new Traverse vest is small enough to fit in a backpack or storage box. This significantly enhances versatility and mobility, complementing the standard dual sport/enduro outfit with an MX-style jersey.
The Traverse pants feature two 10-inch intake vents and two 7-inch zippered exhaust vents on the thighs. The windproof and rainproof shell provides excellent ventilation. Easily adjust the pants to your MX or ADV boots using the Velcro straps at the ankles.
All exterior pockets on the Traverse pants feature waterproof YKK zippers. KLIM’s attention to detail is evident in the clever Velcro tab that holds the fleece-lined collar in place. It remains open for ventilation without allowing the wind to batter my neck.
Gore-Tex Breathability and Waterproofing
At times, I could feel warm enough to sweat everywhere but didn’t feel any moisture on my skin. The open mesh liner and Gore-Tex did their job by wicking away excess moisture. The leg vents do an excellent job of providing strong airflow throughout the area. I was easily able to close the back and front vents while riding. Not having to stop to adjust airflow in a jacket and pants is a welcome convenience.
KLIM Traverse: The Ultimate Off-Road Gear
KLIM is a recognized producer of high-quality technical riding gear. The Traverse apparel line once again confirms why this brand is a leader in the industry. This Idaho-based company spares no effort or expense in developing the ultimate gear that withstands the most extreme conditions.
