So I ordered two Air Flux Dainese Jackets. One in a size 50, the other in a size 52. And I'm having a really hard time deciding which one to keep and what I'll be happiest with.
I am 6'0" 170lbs. 39" chest.
The 50 is snug. A little short at the waist. But I'm not sure how snug is too snug. It fit's like a glove... the only time it is restrictive is when I say... put my hands on opposite shoulders or something of that nature. The jacket doesn't hang on me, It fit's tight. And while I like it I'm afraid I'll regret getting a larger size (the 52). Which also fits well, and if it were any other jacket the 52 would be just right. But since this is a motorcycle jacket, I know they should fit snug. And you want it somewhat snug to hold the armor in place.
A good way to say it is that the 50 fit's like I would want football pads and jersey to fit me. The 52 is more of a "normal" jacket fit.
I know there are a few threads out there discussing jacket sizing, but wondered if my build was the same as anyone else and if they had a recommendation, or personal preference.
Thanks for the MFA (ref: http://www.reddit.com/r/malefashionadvice (http://www.reddit.com/r/malefashionadvice)) guys ;)
Is there any difference in arm length between the two jackets? (Just checked for you,50 has a 59.5cm length and the 52 has a 60.4cm length.) so go with the longer length.
If it was a leather jacket, I would say get the tighter one and it will stretch, but the textile jackets don't stretch and i would have to say go for the larger and some of the size will be taken up be the back protector you install. Dainese also makes a zip on attachment that ads about 6" length to the bottom of the jacket for us tall guys, I have them on all my jackets.
What he said: leather stretches; textile not.
Also:
- consider when you'll ride. If you plan for cool/cold riding, you may want to have space to comfortably wear layers underneath, so in that case maybe the larger.
- snug when 'hands on opposite shoulders' doesn't matter because when are you going to do that on a bike? Bike jackets (at least the good ones) are meant to be worn riding, so they are cut to fit with your arms forward, back a bit curved, etc. In fact, when I wear my bike jacket and stand up normal with arms at side, it's a little snug across my chest because that is not the designed position. But in riding position it's perfect.
Yeah, I'm with you 1.21GW. The smaller jacket feels okay in riding position, and it a little tight in the chest/shoulders when standing. Which is why I was leaning that direction. Obviously having hands on shoulders isn't normal and doesn't concern me too much. More just a gauge of how snug it is.
It's good to know that the jacket doesn't stretch over time like leather. That is a factor.
All good considerations... Still a tricky choice. Pro's and Con's to either.
I would suggest to get the bigger one, that way if (when) you gain weight it will still fit. ;D
I just bought a Dainese air frame last week, I bought size 54 and it fits great but not snug fit. I do not like wearing a jacket that fit too tight that restricts my movement. Heck, I don't like wearing tight t-shirt, always wear loose t-shirt. So for jacket, I get one that fits but doesn't restrict my movement.
FWIW, I went with the larger size of the two. The size 52. It seemed like the most practical choice. And I think it still fit's snug enough.
Just be careful using Dainese's size for one jacket whilst choosing another Dainese jacket.
I have three Dainese size 52 leather jackets, and I purchased another and it was a bit too tight. If I chose to wear it with only a t-shirt underneath, it would be OK but I want to wear it in more seasons than summer, so I returned it for a 54.
...and "dilemma" has two ms. ;D