Product: The Dakar jersey is designed to function with the elements as opposed to put a big logo across your chest and arms. This isn’t your average moto jersey. Klim has taken some aggressive steps in designing the Dakar Pro Jersey. The front side is 840D Cordura which is the same tough material used in its off-road pants. The Dakar Pro Jersey has EVA foam padding sections along the outer sides of the sleeves and on the side of the torso to protect from branches and off-road abrasions. The sleeves are made with heavy nylon to resist abrasion and the back and select other panels are made with durable mesh fabric.
What we like: Concept. Klim has a reputation of re-thinking products that have been around and the same for over a decade. They come in, look at something like a moto jersey and say, “How can this be better?” Then they build it. The product costs more, but it functions better for its designed purpose. The Dakar jersey is just such an example.
Performance. First, the arm shields. Single-track riders know what it’s like to get a branch or willow bush whipped across your forearms. The Dakar takes the sting out of anything like that. Second, the ventilation: It may be a heavier jersey, but it flows some air. Third, the fit. With stretch zones on the body sides, inside the sleeves and around the elbows and shoulders, the Dakar fits like a comfy gym t-shirt. And it’s designed to be able to tuck into the pant with thinner material used down low.
Look. Wear a motocross jersey if you want to look like Ryan Villipoto. Wear a Klim jersey if you want to look like an off-roader.
What we don’t like: Price. Performance is expensive. The Dakar Jersey retails for $139.99. You can get motocross pants and jersey for that elsewhere, but they won’t work this well.
Contact: Klim (208) 552-7433 or www.klim.com or see your local Klim dealer.
