Think of the Alpinestars Specter as the modern equivalent to your old man’s black leather jacket—classic murdered-out styling packed with features that exceed present-day safety standards. The Specter’s main frame is constructed of high-grade leather that’s complemented by four-way-stretch panel inserts. The final product is a lightweight jacket that fits perfectly, working with rather than against you while riding.

Shoulder protection comes in the form of TPU sliders, which, while strategically placed in high-impact areas, are cloaked under a veneer of black leather for a clean look. Additional Level 1 CE-certified protectors are placed in the shoulders and elbows, though bulk stays minimal. Mild perforation in the arm and chest provides adequate climate control for three-season riding, and zippered vents under each arm provide extra airflow in warm weather.

The most impressive aspect of the Specter? It’s compatible with the Alpinestars Tech-Air airbag system, which inflates upon detection of a crash for top-notch upper-body protection. The vest installs easily and has all the sensors the system needs on board. While it’s a seriously capable safety feature, the technology comes at a steep cost—an additional $1,150. Regardless, it’s the best way to get the most from the modern black jacket.

Verdict

Leatt has three new pieces of gear that are worth a look if you are in the market for better off-road protection. The first is a new line of bulletproof Velocity 6.5 goggles. There’s also the innovative and affordable GPX 3.5 helmet and new Z-Frame knee brace.

Velocity 6.5 Goggles

There are three options to choose from in the Velocity 6.5 goggle line: a standard, Iriz, and Roll-Off. All three have the same essential design features, however the Iriz is equipped with an iridescent lens and the Roll-Off comes with the WideVision 48mm roll-off system installed.

The bulletproof, 2.7mm thick, optically correct lens is a key feature of each option, providing a remarkable level of protection. It’s CE certified and meets with military ballistic impact standard MIL-DTL-43511D. The lens offers a 170-degree field of view and has a permanent antifog element built into the lens polymer. Lenses can be changed quickly and easily by unlatching the clips on either side, and the Iriz and standard can be fit to hold the roll-off system. If you prefer tear offs, the lens comes with mounts for those and a pack of tear offs at purchase.

Design-wise, Leatt tapered the shape to allow for a better fit inside a wider variety of helmets but kept the size large enough to fit over glasses if needed. The frame is dual density while the padding around the eyeport is a triple-density foam with an anti-sweat fleece backing. The nose guard is removable and Leatt provides a wide range of optional lenses that allow from 20–83 percent light transmission. Prices start at $79.99 and go up to $99.99.

GPX 3.5 Helmet

The GPX 3.5 helmet has been available for a few months now, but its features deserve mention. It comes with 360-degree Turbine brain-rotation and concussion-reduction technology built in, which reduces rotational acceleration by up to 40 percent and linear G-force up to 30 percent during a crash. The Turbine system is a series of small multi-directional turbines inside the helmet. They are made from energy-absorbing material and allow for impact forces to be more effectively distributed. Now, it’s not the first time we’ve seen a system of this nature, but for $179.99 the Leatt option is likely to be an enticing option for many.

The exterior shell is an injected polymer compound and the 2.8-pound lid is both DOT and ECE approved. It comes with a Dri-Lex liner that is moisture-wicking, breathable, and washable. It’s been designed to easily pair with a Leatt neck brace and the visor is built to break off in the event of a crash to help reduce rotational forces.

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Z-Frame Knee Brace

Leatt wanted to add a knee brace to its line that was more approachable in terms of price, so developed the Z-Frame which starts at $299.99 a pair.

It’s a certified medical device made from an injected composite chassis. There are 5-degree to 20-degree hyperextension limitations to help avoid ACL injury along with a shin protector. The geared hinge helps to relieve pressure during a ride, and aluminum hinge covers keep the moving parts well protected. The low-profile strap system allows for the Z-Frame to fit multiple body types as well.