Richa make some excellent laminate jackets, but that quality permeates to their budget ‘drop-liner’ range too, like the Richa Infinity 2 we tested in winter storms a few years ago.
The Richa Phantom 3 jacket, which came out last year, has now been given a colour makeover and for this autumn is available in Navy/Grey/Red for men and women, along with black and black/fluorescent yellow colour choices (for men and women), and black/dark grey (for men only).
The AA-rated jacket offers protection through its high-abrasion-resistant fabric material, combined with ripstop, and with safety stitching in high-risk zones, all contributing to its safety. The included D3O® L1 protectors safeguard the shoulders and elbows and can be upgraded to Ghost or L2.
The standard D3O® central back protector can be upgraded to D3O® viper L1 or L2, and if you feel th eneed for even more protection the Richa Phantom 3 can talke the optional D3O® chest protection L1.
But for overland use it’s often protection from the elements that matters most, and the drop-liner that’s featured is a waterproof 8,000mm Aquashell LTZ membrane which can be worn under or over the jacket. Of course that means you can use it as a lightweight waterproof jacket too, when you are off the bike.
When the temperature heats up, you’ll be able to keep cool thanks to the ventilation system in key areas. Additional air ventilation zips at the lower sleeves can be adapted to the rider’s preference for further airflow.
Practicality is an intrinsic part of the Phantom 3’s design and Richa’s designers have provided riders with two outside pockets, one Napoleon pocket and three inside pockets to carry all the essentials. The Phantom 3 has a short connection zipper to connect the jacket with any compatible riding trousers.
Retailing at £199 the Phantom 3 jacket is definitely in the ‘budget’ bracket, but the quality and features is not.